Birth Plan
A
birth plan is a written understanding between expectant parents and the doctor or midwife of how you want your labor and delivery to be handled. Although your
birth plan details your requests, you should be flexible if the labor does not go according to plan. Doctors or midwives will always act in the best interest of you and your baby-especially if you or your baby's health is at risk. The main goal of your birth plan is to bring all parties as close as possible to your ideal birthing experience.
Birth Plan List
When detailing your
birth plan, you may want to prioritize your choices, listing the most important decision first. This helps make your important requests readily apparent to your doctor, midwife, and medical staff. Birth plans cover a wide variety of topics, so you may want to consider the following questions when outlining your
birth plan:
- Do you want a routine IV, a heparin/saline block, or nothing at all?
- Do you want pain medications, and if you do, which ones?
- If induction or labor augmentation is necessary, what method(s) should be used? Pitocin, breaking the membranes, enema, or walking are some of the various methods.
- Is an episiotomy an option?
- Do you prefer a certain position to give birth?
- For home and birthing centers, what are your plans in case of an emergency?
- Will there be time limits on the length of your labor?
- Who do you want present at your baby's birth?
- Do you want mobility or do you wish to be confined to a bed?
- Do you want to wear your own clothing?
- Are you going to collect the umbilical cord blood stem cells for banking?
You may also want to include a second page that details how to handle complications if they occur. Deviations may be necessary so try to remain flexible. Also, think positive: have your birth plan focus on positive aspects instead of writing a list of what you don't want. Also, ask to see the birthing room so you can become acquainted with your surroundings.
Finalizing Your Birth Plan
Your doctor's judgment and the hospital's rules might affect or alter your final plan. However, a birth plan helps you feel confident and in control. While some doctors routinely ask their patients to create a birth plan, other doctors who don't should be willing to discuss your plan.
