I found myself in territory, similar, but nowhere near as 'permanently away' as your DH might be. my DH works on weekends and is usually away the whole time...and of course DD decided to come on the day that he was over 300km away
I guess it is important to give both of you (and especially yourself) the peace of mind that it will be ok if he misses it. it didnt cross either of our minds and it really threw me when it happened and i found myself all alone with no idea of who to call for support. i guess my hint would be to have a support person in place that can be there to hold your hand tell you that it's going to be ok...although they cant replace your DH, at least you wont be alone and (importantly) your DH can feel comfortable leaving his gorgeous wife and baby in trusting hands IYKWIM.
My DH works in Africa, and there was a possibility that he wouldn't make it back for DS's birth dependent on when I went into labour, with this in mind I enlisted the help of a Doula, who I got to know very well before the big day and knew that if my DH wasn't back in time that I would feel 100% supported by my lovely doula. As it turned out DS was overdue one week and DH made it back in time.
My DP is away alot for work also... He has promised that he will be here for the birth, but we just never know. He could be on the other side of the country when I go into labour, and may not make it back for the birth.
We have decided against having another support person, so if he doesnt make it... I'm going to be devastated!
My DH works in the mines, i had our baby a month ago and he missed it by only about 40 mins, as soon as he knew i was in labour he hopped in his car and made a 5 hour drive in 3 and a half hours .. naughty boy hehe,
i had my BIL and SIL which were amazing, i had the best labour and birth with them there, despite the fact that DH wasnt there i wouldnt change a thing.
my dp is hardly home and i dont know if im having bub here or at a better hospital 1500kms away
all i can say as along as hes there in bubs first few hrs ill be ok
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