How to Write a Birth Plan

If there is one thing that all expectant parents have in common is their desire for the birth to go as smoothly as possible. I've yet to hear a mom say that she wants her husband to get in a fight with the nurses, or that she'd rather that no one ask her opinion about things, or that she doesn't want to be made comfortable during the birth. However, by going into the hospital without a well-written birth plan they are essentially tossing one of the most important days of their lives into the hands of Lady Luck.

A birth plan lays out the woman's expectations for how the birth will proceed assuming that from a medical standpoint everything is normal. It's basically a list of what the woman anticipates will make this event most memorable and comfortable for her. Due to that a birth plan is a very individualized document, but there are some guidelines on how to write a birth plan that will be well-received by the medical staff. The following is an example of a birth plan for natural childbirth and an un-medicated delivery and how to write a birth plan that fits you.

My significant other and I are excited to be here at the Happy-Town Community Hospital to give birth to our son. We feel confident that this is the best possible place for us to reach our goal: a healthy baby and a healthy mom. Barring medical complications and with the support of our doctor we want to allow our birth process to progress as naturally as possible in a relaxed and positive environment.

You want to make it initially very clear that you understand that the health of you and the baby supersedes everything else. Also, don't skip the part that lets the staff know that you and your doctor have gone over this and are in agreement. (Just be sure that you HAVE talked to your doc!)

We have prepared for an un-medicated birth and will be using a variety of pain-management and relaxation techniques to help me through this labor and delivery. Please do not offer me an epidural. I will request one if I feel it is necessary.