…..And now, it’s daddy’s turn!

By now, I’m sure you’re pretty much all set and ready to go into labor.

As important as getting all of mom’s gadgets and baby’s things ready, is making sure that daddy is all packed and ready to go, too! Here is a checklist that I hope would help you as you get everything set for the big day. I will also include some random tips that come to mind as I go along typing…

- Food (I must say it again, nothing with a strong smell please!)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Cellphone
- Your wallet ….and make sure it has cash!!
- Watch
- Book / Ipod …anything to keep you preoccupied in case labor progresses slowly (in our case, ipod and a deck of cards were very helpful)
- Paracetamol (just in case the hunger/lack of sleep/tension gets the best of you and your body suddenly decides that the time of labor is also the best time to act in protest)….husbands, we appreciate and love you, but when it’s labor day, don’t expect any help from anyone when it comes to meeting YOUR needs

- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Slippers

1. Remember, you’re in charge of the camera and all other documentation gadgets
2. You may want to have some copies of the patient information, too
3. Put all necessary documents in one envelope and take on the responsibility of handling them
4. Even if your wife is most probably the one who packed the bags (labor bag, baby’s bag, etc.), please know where everything is, so when she’s in too much pain and asks for something (or too groggy and would need to wake up and nurse the baby), you won’t have to ask her what and where that lip balm or burp cloth is
5. We know you love us and you do feel for us, but in your effort to comfort us during labor, please don’t ever imply that you feel our pain…When tempted to say it, just DON’T.
6. Go with the flow. Most of the time, the techniques we learn in birthing classes just don’t seem to work all of a sudden. Relax. That’s just how it is….go with the flow…
7. A week or two prior to the due date, get enough sleep and rest. You’d be needing it. We need you to stay strong for us.
8. As much as possible, don’t take on too many appointments around this time either.
9. Plan ahead– where should you position your camera? What’s the best angle, just so you can see the baby as he/she comes out and yet make it censored enough to show your family and friends?
10. Don’t show signs of panic– even if you’re about to have a heart attack. Pray with your wife and for your wife out loud. Remind her of your mantra. Tell her how well she’s doing. Realize that your mere presence and support give her a thousand times more strength and courage as you BOTH go through this.

*Dennis, thank you for being a great great labor partner! You’re the best! ‘Till next time…. (after many many years)

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