Support during labour can look different for everyone. It might be hands-on or quiet, practical or emotional. What matters most is responding to what the person in labour needs at the time.
If you know the person well, you can play an important role particularly when things feel overwhelming for them.
A gentle reminder for support people
You don’t need to have all the answers. Being present, listening, offering encouragement, and supporting them in the way they need in the moment can help them feel safe, confident, and cared for during labour and birth.
Physical support
Small, simple actions can make a big difference. You can help by:
- staying nearby, calm and present
- supporting movement and position changes (such as walking, sitting, or using the shower or bath)
- offering gentle touch like massage, holding hands or giving space if that’s preferred
- helping with comfort, like adjusting pillows, blankets, lighting, or temperature
- offering water, snacks or reminding them to drink and use the toilet (with guidance from the care team)
- supporting rest between contractions and helping create a calm space.
Your presence and calm support are valuable.
Emotional support
Emotional support is just as important as physical comfort. You don’t need to have the right words. Being there is what matters most.
You can support by:
- offering reassurance and encouragement
- staying calm, even during intense moments
- letting them know what they’re feeling is okay
- helping them feel seen, heard and supported
- reassuring them they are safe
- respecting their need for quiet, space, or emotional expression.
Communication and advocacy
Support people can help with communication by:
- asking questions if the person in labour feels overwhelmed or tired
- helping make sure information is understood
- gently reminding the care team of preferences (with consent)
- supporting the person in labour to feel heard and involved in decisions.
Advocacy means supporting their voice and not speaking over them.
Practical support
You can also help by:
- keeping track of information or decisions during labour
- managing visitors, messages or phone calls if helpful
- creating a calm environment (dim lights, quiet voices, music)
- offering simple reminders, like breathing slowly or relaxing shoulders.
When labour feels intense or plans change
Sometimes the best support is simply being there. You can:
- stay present, even if the person seems quiet or withdrawn
- help keep things calm if it feels rushed or overwhelming
- remind them that changes to plans are a normal part of labour
- help them stay focused on what matters, like meeting their baby.
Learn more
Pregnancy – labour | Better Health Channel
Learn about the stages and signs of labour, from early contractions through to birth, including what to expect with fetal monitoring and interventions.
Labour and birth: support people | Raising Children Network
A practical, evidence-based guide on how to choose and prepare support people for labour and birth
The role of a birth support partner | Pregnancy Birth and Baby
Learn more about the role of a birth support partner and what they should expect during labour.