A birth plan is a simple document that outlines your preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Think of it as a guide for your medical team to understand how you’d like your birth experience to go—while keeping in mind that flexibility is key, since things may change based on your and your baby’s health.
It’s not a medical order, but rather a communication tool between you and your care team to ensure your wishes are respected as much as possible.
What Can a Birth Plan Include?
Here are some common things parents-to-be often include in their birth plan:
● Preferred delivery method – normal vaginal delivery, water birth, or cesarean (if medically required)
● Pain relief choices – natural coping methods, epidural, or medications
● Labor environment – who you want in the room (partner, family, doula)
● Positions for labor or pushing – walking, squatting, using a birthing ball, etc.
● After birth care – delayed cord clamping, immediate skin-to-skin contact, early breastfeeding.