Planning the birth of your child is an important step toward preparing for her arrival. From dressing the nursery and stocking the layette to CPR and birth classes, parents do everything they can to be fully prepared for the day their child is born. The fact of the matter is that the one thing you can’t plan out is the actual childbirth. That’s why you should have a birth plan.
It might sound crazy, trying to plan your baby’s birth, but think of it as an advanced directive. A clear and concise written request to your caregivers is the perfect way to make sure your needs and wishes are known. Follow this guide to help you compose your own birth plan.
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At the top of the page list your names, your doctor’s names and your baby’s due date. A short paragraph addressing your caregivers is a good way to start. Explain why you have chosen to have a birth plan and ask to participate in the decision-making process.
The body of your birth plan should be cover three issues. Under the heading for labor, you should list off any specifics that deal directly with labor. Your wishes for procedures and interventions should be clearly outlined so that the caregivers know exactly what they are. Be sure to address your concerns and wishes for cesarean birth under a separate heading, including pain medication preferences, as well as whether or not you want a spouse or family member with you in the surgery room.
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Lastly, give details to wishes for your baby’s care. Under this heading list your child’s pediatrician and, if different, the person who will give newborn baby care. Other details like keeping the baby with you at all times as well as if and when you plan to circumcise.
Finally, be sure to thank your caregivers in advance for recognizing and supporting your wishes and helping to keep mother and baby healthy. Offering respect will get you respect in return and you don’t want to step on the toes of the people who will be taking care of you. Leave room for signatures—yours and your doctor’s.
Keep a positive tone by not making demands in your birth plan. This document is designed to be used as a guide for your caregivers. You should keep in mind that your doctor’s first duty is to your health and you shouldn’t compromise your health by not heeding your doctor’s suggestions.
When you have completed a draft of your birth plan, take it with you to one of your check-ups so that you can let your doctor read and approve your wishes. Don’t be discouraged if she thinks you need to be more flexible or disagrees with one of your decisions. You should be prepared to discuss the pros and cons of each point.
Once you and your doctor sign the document, you can have a copy placed in your chart so that everyone who takes care of you will be able to know in writing what you want to do as certain issues arise. Keep a copy in your hospital bag just in case your chart isn’t onsite and you might want to think about keeping a copy for your baby’s book. This is a nice memento of the occasion for generations to come.
This exercise is also good preparation for expecting the unexpected. Even if you don’t have to deal with confronting these concerns, thinking through the possibilities and having a plan of action will give you the confidence and strength you need to have a successful and healthy labor.
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