smarm

1. Before you go into labor, go to the movies, out to dinner, etc. That will be missed for while after the little one comes.

2. My wife got so tired after battling for hours and hours that it was hard for her to make up her mind about some things (drugs, etc.) Plan ahead and know her wishes going in so you can help, then be prepared for her to change her mind completely after it starts and be supportive 100%.

3. Bring food for Dad! You have to keep your energy up, too, after 24+ hours without food or rest, you might not be at your finest. Hopefully it doesn't go that long, but I was near passing out without food the first time and I didn't even realize it because I was so focussed on her. If you go down, you can't help her.

4. Talk to all the nurses and other medical types who are involved. Ask them what they are doing and why, when they take some action that involves your wife/baby. It is good to know. Fostering a friendly relationship with the care provider helps a lot, too.

5. Get everybody out of the hospital as soon as possible so there is a shot at getting some rest. It seems like they come into the room every few minutes to poke, prod, scribble, or change something. It is impossible to get to sleep. With a new baby it is hard to get much sleep at home, but I think it is easier than at the hospital.