If your labour goes well, it is possible for a whānau member to catch your baby rather than a midwife or doctor. There is something very special about your support person’s hands being the first to welcome baby into the world.
A midwife or doctor will wear gloves to catch your baby, but your support person does not need to, although they can if they want!
If your partner or support person would like to catch your baby, your midwife can support them to do this. It’s important that they’re not squeamish or unable to cope with blood, as there is likely to be a bit of blood and some bodily fluids as your baby is born.