Partner-assisted childbirth at Genesis Dnipro (Alternative spelling: Partner-assisted childbirth at Genesis Dnepr)

What are partner-supported births and who are they suitable for: they allow a close person to be present during labor to provide emotional support and help with non-medical tasks. They are suitable for women who plan a partner-supported birth in advance and have no health contraindications. It is important to discuss with your doctor and midwife the list of accompanying persons, hygiene rules, possible restrictions, and pain-relief options. The decision about the format of delivery is made individually based on the clinical situation and may be changed in the interest of the mother’s and baby’s safety.

What does this birth format mean

Partner-supported childbirth is an organizationally and medically determined opportunity for a close person to be present during labor to provide emotional support and assist with non-medical tasks. It is suitable for women who want accompaniment and have no clinical contraindications. It is important to discuss in advance with the doctor and midwife the list of accompanying persons, hygiene rules, and possible restrictions. The decision on the format is always individual and may change in the interests of the mother’s and baby’s safety.

• - Practical point: presence of a partner for support, communication, and help with everyday tasks.
• - Typical scenario: partner in the delivery room, assisting with breathing and providing emotional support.
• - Discuss in advance: who will accompany, hygiene rules, permitted actions, and the duration of presence.
• - Medical supervision: the presence does not relieve the doctor and midwife of their duties; clinical assessment is mandatory.
• - Restrictions: infectious, obstetric, or emergency situations may require stopping accompaniment.

Before labor, discuss the format in detail with the maternity team and agree on a backup plan. The safety of the mother and baby remains the priority.

Who this format may be suitable for

Partner-supported births are a format in which a close person is present during labour to provide emotional support and help with non-medical tasks. This option may not be appropriate for everyone and should be discussed in advance with the obstetrician and midwife. Before labour it is important to go over expectations, the companion’s role, and any possible limitations. The decision to allow a partner is made individually and may change during labour.

• The expectant mother wants to discuss the birth scenario and the companion’s role in advance.
• The need for a partner or another close person to be present for emotional support.
• Questions about pain relief/anesthesia that she wants to discuss with the anesthesiologist beforehand.
• A desire to understand who will manage the birth and how clinical decisions are made.
• The pregnancy is progressing without serious complications and the doctor may consider allowing a companion.
• A need to stay active during labour: changing positions and moving independently.
• Previous birth experience and a wish to take past preferences and feelings into account.
• A need for a calm, clear delivery plan and agreement on contingency options.

Discuss your wishes at your appointment so the team can prepare a safe plan. The safety of the mother and baby remains the priority.

When the format may be unsuitable or require restrictions

The format of partner-supported births may be restricted or changed during monitoring if the clinical situation requires it.

The decision to temporarily or permanently discontinue the partner’s presence/support is made by the medical team and the midwife, with the safety of the mother and baby as the guiding consideration.

Below are common reasons why the original plan might be reconsidered.

• Obstetric complications requiring immediate medical intervention.
• Signs of fetal distress on monitoring that require rapid assessment and action.
• The need for urgent surgical or other emergency intervention.
• Contraindications to a specific type of pain relief/anesthesia discussed in advance.
• Infectious or organizational constraints preventing the partner’s presence.
• Conversion to operative delivery (cesarean section) or another format.
• Sudden deterioration of the mother’s condition when safety takes precedence over the original plan.

If the format is changed, the team will explain the reasons and offer the closest alternatives. The main priority in any situation is the safety of the mother and baby.

Who decides on the mode of delivery

The decision on the mode of delivery is made jointly and is based on the clinical picture, not only on personal preferences. The patient expresses her wishes and expectations, including having a partner present during birth, but the team assesses the pregnancy and possible risks. The discussion involves the doctor and the midwife, and an anesthesiologist and neonatologist are involved if necessary. The plan is agreed on in advance, but it may change during labor for safety reasons.

• Patient's wishes: who will be present and how she envisions the birth.
• Assessment of the pregnancy: tests, ultrasound, overall condition of the mother and fetus.
• Medical team: doctor and midwife provide a clinical recommendation.
• Anesthesiologist: evaluates pain relief options and possible contraindications.
• Neonatologist: consulted when there are risks to the baby or complications.
• Indications for operative delivery: the need for urgent intervention changes the mode of delivery.

The decision is made jointly with an emphasis on the safety of the mother and baby. Discuss your expectations in advance so the team can prepare a clear and flexible plan.

What to discuss with your doctor and midwife before labor

Before labor, it's helpful to go over key questions in advance with your doctor and midwife — especially if you plan a partner-supported birth. This list will help you prepare for the consultation and understand which documents and test results will be needed. Discuss expectations openly, but remember the plan may change for medical reasons.

• - What type/format of delivery do you prefer and why?
• - Can the chosen support person be present during delivery, and what requirements apply to them?
• - What pain relief options are available, and should they be discussed with an anesthesiologist?
• - How do previous births or a cesarean section affect the delivery plan?
• - How do chronic conditions or current medications affect labor management?
• - Do the most recent ultrasounds and test results support the chosen delivery approach?
• - What is the plan of action if the mother's or fetus's condition worsens?
• - What items and which documents should you bring when being admitted?
• - When is it best to go to the clinic when contractions start or other signs appear?
• - What are the postpartum stay conditions, and is partner support available?

Write down the answers and save the team's contact information for follow-up. This conversation helps prepare a clear, flexible plan that accounts for safety.

How preparation for partner-supported births is carried out

Preparing for the chosen birth format is a clear step-by-step process, not a formality. It usually includes assessing the condition of the mother and fetus, discussing the plan, and coordinating organizational details. The role of the support person, possible limitations, and backup options are discussed in advance. The plan is prepared flexibly, with safety as the priority.

• Meeting with the doctor and midwife to assess condition and discuss preferences.
• Review of the maternity record and cross-checking the latest ultrasounds and laboratory results.
• Discussion of the birth plan: the partner’s role, permitted actions, and time frames.
• Consultation with an anesthesiologist if planning to use pain relief during labor.
• Briefing the partner on hygiene, conduct, and rules for being in the ward.
• Checking documents and agreeing on the criteria for coming to the maternity hospital.
• Packing basic items and preparing a backup plan in case the situation changes.

This kind of preparation helps the team and family act in a coordinated way. If anything changes during labor, the safety of the mother and baby remains the top priority.

How partner-assisted childbirth proceeds

Partner-assisted childbirth means labor with the presence of a close person, agreed with the team and in the absence of medical contraindications. The process usually proceeds in stages, each with the priority of the mother’s and baby’s safety. The partner’s role is agreed in advance; the plan remains flexible and may change as indicated.

• Admission to the clinic: registration and a quick initial assessment.
• Examination and assessment: the doctor and midwife check cervical dilation and the mother’s condition.
• Monitoring contractions: tracking the frequency and intensity of uterine contractions.
• Fetal monitoring: regular assessment of the fetal heart rate and responses.
• Role of the doctor and midwife: managing the labor and making clinical decisions.
• Partner’s participation: emotional support and assistance with non-medical tasks, according to clinic rules.
• Pain relief if necessary: discussed beforehand and administered as indicated.
• Pushing phase: team guidance, support for the mother with positioning and breathing.
• Birth of the baby and initial newborn assessment: routine procedures and evaluation of condition.
• The first hours after birth: monitoring the mother and baby, arranging stay and care.

The team will explain each step and offer alternatives if the situation changes.

It is important to discuss expectations beforehand and remember that safety remains the top priority.

Pain relief during partner-supported childbirth

The question of pain relief is discussed in advance at a scheduled meeting, especially if you plan a partner-supported birth. A consultation with an anesthesiologist helps align your wishes with the clinical picture and any possible contraindications. The choice of method is made jointly, and it can be adjusted during labor if necessary.

• Discussion of pain relief at the antenatal/pre-labor consultation.
• Consultation with an anesthesiologist if pharmacological pain-relief methods are intended.
• Assessment of condition and laboratory tests to identify contraindications before selecting a method.
• Possible options: epidural anesthesia, systemic analgesics, and non-pharmacological methods.
• The choice of method is made by the anesthesiologist together with the physician, the midwife/obstetrician, and the patient.
• Plan adjustment during labor depending on the course of delivery.
• Some methods are contraindicated in cases of infection, coagulation disorders, or emergency situations.
• Expected effects and possible side effects are discussed before the procedure.

Completely pain-free childbirth cannot be guaranteed, but the team will explain the available options and choose a safe approach. If circumstances change during labor, priority remains the safety of the mother and baby.

Safety and monitoring during partner-supported childbirth

Monitoring and supervision during partner-supported childbirth are performed with the same care as in other delivery settings. The team regularly assesses the condition of the mother and fetus, using clinical observations and instrumental methods as indicated. The partner's presence is organized so as not to interfere with monitoring and, if necessary, rapid intervention.

• Continuous assessment of the mother's well-being by the physician and midwife.
• Regular checks of the fetal heartbeat; cardiotocography (CTG) is performed if needed.
• Monitoring labor progress: cervical dilatation, the nature of contractions, and their frequency.
• Rapid team response to any change in the mother's or fetus's condition.
• Readiness to change management approach: additional measures or operative intervention.
• Agreed rules for the partner to avoid interfering with monitoring and procedures.
• Documentation of changes and explanation of the reasons to the patient and her companion.

Monitoring is a routine and safe part of labor that helps ensure timely decision-making. In any changes, the priority remains the safety of the mother and baby.

What happens if labor doesn't go according to plan

Even with a carefully discussed plan for a partner-supported birth, the plan remains flexible and may change as events unfold. The care team assesses the situation and selects a safe course of action, explaining decisions as needed. Below are typical adjustments it’s helpful to know about in advance.

• Temporary removal of the birth partner from the room if necessary for safety or sterility.
• Need to augment contractions or to proceed to a cesarean section if labor progress changes.
• Limiting the option of epidural anesthesia if there are contraindications.
• Switching from an upright position to another position or otherwise changing how labor is managed.
• Altering a minimal-intervention plan if there are signs of risk to the fetus or the mother.
• The team adjusting tactics by introducing additional interventions and monitoring.
• Decisions made jointly by the doctor and midwife, with involvement of an anesthesiologist or neonatologist if needed.

Changing the plan is not a mistake but a normal medical response to the situation. The team will explain the reasons and offer the safest immediate options.

Possible risks and limitations of partner-supported childbirth

Any childbirth format has its limitations, and partner-supported childbirth is no exception, especially in clinical situations. Risks and limitations depend on the mother's and fetus's condition and on how the pregnancy progresses. The obstetrician and midwife will explain in advance when the plan may need to change and what actions might be required during the process.

• Restriction of the partner's presence for infectious or logistical reasons.
• Risks depend on the condition of the mother, the baby, and the course of the pregnancy.
• Possible need for interventions: induction/augmentation of labor or operative delivery.
• Some methods of pain relief may be contraindicated.
• Temporary removal of the partner if emergency procedures are required.
• Someone else’s experience is not a guarantee that your labor will follow the same course.

• The safety of the mother and baby takes priority over any previously chosen plan.

Discuss these limitations in advance with your obstetrician and midwife so you understand the possible options. In any situation, the team will act in the interests of the mother’s and baby’s safety.

What happens immediately after birth

Immediately after delivery, the team provides initial care for the mother and the newborn; the partner may be present by arrangement with the staff. In the clinic, a neonatologist routinely examines the newborn and the mother is monitored; CTG (cardiotocography) is also used during labor and as indicated afterward. It is important to know that the sequence of procedures may vary depending on the condition of both and the clinical situation.

• First contact: skin-to-skin and assistance with the first latch if desired.
• Examination of the newborn by a neonatologist; in the maternity ward this examination is always performed.
• Use of CTG (cardiotocography) during labor and, if necessary, afterwards.
• Monitoring the mother’s condition: blood loss, blood pressure, and overall well‑being.
• Assistance with pain control and arranging initial procedures as indicated.
• Organizing transfer to the room/ward and explaining the next steps in care.
• Informing relatives and answering your questions.

The first hours are a time for observation and adjustment, so the team’s actions are focused on safety and comfort. If something does not go according to plan, the reasons will be explained and the available options offered.

Role of the physician and the birth team

During childbirth, the team plays a decisive role: they coordinate with one another and make clinically justified decisions. In the context of partner-supported births, the physician and the midwife will take your preferences into account, but the primary guiding principle remains the safety of the mother and the baby. The team also informs you about what is happening and about any possible changes to the plan.

• Obstetrician-gynecologist — assesses the condition, makes clinical decisions, and leads the management of labor.
• Midwife — directly monitors the process and supports the mother in the delivery room.
• Anesthesiologist — evaluates pain-relief options and performs procedures if necessary.
• Neonatologist — performs the initial examination and provides care to the newborn immediately after birth.
• Surgical team — prepared to perform operative intervention if indicated.
• Medical staff — organize care, monitoring, and maintain order in the room/ward.
• Communication with you — explains the team’s actions and discusses any changes to the plan.

The team works together to ensure a safe and clear course of labor. Ask questions — it’s important to know what is happening and why particular decisions are being made.

How this format benefits the patient

The partner-supported childbirth format allows you to give birth with the support of a close person, provided this is agreed with the team and there are no medical contraindications. It helps to discuss the companion’s role and expectations in advance, which reduces uncertainty in the delivery room. The decision is coordinated with the doctor and midwife, and if necessary the plan is adjusted in the interest of safety.

• A clear, pre-agreed plan of action for the delivery team and the family.
• Emotional support from the partner nearby, which helps many people stay calm.
• The opportunity to discuss and agree on pain relief options in advance.
• Less uncertainty thanks to pre-agreed roles and rules for presence.
• Monitoring and oversight by the team while keeping your familiar person nearby.
• The option to choose and agree on the presence of a specific doctor.
• The team is ready to promptly change tactics if necessary, with safety as the priority.

Discuss your wishes at the appointment so the team can prepare a comfortable and safe plan. If any changes occur during labor, the reasons will be explained and alternatives offered.

How a pre-delivery consultation works

A pre-delivery consultation is a structured review of your situation and possible formats for delivery. It is usually conducted by a doctor and a midwife who review your medical history and test results. If you are considering partner-supported births, this will be discussed separately and the rules for attendance will be explained. Additional consultations with specialists will be arranged if necessary.

• Medical history intake: previous deliveries, chronic conditions, and medications taken.
• Review of the maternity record, ultrasound, and laboratory results.
• Examination and assessment of the current condition of the mother and fetus.
• Discussion of your preferences: birth format/setting, partner presence, pain relief options.
• Explanation of possible limitations and situations when the plan may need to change.
• Assistance in choosing a safe format and agreeing on a backup plan.
• Instructions on when to go to the clinic, what to bring, and which documents to prepare.
• Answers to questions; referral to an anesthesiologist or neonatologist if needed.

Write down the key points of the consultation and keep the team's contact details for follow-up. Such preparation helps form a clear and flexible plan focused on safety.

Please note that online consultations are available for patients from other cities. We often receive requests from Zaporizhzhia, Pavlohrad, Kamenskoye (Dniprodzerzhinsk), Novomoskovsk (Samar), Kryvyi Rih, Nikopol, Marganets, Sinelnikovo, Pokrov, Zhovti Vody, and other cities.

Preparation for admission to the maternity hospital

Before going to the maternity hospital, it’s useful to gather documents and essentials in advance, especially if you plan a partner-supported birth. Discuss required documents and current test results with your doctor and midwife at your appointment. Prepare any medications you take regularly and check with your doctor about taking them during labor.

• - Documents: passport, health insurance card, and documents confirming pregnancy.
• - Maternity record with notes of monitoring and recommendations from your attending physician.
• - Recent test results and ultrasound scans for quick review by the team.
• - Items for the mother — only a basic set for a short stay in the hospital.
• - Items for the baby — the minimum required, agreed with the hospital rules.
• - Items for the partner, if an accompanying person is planned: a small kit and documents.
• - Regular medications with notes and prior agreement with the doctor.
• - Contact phone numbers and a travel plan: when it’s best to go to the clinic.

Check what you’ve packed at the pre-delivery consultation and clarify any questions with the team. This will help avoid unexpected delays at admission.

Maternity unit conditions

The maternity unit is organized as a single, continuous care process from admission through the first hours after delivery. When planning partner-supported births, organizational matters and medical conditions are discussed in advance. The team follows a unified monitoring protocol and is prepared to adapt the plan depending on the condition of the mother and the baby.

• Labor rooms equipped for monitoring and standard obstetric procedures.
• Postpartum observation and recovery rooms with the option of rooming-in.
• Availability of a neonatologist for the initial examination and assessment of the newborn.
• Availability of an anesthesiologist for consultation and emergency situations.
• Possibility of partner-supported births by agreement with the team and in accordance with the clinic’s rules.
• Individual support and coordination of the delivery plan with medical staff.
• Organization of transfer to the ward and monitoring of the mother and baby during the first hours.

Clarify organizational and clinical details at the pre-delivery consultation so the team can prepare a safe and clear plan. In any changes, priority remains the safety of the mother and the baby.

When to seek urgent medical attention

If you notice worrying symptoms, do not delay — it’s better to have the situation checked immediately. A prompt assessment helps prevent complications and ensures appropriate action is taken in time.

• Bloody or heavy vaginal discharge, especially if accompanied by severe pain or weakness.
• Your waters have broken — any change in color, smell, or amount requires urgent evaluation.
• Regular contractions that increase in intensity before the agreed-upon date or that occur too early.
• Severe or unbearable abdominal pain that suddenly worsens your condition.
• A significant decrease or absence of fetal movements compared with the usual level.
• High blood pressure, especially if your condition suddenly worsens.
• Severe headache that does not go away after rest or that is accompanied by nausea.
• Visual disturbances: blurring, spots, flashes, or a sudden worsening of vision.
• Marked weakness, fainting, or difficulty breathing.
• A fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, especially with chills.
• Any sudden, unexpected change in how you feel that causes serious concern.

If any of these signs occur, go to the maternity unit or contact your doctor immediately.

If you are unsure — it’s better to come in and get a professional assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I choose partner birth in advance?
Answer: Yes, the format can be discussed and planned before labor at a prenatal consultation, but the final decision depends on the clinical assessment at admission.

Question: Is partner birth suitable for everyone?
Answer: Not necessarily; suitability depends on the condition of the mother and fetus and on any contraindications, so the possibility is clarified during the doctor and midwife appointment.

Question: Can I change the birth plan during labor if I change my mind?
Answer: Yes, the plan is flexible and can be revised at your request or for medical reasons during labor.

Question: How do I discuss the birth format before labor — whom should I talk to and what should I prepare?
Answer: Discuss it at an appointment with the doctor and midwife; bring your maternity record (exchange card), ultrasound and test results, and your wishes and questions.

Question: Can I give birth with a partner and who may accompany me?
Answer: Partner presence is possible by agreement with the team and in compliance with clinic rules; the list of allowed companions and their responsibilities is clarified at the consultation.

Question: Is epidural anesthesia available during partner births?
Answer: Epidural anesthesia may be available if there are no contraindications; the final decision and indications are discussed by the anesthesiologist at consultation.

Question: Who decides on pain relief during labor?
Answer: The decision is made jointly by the anesthesiologist, doctor and midwife, taking into account your condition, test results and the current situation in labor.

Question: What happens if the chosen pain relief option is not suitable?
Answer: The anesthesiologist will offer alternatives or adjust the plan during labor depending on indications and safety.

Question: When should I go to the hospital when contractions start?
Answer: Specific criteria are discussed at consultation; usually decisions are based on the regularity and strength of contractions, rupture of membranes, or the appearance of concerning symptoms.

Question: What documents and test results should I take to the maternity hospital?
Answer: Bring your passport, medical documents (maternity record, test results and examinations) and contact details of the treating team.

Question: Can I come with already completed tests and results?
Answer: Yes, bringing results helps the team assess the situation faster; if necessary the doctor may order additional tests.

Question: What will happen if a cesarean section is required during labor?
Answer: The team will promptly inform you and make decisions in the interest of safety; partner involvement and next steps are discussed depending on the circumstances.

Question: How long is the usual stay in the clinic after delivery?
Answer: The length of stay depends on the mode of delivery and the condition of the mother and baby; exact timing is discussed with the treating doctor after delivery.

Question: What is done immediately after the baby is born?
Answer: An initial neonatal examination is performed, the baby's condition is assessed and the mother is monitored; skin-to-skin contact and assistance with breastfeeding may be provided.

Question: Can I meet the doctor in advance and discuss the birth plan?
Answer: Yes, meeting with the doctor and midwife before labor is recommended to discuss wishes, risks and backup options.

Question: How can I prepare my partner for the birth?
Answer: At the consultation they will explain rules of conduct, hygiene, possible restrictions and the companion’s role in the delivery room; it is helpful to discuss expectations and realistic scenarios.

Question: What if the chosen birth format no longer seems possible at a late stage of pregnancy?
Answer: Discuss changes with the doctor and midwife — the team will propose an alternative safe plan and explain the reasons for the adjustment.

Question: Can I get a second opinion on the proposed birth management plan?
Answer: Yes, you can request a second opinion; the team will advise when and how to do this so as not to delay necessary decisions.