Hesperian Health Guides
When you first arrive
When you arrive at a birth ask the mother how she is feeling. Make sure the birth area is clean and arrange your supplies. All the tools for the birth, and anything that will cut the skin, should be sterilized.
Talk to the woman and her family to be sure they can still get to medical help in an emergency.
Wash your hands well for 3 minutes and ask anyone who may touch your tools, the mother’s genitals, or the baby to wash their hands in the same way.
The mother should bathe too. If possible, she should wash her genitals, hands, and body at the beginning of labor.
Talk to the woman and her family about what may happen during labor, and answer any questions they have. Choose a family member who can help in an emergency, and explain to that person what kind of help you might need.