Birth Plan Preparation
Creating a birth plan can feel exciting, overwhelming, or somewhere in between. Many expecting parents worry about “getting it right” — choosing the perfect options, using the right language, or predicting every possible outcome. I have a different idea of what a birth plan is vs is not. A birth plan is not about control — it is about communication, clarity, and confidence. A well-prepared birth plan helps you understand your options, express your preferences, and feel more grounded as you approach labor.
What Is a Birth Plan, Really?
A birth plan is a written summary of your preferences, values, and priorities for labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. It helps your care team understand what matters most to you — especially in moments when communication may be limited. Rather than a rigid script, think of your birth plan as a conversation starter and a tool for advocacy.
When Should You Start Birth Plan Preparation?
Most families begin thinking about their birth plan in the second or early third trimester. As a doula, I often support clients through this process during prenatal visits, helping them explore choices without pressure or judgment. This can help you to:
Learn about your options
Discuss preferences with your provider
Ask questions and clarify policies
Key Elements of a Thoughtful Birth Plan
1. Labor Environment Preferences
Small environmental choices can have a big impact on comfort. Consider what helps you feel calm and supported:
Lighting preferences
Music or quiet
Movement and position changes
Who you want present in the room
2. Comfort Measures & Pain Management
There is no “right” way to cope with labor — only what works best for you.
You might include preferences around:
Movement and position changes
Hands-on comfort like massage or counterpressure
Breathing or visualization techniques
Hydrotherapy (shower or tub)
Medical pain relief (epidural or IV medications)
3. Medical Interventions & Decision-Making
A helpful approach is to emphasize being informed and included in decisions, even if circumstances change. Birth plans often include preferences around:
Induction or augmentation
Continuous vs. intermittent monitoring
Vaginal exams
Use of medications or interventions
Informed consent and shared decision-making
4. Pushing & Birth Preferences
These moments are deeply personal, and it’s okay to name what feels meaningful to you. You may wish to note:
Preferred pushing positions
Coached vs. spontaneous pushing
Who catches the baby (if applicable)
Immediate skin-to-skin contact
5. Cesarean Birth Preferences (Just in Case)
Including Cesarean preferences doesn’t mean you expect one — it simply means you’re prepared. Preparation can bring peace of mind, even if these preferences aren’t needed. You might include:
Partner presence
Gentle or family-centered Cesarean requests
Skin-to-skin in the operating room
Clear communication during surgery
6. Immediate Postpartum & Newborn Care
The hours after birth matter, too. Consider including preferences for:
Delayed cord clamping/cutting
Newborn procedures and timing
Feeding preferences
Rooming-in
Support for bonding and recovery
How a Doula Supports Birth Plan Preparation
As a doula, my role is not to tell you what to choose — it is to help you understand your options, explore your preferences, and feel confident with your choices. I support birth plan preparation by:
Answering questions without judgment
Explaining common interventions and alternatives
Helping translate preferences into clear language
Encouraging flexibility and self-trust
Preparing you emotionally for different possibilities
Flexibility Is Part of the Plan
One of the most important parts of birth plan preparation is acknowledging that birth can be unpredictable. A flexible mindset allows you to adapt while still feeling informed and supported.
Birth plan preparation is not about creating the “perfect” birth — it is about entering labor feeling informed, empowered, and supported in your choices.
When you take time to explore your preferences, ask questions, and build your support team, you are already doing meaningful preparation for birth.
