For a mother-to-be, giving birth is the most special and important day of your life, isn't it? It's normal to feel a little scared and nervous at the same time. But if you prepare well for this day in advance, you can reduce that fear a lot and face that moment with peace of mind. That's what a 'Birth Plan', that is, a childbirth plan, can help us with. Let's see how to do this exactly.
What is this 'Birth Plan'?
Simply put, a 'Birth Plan' is a plan that you make about your likes and dislikes during your labor and delivery. It's like planning a trip. In this, you can write down in advance what you want to happen to make things go as you want and as comfortable as possible. For example, you can include things like who you want to be with you during labor, whether you need painkillers, or whether you want to dim the lights in the room.
But this is not a hard and fast rule, right? This is just a guideline. Because childbirth sometimes doesn't go as planned. Unexpected things can happen. In such a situation, the safety of you and your baby comes first . Your doctor or hospital staff may have to change this plan. So it's important to keep your mind relaxed and be prepared for any changes.
What should be included in a 'Birth Plan'?
It's normal to want to include a lot of detail in this plan. But remember, it's important to keep it as short and clear as possible. This will make it easier for the doctor and nursing staff to read and understand quickly. Usually, a page or two is enough.
Let's look at some things you can include in your plan.
| Part of the plan | Things you can include |
|---|---|
| Basic information | Your name, your doctor's name and phone number, the name of the hospital where you will be delivering your baby, and the name of the person you expect to be with you at that time (such as your husband or mother). |
| Room environment | What do you need to feel comfortable with? Do you want to dim the lights in the room? Do you want it to be quiet, or would you like to have a relaxing song? Would you like to let your partner take photos or videos? |
| Consent during labor | Do you want to walk during labor? Do you want to use a birthing ball? Do you want to take a hot shower or bath? You can put things like this here. |
| Pain Management | This is a very important part. Do you need pain medication or not? You may not want to take an epidural , but you may change your mind during labor. Or you may absolutely want to take it. So talk to your doctor about pain management options (such as breathing exercises and massage). |
| Consent for delivery | If you are giving birth vaginally, would you prefer not to have an episiotomy (a small cut near the vagina) unless it is medically necessary? Would you like a mirror to watch the baby come out? Would you like your partner to cut the umbilical cord? Would you like the baby to be on your chest as soon as possible? |
| If a cesarean section (C-section) is needed | If you have to have a C-section, who would you want to be with you in the operating room? (Usually, your husband is allowed to be there). |
| Breastfeeding and baby care | After your baby is born, do you want to breastfeed or bottle-feed? Do you want to keep the baby in your room all the time, or do you want him to be in the hospital nursery sometimes? Do you want to give the baby a pacifier? If it's a boy, do you want to have the baby circumcised in the hospital? |
Who should I show my 'Birth Plan' to?
Once you have your plan, first show it to your partner and others around you (like your mother, sister, doula) and talk to them.
Then, be sure to show this to your doctor and discuss it with him. This is the most important thing. Because some hospitals may have their own rules and policies. Some of the things in your plan may not be possible at that hospital. So by talking to your doctor beforehand, if there is any problem, you can resolve it before the delivery and get a clear understanding.
Who should I give a copy of the 'Birth Plan' to?
After you finish your plan, make several copies of it.
- Give one copy to your doctor so he can keep it with your medical records.
- Give another copy to the hospital or birthing center where you will be admitted to have your baby .
- Give a copy to your husband and others close to you.
- Keep a few extra copies with you and take them with you when you go to the hospital . Sometimes, if your doctor is not available, another doctor may take over your delivery. This will help that doctor know your wishes.
Creating a 'Birth Plan' like this is not mandatory. You can make these decisions even after you go to the hospital. But thinking about it in advance, talking to your partner and doctor, will prepare you mentally for that important day. It will greatly reduce your fear and anxiety , and give you the strength to happily welcome your baby into the world.
Take-Home Message
- A 'Birth Plan' is a simple plan you make about the things you want to do during childbirth.
- Make this as short, clear, and flexible as possible, as changes can happen at any time.
- Be sure to discuss your plan thoroughly with your partner and doctor .
- Don't forget to make several copies of the plan and take it with you when you go to the hospital.
- The ultimate goal is to have a safe and healthy birth for you and your baby, so be prepared to accept changes to the plan if necessary.
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