You’ve waited nine months to meet your child, and now the moment has arrived. While your partner will be doing the actual laboring, she will definitely need your support. There are a lot of things she’ll have to focus on, so you need to be prepared to step in to help. Below are some ideas on how to be a supportive husband during labor.

BE HER ADVOCATE.

Be aware of the birth plan in advance, and know what your spouse’s expectations are. Make sure you’re communicating with the nurses and doctors involved in her care, and speak up when necessary. And feel free to ask your own questions if you’re feeling unsure about what’s happening.

DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT!

Trust me, your wife will want to see some documentation of her labor and delivery after the baby arrives. So whether it’s filming, taking photos or a combination of both, try to capture the moments that you think will be meaningful to her and to you.

SUPPORT HER EMOTIONALLY AND PHYSICALLY.

Said support could be holding her hand, her leg or giving her a pep talk (or knowing when NOT to give her a pep talk). It’s bringing a game to play once she’s had her epidural, or steering yourself to help her through a drug-free birth. It’s making sure her favorite playlist (and a backup charger) is ready to go.

HELP MAMA AND BABY POSTPARTUM.

If your partner is planning on breastfeeding, it’s best for her to give the first feeding soon after birth. So come prepared with some knowledge and be ready to offer a helping hand, if it’s requested. You can also help bathe your baby for the first time while your wife is recovering. You can also take this quieter time to notify friends and family of your child’s birth, and manage the flow of visitors according to your partner’s wishes.

SHOW SOME LOVE.

Once your baby is here and your spouse is recovering, take the opportunity to spoil her a little bit. Bring an arrangement of her favorite flowers, or takeout from her favorite restaurant. Be thoughtful and try to celebrate this wonderful moment. She will definitely appreciate it.