Dimensions of labour support


Emotional Support

• Encouragement
• Reassurance
• Continuous physical presence

Physical Support

• Comfort measures
• Positions
• Massage
• Breathing
• Relaxation
• Non-pharmacological pain relief measures (hot and cold therapy)

Informational Support

• Assistance in gathering information about the course of their labour and their options
• Explanation
• Non-medical advice

Advocacy

• Reminding the woman's wishes (Birth Plan) to her caregivers
• Facilitating communication between the woman and her caregivers

Partner Support

• Role modeling
• Encouragement
• Reassurance