At KGHypnobirthing we have been taking so many calls from worried pregnant women who are having to attend their antenatal visits without their partner and whose partner will only be allowed into the hospital for a short time when they give birth. We have tools to relieve stress and build confidence, but that’s not the same as having the person you love by your side at this very special time.
I have come up with a solution. Not as good as actually having your partner there, but an excellent and creative substitute – virtual antenatal appointments!
If your partner cannot be there with you, set it up for them to join virtually using one of many video connection platforms. There are so many out there, you should be able to find one to work for you both.
Explain to your obstetrician or midwife what you are doing at the beginning of the appointment.
For example, you could set up a Zoom meeting with your partner for the time of your antenatal visit. It is worth investing in Zoom professional for this as otherwise you are restricted to 45 minutes and you might wait longer than that. Connect to Zoom on your phone or other device in your appointment, and then when your partner is connected, they can be part of the discussion, and can be there virtually to back you up with any requests you have for more information or evidence about any intervention that may be proposed.
You can also set up a Zoom meeting when you go into labour so that, even if your partner can’t actually be with you for as long as you would like, you can still see each other, talk to each other, and your partner can give you encouragement and, as near as possible, be part of the process of labour and birth.
Using the your hospital’s wifi login would be great (ask them in advance if you can do this but be aware that some hospital wifi can be unreliable), but if this is not available make sure you have lots of data on your phone or simply use a phone call to connect.
Go for it! On top of your KGH practice, this will make a massive difference to you both.
