When in labor, can the husband hold his wife’s hand in public?

And generally, when the wife feels very vulnerable and needs the support while pregnant, can the husband hold the wife’s hand in the car (specifically after an appointment or exam)?

 

Answer:

Before halachic labor starts (or before she becomes halachically impure due to any other reason):
In cases of need, it is permitted to help her as necessary, especially in a place where there are only non-Jews present etc.

After halachic labor starts (or if harchakos are in effect for whatever reason):
In general, you should make arrangements for there to be help even if this means that you would have to spend a lot of money and hire someone.

If there is a great need and it is not possible to get someone even for a lot of money, you may help her with what is necessary; care should be taken not to touch her directly but with a cloth.

In any case:
While the above is purely from the halacha point of view, you should try as much as possible to keep the hadracha of tznius, at every time and in every place. This is especially important prior to birth where extra zechusim are required.

If it is a case of an emergency, no calculations should be made and you should provide her with all care necessary until help arrives.

 

 

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