Birth Plan

This is the birth plan I used for Claire's birth. It was approved by my midwife for use in our hospital birth. Even though my midwife did not attend Claire's birth due to unforeseen circumstances, my birth went almost entirely as we had planned/hoped. The only things that did not go as we had planned were that I tore really badly and I needed to be stitched up right away, so I did not get to initiate breastfeeding as quickly as I would have liked, which necessitated an injection of Pitocin to help the placenta to come out. Cody also was unable to catch Claire as she came out because she came out quickly and unexpectedly! The second night in the hospital, we also decided to allow Claire the use of a pacifier because she was wanting to use me as a pacifier, which was way too painful! ;) 

My Birth Plan:

Labor:

•  Would like to go into labor naturally

•  No IV/heplock unless deemed medically necessary with my agreement (in which case a heplock in my left arm is requested)

•  Wear own clothes

•  Pain medication only if I request it

•  Pain management: bath/shower, hot/cold therapy, massage, birth ball, changing positions, walking, music, relaxation and breathing

•  Drink fluids, ice chips, and light snacks as long as tolerated

•  Intermittent fetal monitoring

•  Limited vaginal exams

•  Peaceful, quiet environment with dimmed lights, aromatherapy, and a closed door, with a mirror available

Delivery:

•  Unless otherwise requested by myself, Cody will be the only support person during the delivery

•  Spontaneous pushing

•  Position: squatting, upright and leaning against Cody, birthing stool, or hands/knees

•  Perineal massage, hot compresses, and oil would be appreciated

•  Prefer tear to having an episiotomy

•  Cody would like to catch the baby

 

After delivery/Infant care:

•  Hold her right away, warming her on my chest, and initiating breast feeding

•  ​Wait until cord stops pulsing before being clamped & cut by Cody

•  No Pitocin for delivery of placenta

•  We ask that newborn procedures be delayed until after initial bonding

•  We decline eye ointment, vitamin k, and the Hepatitis B vaccine

•  Either myself or Cody would like to be present with the baby at all times

•  No formula, pacifiers, or disposable diapers should be given or used

  

In the event a C-section is needed, I’d like:

•  Cody to be present at all times

•  The baby to be given to Cody as soon as possible for bonding and warmth

•  To breastfeed as soon as possible

•  Above requests regarding newborn procedures to be followed

Visitors:

•  Cody and I would like at least one hour of initial bonding time with our baby prior to visitors being allowed in the room

•  If I am feeling up to it, I would like to clean up a bit before having visitors.

•  All Pantalenas and Soltows are allowed to come in, as long as it meets the above requests. I would like to approve/deny all other visitors.