Why Have A Birth Plan?

The list of things to consider when you are expecting a long one. From choosing a pregnancy diet to selecting a car seat from Foryourlittleone, there are many things to consider. And one important thing that you cannot overlook: a birth plan. Even though most of it may go out of the window, when you are classed as a high-risk pregnancy it is even more important to research and understand the importance of having a plan. 

Let’s look at some of the reasons below: 

It Provides A Guide For Your Care 

Your birth plan is a written document describing how you want your labour and birth to go. The report can be no more than a few sentences long, or it can be several pages long. By doing this, you can tell your doctor or midwife what you want during and after your birth. This way, you can outline how you wish birth to be. Having a birth plan lets your providers know what you want, so you can have the best experience possible during labour.

It Helps You Learn About What Is Ahead 

Making decisions during labour isn’t the best move. Writing down your wishes beforehand allows you to be more involved in your care. In addition to clarifying your thoughts and anticipating different scenarios, the process of creating a birth plan can help you decide what support people you want in the room and what type of pain relief you prefer. The birth plan you choose can always be changed during labour, however, it’s best to have a birthing partner who can help you to make sensible decisions. 

It Enables You To Have A Formal Conversation 

It’s usually recommended to discuss your birth plan at your 36-week appointment, but looking at it earlier at home can pay off. If your provider is reviewing your birth plan, your preferences can be accommodated safely according to your unique history and the development of your pregnancy. You can discuss choices with your provider ahead of time if some choices are unavailable due to health reasons.

It Keeps Your Health Care Team In The Loop 

There are usually several doctors and nurses involved in your care as you go through labour. Labour starts at any time, and there is no way for you to know which provider will be available. Making sure you are on the same page with your provider ahead of time is helpful. 

If Things Don’t Go To Plan, It Provides You With More Options 

Throughout labour, there is fluidity. You may need to make changes to your birth plan, and this is OK. Maybe you wanted the least amount of medical intervention but you change your mind. If something isn’t going to plan, your provider will recommend a continuous fetal monitor when a baby shows signs of distress. It is possible to have certain elements of your ideal labour with a birth plan, even if other components are too risky. Labour conditions can change rapidly, and every labour is different.

As you can see, it’s very important to have the birth plan in place, even if it doesn’t always go ahead. It can help you to feel more in control and informed.