Planning for birth

Blame it on the fog of pregnancy hormones, but for many women, birth plans seem to be written in a rosy glow of optimism! For most new mothers, the birth plan is an opportunity to mentally prepare for the birth. It is almost a ‘wish list’ detailing how labour and delivery should be. There’s no doubt that more and more women are choosing to write a birth plan now – but remember that a birth plan is more or less a ‘wish list’. Circumstances will vary and your labour and delivery may not go according to your plan.

If you do decide to write a birth plan, it’s a good idea to include the following:

Labour

Birth partners: research shows that it’s helpful to have someone with you, such as a partner, friend or relative during your labour. Write down who you would like to have with you.

Breaking your waters: in some hospitals, the practice is to ‘break the waters’ to speed up labour. Are you OK to have this done or would you prefer them to wait?

Being induced: discuss with your midwife or doctor whether or not you want to be induced and, if so, by what method.

Pain relief: detail your position on self-help techniques, such as moving about, changing positions, breathing techniques. You can use a combination of options. If you feel strongly that you want a natural birth, then say so, but allow for a change of mind and don’t feel guilty if you do opt for drugs.

State whether or not you would like to use a birthing pool, a TENS machine, or even self hypnosis.

Foetal monitoring: the midwife will sometimes listen to the baby’s heartbeat to detect any signs of distress. Some women find it reassuring to have the baby’s heart rate monitored, while others do not like have the belt device strapped around their middle. If you prefer, a hand-held device can be used intermittently.

The device or monitor may stop you from moving around. How do you feel about this?

The birth

Assisted delivery: Despite your best efforts, you may need help to deliver your baby safely. The doctor can explain the advantages and disadvantages of the methods available in your hospital and you can then detail your preferred method in your birth plan.

Position for delivery: consider the position you would like to adopt for the labour and birth. Some women find kneeling or squatting to be more helpful than lying on a bed. Make it clear in which position you’d like to delivery your baby.

After the birth

Who do you want to cut the umbilical cord?

How would you like your baby delivered? Placed on your stomach or lifted into your arms?

Cleaning and bathing of your baby: would you like the midwife to clean and dry your baby before wrapping him or her in a blanket?

Write down your preferences and how you would like your labour to be, but don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t go exactly to plan. A good birth plan will help to consolidate your preferences and should be well thought out, flexible and open to negotiation.