Please feel free to share your birth intentions/plan and share it with others. Also please feel free to read my article Birth Plans - Are They Worth It?
And if you want a free downloadable intentions/birth plan template, here is a good one: HERE.
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Please feel free to share your birth intentions/plan and share it with others. Also please feel free to read my article Birth Plans - Are They Worth It?
And if you want a free downloadable intentions/birth plan template, here is a good one: HERE.
I was talking to DH about this today & said on the top of my list will be that midwife nails MUST BE SHORT!! No exceptions!
Thanks Kelly, I'm really looking forward to putting my birth plan together this time around being able to reflect and improve on last time. I was really excited when I went on our hospital tour and the midwife said they acually book in an appointment at 32-36wks to go over your birth plan with you. I found my birth plan so helpful last time as the midwives really stood up for my decisions.
One thing I will have again this time is at least 1-2hrs straight after the birth where there are no medical procedures (except if urgent) and no other family but DH bubba and myself. That was the most precious time.
Birth Preferences for *XXX*
We are happy to be known as *XXX*.
We’re hoping for a natural childbirth without unnecessary intervention or the use of drugs. We appreciate your support with our birth preferences.
Whilst we would prefer for an active, drug-free birth we do realise this may not be possible and in case of emergency would like to be transferred to the Princess Royal Hospital at Haywards Heath if possible.
As *DH* has a Suxiomethionine deficiency we will require a resus team and ITU standing by at the hospital if we are transferred. This also means that any drug stronger than gas and air is NOT to be given or offered unless it is absolutely necessary in the eyes of the midwives and ourselves.
ACTIVE BIRTH
I'd like the freedom to choose positions, use the shower or bath and walk around in labour as desired.
I’d prefer not to be offered drugs; I am aware of the options for pain relief and will ask for gas and air if needed. If I request drugs whilst in transition, please tell me that I am nearing the end and let me re-evaluate my request.
As long the baby and I are fine, I would prefer to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented.
After birth, I would like to have the baby placed on my chest straight away without being cleaned up first – I would also like to attempt to feed my child straight away.
I would like to birth the placenta naturally without drugs (although I may request differently on the day) and for my husband to cut the cord once it finishes pulsating.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I’d like:
For my partner to be with me at all times (aside from scrubbing up and the transfer to the hospital).
For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby. I would ideally like to know what’s going on at all times, although I understand that this may not be do-able from a medical point of view.
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure.
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC.
For the cord to stop pulsating before you clamp and cut it.
The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery.
AFTER BIRTH
All newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby.
I’d prefer not to have the routine Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta
Unless forceps or a C-section has been required, or the birth has been very long and traumatic, we would prefer for our baby not to receive a vitamin K injection.
I would like my husband to stay with me for as long as possible so the baby is used to him.
Thanks for that Kelly - here's mine (heavily based on your template, but also after some discussion with the midwives so I know what they will and won't do!).
Our Birth Preferences
Our names are:
We like to be called:
Our Birth Attendant / Doula’s name is:
This is our first baby.
We are expecting our baby around the week of:
We’re going to try:
• Active Birth Techniques
• Undisturbed Birth Techniques
• Pink Kit techniques
•
We have chosen to have our baby at this facility because we are confident that here we will be able to labour in privacy, and just be left alone to get on with it. We’ve done as much preparation as we can and we are committed to do the work. It means a lot to us to know that if we really need you, you are there.
We’re hoping for a natural childbirth and wish to avoid unnecessary intervention and medication. We have asked a Birth Attendant / Doula to be present at the birth to help us work towards this.
We also understand that in spite of the best preparation, sometimes unforeseen difficulties arise. We are open to your recommendations if this should happen. Please discuss all options with us and our Birth Attendant / Doula. We would like the opportunity to think it over without the presence of any hospital staff if a situation arises.
We would like our birth experience to be quiet, unhurried, respectful and private.
Thank you for your kind consideration and valuable care.
Early Labour
Our Strategy:
• Stay at home as long as possible. I’ll call you to let you know I am in labour and will ask my Doula to come to be with me.
• Not pay too much attention to pre-labour niggles and early contractions, continue normal activities, rest and relax as much as possible, so that I do not start labour tired.
• On admission: stay in my own clothes.
• Set up a quiet, private birth environment and settle in, and get on with it.
How You Can Help:
• Show us to my room.
• Talk to my support team regarding any administrative details.
• Assess my progress by my emotional signposts rather than by asking me questions or a VE.
• Let my support team stay with me.
Active Labour
Our Strategy:
The Physics:
* Active Birth Techniques:
• We plan to use postures that are gravity-positive and that encourage mobility and openness of the pelvis. I’ll change positions regularly.
• I might want to walk some distance between contractions (not just around the room – I would like to go up and down the halls, please. My Doula will accompany us.)
* The Pink Kit Techniques:
• I’ve practiced breathing in through my nose and out through my mouth. I’ll be trying to relax deeply. I will try pelvic relaxation techniques to open up my pelvis the best I can and go with it.
The Chemistry:
* Undisturbed Birth Techniques:
• To maximize the release of my birth hormones, we’ll have the room quiet, with dim lighting, and music.
• My support people will speak softly, and not a lot, so that I am not distracted from going deeper.
• We’ll cover the clock.
Fluid & Electrolyte balance:
• I will be drinking a rehydration drink called “labour-aide” to keep hydrated, along with herbal tea. I will also be eating snacks as I feel like it. I would like to avoid an I.V.
Managing Strategies:
• We would like the use of a birth tub or pool if possible.
• We will be using massage, relaxation, breathing, hot water and positioning to manage pain and to promote the release of my endorphins.
Patience & Rhythm:
• As long the baby and I are fine, I would prefer to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented. We would like to let labour unfold at its own rhythm. I don’t mind how long it takes, I’m committed. I took care to rest and relax as much as I could in pre-labour and early labour. I’m ready for the work.
• If progress seems to slow or plateau, please let me have plenty of time to try problem-solving techniques of relaxation, inner pelvic release, opening the pelvis, and positioning with my Doula before we resort to medical assistance, assuming the foetal heart is OK.
How You Can Help:
• We would like as few staff in the room as possible – preferably, just our Doula and the midwife. We’re happy to be left alone to just get on with it.
• In order to support the natural hormonal chemistry of undisturbed birth, we’d like as few interruptions and observations as possible.
• We would like any necessary verbal communication to be kept to a minimum and to be spoken softly.
• I’m happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring, as unobtrusive and seldom as possible, unless continuous monitoring is medically necessary.
• I would prefer to avoid vaginal examinations unless absolutely necessary, or if I request one out of curiosity. I will sometimes be checking myself internally for changes, as I learned in The Pink Kit.
• I would like my waters to break naturally. I would prefer to labour with bulging forewaters than have them artificially ruptured.
Second Stage
Our Strategy:
• I would like to deliver in any position that feels right at the time, including on the floor. I wish to avoid being on the bed in a back-lying position.
• I would like my partner or Doula to apply olive oil and hot compresses to my perineum between contractions.
• I would like to try spontaneous, instinctive pushing in second stage, rather than directed pushing.
• I plan to touch my perineum to feel the progress and touch my baby’s head as it emerges. I want to birth slowly, gradually and gently, to allow the tissues plenty of time to stretch. Thank you for letting me take my time and find my own way.
• I want to avoid an episiotomy unless there is a genuine medical emergency. I prefer a small tear to an episiotomy. I have done perineal massage during my pregnancy to condition the tissues and to learn how to relax with stretching.
• We’d like to have the room warm, with the lighting as dim as possible
How You Can Help:
• Just be there if we need you. We are so glad you are there and we value your expertise, and your wisdom in patiently watching and waiting.
• If it looks as if the perineum might tear, feel free to step in and give me some guidance on how to slow down the crowning and to support the head or perineum.
Third Stage
Our Strategy:
• My partner would like to help ‘catch’ our baby and to announce the gender.
• I would like to take the baby against me and have as much uninterrupted skin to skin contact as possible. We'll cover the baby with our own warmed blanket that we'll bring from home
• I will let the baby become interested in the nipple and suck when ready.
• Assuming that blood loss is acceptable, I’m in no rush to deliver my placenta. I’d like to concentrate on my baby and breast-feed, which will maximize the release of my oxytocin to help the placenta clamp down, and promote bonding.
• I’d like to have a bath with my baby in a warm, dimly-lit room, soon after the birth, assuming I and the baby are both well. I have a herbal sachet I would like to add to the bath water.
How You Can Help:
• Total quiet in the room as the baby is born so that we can respond naturally, without cues from others.
• Please only suction if really necessary.
• Please delay all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby – at least an hour after birth.
• I’d like an un-rushed physiological third stage, and I would rather not have the routine Syntometrine injection. Please let me have half an hour or an hour with my baby before I deliver the placenta, (assuming blood loss is acceptable), please no controlled cord traction or pulling on the cord.
• To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before it is cut and clamped to allow my baby to receive the valuable blood from the placenta, and for my partner to be the one to cut the cord.
• Please give our baby vitamin K as an oral dose.
• We’d like our baby to be given only breastmilk – no water or formula.
•
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I’d like:
For my partner to be with me and my Birth Attendant / Doula
My own music playing in the theatre
No general chatter that is unrelated to my birth
For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby.
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure.
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer, in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC.
For the cord to stop pulsating before you clamp and cut it.
The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery.
Please sign our birth preferences in the good faith that it has been read and will be treated respectfully.
Thank you.
________________________________ Signed
________________________________ Name ______________ Date
Hmm I wonder if more people are going to share?
Any successful VBACs out there that would like to share their birth plan with me pwease?? ;)
This is ours so far, I'm still adding to it as I think of other things
ACTIVE BIRTH
I’d like the freedom to choose positions, use the shower or bath and walk around in labour as desired.
I’m happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring.
Please don’t offer drugs; I am aware of the options for pain relief and will ask for it if needed.
I wish to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented unless in a medical emergency. In particular time for second stage to proceed without being rushed and extra support with suggestions for positions during this stage.
I’d only like an episiotomy if there is a genuine medical emergency. Please allow time for the perineum to stretch naturally. I would like time to discuss and think about having an episiotomy with my partner before one is performed.
I would like to deliver in any position that feels right at the time, including on the floor. I wish to avoid being on the bed in a back-lying position.
INDUCTION / AUGMENTATION
If a medical induction or augmentation becomes medically necessary I’d like:
To only have my waters to be broken at first instance if my cervix is open. I would like to be given a generous amount of time for labour to establish upon rupture of membranes (i.e. more than just a few hours) before other forms of medical induction / augmentation.
If I require Syntocinon, I would like a very low dose, to be increased gradually and slowly. Once my labour is established I would like to choose to stop the dose being increased, lower the dose or stop the drip to allow my body to continue to labour without artificial oxytocin. Please put the cannula in my arm and not my hand so I have more freedom of movement.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I’d like:
For my partner to be with me.
For discussion to be open and informative
For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC
For the cord to stop pulsating before clamping for reasons mentioned
The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery. If you do not have the staff to enable this, I wish to have my partner with me so I can breastfeed in recovery
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we’d like:
To hold our baby immediately after the birth.
To have at least an hour for partner and I to bond with the baby before other family are invited in.
For all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby
Not to have the routine Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta
To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before clamping, to allow my baby to receive the valuable blood and iron stores.
For our baby to have vitamin K as an oral dose if the birth has been routine and un-traumatic.
For baby to be given only breastmilk – strictly no water or formula.
To defer Hepatitis B injections until baby’s first vaccinations at 2 months.
Wow, thanks Kelly and Julie. Theyre really helpful to help me make some decisions, and thanks Kelly for the article (the link didnt work by the way, but I found the article on the articles page it is here if anyone else wants it.). I think it will be good if I have an idea of what I want during labour and birth so i can actually make some informed decisions if they offer me pain relief or whatever else, so I am definately going to put something together and talk to a midwife about it. I think they said I will get to discuss it with a midwife at around 36 wks.
this is a great "thread", we will be trying for a baby shortly and this has been very helpful. My husband thinks I am a bit odd trying to source all this information so far in advance.But I want to know as much as I can so there are no nasty little shocks. (other than having a baby pulled from my body).
I have been doing alot of reading, and I am quite keen to have a water birth, Would anyone know if that is a standard option, or is that seen as too "alternative"?
Birth Plan
by Janine DeBaise
© 1996 Midwifery Today, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Here is the plan for the birth of my child. I've taken words from the dreams of 200 women. I'm translating them for the hospital staff.
1. No blue hospital gown. No sterile drapes. When I give birth, I want to be naked. I want my body to choose the colour of its growing.
2. No enema. No antiseptic wash. No shaving of pubic hair. If I wanted to shave something, I'd shave my head. Like Jean-Luc Picard. I've always wanted to be captain of a star ship. When I give birth, I explore uncharted territory, I move and writhe into new worlds. I want to go where no man has gone before.
In 1872, an English doctor named John Braxton Hicks discovered pre-labor contractions. This was sort of like Columbus discovering America. Some people already knew it was there.
3. No drugs. No epidural.
I want to feel the baby moving, his hard head pushing through layers of me. My bones shifting, my uterus contracting. I want to feel birth. I want to know fire.
4. No episiotomy. No amniotomy. I don't want anything that rhymes with lobotomy. I prefer to stretch slowly, burning in a rim of panting breaths, around my baby's head.
Pierre Vellay, MD, wrote that pregnant women must be "trained in the proper way." His vision: Laboring women "like expert engineers with perfect machines and carefully presented information (who) control, direct and regulate their bodies."
5. No Pitocin drip. No synthetic hormone to stimulate labor. Let my baby choose his own birthday. My body does not recognize the ticking of the clock on the wall.
I don't want to control my body. I want to surrender. Let the darkness soak through me, drip down my legs. Let the pulse of that unborn voice throb through me.
I don't want a needle stuck in my hand. If my labor slows, I'll lie in the sun on a fur quilt and let my husband caress MY nipples. I prefer to get my hormones the primitive way.
6. No electric fetal monitor.
I don't need a machine to tell me how my baby is doing. He kicks, he twists, he somersaults inside of me.
Robert Bradley, MD, advocated the idea of the husband as the labor coach. He liked the idea of natural birth, but still he thought that somehow a man had to be in charge.
7. No bright lights. No noise. No softball cheers. Don't give me instructions. My body knows what to do. Birth is not a team sport. I don't want a coach. I want my husband's presence. His hands to grip. His arms a sling to lean the baby bulk against. His face a mirror in which I can watch my baby emerging.
8. No stupid jokes. No cheerful chatter. No television, please. I want to listen to the moans rising in my throat. I want to hear the child singing in my womb.
In the 1950s a French obstetrician named Ferdinand Lamaze began teaching something he called childbirth without pain. French Catholics were horrified, they believed Bible said it was supposed to be painful. In fact, the Bible states that birth is intended to be a joy and a blessing, an activity to be performed in an upright, rather than reclining, position.
9. No delivery table. I am not a plate of spaghetti. Let me give birth on the bed. A table works fine for conception, but it's way too hard and far too awkward for birth.
"Male science disregards female experiences because it can never share them." Grantly ****-Read said this in 1933. No one listened to him.
I know what I want for my baby.
No nursery. No pacifier. No bottles. No crib. No cheerful, white-coated, well-scrubbed, briskly walking, thermometer-wielding nurses, please.
Let the baby sleep against my skin, nurse from my breast, wrap his wrinkled blue limbs in the heat of my body.
10. Nothing intrauterine, nothing intravenous.
I prefer to give birth in simple words. Breathe. Push. Touch. Pain. Wet. Stretch. Bum. Birth. Yes.
For 50 years, doctors have used these terms. Braxton-Hicks contractions. Bradley birth. Lamaze breathing. But a woman knows. The mystery is too overwhelming. We can never name it.
When the baby's head crowns, I want to touch the wrinkled scalp. I want to cradle the head in my palms while he is still inside of me, his neck stuck in the warm swollen parts of me. My moans will be the guide I need to pull him out of myself.
Hot compresses. Yes.
Dim lights, a bathtub of warm water. Yes.
Hands massaging me. Yes.
My husband lying next to me, solid to lean against. Yes.
The smell and feel of a slippery newborn baby wriggling against my naked skin.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Janine DeBaise teaches writing and literature at the State University New York College of Environmental Science and Forest (SUNY-CESF), but she says her most important job is rearing her four children (ages 1, 4, 7 and 9). Her poem "Birth Moment" was in Midwifery Today Issue No. 36.
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/birthplan.asp
I had a VBAC so this is my plan.
Notice labour occurring.
Push out baby.
Have rest.
No biggie, it's just a birth. It was a week of early labour and three days of strong labour and my daughter was born in my study. VBAC = Birth and don't let anyone kid you otherwise! :)
I love these birthing plans. so much i didn't know.
really went in last time with my eyes closed and i think the doctor knew it.
not so this time! thanks guys
Jenna
MIne is ... Let me tell you when or if I want or need anything, other than that leave me alone with my husband, Mother & Aunt..
My body is in charge!
Thankfully the midwives have said... No worries, it's your body, birth, baby & experience... We will wiat til YOU need us!
Luckily Tracey where you are giving birth in a birth centre they do support that philosophy, like most birth centres, but a good tip for those going into a birth centre is to at least have a plan if you have to transfer out to the main wards.
That may be true for some but my birth in the labour ward with Indah went like.... I was asked by the midwife what I wanted & I siad Ï'll buzz you when I know!" she left & at midnight I buzzed (had been left alone from 10:30pm) she walked in my wtaers broke & at 12:31am Indah was on my chest!!!
I was happy with that!!!
this is my birth plan for Jay's birth...
and I had a water birth in hospital...if anyone wants to have a read of my birth story you can access it on my website, under birth stories
My birth plan
Support people Stuart (husband) and Claire (Stus sister)
Always at least one support person with me
Stu or Claire to please cut the cord, if possible
No bright lights, own music, Cranberry juice
Bath/shower and firm sacral massage for comfort
Please remind me to relax and breathe into the wave of the contraction speak to me firmly if required
Rescue remedy for feelings of panic/anxiety 4 drops under tongue prn
Aromatherapy oils for labour massage
1. clove bud oil muscle relaxant and pain relief 10 drops to 1 tsp oil, massage into affected area while in shower/bath
2. slow progress (blend clary sage, rose, jasmine, sweet fennel, palmarosa)10 drops into massage oil, massage into lower back or abdomen
3. lavender/rose geranium calming, slight analgesic effect, circulation stimulating, uterine tonic massage into lower back or abdomen
4. lavender calming, analgesic massage anywhere
aromatherapy oils for burner lavender
Please do not ask if I require pain relief
No phone calls or visitors I also do not wish for anyone to be informed that I am in labour
I would like to touch my babys head as it appears
I wish to hold my baby immediately after delivery
I would like some photos of my baby and I after delivery
I would prefer to not have my baby taken from my sight
I would prefer not to have to get onto the bed at any stage, unless in my babys best interest
No vaginal exams unless absolutey required
I wish to breastfeed as soon as possible after birth
No augmentation unless in my babys best interest
xx yogababy
My birth plan will be something like this.
Ive done it before and i will do it again.
No i will not lie or sit down, i did it with my first and discovered standing with my second way better for me.
I would really like to do this drug free, once again ive done it before.
I probably will yell/scream and groan with contractions, dont ask me why but it comforts me to make noise.
I want my hubby and mum to be present, a girl needs her Mum sometimes.
please try not to frighten me , but tell me how it is.
If medical intervention becomes neccesary for my baby or me then tell us but let us decide, All we want is for a happy healthy Mum and Bub.
After eading some article and the birth plans here I was inspired to write my own! Very similar to my first one...lets hope this one gets used!!
Any comments are more than welcome.
************************************************** *********
Birth Plan
• We’re hoping for a natural childbirth without unnecessary intervention or the use of drugs.
• I would like an active birth- I want to move and change position freely.
• The room needs to be comfortable, warm, calm and peaceful.
• I want to use natural methods of pain relief- water (bath/shower), heat packs, massage. Please do not offer me drugs and if I ask, remind me of my preferences. I am aware of my other options in pain relief.
• As long the baby and I are fine, I would prefer to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented.
• Intermittent doppler monitoring is ok. I do not want continuous CTG monitoring unless medically necessary, discussed with us prior to being done.
• I do not want birth to be induced unless medically necessary, discussed with us prior to being done.
• I do not want my membranes artificially ruptured of unless medically required, and discussed with us in detail prior to being done.
• Considering baby and I are healthy, I want him to remain with me. No weighing or measuring to be done until well after birth and parental bonding.
• After birth, I would like to have the baby placed on my chest straight away, after being cleaned up first. I want to attempt to feed my child when he’s ready.
• I would like to birth the placenta naturally without drugs (although I may request differently on the day) and for my husband to cut the cord once it finishes pulsating.
This plan represents our preferences; however we recognise that in the event of unforeseen difficulties it may need to be re-negotiated. In this eventuality please discuss all procedure options with us.
INDUCTION / AUGMENTATION
• If baby and I are well, I would like my baby to decide his own due date. I am happy to discuss a plan should my pregnancy reach 40 weeks.
• I will try natural means to get labour started- i.e. acupuncture, walking, nipple stimulation.
• Should labour induction become necessary at any time, I'd like to start with the least artificial means first - i.e. stretch and sweep before a medical induction.
• I would like time to allow the natural and minimal intervention methods of induction to work as I will still have 2 weeks until full term.
If this is unsuccessful and a medical induction or augmentation becomes medically necessary I’d like:
• To only have my waters to be broken at first instance if my cervix is open. I would like to be given a generous amount of time for labour to establish upon rupture of membranes (i.e. more than just a few hours) before other forms of medical induction / augmentation. I would like to go home if all is well, until labour is established.
• Gels to be inserted first if my cervix is open and time to let it work and for labour to establish itself. I want to go home if all is well.
• If I require Syntocinon, I would like a very low dose, to be increased gradually and slowly. Once my labour is established I would like to choose to stop the dose being increased, lower the dose or stop the drip to allow my body to continue to labour without artificial oxytocin. Please put the cannula in my arm and not my hand so I have more freedom of movement.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I’d like:
• For my partner to be with me at all times (aside from scrubbing up).
• Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure.
• To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC.
• For the cord to stop pulsating before you clamp and cut it.
• The opportunity to bond with and attempt to breastfeed our baby in recovery.
AFTER BIRTH
• I would like my husband to stay with me for as long as possible so that the baby has time to bond with him as well.
• For baby to be given only my breast milk- strictly no water or formula.
• If for some reason I am unable to hold my baby I would like only my husband to hold our baby until I am fit and able.
************************************************** *****************
That's it, I think I've covered everything!!
That is a fantastic birth plan Kellie. Very well written. I could have pretty much written that myself.
Well done :D
Birth Preferences
Our names are Tiffany x & James x
We like to be called Tiffany and James
We?re hoping for a natural childbirth without unnecessary interventions or the use of drugs. We appreciate your support with our birth preferences.
This plan represents our preferences; however we recognise that in the event of unforeseen difficulties it may need to be re-negotiated. Please discuss all options with us.
We would like the birth experience to be respectful and private as we know this is conductive to a successful birth, with minimal interruptions, quiet voices and dimmed lighting.
ACTIVE BIRTH
I?d like the freedom to choose positions and walk around in labour as desired.
I?m happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring unless continuous monitoring is medically necessary.
Please don?t offer drugs; I am aware of the options for pain relief and will ask for it if needed.
As long the baby and I are fine, I would prefer to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented.
I would like to deliver in any position that feels right to me at the time, including on the floor. I wish to avoid being on the bed in a back-lying position.
I?d only like an episiotomy if there is a genuine medical emergency. Please allow time for the perineum to stretch naturally. I prefer a small tear to an episiotomy.
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we?d like:
The option for my Husband or myself to ?catch? our baby
To discover the sex of the baby ourselves.
The option for my husband to cut the cord
To hold our baby immediately after the birth. (We'll cover the baby with our own blanket that we'll bring from home.)
For all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby at least an hour
Assuming blood loss is acceptable. I?d like the option to have or not have the routine Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta & in the event of declining the Syntocinon, no controlled cord traction. Please let me have half an hour to a hour to deliver the placenta naturally if I decline.
? To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before clamping (or at least 3-5mins), to allow my baby to receive the valuable blood and iron stores.
For baby to be given only breast milk ? no water or formula.
That the baby has Vit k and Hep B shots shortly after bonding time.
I would like my husband to stay with me for as long as possible so that the baby has time to bond with him
INDUCTION / AUGMENTATION
If baby and I are well, I would like my baby to decide his/her own due date. Should labour induction become necessary at any time, I'd like to start with the least artificial means first - i.e. nipple stimulation, massage or a stretch and sweep before a medical induction. I would like time to allow the natural inductions work.
If this is unsuccessful and a medical induction or augmentation becomes medically necessary I?d like:
To only have my waters to be broken at first instance if my cervix is open. I would like to be given a generous amount of time for labour to establish upon rupture of membranes before other forms of medical induction / augmentation. I would like to go home if all is well, until labour is established.
If I require Syntocinon, I would like a very low dose, to be increased gradually and slowly. Once my labour is established I would like the option to choose to stop the dose being increased, lower the dose or stop the drip to allow my body to continue to labour without artificial oxytocin.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes medically necessary I?d like:
For my Husband to be given the option to be with me regardless. I believe he can make his own decision on if it would be traumatic for him to be there or more traumatic being out of the room watching.
For discussion to be respectful and minimal - only what is required medically and to inform me of what is happening
For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC
For the cord to stop pulsating before clamping for reasons mentioned
I would like only my husband to hold our baby until I am fit and able.
Here is our Birth Plan/Ideas
It may be a bit long winded, but as I work in the NNU of the same hospital I am delivering in, I know how our hospital 'works', so I have tried to be specific where it matters to us!
Birth Plan
People Present: T, C, V - C's Support Person
We are hoping for a natural childbirth with as little intervention as possible. All of the following are requests, and we understand if things need to be changed for medical safety reasons for both K & Baby.
We are understanding of the fact that sometimes things do not go ?according to plan? and are willing to find ways to work with these situations in as positive a way as possible.
Birth Centre
* Dimmed Lights
* Walking Around As Much As Possible
* Being Left Alone If K Is Coping
* We Wish To Be ?Free? Of Time Limits/Constraints If Labour Progressing, Even Slowly
* Using Bath/Shower For Labour & Bath For Delivery If K Feels Like It
* Using Positions, Acupressure, Gas For Pain Relief
* Do Not Want Pethidine
* We Are Aware Of The Different Pain Relief Options, And Would Prefer Not To Have ?Suggestions? Made In Regard To This
* Minimal VE?s
* T Or K To Deliver Baby
* We Wish T To Be The Designated Person To Announce The Sex Of The * Baby When He Is Ready
* T, K & C To Be First People To Touch Baby
* As Much Skin To Skin Immediately After Delivery As Possible
* Leave Cord Clamping Until It Has Stopped Pulsing. C Wants To Clamp Cord
* T To Cut Umbilical Cord
* We Are Happy For The Routine Injection After Delivery To Aid In Delivery Of The Placenta
* Baby Can Be Weighed After Bonding & BreastFeeding Is Finished
* Baby Can Have Vit K Injection During Weighing
* Would Like As Early Discharge As Possible ? If Baby Feeding Well & Weight Good
Labour & Delivery Suite
* Would Like Son C To Be Present If Possible
* Dimmed Lights
* Walking Around As Much As Possible
* Using Different Positions & Acupressure For Pain Relief
* Will Use Gas If Needed
* If An Episiotomy Is Required - K Would Prefer To Have A Local Anaesthetic Prior To This If Time Allows
* We Are Aware Of The Different Pain Relief Options, And Would Prefer Not To Have ?Suggestions? Made In Regard To This
* Minimal VE?s, Unless Necessary
* No Continuous Monitoring Unless Needed
* T Or K To Deliver Baby
* We Wish T To Be The Designated Person To Announce The Sex Of The * Baby When He Is Ready
* T, K & C To Be First People To Touch Baby
* As Much Skin To Skin Immediately After Delivery As Possible
* Leave Cord Clamping Until It Has Stopped Pulsing. C Wants To Clamp Cord
* T To Cut Umbilical Cord
* We Are Happy For The Routine Injection After Delivery To Aid In Delivery Of The Placenta
* Baby Can Be Weighed After Bonding & BreastFeeding Is Finished
* Baby Can Have Vit K Injection During Weighing
* Would Like As Early Discharge As Possible ? If Baby Feeding Well & Weight Good
C-Section
* T To Be Present If Possible
* Would Like Conversation To Be Kept To A Minimum ? We Would Like A Nice Quiet Environment For Baby To Enter Into
* We Would Like The Screen To Be Lowered So We Can See Our Baby Being Born
* We Wish T To Be The Designated Person To Announce The Sex Of The Baby When He Is Ready
* Baby To Remain With T & K If Possible
* Attempt BreastFeed In Theatre If Baby Is Looking
* Attempt BreastFeed In Recovery If Not Able In Theatre
* T To Trim Umbilical Cord
* Baby Can Be Weighed After Bonding & BreastFeeding Is Finished
Baby Transferred To NNU
* T To Go With Baby & Have Bonding Cuddles If Possible
* C Can Visit Baby With Travis & Have Cuddles If Possible
* Grandparents Can Visit Baby In NNU, But No Touching/Cuddling Until K, T & C Have Had Sufficient Bonding Time
* Baby Can Have Vit K Injection
* Baby Can Have NasoGastric Tube If Needed
* No IV For Baby Unless Absolutely Necessary
* Would Prefer To Attempt BreastFeed Prior To Any Artificial Feeds
* Baby Can Have Dummy
* Baby Not To Have Any Bottles
* Baby Not To Have 48hr Hepatitis B Vaccination
* Baby Can Have Neonatal Screening
Thankyou For Reading This And Accepting Our Ideas And Suggestions
Kell I love it you have done a fab job. It's so thorough without being too restrictive. You have left it within your parameters but still room for changes if need be.
Thanks Bec. We are trying to be sensible about it. We want a Natural and Active a birth as possible, but, from my profession, I know it doesn't always work that way, so we thought of ways to work around it.
I will let you know how it pans out!
Update: We are scrapping the Birth Centre section of the plan! I am being induced tonight in Labour & Delivery for high BP! LOL. The best laid plans and all....
FEEDBACK VERY WELCOME! Apologies for the weird formatting from Word!
:
Our Birth Preferences
Our names are XYZ
Our Doula’s name is Kelly
We’re hoping for a natural childbirth without unnecessary interventions or the use of drugs. We have asked a Doula to be present at the birth to help us work towards this. We appreciate your support with our birth preferences.
This plan represents our preferences; however we recognise that in the event of unforeseen difficulties it may need to be re-negotiated. Please discuss all options with us, in the presence of our Doula. We would then like the opportunity to contemplate our options without the presence of any medical staff. We would like the birth experience to be respectful and private as we know this is conducive to a successful birth, with minimal interruptions, quiet voices and dimmed lighting. I will be relying on DH and Kelly to provide the atmosphere we desire with the following aides for pain relief:
I’d like to have dimmed lighting during the labour and birth
I would like to use aromatherapy
I would appreciate limited intervention, interruptions and quiet voices
I’d like to have an active labour with the freedom to choose positions, use the shower or bath and walk around in labour as desired.
I would like to use water as a form of pain relief, a shower or bath
I would also like to use massage as a form of pain relief
I’d like to be free to use movement and my choice of birthing position ie: not lying on the bed unless decided by me
MEDICAL INTERVENTION
I’m happy to have continuous EFM. However, I will at any time take it off if I decide to shower/bath/move around and will do so at my own discretion.
If IFM is deemed necessary I wish to obtain a second opinion.
I prefer to tear than to have an episiotomy. I’d only like an episiotomy if there is a genuine medical emergency. Please allow time for the perineum to stretch naturally and I would like warm compresses used to assist with this.
I have severe back pain if I lie flat on my back and do not want any unnecessary vaginal exams. I do not want them 4 hourly. If a VE is required I would like to be seated, kneeling or standing. Please discuss any need for a VE with us.
I do not want a cannula placed in my arm/hand during labour
I will eat/drink as I feel the need during my labour.
No time limits to be placed upon us.
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we’d like:
For my husband to ‘catch’ our baby if he would like to
To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before clamping, to allow my baby to receive the valuable blood and iron stores.
For DH to cut the cord once it has stopped pulsating.
Not to have the routine Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta until after the cord has stopped pulsating and if medically required.
To hold and feed our baby immediately after the birth
For all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby
For baby to be given only breastmilk – strictly no water or formula.
We have chosen to defer Hepatitis B injections until baby’s first vaccinations at 2 mths.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I’d like:
To wait until I am at least 14 days overdue prior to this being booked in. I am happy to have monitoring leading to this time.
For DH to be with me. We’d also like to have our Doula Kelly with us to help enhance our experience of birth, no matter what form it takes
For discussion to be respectful and minimal - only what is required medically and to inform me of what is happening
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC
The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery. If you do not have the staff to enable this, I wish to have my Doula with me so I can breastfeed in recovery.
Please sign our birth preferences in good faith that it has been read, will be treated respectfully and that we have your support in all of the above.
________________________________ Signed
________________________________ Name ______________ Date
It's a bit after the fact, but this is our birth preferences:
Mother wears contact lenses throughout birth.
I give permission for photos to be taken.
Environment:
- Minimal quiet interruptions
- Quiet room
- Aromatherapy if wanted
- Own music if wanted
- Positive & encouraging atmosphere
- No rushing/no time constraints
Labour
- Don't offer me pain relief, including gas, epidural etc. I will ask if I want it.
- NO pethidine (family history of bad reactions).
- Freedom to move around as desired.
- Fetal monitoring to be done only if absolutely necessary. Would rather not have to wear the trace machine for the entire labour. If it is necessary, please use a telemetry unit for the CTG so I can still move around.
Birth
- Don't want to be confined to bed if at all possible.
- Prefer NOT to be on my back for birth.
- Episiotomy - only if necessary; would rather tear.
If caesarean section:
- Husband & doula to be present
- If baby needs to be separated from me for medical reasons, husband or doula to be present with the baby at all times
Third stage:
- Do not cut cord until it has stopped pulsing (unless agreed to by Mum/Dad due to medical requirement - or if required to be cut in order to birth baby).
- Husband to cut cord (unless he declines)
- Active third stage management (Syntocinon) can be used once the cord has stopped pulsing.
Immediately after birth:
- Baby to have immediate skin to skin contact (regardless of birth type - vaginal or caesarean) with me (unless medically not possible). Baby to have skin to skin contact with husband also.
- Baby given opportunity for baby-led first breastfeed if possible.
- All BSL's for baby to taken whilst baby is still with me if possible.
- Husband to weigh baby
I went into my labour with no birth plan just an open mind to whatever happens at the time!
It was a 4 hour labour DRUG FREE no complications..
My midwife was great and let me control all aspects of the labour..she was very supportive and motivational (So was my husband!!!)
Believe in your body as it knows what to do, stay relaxed and everything will move along nicely..The worst thing you can do is tense up it will take longer for you to get that baby out!!
Thank you so much for sharing ladies :)
I just sat down to try and write my own birth plan... when I realised I had absolutely no idea where to start or what I was doing!!
I think I have pinched a bit from everyone and come up with a plan that suits me and my DP ;)
Our names are ...Our Student Midwife's name is ...
We like to be called ...
We are aiming for a natural childbirth without unnecessary interventions or the use of drugs. We have asked a student midwife to be present at the birth. We appreciate your support with our birth preferences.
This plan represents our preferences; however we recognise that in the event of unforeseen difficulties it may need to be re-negotiated. Please discuss all options with us, in the presence of our midwife, and student midwife. We would then like the opportunity to contemplate our options without the presence of any medical staff. We would like the birth experience to be respectful and private as we know this is conducive to a successful birth, with minimal interruptions, quiet voices and dimmed lighting.
ACTIVE BIRTH
- I'd like the freedom to choose positions, use the shower or bath and walk around in labour as desired.
- I'm happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring
- Please don't offer drugs; I am aware of the options for pain relief and will ask for it if needed.
- I will not have pethidine or other narcotic drugs.
- If I ask for drugs mid-contraction, please ask me again once the contraction is over and I am better able to make a decision
- I wish to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented unless in a medical emergency.
- I'd only like an episiotomy if there is a genuine medical emergency. Please allow time for the perineum to stretch naturally.
- If for any reason I am lying down when I need to push, please remind me that I want to birth in an upright, squatting, or all fours position so I can move if I choose to.
- If I require at any point to be on a drip, please put the cannula in my forearm, not my hand or elbow so that I have freedom of movement.
INDUCTION / AUGMENTATION
If baby and I are well, I would like my baby to decide his/her own due date. I am happy to discuss a plan should my pregnancy reach the end of term at 42 weeks. Should labour induction become necessary at any time, I'd like to start with the least artificial means first - i.e. nipple stimulation, acupuncture, massage or a stretch and sweep before a medical induction. I would like time to allow the natural inductions work.
If this is unsuccessful and a medical induction or augmentation becomes medically necessary I'd like:
- To begin with gel application rather than a syntocinon drip
- To only have my waters to be broken at first instance if my cervix is open. I would like to be given a generous amount of time for labour to establish upon rupture of membranes (i.e. more than just a few hours) before other forms of medical induction / augmentation. I would like to go home if all is well, until labour is established.
- If I require Syntocinon, I would like a very low dose, to be increased gradually and slowly. Once my labour is established I would like to choose to stop the dose being increased, lower the dose or stop the drip to allow my body to continue to labour without artificial oxytocin.
-Please put the cannula in my forearm and not my hand or elbow so I have more freedom of movement.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I'd like:
- For my partner to be with me.
- For my midwife and student midwife to be with me at all times including in recovery.
- For discussion to be respectful and minimal - only what is required medically and to inform me of what is happening
- For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby
- Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure
- To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC
- For the cord to stop pulsating before clamping for reasons mentioned
- The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery.
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we would like:
- To hold our baby immediately after the birth
- For all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby
- In the event resuscitative efforst become necessary, I want these to be done without clamping the cord.
- If I have not had a drip induction, I do not want to have a Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta unless there is a real risk of haemorrage.
- To wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before clamping, to allow my baby to receive the valuable blood and iron stores.
- No formula or water are to be given to my baby
- To defer Hepatitis B injections until just prior to discharge from hospital.
My birth plan is easy as!
No drugs if I can help it (gas/peth if really needed)
No Epi
No Saline shots under the skin near my spine
NO C section unless really needed!
Will be as active as possible!
I have never had a written birth plan for either of my girls. First time round it was kind of mostly taken out of my hands due to emergency situations, second time round i went into labour early and didnt have one prepared. So i delivered a verbal birth plan on arrival at the labour room which basically consisted of two sentences....
If I want something I will ask for it.
You (the midwife) and I are going to do everything we possibly can to avoid me ending up with stitches!
40 minutes later with no drugs, no DH on hand, and NO STITCHES, my DD was on my chest.
My verbally given birth plan was "no drugs due to a genetic problem, I want to find out the gender myself."
Drugs pushed every inch of the way, despite me telling everyone about the problems it would (and did) cause.
New birth plan for any further time:
Expletive off. My body, my birth, get out of my way.
Can't think of why anyone would need anything else.
Here is mine. It might be a bit naive because this is my first birth, but it is what I want!
I have enjoyed reading everyone's birth plans, especially yours RHF ;).
----------------------------------------------------
Birth Preferences
Our names are xxx
Our baby's name is xxx
Our Doula?s name is xxx
We would prefer a natural childbirth without interventions or the use of drugs. We have chosen to have a doula present with us at the birth.
Please discuss all treatments with me before they are administered. We would like a couple of minutes to consider our options before any treatment.
I would ideally like to avoid a caesarean and episiotomy, please work with me to try to achieve this.
Please don?t rush me, I would rather be patient than have interventions.
I would rather tear than be cut.
I?m happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring so that I can continue to move around freely.
If a caesarean is necessary, I would like my partner and doula to stay with me.
I would like to bond with my baby immediately after birth. Please place her on my chest to attempt breast feeding straight away. Please delay weighing, measuring and cleaning until we have had this chance to bond.
Please help to encourage breastfeeding immediately after birth and whenever possible.
Please wait until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before clamping. My husband does not wish to cut the cord.
Not sure about these bits yet?
Not to have the routine Syntocinon injection to help deliver the placenta
For our baby to have vitamin K as an oral dose.
To defer Hepatitis B injections until baby?s first vaccinations at 2 months
Birth Preferences
Our names are XX
We like to be called XX
Our Doula name is XX
We?re hoping for a natural childbirth without unnecessary interventions or the use of drugs. We have asked a Doula to be present at the birth to help us work towards this . We appreciate your support with our birth preferences.
This plan represents our preferences; however we recognise that in the event of unforeseen difficulties it may need to be re-negotiated. Please discuss all options with us, in the presence of our Doula. We would then like the opportunity to contemplate our options without the presence of any medical staff. We would like the birth experience to be respectful and private as we know this is conducive to a successful birth, with minimal interruptions, quiet voices and dimmed lighting.
We understand that emergencies can happened and that my husband has full permission to make decisions if I am unable
ACTIVE BIRTH
Please do not perform any internal examinations. I trust that my body will do what it needs to do
Please help keep our birthing area to be as peaceful and relaxing as possible with positive comments and encouragement
I?m happy to have intermittent external fetal monitoring unless continuous monitoring is medically necessary.
Please don?t offer any drugs; I am aware of the options for pain relief and will ask for it if needed.
Please do not offer an IV and do not put in a cannula
I?d like the freedom to choose positions, use the shower or bath and walk around in labour as desired.
I would be happy to use the bath for the labour and possible the birth
I wish to be free of time limits and not have my labour augmented unless in a medical emergency.
I would like to be able to eat and drink during labour if I wish to
Please allow time for the perineum to stretch naturally and only suggest an episiotomy in an emergency.
I would like to try any different position to help assist the labour and birth please encourage me to try any positions that you believe will assist me
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we?d like:
Would like to try gravity assisting positions for the birth
I would like to breath my baby out without pressure to push
For my husband to ?catch? our baby
To not have the umbilical cord clamped or cut until it has stopped pulsating
For my partner to cut the cord
To hold our baby immediately after the birth
For all newborn procedures (weighing and measuring) to wait until I have had time to bond with and breastfeed our baby
Delivery of the placenta preferred without drugs, preferred that cord cutting to be done after this. No cord traction.
For our baby to have vitamin K as an oral dose.
For baby to be given only breastmilk ? strictly no water or formula.
We will not be immunising and request that you accept our decision and not challenge it nor persist with asking
Should baby need to be removed ? would prefer any obs to be done with us, or my husband to go along and be able to hold / touch baby if I cannot. Minimal separation
OUR BIRTH PLAN IN SHORT
Freedom to move around as I choose
Peaceful and relaxing birth room
Possible water birth
No Internal examinations
Intermittent external fetal monitoring
Please don?t offer drugs;
No time limits on my birth
No augmentation unless an emergency
No IV or cannula
Can eat & drink
No episiotomy
Try different labour positions
BIRTH AND SOON AFTER
Presuming baby and I are well, we?d like:
For my husband to ?catch? our baby
Breath baby out
To not have the umbilical cord clamped or cut until it has stopped pulsating
For my partner to cut the cord
To hold our baby immediately after the birth
Delay all newborn weighing etc
No drugs for delivery of placenta and no cord traction
For our baby to have vitamin K as an oral dose.
Exclusively breast feed
No immunisation
Baby to be with one of parents at all times
IF THINGS DON?T GO TO PLAN
INDUCTION / AUGMENTATION
Should labour induction become necessary at any time, I'd like to start with the least artificial means first - i.e. nipple stimulation, acupuncture, massage or a stretch and sweep before a medical induction. I would like time to allow the natural inductions work.
If this is unsuccessful and a medical induction or augmentation becomes medically necessary I?d like:
To only have my waters to be broken at first instance if my cervix is open. I would like to be given a generous amount of time for labour to establish upon rupture of membranes (i.e. more than just a few hours) before other forms of medical induction / augmentation. I would like to go home if all is well, until labour is established.
If I require Syntocinon, I would like a very low dose, to be increased gradually and slowly. Once my labour is established I would like to choose to stop the dose being increased, lower the dose or stop the drip to allow my body to continue to labour without artificial oxytocin. Please put the cannula in my hand so I have more freedom of movement.
CAESAREAN
If a caesarean becomes necessary I?d like:
For my partner to be with me.
For discussion to be respectful and minimal - only what is required medically and to inform me of what is happening
For the screen lowered so we can witness the birth of our baby
Unless prevented by medical emergency, I would like my baby to be placed on my chest while you complete the procedure
To be sure that a double layer suture is used and not a single layer in order to improve my chances for a future VBAC
For the cord to stop pulsating before clamping for reasons mentioned
The opportunity to breastfeed our baby in recovery.
My plan will be something like this - but I don't really expect they'll read it. I do however expect my husband to read it and memorise it and recite it ad nauseam to the midwives ;)
I am an experienced birthing mother who trusts her body to labour efficiently.
I want to be allowed to labour freely without continuous monitoring, and without routine internal examinations. I do not wish to be offered pain relief - I will ask for it if I need it. As a sexual abuse survivor I am extremely distressed by internal examinations and do not wish to have these unless there is a significant clinical need.
If continuous monitoring is medically necessary, I will get my husband to hold the monitors while I continue to labour in an upright position.
I'm happy for a student to be present during my labour and delivery. I prefer midwife attended labours and delivery and for an obstetrician to be called only if medically necessary.
I am hypoglycaemic and wish to eat and drink as I need to during labour. I will pack light snacks and energy drinks that are suitable.
I want to be able to labour and deliver in a position that is comfortable for me - I prefer to deliver kneeling or on all fours so if I am not already in that position when I am ready to deliver, please remind me of this preference. I am happy to be encouraged to try different positions and equipment such as the physio balls if I have not suggested it myself.
I prefer to tear than to have an episiotomy.
When the baby is delivered, I want all routine checks done while baby is on my chest/belly or in my husband's arms if I am not able to hold him for medical reasons.
Please don't clamp and cut the cord until it has stopped pulsing, in the absence of complications. Please don't dress or wrap the baby at this point - cover the baby for warmth while his skin is touching mine.
I prefer no cord traction to deliver the placenta.
If I need stitches or other treatment, my husband will hold the baby if I am unable to do so.
Weighing and other checks can wait. We wish to be left quietly with the baby with the room as darkened as possible for as long as possible after the birth.
Our baby will be exclusively breastfed - if the baby's blood sugar is of clinical concern, we wish for glucose water to be given by spoon, and not artificial milk, and definitely no bottles.
We will not have our baby vaccinated for Hepatitis B until two months.
In the case of a caesarean: My husband will be present. I wish the baby to be placed near me while the procedure is completed, and I wish the baby to be brought to me in recovery to be put to the breast. My husband is to remain with the baby at all times.
Great thread ladies and thanks to all who have shared their plans! This thread will definately be a huge help for a first timer like me :D
jeepers some are very long!!
i got told by my mw to make it short and sweet so the docs and mw can follow it easily
so mine is basically
i want to try with no drugs but if i ask, give them to me!
dp to cut the cord
me to hold bubs right away (injections etc can wait)
and no bloody visitors til i say so (dps family are psycho baby hoarders lol)
:)
What about internals TM? Cord clamping? What about a physiological third stage? Skin to skin contact with your DP also?
:)
hey tanya:
my hossy is very pro natural and allows cord to finish pulstaing before clamping, skin to skin with both parents immediately (as long as no medical complications of course), i have signed form to allow the injection to deliver placenta cause im worried about PPH, also just booked in for an induction next week (40+9, if she doesnt arrive normally by then). it might sound naive and everyone has different opinions but i was v. happy with what i was told at the hossy-run antenatal classes and am positive they will try and provide the best birth possible for me :)
Awesome :)
Please tell me if I am missing anything major in the following intentions!!
? I wish to stay at home for the early stage of labour. I intend to inform you and update you on my progress whilst this occurs.
? I do not wish to be artificially induced. I would like for labour to start spontaneously, whether that be at 38 weeks or 42 weeks (I am not expecting to reach 42 weeks due to my first labour starting spontaneously at 38 weeks).
? I plan to endure labour pain naturally, with warm water (bath/shower) and massage as my only form of pain relief.
? I would prefer internal examinations be kept to a minimum.
? I do not wish to have continuous fetal monitoring ? only intermittently when necessary.
? I plan to bring my own relaxation music, and would prefer to have the room dimly lit.
? My husband will be my sole support person throughout the labour.
? I intend to have an active labour ? utilising gravity and various positions to assist me.
? I do not wish to birth laying on my back, but in a standing or squatting position, where gravity will be of assistance.
? I wish to avoid an episiotomy if possible (I suffered a post-labour perenial haematoma due to an episiotomy at my first birth ? very painful experience!), and I would like to receive assistance in supporting the perenium to prevent tearing.
? I wish to have my baby placed on my chest immediately after birth.
? I wish for my husband to cut the umbilical cord, only after it has stopped pulsating.
? I wish for my baby to remain closeby whilst he/she is checked.
? I do NOT wish for my baby to receive Hep B or Vit K injections, and I wish not to be challenged on this decision, as it is a well informed one.
? I wish to deliver the placenta in my own time, without the assistance of drugs.
? If an episiotomy/tear is inevitable, I would prefer a midwife (female) to attend to the sutchering under local anesthetic (the sutchering after my first birth was performed by a young male doctor who was incredibly rough and heavy handed with me ? definitely my most traumatic and painful birth encounter, and I believe partially to blame for the haematoma developing.)
? I do not wish for my baby or myself to be administered antibiotics post labour (or during labour for that matter!) due the the effect this has on the beneficial bacteria in the breastmilk.
? I wish to initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible after the birth.
? I wish for my baby to be on the breast when his or her ?heel *****? blood sample is taken.
? I wish to be informed as to which blood group my baby belongs to (my firstborn?s blood group was not recorded on his hospital documents).
? I do not wish to receive visitors, until both mother & baby have had the oppurtunity to sleep and recuperate.