If you haven't taken the childbirth classes, I would definitely suggest to take those with your husband/partner.
Whichever hospital or birthing center you are using should offer the classes. They give you a lot of tips and tricks, breathing techniques etc.
If I had not taken the class I think I would have lost my mind. I did most of my first stage labor at home. ONce my contractions became more regular (5-8 minutes apart) my OB said go to the hospital. ON the way there I hit the transition stage and oh man!! When I got to the hospital I was 4 cm dilated but then within 20 minutes I was8-10 cm and if I had not used those breathing techniques with my husband I don't know how I would have got through it.
My husband had me look at him, and his face was very close to mine and he helped me use the breathing techniques until the contraction passed.
The reason I suggest to take the class is because if you do the breathing techniques incorrectly you could pass out or become extremly nauseous.
If you are having back contractions, there are massage techniques they show you that your husband can do. They also show you different positions that may help you be more comfortable.
Good luck!!