Preparation is everything
It helps to be prepared beforehand and that's where antenatal classes come in. They'll teach you all about the different stages of labour and what's going to happen when. You'll also learn how to help your partner breathe through the contractions and they're a brilliant place to meet other dads who might be feeling the same way you are.
So what can you do during the birth?
The quick answer is a lot! Make sure you know exactly what’s in your partner’s birthplan. So whilst she is concentrating on breathing and pushing you can make sure that, wherever possible, her wishes are followed; especially when it comes to pain relief options.
Be ready to get her drinks and snacks on demand. And during the early stages of labour to reduce pain, help your partner stay mobile and massage her lower back. Equally importantly, don’t forget to provide encouragement throughout the birth especially when it comes to breathing between the contractions.