How To Make A Natural Birth Plan

Thinking about making a birth plan, but not sure where to start? There are so many different variables to consider, and having a plan ahead of time can help you feel prepared, confident, and ease any worries before your labor. 

It’s important to keep in mind that a birth plan is simply that, a plan. Plans can be flexible, so in making your preparations, keep in mind that you can change your mind at any time during your birthing experience. Having a plan helps to prepare yourself, your family, your birthing team, and your environment to create the best possible birthing experience for you. 

A birth plan typically considers:

Who you want in attendance (and who you don’t)

Consider which people in your life you will want by your side. That might include your partner, friends, family members, a midwife, a doula, or your pediatrician. 

Your medical history

Your birthing team should be aware of things like blood pressure, diabetes, allergies, or any other conditions that might impact birth. Our expert holistic midwives can help you understand your unique needs and how your medical history could affect your pregnancy. 

Your birthing environment

Think about your preferences for lighting conditions, music, or sound. What do you want to wear? How often do you want your cervix checked? Are there any objects you want with you like a birthing ball or blanket? What foods and beverages do you want to have available?

Pain management plan

Prepare a list of approved pain management techniques. These could include positive affirmations or mantras, meditation, hypnotherapy, tools for movement, aromatherapy oils, hydrobirthing supplies, or massage techniques. 

Delivery plans

Think about how you’d like to be induced, birthing position preferences, or natural vs. induced tearing. Do you want to use a mirror to see your baby’s head, or do you want to feel the baby while they crown?

Afterbirth

Think about what should happen next once your baby has made their entrance. Are you okay with delayed cord clamping? Would you like immediate skin-to-skin contact, or would you prefer your partner to have the baby first? Do you want your baby to be wiped down before they are handed over? Who would you like to cut the cord, our staff or perhaps your partner?

Immediate Postpartum

Do you want to consider placenta encapsulation? What do you want to eat after your baby is born? Do you wish for any medical attention to your baby such as vitamin K injection or eye antibiotic?
We hope you’ve found our list of birth plan considerations helpful. For individualized support in crafting your birth plan, we highly recommend speaking with a holistic doula.