Here are a few birth
plan basics for you to consider.
In the Room
You may be in labor
for a short time or many hours, so make a list of the things you’d like to
bring with you to provide comfort and distraction. Consider things like music
and headphones; a favorite nightgown, pillow or blanket (but be warned, they
may become soiled during the birth); a book; scented lotion or oil; your mobile
device and charger; or a picture to focus on. You can also specify details
related to ambiance, such as dim lighting or hushed voices.
Think about who you
want in the room with you. Some women want just their partner, birth coach or
doula, while others welcome family or friends. Perhaps you are willing to have
company during your early labor but not during the birth. Even after baby is born,
it’s your choice whether or not to allow visitors.
Keep in mind that
hospitals may set limits on visitors due to factors like COVID or flu
prevention. Otherwise, the choice is yours, and letting loved ones know your thoughts
in advance can help stave off awkwardness in the moment. Make a list of the
names of people who are allowed to visit, so the care team can run interference
for you.
Pain Control
There is a wide
range of options for pain control during labor and childbirth, so it’s worth doing some research and
talking to your provider in advance about your preferences. Most women find
relief through a combination of techniques at different points in their labor
and delivery.
Medical options may
include:
·
An epidural
·
Nitrous oxide (laughing
gas)
· Pain-relieving medications
·
Local anesthetics
Non-medical options
include:
·
Hydrotherapy (labor
tub or shower)
·
Massage or
acupressure
·
Hypnotherapy
·
Walking/movement/birthing
ball
·
Breathing
techniques
·
Changing positions
·
Heat/cold packs
Medical
Interventions
Talk to your health
care provider about the different medical interventions that become necessary
during labor and delivery, and note your preferences or concerns about them.
These may include:
·
Intravenous (IV)
line, while IV access is a necessary safety precaution, not every patient needs
fluids given
·
Fetal monitoring, be
it continuous or intermittent
·
Potential need for
an episiotomy
·
The need for forceps
or vacuum delivery
·
The possibility of
needing a Cesarean section (C-section)
·
Placental delivery
(active or physiological); do you want to see the placenta?
·
Delayed cord
clamping
Other Items
There are a number
of other items you can address in
your birth plan, such as:
·
Are there any
specific cultural or religious customs you want to include?
·
Do you want a drape
so you can’t see the birth, or a mirror to help you see better?
·
Would you like immediate
skin-to-skin contact with baby after delivery?
·
Who do you want to
cut the umbilical cord?
·
How do you plan to
feed the baby after birth?
·
If you have a boy,
are you opting for circumcision before leaving the hospital?
Keep It Simple
There is no special
form for a birth plan; it can be just a simple list. Writing a birth
plan is not required, but knowing and stating your wishes in advance can help
you feel more in control in the moment. At times, medical necessity may mean
the care team can’t follow your plan exactly, and at these times it is important
to talk to your provider and discuss how and why some changes need to be made.
You are always free to change your mind about any of your choices at any point
and discuss those changes with your provider.
If you do write a
birth plan, we suggest you give us a copy in advance of your birth, so we can
review it together and have it in your medical record. During your prenatal
visits, we’ll talk to you about your birth plan options, but feel free to ask
us any questions at any time. Our goal is to ensure a smooth, safe and healthy
birth for every mom and baby.
