Unnecessary Accompaniment for a Woman in Labor on Shabbat
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Question
Hello, I am about to give birth, and there is a possibility that the birth will occur on Shabbat. I have a doula, and I do not need my mother's accompaniment, but my mother is very eager to be by my side during the birth. Is there a permission to take her by car on Shabbat?
Answer
Hello,
Since each additional person who gets into the car increases the necessary activities for the trip, such as additional fuel burning and the like, there is no permission to add a person to the trip on Shabbat, even if the trip itself is necessary and permitted.
It is important to explain this to her in a kind manner, to avoid causing distress to the mother.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 330