If you are interested in writing a birth plan and are wondering how to write it or what to include, keep reading. Our team at OBGYN Westside, PLLC, on the Upper West Side of New York City, is on a mission to help make your pregnancy as smooth as possible.
Here’s what you need to know.
No, of course no one can actually plan their birth. Having a birth plan is optional and every mom approaches labor and delivery differently. Some are happy to see what the day brings and others may create anything from a casual checklist to a more formal document. Do what makes you feel most comfortable and mentally prepared for your labor and delivery.
Organize your plan into sections for each stage of labor and postpartum care to make it easy for all members of your care team to follow.
When writing a birth plan, use simple, concise language to avoid misunderstandings. Headings with a bullet list are sufficient.
You can handwrite your list, craft an electronic document, or use a pre-designed template where you simply check off your preferences.
Unless you use a pre-made template, you’ll need to make sure you cover all of the preferences and decisions that are important to you.
Here are seven topics to consider including in your birth plan:
Specify your preferred environment, including lighting, music, and any personal items that will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable.
List the people you want with you during labor and delivery. This can include your partner, family members, friends, or a doula. Clearly state who you want in the room to support you.
Note: Who’s allowed to be with you during labor can differ from who’s allowed in your room during delivery. If that's the case, specify it on your birth plan.
Consider your pain management options and outline your preferences. This includes:
Note: It’s okay if you change your mind during labor!
As you approach your due date, our team may discuss some of your options with you so you have time to think about them before labor and delivery.
If you’re scheduled for a C-section, you’ll likely receive a spinal block. You can still discuss your preferences for post-surgery pain relief on your birth plan.
Think about how you want to labor. Specify your preferences for mobility, positions, and any equipment you might want to use, such as birthing balls or tubs.
Mention if you’d like to avoid certain interventions, like continuous fetal monitoring or labor induction, unless medically necessary.
If you don’t have any preferences, that’s also okay. Some moms go into labor without a preference for position and simply choose what feels right at the moment.
Your delivery preferences can include positions you’d like to try, the use of mirrors to see the birth, or having your partner assist in cutting the umbilical cord. If you want a delayed cord clamping or immediate skin-to-skin contact, include these preferences.
Keep in mind, though, that these are delivery preferences. If an emergency arises — for example, your baby has their umbilical cord wrapped around their neck — our team will quickly step in to do what’s medically necessary. Your safety and your baby’s safety is always our number one priority.
Feel free to include your post-birth preferences for both you and your baby. This can include delaying certain procedures like the first bath, opting for immediate breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact, and any specific wishes for vaccinations or circumcision.
If there are any specific medical conditions, allergies, or previous birth experiences your OBGYN Westside delivery team should be aware of, include these in your plan. Also mention any cultural or religious practices that are important to you during labor and delivery.
Again, writing a birth plan is in no way a requirement. The way your labor and delivery unfolds can range widely and requires constant reassessment as things progress. We will do our best to make it the best experience possible for you and hope that we have already made you feel comfortable enough with us to express any questions or concerns throughout your pregnancy, labor and delivery and postpartum.
Questions? Feel free to give us a call or book your appointment online today.
