How to make a birth plan: Maternal Healthcare

A birth plan is a record of what you would like during your labour and after the birth. 

It is not necessarily a must to create a birth plan. However, if you would like one, your doctor would be able to help. 

Why is a birth plan important?

1. Discussing your birth plan with your doctor is a chance to ask questions and find out more about what happens in labour.

2. It also gives your doctor a chance to get to know you better and understand your feelings and priorities. 

3. It helps you think about or discuss some things more fully with your partner, friends and relatives. 

A birth plan does not necessarily mean that you have to follow through. You can decide to change your mind about your plan for labour and birth at any time.

Remember: 

Your birth plan is personal to you, which means you can make it in any way or form you want. You can also choose what to include. For example, your medical history, the kind of services you want and the antenatal and postnatal classes you need.

Be flexible and prepared. Having a written birth plan might not apply in cases of complications with you or the baby leading to changing the birth plan. Show your partner your birth plan so that both of you know and agree.

Dr Satbir Karwal will advise you on your health when planning to have a child, during your pregnancy and after. It is advisable to have antenatal classes, make a birth plan, and have regular pre and postnatal check-ups.

More related articles as part of this blog series include the importance of maternal health, what to expect in antenatal classes, your options when giving birth, what to pack in your bag for labour, how to keep a healthy pregnancy and factors to help identify a high-risk pregnancy.

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