A birth plan is an important part of the pregnancy process. The plan is a document that outlines your wishes for your labor and delivery. Even though this is not a requirement for when you are ready to give birth, it is a great way for you to think about important questions and make sure that your wishes are being respected. Your plan should include things like where you would like to give birth, your preferred pain management option, who do you want present during birth, and other important details. The most important part of your birth plan: Be flexible and remember that things can change at any moment.

Having a birth plan is beneficial because it can help you feel more in control of your birth experience, it makes your care providers aware of your wishes, it reduces stress and anxiety about labor and delivery, and it can help you create a more positive experience overall. 

Make sure that you start thinking about your birth plan early, ideally in your second trimester. Starting early will give you time to research and familiarize yourself with the options you have. Take the time to get input from your partner, your healthcare team, and any other support people who will be present at the time of birth. Also, make sure that you keep the plan short and specific. It should be no more than one page, but specific enough for your support team to know your wishes.

What to include in your birth plan

Preferred birth location: Do you want to give birth at a hospital, a birth center, or at home?
Important health conditions: List your health conditions and other important medical information that your doctor or midwife might need. 
Desired pain management options: Do you want to use medication for pain relief, or do you prefer to use natural methods? What medication or method is your preferred one?
Who you want to be present during your birth: Do you want your partner, your parents, or other support people to be present? Include if anyone is not supposed to be there and who to give information to. 
Your preferences for labor and delivery: Do you want to move around during labor, or do you prefer to stay in bed? Do you want to use a birthing ball or other comfort measures?
Your preferences for newborn care: Do you want to breastfeed or bottle-feed? Do you want to delay the cord clamping? Do you want to circumcise your baby?
Plan for the unexpected: As hard as it may be, it is important to think about the unexpected. Including what to do in case something goes wrong. 

Example of a birth plan 

• Location: Hospital 

• Medical conditions: Gestational diabetes, anemia, and placenta previa. 

• Pain relief methods: Epidural 

• Present during birth: partner, mother, and doctor

• Preferences: Move around during labor and use a birthing ball for comfort.

• Newborn care: Breastfeed my baby immediately after birth.

• Delay the cord clamping for at least one minute.

• Circumcise baby.

Talking To Your Doctor or Midwife About Your Birth Plan

Talking to your doctor and midwife about your birth plan is super important, they can help you understand your options and make sure that your birth plan is realistic and attainable. 

These are some important question you might want to ask them: 

• What are your hospital's policies on pain management?

• What are your hospital's policies on circumcision?

• What are your hospital's policies on vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)?

• What are your hospital's policies on breastfeeding?

• What are your hospital's policies on visitors?

Just remember, even though a birth plan is not necessary, it is definitely a helpful tool to let your care team know your wishes. Consult with your doctor or midwife if you have any doubts or want any guidance on what else to add. Lastly, and most important, stay flexible and open to changes that might occur.

Find our baby wish list here.