The impact of lay support for the birthing woman and her partner: expanding the circle of intimacy

This article is the first of a three-part series drawing on the findings of a doctoral study of midwife-father communications during labour and birth.1 Recognising birth as a ‘social experience’, it questions the arbitrary limits placed on the number of supporters permitted to accompany the birthing woman. It offers a new perspective on the presence of ‘additional’ birth companions, aiming to promote reflection and discussion amongst midwives about ‘lay support’ for the woman in labour: who is best placed to offer such support; how and when discussions about this issue can be facilitated.