The most important and beautiful day of your life is coming soon... the day your baby comes into this world. It's normal to feel a little scared, nervous, and anxious at this time. But if you plan everything in advance, you can face that big day with peace of mind and great confidence, right? That's why we make a "Birth Plan," that is, a plan for childbirth. Let's see how to do this exactly.
What is this Birth Plan?
Simply put, a birth plan is a little note that you make about your likes and dislikes during the time you are expecting your baby, from the moment you start to feel pain until the baby is born. It's like planning everything before you go on a trip. This allows you to communicate your thoughts to your caregivers, doctors and nurses, in advance. Then, on the big day, you can focus on bringing your baby into the world without worrying about what else you can do.
Think about it, would you like the lights to be dimmed in the room where you'll be having your baby? Would you like a soft song to be played? Or would you prefer just your husband to be around? You can include anything you can think of in this.
But it's important to remember this. A birth plan is not a set in stone rule that cannot be changed. Because we can't predict exactly how a baby will turn out. Sometimes, unexpected things can happen. In such a situation, for the safety of you and your baby, your doctor may have to change this plan. Therefore, it's best to be flexible and prepared for anything.
What should be included in the Birth Plan?
Although you might want to add a lot to this, it is important to keep it as short and clear as possible. This will make it easy for anyone to read and understand. Usually, one or two pages will be enough. To make it easier for you, let's look at the points that can be included in this plan in a table.
| Sector to be planned | Things to consider (examples) |
|---|---|
| Basic information | Your name, the doctor's name and phone number, the hospital where you will be delivering your baby, and who you would like to be with you at that time (e.g., husband, mother). |
| Room environment | Things that help you create a comfortable environment. For example, do you want to dim the lights? Do you prefer silence? Or play a soft song/Pirith? Do you want to take photos or videos? |
| Will during the festival | Things that make you feel more comfortable when you are in pain. For example: Do you want to walk? Do you want to use a birthing ball? Do you want to take a warm shower? |
| Pain management | This is very important. Think about whether you will take painkillers or not. Will you get an epidural ? Or will you try to reduce the pain with breathing exercises, massage, etc.? Talk to your doctor about this and find out what options are available to you. |
| The moment the baby is born | How you would like to deliver your baby. For example, would you prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely necessary? Would you like to watch the baby being delivered through a mirror? Would you like your husband to cut the umbilical cord? Would you like the baby to be on your chest immediately after birth (skin-to-skin contact)? |
| If a cesarean section (C-section) is needed | If you were to have an unexpected caesarean section, who would you like to be with you in the operating theatre? (Some hospitals may not allow this, but it is important to make your wishes known). |
| After having a baby | How will you feed your baby (breast milk or bottle feeding?), do you want your baby to be with you all the time or in the nursery sometimes? Do you want your baby to have a pacifier? If it's a boy, do you want him to be circumcised at the hospital? Please state your preferences for all of these. |
Who should I talk to about this plan?
Once you have created this Birth Plan, first discuss it thoroughly with your husband and other people who are helping you. Then, be sure to show it to your doctor and discuss it with him as well.
Why is this important?
- Some hospitals may have their own policies.
- Your wishes may not be medically appropriate.
- By discussing all of this in advance, you can reduce unnecessary questions and disagreements at the last minute. The doctor can also do what is safest for you and your baby, while respecting your wishes.
Who should I give a copy of the birth plan to?
Once you have your plan, do these things.
- Give a copy to your doctor and keep it in his file.
- Give another copy to the hospital or center where you will be admitted to deliver the baby.
- Give a copy to your husband and other helpers.
- Keep a few extra copies in your bag. If your doctor is absent on the day of your baby's birth, another doctor may be present at the birth. This copy will be very important at that time.
Finally, it's important to note that creating a birth plan is not mandatory. Even without one, the hospital will still do things based on your wishes. But thinking about these things in advance and talking to your husband and doctor about them will definitely give you a sense of strength, freedom, and control on that big day.
Take-Home Message
- A birth plan is a simple list of things you want to do when you have your baby. This is a great convenience for you, your assistants, and the medical staff.
- This is not a rulebook, just a plan. For the safety of your baby and yourself, be prepared to change the plan if necessary.
- Be sure to discuss your plan with your doctor . Ask for his or her opinion as well.
- Write the plan briefly, clearly, and in one or two pages. It should be easy to read.
- When you go to the hospital to have your baby, don't forget to take a few extra copies of the plan.
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