Writing Your Birth Plan

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In the days leading up to the birth of your baby, as you are preparing the nursery, consider also preparing a birth plan. A birth plan is a document that clearly outlines your preferences for labor and delivery. You can find many example birth plans online to serve as a guide as you decide what you want your birth to look like. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your perfect birth.

4 Things to Remember About a Birth Plan

1. Educate Yourself

Do your homework. Research the pros and cons of different pain management techniques. Find out what standard newborn care looks like. Do not make the mistake of assuming you don’t have any options. Do not make your choices based on what someone else does or suggests. You do not want to look back and think, “If I had only known then.” Ask your doula to provide you with evidence based information regarding topics of interest, and then make the right decision for you.

2. Keep It Simple

Doctors and midwives are busy people, and they probably are not going to want to read a 10 page birth plan. During your pregnancy make sure your care provider and birth location support your desires for birth. If they do, then your birth plan can be much shorter. Try to keep your birth plan to 1-2 pages. Use bullet points with your most important parts highlighted.

3. Be Flexible

Use your birth plan as a way to know your options, but do not become so attached to it that you lose sight of your ultimate goal. Perhaps part of your birth plan includes laboring in a tub, but when you get to the hospital there is not one available. Be able to let go of that goal and remember your next priority. Of course a safe and healthy mom and baby are always the greatest priority. In the event things need to change in your birth your doula will provide encouragement as you face that emotional hurdle.

4. Have a Plan B

Birth is unpredictable. If things do not go according to your plan, then what? You still have options; know what they are. Your doula can help walk you through different scenarios for your birth. What if an induction is medically necessary? What if you need to deliver via cesarean? While it is not what you are hoping for, it’s important to discuss your back-up plan with your birth team.

A birth plan cannot guarantee your delivery will go exactly as you hope, but it will help you know your options and be more prepared for any scenario.