Writing a birth plan provides you, your partner and your doctor the opportunity to discuss your hopes and desires for your baby’s birth. It is a great way to organize your thoughts and wishes for that special day in your life. While birth plans are an excellent communication tool, it is important to remember to be flexible for sometimes deviations are necessary. The most important thing is to remember that your goal is the safe birth of your precious bundle.
Factors to Consider for Your Birth Plan:
- How you would like to manage your labor–positions for labor and pain?
- Your feelings about being induced?
- Do you want fetal monitoring?
- Do you want to bring any comforts from home? Your own pillow, pjs, etc?
- How do you plan to stay hydrated? Ice chips, water, sips of drinks?
- Do you want a doula?
- Will there be family or siblings present?
- How you feel about pain medication?
- Would you like to avoid an episiotomy?
- Do you want cameras, videos, or music?
- What if a Cesearean is necessary?
- How the baby should be handled after birth?
- Will you want help with breastfeeding?
- Do you want the baby to room in with you?
- Are you considering cord blood banking?
There are many interactive online tools to help you create a birth plan that are fast easy and free. Here are just a few:
After you’ve created your plan be sure to print one out for yourself, your doctor and the hospital. Having this with you at your baby’s birth will help you feel more in control and prepared for this momentous day!
