4 tips to write a birth plan that’s right for you

May 12, 2017

Why a birth plan is important

The process of writing a birth plan is just as important for you as it is for your health care providers. Discovering what your preferences are helps clarify what’s important to you (and what’s not).

Writing and sharing a birth plan also makes sure that you and your birth team are all in sync going into the birth. It means fewer decisions to be made and fewer questions asked of you in the heat of the moment. So where do you start?

How to write a birth plan

Birth Plan Tip #1 - Add personality!

• Your birth plan is a great opportunity to express your individuality. Bring humor, heart, and glimpses into your personal life. It’ll instantly bring you closer to your team.

Birth Plan Tip #2 - Format for readability

• Things can move quickly with births, so make your plan easy on the eyes. Think of it like a cover letter—put the most important information on the top. Add bullets and headings for even quicker reads. 

Birth Plan Tip #3 - Thank your team

• It may be your caregivers’ jobs to make sure you have a safe, successful birth, but it’s always appreciated to show gratitude.

Birth Plan Tip #4 - Stay true to you

• Just like every birth is different, every mother is different too. Make sure your preferences are well-informed and true to yourself.

Real Life Birth Plan Sample

Sometimes it helps to see what other’s have done to inspire you. Here’s one from our very own blog editor for her son’s hospital birth. At one point, the nurses actually made cheese jokes to keep her spirits up!

Writing a birth plan doesn’t have to be daunting or time consuming. Talk with your team about what to include in yours, and ask the gCommunity for ideas. Even if you throw it out the window by the time your baby is born, it can capture that moment of anticipation and excitement in a beautiful, useful way.