My Birth Plan
Next Monday is my next doctor’s appointment so I made a birth plan to discuss with her. I know I have a few months yet but I’m getting quite nervous about labor and delivery so I thought making a tentative plan would help a little. Here is a copy of my wishes. If any of you have any other tips or ideas please let me know! I’ve never done this before and I really have no idea what I’m getting into!
Our wishes for Childbirth
Due Date: 05/08/10
Labor
I expect that doctors and hospital staff will discuss all procedures with me before they are performed.
Please do not permit observers such as interns, students or unnecessary staff into the room without my permission.
Labor Augmentation/Induction
I would like to avoid induction unless it is medically necessary.
Anesthesia/Pain Medication
If possible, I would like to have a light dose (walking) epidural instead of a classic epidural
Cesarean Section Delivery
I feel very strongly that I would like to avoid a cesarean delivery
If a cesarean is necessary, I expect to be fully informed of all procedures and actively participate in decision-making.
I would like my husband to be present during the surgery.
Perineal Care
I prefer not to have an episiotomy unless it is medically indicated.
I would rather tear than have an episiotomy.
Immediately after the birth
I would like to breastfeed our baby immediately.
my husband would like the option to cut the cord.
Please allow the umbilical cord to stop pulsating before it is cut.
I have made arrangements for donation of the umbilical cord blood.
Breastfeeding
I plan to breastfeed and want to nurse immediately following the birth.
Please do not give our baby supplements (including formula, glucose, or plain water) without my consent, unless there is an urgent medical necessity.
Please do not give our baby a pacifier.
I would like to meet with the staff lactation consultant.
Additional notes
I am planning for our baby to be circumcised before we check out of the hospital. (Note: Do not waive Vitamin K shot in this event)
This birth plan was created with Pregnancy and Baby’s Birth Plan Creator.
This post has 3 comments
February 3rd, 2010
Hi! My name is Erin and I am a doula! You recently wrote to me on etsy. Thanks so much for contacting me.
I have had two very beautiful home births. The first with a midwife and the second on my own (the midwife din’t make it in time). The first took 5 hours and the second 1 hour. Neither were painful, the only way I can describe it is like being on a boat on the ocean with the waves engulfing me.
The best advice I can give you is that it does not hurt unless you believe it does. The more you trust in your body and give into the contractions and let nature run its course the easier and faster birth takes place.
The more medical intervention you have the longer and more stressful it is for your baby.
If there is someone in the room that you are not comfortable with, ask them to leave. You will progress faster with only those you trust/like in the room.
Make low deep moans and blow raspberries with your lips. Keep your lips hydrated and relaxed as this is key to helping your cervix dilate.
Try not to scream or make high pitched noises.
If you are afraid of anything or have any concerns get them out and talk about them.
If you are afraid of the pain it will be more painful because you believe this is so.
Epidurals are the main cause for slowing down/stopping contractions and this leads to the use of pitocin which then leads the cause for many cesareans because of the stress put on the baby.
I hope these tidbits help! If you have any questions I would love to help in any way!
P.S. Check out this site: http://www.unassistedchildbirth.com Its my favorite
February 3rd, 2010
Oh wow, thanks so much for the advice! I am very nervous about childbirth so every tip helps. I’m going to try to hold out on the epidural until I really need it but I have a feeling I will end up getting one.
February 3rd, 2010
Just believe in yourself. Women were made special to make babies. Our bodies were created just for this job.
Add a comment