Giving her physical contact
Close physical contact can be very reassuring for a woman in labour. Your intimate presence can make her feel safe and secure. She may not want you to do anything in particular, or say anything, just be there unconditionally for her. Some women don't like people being close, finding it claustrophobic. This does not mean she wants you out of the room, just not in her face!
Having your hand available to squeeze on during a contraction (making sure her nails are short!) Tie her hair back off her face, if she is happy to have this done. Obtain eye contact, if you feel she is looking lost, or overwhelmed. Communicate and encourage her, unless told to stop. Kiss her, tell her you love her and how proud you are of her, wipe her brow, and stroke her arm. It is often these simple gestures that she will remember positively, and that will motivate her to persevere.
Massaging her, acupressure
Massage can be soothing, relaxing, reassuring and pain relieving for women in labour. This can be light fingertip touching (called 'effleurage'), moderate stroking, or a firm pressured massage to specific areas. Many women like quite firm pressure applied by the heel of your hand (or knuckles) to the lower back at the
sacrum. Pressure above (and to either side) of the buttocks, can greatly relieved a tender, aching back. She normally will be quite directive by the active phase of 1st stage, using giving instructions like "higher, lower, softer, harder or stop". Let her guide you.
Massaging her hands, feet or lower back can give her great relief, but it is important to be aware of your own body. You will probably need a break yourself from time to time. There are certain points using acupressure that can be used to help her with the labour. You may wish to read
acupressure points.