Birthplan

A birth plan is a way of communicating with your doctor, midwife or nurse who cares for you in labour. Of course, a birth plan is not written in stone, but tells them the kind of labour you would like and things you would like to avoid, if possible. Be realistic and flexible when making plans.

Remember birth plans are used for uncomplicated births only.

Before writing your birth plan, gather as much information as possible

• Attend prenatal classes
• Talk with your health care provider
• Talk with your partner or labour companion
• Talk with other women who have given birth

Think of your birth plan as a “wish list”. Here are some things you may want to include in your birth plan.

• Birth companion: who you want with you in labour
• Positions for labour and birth
• Pain relief
• Hydrotherapy (tub) (if your hospital has one available)
• Baby heart monitoring
• Assisted delivery
• Delivery position
• Delivery of placenta
• Feeding baby
• Special needs: disabilities, special equipment, religious observances