There are many strategies that partners or support people can use to help support the woman during her prelabour. These include:
Staying calm. Remember... it is just the beginning.
Supporting the woman in what she feels like doing. For example, don't force her to go for a walk if she is tired.
Following her lead. Don't try and rush her into going to hospital if she is not ready, and don't convince her to stay at home if she is uncomfortable with this. Contact her caregiver if you need guidance.
Hiring a video or going to see a film if she feels up to it. The old movie 'Three Men and a Baby' has been known to do the trick!
Being prepared in case the active labour starts in the following few hours. Pack a change of clothes, swimmers and toiletries into a bag. Have food and fluids packed for you. It is important to look after yourself. You may wish to read
What to pack for labour.
Organising time off work. Putting petrol in the car, having money for parking at the hospital.
Knowing the way to the hospital, how long it will take, where to park the car and possibly an alternative route. Be aware of organised street events and peak hour traffic times as these may influence the timing of your trip to hospital or the best way to get there.
Communicating about how you are both feeling. Nervous, excited, scared, or glad the day / night has finally arrived.
Trying to go back to sleep (both of you), if prelabour starts in the middle of the night, ignore it until it becomes too strong to ignore.
Knowing where the hot water bottle / heat packs are kept and how to heat or cool them. You may wish to read
How to make heat packs.
Reminding her to keep eating and drinking and to pass urine every couple of hours. Don't forget to eat and drink yourself.
Arranging a massage for her possibly a home visit or give her one yourself.
Playing some music if she is agreeable to it. Possibly burning some aromatherapy oils.