The purpose of a birth plan is to clearly outline your personal preference surrounding your labor. The doctors will have it as a reference for what of birth you’d like to have and what you’d like to avoid happening at all costs.
If you plan on giving birth naturally, then a birth plan will help you navigate the process a little easier. You can include specifications such as not wanting any medication, baby bath, or even an IV. Think of it as a road map with your darling baby as the final destination. Therefore, in order to help you, take a look at these guidelines for creating your own natural birth plan.
Determine Your Motivations
Before you write anything down, it’s helpful to have an idea of what your motivations are behind wanting an all-natural birth. Is it because you’re afraid of potential side effects? Do you wish to avoid pain medication? Do you want to steer clear of doctors potentially harming your baby?
Everyone’s motivations vary. By keeping in mind exactly why you want a natural birth, you’ll be able to focus your birth plan in that direction. Without an overall goal in mind, it’s easy to get lost in the making of your birth plan.
Choose The Right Provider
It’s difficult for some doctors to accept all of the details of some families’ birth plans. Although a natural birth is entirely possible, many doctors fear there are too many risks involved.
As a result of opposing views with your doctor, you may find that your birth plan is tossed in the garbage the moment that you arrive at the hospital. It’s essential to ensure that you choose the right provider who will guarantee to respect your personal wishes.
Hire a Doula
More and more people are turning towards doulas for their birth. Think of a doula as a guide who holds your hand throughout the process and helps you in any way that they can.
From helping you with pain coping methods to rubbing your shoulders while you push, a doula is there to be a calm source of reassurance.
A doula is there to push for your birth plan while you’re busy focusing on pushing for the baby.
By being specific about your general preferences, as well as including the specifics, you can ensure that your hospital experience is as close as possible to what you envision it being like.
Once you have an idea which is translated into your birth plan, the next step is waiting for your big day when you finally give birth. With patience, a little flexibility, and the reference of your birth plan, you can increase your chances of it being a fantastic natural birth that you remember forever.