If you are expecting a baby anytime soon, it might be a good idea to consider creating a birth plan guide in advance. By having a proper birth plan, you can ensure that everything in your control goes well when your baby is born. That can reduce your stress level and help you focus on maintaining your and your baby’s health and well-being. You can plan everything down to the smallest detail and share the birth guide with your family and doctor so that they can make the necessary preparations to meet your expectations.

What is a birth plan guide?

A birth plan guide is a detailed list of your instructions for the day of the birth. In it, you can mention all the things you require to manage the labor, delivery, and postpartum procedures. The guide will have your full name at the top so that the doctor will know it is yours. Depending on your requirements, you can list them briefly or in detail. It is advisable to give the birth guide to your doctor several days before your delivery so that they will have the time to read it and make the necessary arrangements.

How do you create a good birth plan?

The following suggestions might help you to create a good birth plan:

Find out if necessary resources are available

Before you list a hydrotherapy birthing tub or any other unique requirement in your birth plan guide, it is advisable to check if the hospital or birthing facility has these types of resources. If they don’t have them, you can inquire if they can get them for you.

Check how many visitors are allowed

If you want your husband, partner, mother, or other relative to be with you during the delivery, find out if the hospital or birthing facility allow it. You also want to check if they have any limit on the number of visitors in the hospital room afterward. Some places may have visitation policies for male relatives or visitors.

Select the type of ambiance you want

Many hospitals and birthing centers allow you to select the ambiance you want to make you feel more at ease during the birthing process. For example, you can choose whether you prefer dim or bright lights. You can decide if you prefer soothing music, lively music, or no music playing in the background. Some places may also allow you to select the temperature level you want in the birthing room.

Choose your labor preference

You can decide if you want to give birth in a conventional way, walk about, stand in a warm shower, use a hydrotherapy tub, or sit on a birthing ball. Whatever method you select, research it well beforehand. You might also discuss it with your doctor to ensure it is safe for your specific situation. It will help too to inform the doctor about any pain management you might require, such as epidurals, narcotics, massage, hot or cold therapy, meditation, or breathing exercises.