Birth Plans: How to Create One That Actually Works for You

Birth is unpredictable, and it can feel a little strange to plan something that might change at the drop of a contraction. But here’s the thing: A birth plan isn’t about scripting every moment. It’s about knowing what matters most to you and communicating that clearly to your birth team.

Think of it as more of a guide—like a set of preferences that help your team support you in the way that feels right. Let’s break down how to create a birth plan that actually works (and doesn’t feel like wishful thinking).

1. Start with Your Core Values

Before diving into the details, take a moment to think about what matters most to you. Are you hoping for a calm, peaceful environment? Do you want to avoid interventions unless absolutely necessary? Is immediate skin-to-skin your top priority?

Starting with your core values helps guide your decisions throughout the birth plan process. It can also help your support team understand why certain choices are important to you.

2. Atmosphere and Environment

Setting the right mood can make a big difference in how supported and comfortable you feel. Consider these questions:

• Do you want the room to be quiet, or do you prefer your favorite playlist in the background?

• What kind of lighting helps you feel calm—dim, natural, or bright?

• Are there specific scents or essential oils that you find comforting?

• Would you prefer limited visitors or a full room of loved ones?

• Do you want the space to feel cozy and home-like, or more clinical and efficient?

Communicating these details helps your birth team create an environment that aligns with your preferences.

3. Pain Management and Comfort Measures

This is one of the most important sections of your birth plan. Pain management preferences vary widely, and that’s okay! Here’s what to consider:

• Are you planning for an unmedicated birth, or are you open to an epidural or other medication?

• If opting for pain relief, do you want to wait as long as possible or take it when offered?

• Are there comfort measures you want to try first (like a birthing ball, massage, or breathing techniques)?

• Do you want to use tools like a TENS unit, peanut ball, or rebozo?

• Are you interested in non-traditional options like nitrous oxide or hypnobirthing techniques?

Being clear about your pain management preferences helps your team know how to best support you—whether that means setting up the birthing pool or calling in the anesthesiologist.

4. Labor Preferences: Movement, Monitoring, and More

How you labor can greatly impact your comfort and progress. Think about:

• Do you want the freedom to move around, change positions, or use props like a squat bar?

• Are you comfortable with continuous fetal monitoring, or would you prefer intermittent monitoring to maintain mobility?

• Do you want cervical checks to be minimal or as needed?

• Would you prefer your water to break naturally rather than being ruptured manually?

• How do you feel about augmentation methods like Pitocin or membrane stripping?

Movement and positioning can make a big difference, and my book, A Doula’s Guide to Labor Positions, covers many options to help you stay as comfortable as possible.

5. Delivery Preferences: Pushing and Beyond

When it’s time to meet your baby, how would you like to approach the pushing phase and delivery? Consider:

• Do you prefer spontaneous pushing or guided pushing?

• Would you like to change positions freely during pushing?

• Are you open to tools like forceps or a vacuum if needed, or do you prefer to avoid them?

• How do you feel about episiotomies—only if medically necessary, as a last resort, or not at all?

• Who would you like to announce the baby’s sex or catch the baby?

If a C-section becomes necessary, think about:

• Do you want to stay awake and involved?

• Would you prefer music in the OR to help you feel calmer?

• Is skin-to-skin in the OR a priority for you?

6. Immediate Postpartum and Newborn Care

Your birth plan doesn’t end once your baby is born. Think about those first precious moments and beyond:

• Do you want delayed cord clamping?

• Who will cut the umbilical cord—partner, provider, or yourself?

• Is immediate skin-to-skin your goal?

• How do you feel about newborn procedures (Vitamin K shot, eye ointment, etc.)?

• Would you like to delay the first bath, or do it yourself?

• Are you planning to breastfeed, formula feed, or a combination?

• If separated from your baby, who should accompany them?

7. Sharing Your Plan with Your Birth Team

Your birth plan should be a living, breathing document that your team can easily understand. Share it with your provider ahead of time and have a few copies on hand when labor starts. Make sure your partner and doula know your preferences too.

And remember, birth is unpredictable, so being flexible with your plan will help you feel more empowered, even if things change.

8. Use a Birth Plan Template for Clarity

While there are many templates online, I offer a customizable birth plan template to my clients that covers all the essentials without feeling overwhelming. It helps you think through your preferences clearly, while keeping things concise for your birth team.

Having a checklist-style plan makes it easy for your birth team to support you without guessing your needs. If you’re one of my clients, you’ll have access to this template to help you feel prepared and confident.

To Wrap Up:

A birth plan is less about controlling every moment and more about feeling prepared and heard. Take the time to think about your preferences, communicate with your team, and remember that flexibility is your friend. If you are looking for a birth doula to help you through this process, check out my offerings if you are in central Indiana!

If you’re looking for practical ideas on labor positions to include in your plan, check out my book, A Doula’s Guide to Labor Positions. It’s full of tips to help you feel more comfortable and confident during birth.

A Doula's Guide to Labor Positions

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