Advice on being a Birth Partner?

[meggles]

afternoon - my sister has asked that I be her Birth Partner for her upcoming 2nd birth. It's not guaranteed that I'll be able to attend, as she lives in Seattle. But, I'm going to be at her house for 10 days around her due date, and hopefully I'll make it.

She had a 'fine' 1st birth, typical US in hospital + epidural + antibiotics (StrepB+). This time around, she is aiming for a more relaxed, calm birth without an epidural.

I've never carried a baby to full term, and never given birth, and so I feel a bit out of my depth.

However, I consider myself to be a pretty well-informed person and have thought of training as a midwife in the future. I have been lurking/posting on Birth Forums for years (a bit bizarre I realize).

I was wondering if anyone had any advice on how I could best support my sister, without interfering or putting my opinions on her? (IYKWIM) Any advice would be most welcome!

Hi there, I think you're brave to even consider it. I gave birth in March and I had horrific phobias of dying during childbirth, so I made sure my husband was prepared in every way shape and form so I'd be glad to offer some of the tips I gave to him (and later screamed at him come 10 centimetres dilated...!)
The aim of a birthing partner is just to regain some normality and to offer support. The last thing a labouring woman wants is someone saying "BREATHE". I had a home birth, pain relief free, and it's because I kept things calm. I think your sister is wise to follow this route. You can help by looking up a birthing partners' role...and that involves telling the midwives to stop their cheerleading mannerisms.
Make a brief birthing "list" with her, as to what she wants (and do it now whilst she's in the right frame of mind). Discuss things with her and make sure you understand what she wants, perhaps join her for some antenatal classes?