Health Tip: How New Dads Can Prepare for Birth

(HealthDay News) -- Sure, expecting women have to carry most of the responsibility when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth. But that doesn't mean there's nothing for dads-to-be to do.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of possible activities for new fathers:

• Discuss with the mother whether you want to be the one to cut the umbilical cord after birth.
• Help your partner figure out her choice for pain relief during labor. Be supportive of her decision, and understand that she may change her mind during labor.
• Decide if you're going to stay at the hospital with your partner. Take care of assigning someone to watch the house, pets, other children, etc.
• Determine how you and the mother are getting to the hospital. If you're driving, map out your route, and have a backup route, just in case.
• Make sure the car is in good shape and filled with gas as you approach the due date.
• Make sure your partner can reach you at all times, so you're prepared when labor begins.