What is a birth plan?

Have you ever heard of this term? Have you ever thought about tailoring your birth to your own needs, despite the protocol of your chosen facility?

The basis of many expectant mothers' anxiety is that they do not know what will happen during childbirth. They do not know what to expect, what professional and human things they will encounter. More and more people desire natural childbirth, where they would like to experience peace for themselves and their child.

If there is an opportunity to visit the delivery room or receive birth preparation at the chosen institution, then receiving information can help ease anxiety. However, new mothers often have individual ideas and desires for one of the biggest events of their lives, which they would very much like to experience in a certain way.

The essence of a birth plan is that the woman preparing to give birth actually initiates a dialogue with the healthcare professionals caring for her about taking into account and, if possible, implementing the ideas that she considers important during her birth.

Regarding the term "birth plan", we feel that it is a bit imprecise, since birth cannot be planned. Only a guideline can be given along certain values, and this should be followed as far as the condition of the mother and baby allows.

What can a mother-to-be plan for her birth?

This can be completely individual and there are countless variations. Let's look at some of the more common points:

• You want to avoid certain procedures, such as enemas or perineal surgery
• You want to receive specific treatment
• You want a chosen companion, a family member, by your side.
• He would use the options for pain relief according to his own ideas.
• In cases of traditions that differ from others (e.g. religious), he requests respect for his own customs
• He only wants to have contact with women during childbirth.
• You want to receive the baby immediately after birth, if an accidental surgery with anesthesia occurs, you determine who the baby will be given to 
• Determines the role of your partner during childbirth
• What positions would you like to labor and give birth in?
• Who cuts the umbilical cord and when?

In addition to these points, there are countless individual ideas, and everyone's birth plan is their own program.

What difficulties may arise with the birth plan?

The most difficult thing is perhaps to reconcile the most sincere wishes of the expectant mother with the possibilities that can be implemented and supported by the professionals, and with their willingness. Since the birth plan and this kind of confidential communication are not well known in our country, healthcare professionals may be surprised by such a request. They may even take it as a sign of distrust, because they may feel that the woman in labor wants to control them and determine how to act in things that they routinely do.

If the expectant mother expresses her deep emotions and the desire for the way she would like to give birth to her child, it can become clear that she does not have any objections to the expertise, but rather wants to make a choice, to experience her birth differently, which is an experience for her. 

Every mother knows that she cannot have full control over the process when giving birth in a hospital. She may have more opportunity to do so if she gives birth in a private hospital or chooses to give birth at home. 

The birth plan is not about sticking to absurd, irrational ideas that the hospital does not support, but rather about a soothing harmony in which she can relax and in which some of the things that are more important to her can be realized.

Source: Emma Association 

How can the needs be aligned with the institution's capabilities?

It basically requires clear, open – we could say assertive – communication, during which the person takes steps in a calm voice and conversation to pave the way for their own ideas. We can expect that doctors and midwives will have difficulty in departing from their usual practices. Yet even the realization of 1-2 things can mean a lot to the mother.

The first step is always to prepare a plan . After all, it can only be effective if you have the thoughts, the most important points, and the mother is prepared to talk about them. If she is unsure about things, she will not be able to represent her own interests well during the discussion.

It is important that the expectant mother receives accurate answers to her questions. It is also good to ask about the options that may arise in an unexpected situation. A woman in labor may feel vulnerable during childbirth if, for example, a complication occurs. However, it can be reassuring for her to ask to be continuously informed about inevitable interventions and for her companion to represent her interests.

It is not easy for a layperson to determine how necessary a given intervention may be. For example, a ruptured membrane may have unexpected effects, but in a given situation it may pose less danger than if it were not performed. It is the responsibility of the doctor and the medical staff to assess these risks . 

Therefore, a birth plan can be an aspiration, a guideline that should not be adhered to too rigidly. After all, no one can predict the course of childbirth. Rather, it should represent an understanding attitude, a need for cooperation, and trust, while keeping in mind the best possible implementation of the points described.

It's good for the expectant mother to have the right amount of flexibility , as unexpected turns can happen at any time, and the plan may be overturned. She must be able to accept this in a given situation, because her child's and her own health are the primary concerns. 

What gives you a sense of security?

A birth plan is probably created because you want to make things more predictable, with experiences that you would enjoy during your birth. Plannability gives you a sense of security because it eliminates the fear of the unknown. Determining what to expect in advance will ensure that you have the kind of experience you desire. One that you will look back on with joy. 

With a birth plan, you can build a supportive environment around you, in which everyone will stand by you with their best intentions, and your companion - usually your partner - will also play an important role in this team.

A birth plan also helps the father

Dads can be just as worried about childbirth as new mothers. They are less familiar with the location, the professionals, and the process itself. They often face the very painful feeling of wanting to help their loved one, but not being able to. During childbirth, not only a mother but also a father is born, and it is important to remember that they are also witnesses to the events.

A birth plan can be a great help for them in preparing to support their partner, and in a way that makes them feel accepted by the staff. If the man can help with a few things – for example, he can hold his partner in certain positions, be present, caress her, or in the event of a possible operation, he can place the baby on his chest first – then he will experience these events differently.

If you agree in advance to represent your partner in situations where he or she may not be able to make decisions, you will have an important role until the birth of your child.

Handing over the birth plan to healthcare professionals

The written birth plan should not be too long. It is in the mother's best interest if it can be reviewed quickly and easily , as hospital staff cannot be expected to have everything memorized. They should therefore have the opportunity to review it again during the birth.

At the beginning of the plan, it is worth addressing the professionals in a short letter and respectfully asking them to support the birth at the selected points, unless there are special circumstances. It is also necessary to express on the part of the couple that they expect an explanation regarding the need for medical intervention in any unexpected situation.

At the end of the birth plan, it is worth requesting that the plan be attached to the medical record so that it can be made available to others. 

Source: Marie F. Mongan: Birth Where I Control. book

If you have dreams and are very attached to your ideas, it is better to follow your feelings. If you have the opportunity and the choice, give birth to your baby in a place where you will find support and can go into labor with peace of mind.