Your birth plan
Your birth plan is a way for you to communicate how you would like to give birth to midwives and other health professionals.
It gives you the chance to make decisions about the management of your childbirth, so you won’t have to make them during labour. The Journey to Parenthood care plan will help you to do this.
How to write your birth plan
Your birth plan should be carefully worded, to explain the things that are most important to you. It’s important to remember that things may not go according to plan, so try to be flexible.
It can be helpful to discuss your birth plan with your midwife, so you can ask questions and find out more about what to expect during labour.
You should include:
- where you would like to give birth
- what kind of delivery you would like, including pain relief
- details of disabilities or special treatment needs
- religious needs
- dietary needs during your hospital stay
Your midwife will be able to give you more advice on your birth plan and talk through any concerns.
NHS UK has more information on how to make your birth plan, including a template plan.