As your due date draws near, you undoubtedly will begin to think about your upcoming labor and delivery. Have you chosen a support person yet?

Having a support person in the labor and delivery room is a great idea. He or she can focus on you and your needs. He or she is there to provide emotional and physical support during your labor and delivery process. You should choose someone you trust and someone you feel comfortable bearing it all with.

Some expectant moms considering adoption may choose the prospective adoptive mother as a support person. While this is totally your choice, many in the adoption community feel that this creates a sense of entitlement or obligation on your part; feeling like you “owe” the prospective adoptive parents your baby if you should so happen to change your mind. Who you choose is obviously your decision, but that is definitely something to keep in mind.

If you are still in touch with or still in a relationship with your baby’s father, you may wish to have him there as your support person. A close friend, sister, mother, or other family member may also be a wise choice.

Below are some of the things your support person can do for you.

• Help you change positions



• Help you focus, find your rhythm, and talk you through contractions



• Offer you ice chips or water



• Play soft music and lower the lights



• Help keep you comfortable with a cool washcloth on your forehead



• Cheer you on



• Make phone calls or notify other loved ones who may be waiting at the hospital of your progression and condition



• Take pictures or video the labor and delivery if you so desire

It’s wise to think of who you would like as your support person and go ahead and ask them so they can be on standby waiting for your call. It’s also a good idea to have a back up support person just in case your first choice can not make it for some reason.

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