Select your region
-
Europe
-
Americas
-
Africa and Middle East
-
Asia Pacific
birth plan ideas: three simple steps to writing one for your bump.
Depending on what point you are in your pregnancy, you might not have a birth plan yet. In fact, if you’re in the very early stages, you might not have heard of one. So, what is a birth plan?
What is a birth plan?
A birth plan is essentially a list of your preferences for labour, delivery, and the first few hours after birth1.. It can cover everything from where you’d like to give birth, to whether you want pain relief, preferred labour positions, or plans for skin-to-skin contact with your baby.
Creating a birth plan is entirely optional, but many parents find it helps them feel empowered, better informed and more in control about the choices available. The key is to keep it simple, personalised, and focused on what matters most to you.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the many resources and guides available, so we’ve broken it down as simply as possible. Here, we offer some basic birth plan ideas to help you get started, without adding unnecessary stress.
1. Download a birth plan template
Not sure how to start writing a birth plan? A good first step is to download a template from a trusted source, such as BabyCenter1.. These templates are laid out like forms and cover key areas, including:
- Where you’d like to give birth
- Positions for labour and delivery
- Preferences for skin-to-skin contact with your baby
Even if you don’t fill out every section, the template gives a clear overview of the kinds of decisions you might want to consider. Some parents use it as-is, while others extract the parts that matter most and create a one-page summary of their wishes.
Once you’ve drafted your plan, it’s helpful to discuss it with your partner or birthing companion1.. On the big day, they can support you, advocate for your choices, and help make decisions if needed.
It’s also a good idea to review your plan with your midwife and doctors2.. Babies can be unpredictable, and professionals can help reassure you about what’s realistic while explaining what might need to change if things don’t go exactly as planned.
2. Include any special circumstances
When creating your birth plan, it’s important to highlight any medical history or special circumstances that your midwife and hospital team should be aware of. While this information is already in your hospital records, having it clearly stated in your birth plan adds an extra layer of reassurance that nothing will be overlooked during labour and delivery2..
Special circumstances can include anything from allergies and chronic conditions to previous birth experiences or complications. Even small details such as preferred hygiene products, daily routines, or sensitivities can make a difference in ensuring your comfort and safety.
For example, one mom we know, a regular WaterWipes user, tested positive for Group B strep during her third trimester. While typically harmless, this bacterium can pose a risk to newborns, meaning she required intravenous antibiotics during labour. By placing this information front and centre in her birth plan, she felt confident that her care team would be fully informed and that her baby’s safety wouldn’t be compromised.
Including special circumstances like this not only helps the medical team provide tailored care but also gives you peace of mind. Knowing that your preferences and important medical details are clearly communicated allows you to focus on the birth itself and the exciting first moments with your baby.
3. Be prepared to be flexible with your birth plan
While many parents hope for a birth experience that goes exactly as planned, the reality is that labour and delivery can be unpredictable. Complications can arise, or hospital resources may be limited. For example, the birthing pool you were excited to use might not be available, or a cesarean could become necessary.
This is why flexibility is key. Ironically, creating a birth plan can actually help you feel more adaptable. By thinking through your preferences in advance, you gain a greater understanding of the stages of labour, the options available, and why your midwife or medical team might need to adjust certain aspects to keep you and your baby safe.
If things don’t go exactly as you hoped, try not to dwell on it. What matters most is a safe delivery and a healthy baby. Every birth is unique, and sometimes the most memorable moments come from the unexpected twists and turns along the way. With a flexible mindset, you can focus on what really counts, welcoming your newborn into the world and starting this incredible new chapter of your life.
A birth plan is a helpful tool to guide you through the journey of labour and delivery, but it’s just one part of preparing for your baby’s arrival. By thinking through your preferences, discussing them with your partner and midwife, and including important details about your health and comfort, you give yourself peace of mind and a sense of control. Remember, every birth is unique, and being prepared while staying flexible will help you focus on what truly matters: welcoming your baby safely and confidently into the world.
We’ve got lots more pregnancy tips for moms to be in our Parenting Hub including what to expect from your third trimester and a handy hospital bag checklist for when the big day comes.
