The presence of your partner or companion is very helpful during labour for whenever we are in distress it is comforting to have someone we love close by. Women often say that they could not have coped without such support and care. It has even been suggested that the need for pain relief may be reduced by the presence of partners and companions.

You will obviously need to select your companion(s) carefully. Their attitudes towards childbirth need to be compatible with your own. It is helpful if they have had some preparation, too, by attending antenatal classes and discussing your expectations and desires with you beforehand. Your partner, or companion, can help in various ways. For instance:

• Help you to find comfortable positions and provide physical support.
• Provide massage and touch.
• Give encouragement.
• Help you to relax and to concentrate on imagery breathing.
• Change musical tapes, provide hot towels, wipe your brow, and pass ice chips.
• Act as your advocate.