#580. Attending a Yoledes on Shabbos
A Jew may breach certain melachos (forbidden work on Shabbos) for a yoledes (a woman in labor), even if it only enhances her emotional wellbeing and is not medically necessary. This is based on the Gemara which states that one may light a candle on Shabbos for a yoledes (who is considered as an ill person in danger)—since remaining in the dark may make her feel she is not being properly cared for by her birth attendant. Turning on the light serves liyesuvei datah (to put her in a calm state of mind).
Many contemporary poskim (halachic authorities) permit a laboring woman’s husband—or any person of her choosing—to accompany her to the hospital on Shabbos, based on the above ruling. They argue that a woman would be anxious to give birth alone. However, this dispensation is limited to those who are absolutely necessary for her peace of mind; the Gemara states elsewhere that ibaya lei liyesuvei datei (a person is responsible to self-calm).
It is interesting to note just how far Halachah yields to account for a laboring woman’s feelings. Generally, we are mandated to travel to the nearest hospital on Shabbos to avoid traversing unnecessary distances, which entail multiple violations. But if the yoledes is more calm and comfortable giving birth at her regular hospital which is farther away, it is permitted to travel there. (This is so even without taking into account that she may receive better care at her registered hospital.)