What to do
If your fears start looking like a reality, then the following may help you to deal with the situation. The following information is directed mainly at the partner or support person. However, as the woman on her own, if you think things are happening quickly you are best to call your caregiver, support team and / or an ambulance if you feel the baby is coming soon. Don't try and drive yourself to the hospital. The best things you can do are try and breathe slowly, and stay calm. Nature is usually kind, and the baby will probably be born smoothly. Knowing that help is on the way will usually mean that you will not be alone for too long.
NOTE: This is not a 'do it yourself' birth guide. It is best for the woman and her baby if you give birth with a trained caregiver in attendance.
Call the hospital or an ambulance
Stay calm
Drive carefully
Make the car comfortable
Talk with your partner
Maintain her privacy
The birth
The baby at birth and keeping the baby warm
Reviving the baby
Cutting the cord
The placenta
Getting to the hospital
Call the hospital or an ambulance. If you have not left home yet, and the woman says she wants to push, call an ambulance (
000 in Australia) and wait. If you are going to try and get to the hospital, call the hospital delivery suite, or birth centre, before you leave, or on your mobile on the way (have their direct number handy if you can). Let them know what is happening and that you are on your way, and where you are coming from. They will either direct you to the closest hospital, or have a midwife at the hospital entrance to meet you when you arrive.
Stay calm. Panicking will not help anyone. You can only do what you can do, and both you and your partner will benefit from you having a cool head. Most babies are born fine without any complications, and usually help is not far away. If you have not left home yet, allow what needs to happen, happen. Phone the ambulance, then talk with your partner.