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Writing a Birth Plan
Have you thought about writing a birth plan? A birth plan is your personal wish list for what you consider to be the ultimate birthing experience. It doesn't have to be complicated process -- all you need is some time to reflect on some important questions pertaining to your birth experience.
There are so many factors in childbirth that sometimes it's difficult to keep track of your preferences without writing them down. Creating a birth plan is an opportunity for you and your partner to decide how you want your birth experience to proceed. It's also a good way to get your partner's input about important decisions regarding birthing methods and medical interventions before you're actually in labor.
Writing a birth plan lets you identify the issues that concern you most, and prepares you for discussing them with your health-care provider or birth attendant. Sharing your birth plan with those involved in your birth experience will greatly improve your dialogue.
Be sure to give a copy of your birth plan to your partner, your labor support people, your health-care provider/birth attendant, your childbirth educator, and your birthing center or hospital nursing and admissions staff.
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FYI: The current US infant circumcision rate is 33% according to the CDC. Parents considering infant circumcision should REALLY check out Circumcision Decision-Maker at http://circumcisiondecisionmaker.com It takes you through each of your reasons for wanting circumcision one at a time and then gives you some expert opinion. It also has a lot of information on anatomy and washing instructions.
4/24/2011 07:17:49 PM Report AbuseAnd even if you dont make an official birth plan...DISCUSS ANY CONCERNS OR QUESTIONS YOU HAVE at a prenatal appointment...being informed is half the battle!
1/22/2010 08:19:22 PM Report AbuseIt took having three children and some less than pleasant experiences that could have been avoided to get up the nerve to be more active in my care decisions. this time around I have been direct about things that i do and dont want, from tests that are unnecessary to not having an iv during labor unless it becomes necessary. I realize that some things may not go as I planned but with less than a week til I deliver I am much calmer knowing that my wishes will be respected.
1/22/2010 08:17:59 PM Report AbuseIt's important to be educated & have an opinion as to how you prefer the experience to occur. It's equally important to openly acknowledge you don't have control over every aspect. Prioritize and make sure that your strongest wishes are known, but remain open-minded things may change. I learned the hard way with #1-no plan, went along with doctor, & have some regrets looking back. Working on plan for #2. But remember, most important outcome is that mom & baby are safe & healthy.
1/22/2010 05:19:13 PM Report AbuseMy OB advised me not to write one when I was pregnant. Women who do write them tend to end up with c-sections because they don't create any wiggle room and expect the experience to go their way with no exceptions. If you trust your doctor you have no reason to write one.
1/22/2010 01:46:55 PM Report Abuse