Birth Plan
A birth plan is a document that lists your preferences for birth. Do you consider getting an epidural or would you rather labor without any pain medication? Do you want to avoid routine interventions? All these things are specified in your birth plan.
Why do I need a birth plan?
Birth plans are a great way of communicating your wishes to your care team without having to discuss or explain once you are in labor. This way everyone included in your birth team will know your preferences. Of course sometimes a plan has to be adjusted and you can always change your mind, but having a birth plan ahead of time helps you make up your mind about your options way before your the big day.
What do I include in my birth plan?
Birth Team
Who do you want included in your birth team? Is this your first baby or have you given birth before? How do you envision your birth?
Labor Preferences
Do you want to be free to move around? Do you want to decline the IV in a hospital setting? What positions do you want to labor in?
Preferences for the pushing phase
Do you want to push in an upright position? Would you rather avoid an episiotomy?
Immediate Postpartum
Do you prefer delayed cord clamping? How would you like to feed your baby? Are visitors allowed right after birth?
To whom it may concern…
You might be wondering who will ever see your birth plan. Make sure to create your birth plan way ahead of your due date/induction/birth so you have ample time to share and discuss your preferences and wishes with your care provider. Especially if you give birth in a hospital setting, there might be “policies” in place that contradict your wishes. It’s always better to be aware before you go. Once you check into your place of birth, make sure to hand your birth plan to your nurses and caregivers.