Birth choices

Towards the end of your pregnancy, if you haven’t done so already, you will need to start thinking about your choices for childbirth. A birth plan, which lays out how you’d like things to happen when you’re in labor, can help you get things clear in your mind.

Think about your hopes for the birth and include them on your birth plan. Say whether you’d like to avoid constant monitoring (assuming it isn’t hospital policy); whether you’d like an active labor; whether you’d like to delver on the bed or in a squatting or standing position; whether you’d like to avoid having an epidural if possible. You might also want to detail who you’d like with you for the birth and whether you want your baby delivered straight onto your tummy or cleaned and wrapped before being handed to you. Does your partner want to cut the cord? Include that – and also say if you’d like to be shown how to latch your baby on to breastfeed straight after he birth.

Discuss your wish list with your OB-GYN or nurse-midwife – but keep in mind that labor is unpredictable and be prepared to be flexible if things aren’t straightforward on the day.

See our article on writing your birth plan for more information and ideas on what to include.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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