Additional Coverage:
- I was in the delivery room when my daughter gave birth. I was worried about overstepping and made sure she knew I was there to support her. (businessinsider.com)
My daughter asked me to be in the delivery room for the birth of my first grandchild. I was thrilled, but also apprehensive about overstepping.
Throughout her pregnancy, I’d been a typical mom-to-be’s support system: hiding the news early on, loving every name suggestion, retelling my own birth stories, and planning the baby shower. Being invited into the delivery room felt like a natural extension of that role.
However, I immediately started second-guessing myself. My birthing experience was decades old, and I had no medical training.
Would I be more of a hindrance than a help? How would my son-in-law feel about my presence?
And what about his mother?
The parents-to-be had access to birthing classes and hospital tours, but I felt a little lost. I wish I’d asked more questions about my role and their expectations.
My “nanny plan” was simply to show up when called. I made sure my daughter knew I was flexible and wouldn’t be offended if she changed her mind about anything.
When the big day arrived, my instinct was to take charge. But I fought that urge.
This wasn’t my experience. My job was to support, not lead.
I offered encouragement, kept her hydrated, and provided a comforting presence.
Just as important were the things I didn’t do. I avoided offering unsolicited advice and gave the new parents space when they needed it.
Witnessing their strength and teamwork, especially when their birth plan went out the window, was an incredible honor. Supporting my daughter through this experience was far more challenging than giving birth myself. I would have gladly taken on her pain, but all I could do was offer my confidence.
After the birth, I ached to hold my grandson, but I knew it was more important to let them become a family. And they did.