Creating your birth plan

Finding out you're pregnant can be an exciting time in your life, but your new reality may quickly become overwhelming if you aren't prepared. As such, we have a birth plan generator to document and communicate your birth philosophy, personal health information and wishes for delivery. Documenting these in this way can help ease any initial concerns you may have. We help you develop a personalized birth plan and stick to your wishes as much as possible, so you have the best possible experience with our labor and delivery services.

Purpose of a birth plan

A birth plan outlines your preferences before, during and after childbirth, so that we can offer structure and support the way you see fit.

While a birth plan isn't required, it can help you stay engaged in the birth process and manage your expectations. If you have a birth plan, research suggests you're more likely to be happier with your overall experience.

It is never too early to brainstorm or write down what you want out of your labor and delivery experience. Having a plan allows you to ask questions, do necessary research and make updates as time transpires.

Make decisions about each stage of pregnancy

As you go through the birth planning process, there are questions you must address that will impact how we support your needs, including:

• Do you have a preference for how we intervene during labor?
• Do you have a preference on the type of medicine you receive?
• Do you have preferred labor positions?
• Do you know what you want to do with the placenta or cord blood?
• Do you prefer to have a vaginal or cesarean delivery?
• Do you want photos and videos during or after delivery?
• Do you want visitors? If so, when do you want them in your room?
• What do you want to happen while you’re in labor?
• What would you like to happen during and after delivery?
• When do you want us to use specific interventions? Should we offer less invasive methods first, such as a massage or meditation?
• When is your due date?
• Where do you plan to deliver your baby?
• Who do you want in the room?
• Who is your main support person?
• Will features like music, lighting or a tub or a pool be helpful?
• Will you have a doula?
• Would you like to be able to eat, drink or move around during labor?
• Are you planning to breastfeed right away, use formula or both?

Partner with our team to finalize your care

During birth planning, one of our team's first priorities is understanding where you plan to have your child. Once that has been established, we can begin formulating our care plan to meet each of your unique needs.

If you are unsure about something specific relating to your birth plan, our medical professionals will take the time to provide their expertise on the matter. In addition to offering our insight, we can also give you a facility tour and sign you up for childbirth preparation classes, if needed.

Remain as flexible as possible throughout

Every pregnancy differs from one another, so it's important to be aware that yours may not go completely as planned.

Creating your birth plan is a great starting point, but it doesn't guarantee the perfect outcome. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or experience unexpected complications during labor, we may deviate from your original birth plan to try and ensure the well-being of you and your baby. If you need them, you can learn more about our high-risk pregnancy services.