Birth Plan Tips
By now you will have chosen someone you feel absolutely comfortable with to support your birth wishes as much as possible (as long as baby is safe of course). Here are some tips to think about when writing a birth plan / request.
Advance Planning
It’s helpful to know who the backup doctor or midwife might be so that if your usual doctor is not present, you will still be prepared. (Think of it like planning an outdoor wedding but knowing there’s a slight chance of rain).
Most nurses working in labor and delivery are amazing people, kind, compassionate and want you to have the best experience possible. Some are more comfortable with natural childbirth than others so you when you first check in , let them know from the start what your intentions are. If for any reason you feel someone is not on the same page as you, ask your partner to request a new nurse. Don’t feel bad about this. This is your once in a lifetime experience of your birth and it is crucial you feel comfortable with everyone in the room.
This goes for friends and family as well. Think carefully about who you agree to have in the room and don’t feel it necessary to invite someone (like a parent) out of obligation. For some laboring women, inviting their mothers is the best source of comfort. For others, it can cause unnecessary tension.
The body doesn’t lie. In order to give birth efficiently (i.e. as quickly as possible for your body), you must feel completely comfortable with whoever is in the room. This includes doctors, nurses, and also your inner circle.
Childbirth classes are extremely helpful for knowing what items to cover in your birth plan, including before labor, early stage of labor, active, pushing and once your baby is born. The more prepared you are, the easier your birth experience will be.
For this reason, we highly recommend attending birth classes well in advance of giving birth. There are many different classes available ranging from classes at the hospital, to private Lamaze and Bradley childbirth preparation classes, both of which help women prepare for natural, non-medicated labor.