(The Birth Plan) An important part of preparation for birth is the compilation of your birth preferences. After you have completed your childbirth education classes, we ask that you consider your preferences 56 and put them on paper. We would like you to bring a copy to one of your prenatal appointments so that the midwives may discuss with you and scan a copy into your chart.
Typically, clients who are seeking birth center care are interested in low-intervention care and natural childbirth, the type of care that is given routinely at The Midwife Center. The “checklist” type birth plans that are found online are often geared towards having a satisfying birth in spite of your care providers and location.
Birth preferences can be a wonderful tool for you and your partner to sit down and discuss the birth. Discuss fears and expectations. Discuss complications and transfers. Put down on paper anything that you feel you would like us to know. Some helpful things to include are:
• Who will be with you in labor?
• What atmosphere do you envision for labor? Some women desire a calm, quiet atmosphere. Others desire an environment that is light and humorous.
• Are you expecting any family or other people and what will their roles be?
• Are you anticipating visitors that may not be desired?
• Will you be bringing any special foods or including any special traditions or prayers at the time of delivery?
• Are there any particular parts of the process that make you or your partner feel afraid?
• Does your partner want to cut the cord?
• Does your partner want to help catch the baby?
• Are you planning erythromycin ointment and vitamin K for baby?
• How do you plan to feed your baby?
• Any other particular things we should know?
You may want to compose a separate birth plan in the event of hospital delivery. Keep in mind that if you are planning a birth center birth and circumstances have warranted a hospital transfer, there are one or more components that are no longer normal. Whatever is taking you to the hospital is requiring a higher level of care. This often means IV fluids, continuous fetal monitoring, and medications. The nursing staff and the midwives will work hard to preserve as many of your birth preferences as possible, and the midwives will discuss with you what adjustments may need to be made.