How to write a birth plan
I was having a hard time coming up with a birthing plan of my own because there are so many things to consider. After reading many books I came across this example in the Johnson’s Mother & Baby book. It was the most simple and direct way to write a birthing plan and I thought I’d share.
Birth Plan
I am looking forward to the birth of my first child, and I have written down a few ideas on how I hope my labor will progress.
Support person – My partner, ____, will be with me throughout the birth.
Monitoring – I understand that you routinely do a 20 minute electronic fetal monitoring session, which is fine. If all is well, I would like the baby to be monitored from the on with intermittent monitoring.
Positions – I don’t think I will want to be restricted to the bed, and would welcome the use of other active birth aids.
Pain relief – If necessary, I may request pain medication. I hope not to need demoral or an epidural, although in the event of a cesarean section, I would like to have epidural anesthesia so I can be awake for the birth.
Amniotomy – I would prefer not to have my membranes ruptured artificially.
Episiotomy – I would prefer to tear natural than be cut
(Sign your name)
***Make sure to bring at least 2 copies with you to the hospital. Give one to the nurse attendant, doctor &/or midwife and keep one for your own reference.