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As the fetus grows within your uterus and its movements become stronger, you begin to think about the birth of your baby with excitement – and perhaps some fear and anxiety. The father-to-be probably shares those feelings.
As an expectant father, you probably have heard others tell you that you are no longer excluded from the labor and delivery room. You wonder how you will react. Would you feel comfortable in the labor and delivery room? What could you do to help? Would you be able to do it right?
Whatever the childbirth experience you will have, the key is for both of you to be prepared. Preparing for your child’s birth means learning what will happen and what to expect during each phase of labor, and developing skills which allow the mother-to-be to work with her body’s normal functioning. To you as an expectant father, preparing also means learning how to give physical and emotional support during labor and delivery, if you choose to accompany your wife.
To both of you as prepared expectant parents, you can approach childbirth with a positive attitude and confidence that comes from knowledge. You will be able to assume a partnership role with your doctor and the nursing staff during the most exciting time in your life.
Even if you choose conventional childbirth – and many women do – prepared childbirth classes are very good for both of you. In addition to learning valuable information, attending classes is something you can do together.