Birth plan? Of course I plan to give birth, I’m pregnant aren’t I?

Birth plans are a great thing to have! It is a “contract” if you will, that lets the doctor/midwife/nurse/labor assistant/doula know what you want and expect during your birthing experience. While you are in labor, you will hardly be able to say to someone, please turn down the lights; it is very bright in here. That kind of thing. Your birth plan can be very simple or very detailed. Something to keep in mind is to be sure to go over your birth plan with your health care provider BEFORE you are in labor.  You will want to give a final copy to your health care provider, the hospital, and any birth assistants that will be present. You want to make sure everyone is on the same page. When you have your plan ready, talk to your health care provider about your wishes. Some of the things you opt for may be things they do already, some things they may have never considered doing at all.

Do you want natural childbirth and to not be offered any pain meds? Say so in your birth plan. Let them know you are not interested and would appreciate if they would support your desire to go naturally and to help you do that. There are many things they can do to help you without giving you an epidural or a little “something something” to take the edge off. In the heat of the moment, if they offer, you may be willing to take it.

Having a birth plan will help you be more informed and will open up lines of communication between you and your health care provider. You want your birthing experience to be memorable because it was wonderful, not terrifying.

Here is a great starter sheet to help you with your planning thoughts. Download Or you can get a little more information here: Creating Your Birth Plan

~Dee Stafford is a freelance writer and the content contained here is her opinion from research.  Check her resources page for background data.