What is a birth plan and is it really necessary? A birth plan is a great way for you to communicate your wishes to your doctor during labor and after your baby is born. Each birth is unique and may not always go according to the plan, so keep in the back of your mind that this will not be set in stone, and stay flexible as the event unfolds on delivery day.
Think about questions you want answers for through your birth plan. A few basic questions to plan for are: Who do you want in the room during labor? What are your thoughts on pain medication make sure to tell your provider if certain medications do not agree with you. After birth specify who you want to cut the umbilical cord, change the baby’s first diaper, and give the baby his or her first bath. In addition, make your wishes known on how you want to feed your baby. It is also important to make your religious or cultural preferences known.
Lastly, keep in mind, that your doctor may need to veer from the plan to ensure the safest delivery. The goal during delivery is for mom and baby to stay safe and healthy. We had a loose birth plan – I wanted a vaginal birth and an epidural. At my 37-week appointment, our doctor said our son looked to be around 9 pounds and was breech. Our options at this point were to try to turn him or plan for a c-section at 38 weeks. She recommended given his current size and the safety of our son since he was under my ribs that we should move forward with a c-section. Incredibly glad we did as his birth weight was 10.5 pounds!
Hope my story and these tips help you plan a loose birthing experience. Keep in mind that whatever happens it happens for a reason and is meant to be. It’s best to focus on the baby and yourself staying healthy! You got this mama!!!!
