Mother doesn’t want my husband in the delivery room

Dear Pastor,

I am 23 years old and I am pregnant. I will give birth in two months' time. I would like my husband to be in the delivery room.

My mother, who is a nurse, told me that she does not see why I would want my husband to be there when I am giving birth. My doctor told me that it would be a wonderful experience for me to have. My mother is an old-timer. She believes that my husband would be seeing too much of me.

My husband said that if he is not going to be there, then my mother should not be there, either, because it's a doctor who is going to do the delivery. I would love for my husband to hold my hands during the pain and discomfort of childbirth. My husband wants to be with me, but it would be difficult to tell my mother not to be there with me while giving birth to my first child.

What do you think about my position?

T.N.

Dear T.N.,

Put your foot down and tell your mother that it is your desire to have your husband with you on that occasion.

Your mother should keep quiet on this matter. It is amazing that some mothers want to control their children in every facet of life. I know you love your mother, but this decision is not hers; it is between you, your husband and the doctor.

I am sure that you would draw much strength and encouragement from the presence of your husband in the delivery room.

Pastor