Philips AVENT - Preparing your birth plan

Preparing your birth plan

A birth plan is a simple list that informs your doctor, midwife and nurses of what you’d like to happen.  Of course, you might not be able to stick to it, but preparing a wish list for how you'd like things to go is good way to start thinking about birth.

Philips AVENT - Preparing your birth plan

Here are key things a birth plan should include:

The best setting

  • Where do you want to deliver?
  • Do you want music playing?
  • Should someone film the birth?

Your "A team"

Who do you want with you during labor and delivery?

  • Your children, parents or grandparents
  • Do you want a coach or doula present
  • Is there anyone you want kept out of the room

Preferred positions

Have you considered

  • birthing positions or equipment
  • stirrups

Your dream delivery

Do you have strong feelings about

  • forceps
  • vacuum extraction
  • a cesarean section (C-section)

Postnatal plan

  • Who will cut the umbilical cord?
  • Are there specific ways you'd like to bond with your baby?

Once you've made a list of these preferences, share them with your care team, give a copy to your partner and keep a copy in your hospital bag. Be prepared to be flexible, as childbirth is unpredictable. Most professionals try to honor your birth plan requests as long as they're safe in that moment for you and your baby.

Please be aware that the information given in these articles is only intended as general advice and should in no way be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you or your family or your child is suffering from symptoms or conditions which are severe or persistent or you need specific medical advice, please seek professional medical assistance. Philips Avent cannot be held responsible for any damages that result from the use of the information provided on this website.

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