The following are some suggestions that may assist you in your role as a support person during the 1st hour after the birth.
Awareness of her needs
Food and fluids
Environment
Physical help to the toilet or shower
Heat and ice packs
Helping her to get comfortable
Supporting yourself
Awareness of her needs. The caregiver will usually remain present until after the placenta has been delivered and mother and baby are stabilised, normally helping the woman to be dry and comfortable (and respectable) before attending to their other duties. However, occasionally the caregiver may be caring for more than one woman in labour and may need to attend to other woman, leaving you, the woman and the baby alone for short periods.
While this is not common, it can occur if the ward is busy, and some women can be left feeling physically uncomfortable or emotionally vulnerable. Alternatively, caregiver(s), and you, may be preoccupied with the baby, if the baby is unwell. In these circumstances you will need to be aware of the woman's needs.
If she is feeling cold or exposed (especially if parts of her body are not covered) find some extra blankets, if you don't know where the blankets are kept, ask at the midwives station outside. If the sheets underneath her are wet from blood or amniotic fluid, gently place some dry towels underneath her.
NOTE: Don't remove her legs from stirrups, or stop her if she attempts to do this herself, as this needs to be done by 2 people in the correct manner to avoid nerve and ligament strain.
If you are worried about the amount of bleeding or the baby's health, ask (or buzz) for help straight away, don't wait for the caregiver to return. Sometimes partners and support people can feel unsure about what they can and can't do when the caregiver is out of the room for a while. If you feel or sense that something is 'not right' trust your instincts and seek out help from another caregiver outside.