>You only get to witness the birth of a child once
You know what else? Though it's rare, the spouse is needed to make important decisions in the event of some unplanned problem and the incapacitation of the mother.
My parents' birth plan went out the window when my mother had an emergency C-section 4 weeks early because I was breech and there were unexpected complications. Plus, mom had an adverse reaction to the anesthesia that was used. It's not easy to plan for things that could go wrong - which is why I'm going to do everything in my power to make sure that my partner or my mother is there to advocate for me if I can't for whatever reason.
Birth plans have moved on. They should consider the rare but catestrophic events -- the doctors can only save either the mother or the child. Which one do they save?
Most people don't like thinking about it, and most parents won't need it. But it is a good idea.
You know what else? Though it's rare, the spouse is needed to make important decisions in the event of some unplanned problem and the incapacitation of the mother.