Do you have a birthplan? I got asked that a lot. There are so many things to think about when it comes to a birth plan I created a list of points that are a good starting point for having conversations with your doctor and partner about what is the best birth plan for you and your family.
Prior to Delivery:
- If you go past your due date, do you want to consider an induction?
- Would you be open to an induction starting at 39 weeks?
- For both of these options, great to talk to your doctor about their practice and poliic
Delivery:
- Do you want an epidural? (I opted for an epidural catheter to placed as soon as possible. I could always decide to turn on and off the medications via the epidural as I see fit.)
- Do you want IV fluids?
- Do you want to be given pitocin during labor to help with contractions?
- Do you want husband to assist in catching the baby?
- Do you want to feel the baby’s head as you are pushing?
- Do you want husband to help cut the umbilical cord?
- Do you want to keep the placenta?
Baby:
- Do you want the baby to be placed on Mom’s chest right after birth?
- Do you want newborn procedures (vitamin K shot and antibiotic eye ointment) while baby on mom?
- Do you want your baby to get a bath right after birth in the hospital or to wait until you are ready?
Post Delivery:
- Will you be exclusively breastfeeding?
- Do you want to consider formula at any point during the hospital stay?
- Do you want to speak to a lactation consultant? (I recommend you do this asap if you are going to exclusively breastfeed).
- Does your pediatrician visit the hospital? If so, make sure to have them called by your nurse so they can come visit you in the hospital.