Recent research shows that effective labor support can actually shorten labors and prevent complications. And this isn't a new discovery. Dr. Robert Bradley, a Denver obstetrician, found a generation ago that when fathers were brought out of the waiting room and into the delivery room, laboring women were more relaxed, experienced less pain and labored more quickly and easily. Hospitals now welcome fathers into the delivery room because they make a positive difference in labor.

As an expectant father, you can do more than just sit there and time contractions while your partner does all the work. Here are some time-tested suggestions to help you help her.

The best way to make labor hurt really badly is to tense up during contractions. Help her completely relax - not just lie still, but deeply let go of all tension in her muscles. Have her focus on relaxing her feet, while you massage them. Work your way up her body - legs, hips, belly, back, shoulders, neck, arms, hands, face. If you practice this during pregnancy, it will work better for you in labor.

Walking shortens labor by about 30 percent. Don't let her get stuck in bed too soon. Help her stay up and moving as long as possible.

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