What Is a Birth Plan?
A birth plan is simply a way to communicate your hopes and preferences for labor, delivery, and the early moments with your baby. Think of it as a guide, not a rigid script—because, let’s be real, birth can be unpredictable! Having a birth plan helps you feel more prepared and ensures your healthcare team understands what matters most to you.
Do You Need a Birth Plan?
You don’t have to have one, but some first-time Mums find it reassuring. A birth plan gives you a chance to think through your options ahead of time, so you’re not making big decisions in the heat of the moment. trust me you won't be in the frame of mind for this at all! That said, when making your birth plan, remember that a certain degree of flexibility is important—because babies can have other plans and sometimes things unfold differently, and that’s completely okay. What matters most is that you and your baby are safe and supported.
What to Include in Your Birth Plan
If you decide to create one, here are some things you might want to think about:
Your Birthing Environment
- Do you imagine a calm, quiet space with dim lighting, or would you rather have your favourite playlist on for good vibes.
- Who do you want in the room? Your partner? A doula? A close friend or family member?
- Would you like to bring any personal items, like a special pillow or essential oils?
Pain Management Preferences
- Medical options: Are you open to an epidural, gas and air, or pethidine?
- Natural approaches: Would you like to try hypnobirthing, a TENS machine, or warm showers?
- Movement and positioning: Do you want to stay as active as possible, using an exercise ball or different positions to help with comfort?
Labour and Delivery Preferences
- Are you interested in labouring or giving birth in water?
- How do you feel about interventions like induction, forceps, or vacuum assistance if they become necessary?
- Do you want immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby?
- Would you like delayed cord clamping?
Post-Birth Preferences
- How do you plan to feed your baby—breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a mix of both?
- Do you want your baby to stay in your room with you or spend some time in the nursery?
- Are there any specific newborn care preferences you have, such as delaying the first bath or vitamin K administration?
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider
It’s always helpful to chat with your midwife or doctor about your options. Here are some questions to consider:
- What pain relief options are available at my hospital or birthing centre?
- If things don’t go as planned, how will my preferences be considered?
- Can my support person play an active role in the birth?
- What are the usual procedures for newborn care at this facility?
When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Birth is beautifully unpredictable, and sometimes even the best-laid plans need to change. I planned for a water birth, picturing a calm, serene experience with my firstborn; instead, due to unexpected complications, I had an emergency C-section after 26 hours in labour and it was not what I had envisioned, but I felt supported and informed throughout the process. The staff were incredible, and in the end, what truly mattered was that my son arrived safely.
Being open to adjustments doesn’t mean your wishes don’t matter—it just means you’re allowing yourself to adapt as needed while still feeling in control. You’ve got this, and your team is there to help you every step of the way so don't be afraid to speak up and let them know what you want, or have your support person advocate for you when you can't.
Wrapping It Up
A birth plan can be a wonderful tool to help you feel informed and empowered as you prepare to meet your baby. It’s not about creating a rigid checklist—it’s about thinking through your options, understanding your preferences, and having confidence in your choices. No matter how your birth unfolds, you are strong, capable, and surrounded by support.
