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The Birth Plan

Is a Birth Plan Helpful or Troublesome?

By Marie Fellenstein Hale

You may consider going to the Labor and Delivery unit of your hospital to introduce yourself. It is a good idea to call ahead to find a time when the unit is as quiet as possible, because naturally the staff's primary job is to take care of the women currently in labor. If they seem open to it, you might show them a copy of your birth plan and ask them for feedback, such as "Did I phrase this correctly?" or "Is this clear and simple or too long?" If you disagree about something, it's not necessary to get defensive—simply reply "That's interesting" or "I didn't realize that." If the staff seems busy and unable to talk but the unit is not too crowded, you might ask to go see one of the birthing or labor rooms for a few minutes. This will give you a chance to evaluate what you might want to bring with you to the hospital, such as a tape player for music, extra pillows, or images to look at during birth.

Being involved in all decisions about your birth is often the key to feeling good about it. Even a birth with many interventions can be a very positive experience if the woman is able to participate in the decisions about those interventions. A birth plan should not be seen as a way t compel everyone around you to behave in a certain way. If you give up control during birth, you may feel disappointed. By taking responsibility for your decisions and asking to be fully informed, you remain as much in control as possible.