When a woman is in labour, she produces a powerful cocktail of hormones. These hormones are essential for keeping the uterine muscles contracting and labour flowing. One of the most important of these hormones is oxytocin, often known as the 'the love hormone'. When the woman's body is relaxed and freely secreting oxytocin, the uterine muscles work together, contracting and opening. If, on the other hand, she is anxious and tense, her mind triggers a fight or flight response in the body. Her body stops producing oxytocin, and instead floods with adrenalin. In this state of high alert, birth becomes more painful, as the muscles of the uterus become tense and unyielding.

​

With so much fear around childbirth, it's all too easy for the fight or flight response to be triggered. One key way to help the mother stay calm and relaxed is by ensuring that she feels safe and secure, in a kind and loving environment. A calm, relaxed, birth companion is essential for creating that environment. It's invaluable for the father to understand the process of birth and the techniques he can use to help ease pain and discomfort, but it's the quality of his presence that matters most. Is he nervous and anxious or is he reassuring, empowering and calm?

A calm and confident father transmits confidence, trust and love to his partner. He is intuitive to her needs and able to respond in ways that enable her to relax and let go. His empowered and loving presence promotes the production of oxytocin, keeps the birthing room adrenalin-free, and facilitates the flow of labour.