Sample Birth Plan

This is my first baby, and I am committed to an unmedicated birth without intervention.  I know that sometimes intervention is necessary, but I believe that (barring unforeseen circumstances) I’m capable of natural childbirth.

I’m a runner, climber, and mountain biker who enjoys endurance events, even though in the middle of them I often find myself saying, “This sucks; I HATE this; I will NEVER do this again.” Then I remind myself that it’s almost over, or there’s only a few miles left to run, or that I should just keep putting one foot in front of the other (or just keep pedaling) and that it will be over soon.  Mantras help: “One more mile; one more mile” or counting steps—I avoid thinking about how far it is to the finish line, and instead just try to get to the next tree, signpost, or mile marker. 

I think (HOPE) these experiences may serve me to some degree in childbirth.  Based on other experiences, I think a few things that will help me a lot in labor are:

• Encouragement—reminders that I can do it, that I’m capable of it, that I can hang in there, that I have the strength it takes.
• “One more contraction”—reminders that it won’t last forever, that this stage of labor might only last another few hours, that I should just try to get through the next contraction and not think about how far it might be until the end.
• Humor—My husband is usually pretty good at making me laugh when I don’t want to laugh.  Everyone else is MORE than welcome to try.  Please.
• Information—I prefer to know not just WHAT but WHY.  In general, the more I know, the calmer I am. Please keep me informed.

I know it will likely hurt a lot worse than I can imagine.  I would like to change positions often, try to focus my breathing, and try to sit with the pain (so to speak).  I do not want anyone to offer me painkillers.  Ice or heat packs, tub or shower, Gatorade or food, massage, pressure, and HUMOR are all welcome.  I want to be reminded often that I can do it and that I should just try to get through the next contraction. 

I also trust that the nurses and midwives will have a good sense of how to encourage me and support me (and that they’ll help my partner do the same, as he—like me—has no birth experience).

Other details:

• I don't want labor speeded up unless ABSOLUTELY necessary.
• It’s OK for students to be present.
• My mother may be present to help with labor.
• I want to see the birth (via mirror) if possible.
• My husband wants to catch the baby and cut cord, if possible.
• Baby to be put on my stomach/chest immediately (and try to feed).
• In case of C-section: husband to stay with baby.

Writing your own birth plan? Click here to see our template.