Creating a birth plan can feel both empowering and overwhelming. You want to communicate your preferences, but you also want to leave space for the unknown — because if there’s one thing birth teaches us, it’s that flexibility is key.
The good news? A birth plan isn’t about control — it’s about communication. It helps your providers, partner, and doula understand what matters most to you so they can support you with intention.
Here’s how to craft a birth plan that reflects your goals, your values, and your vibe — no perfection required.
Step 1: Know What a Birth Plan Isn’t
It’s not a script. It’s not a guarantee. And it’s definitely not a contract. A birth plan is more like a love letter to your care team — “Here’s what I hope for, and here’s how I’d like to be supported.”
Step 2: Consider What Matters Most
Think about what would help you feel safe, informed, and cared for during labor. Some common preferences to think through:
- Who do you want in the room?
- Do you want to labor freely and move around?
- Are you open to pain medication or hoping for an unmedicated birth?
- What kind of monitoring are you comfortable with?
- How do you feel about interventions (like inductions, IVs, or episiotomies)?
- Do you want skin-to-skin immediately after birth?
- How do you want to feed your baby?
Step 3: Use a Simple Format
Keep it short, visual if possible, and easy to scan. Bullet points or icons can work better than long paragraphs. Your nurse may be reading this between contractions — make it readable.
Step 4: Talk It Through with Your Provider
A birth plan is also a great tool for opening up conversations. Share it during a prenatal visit and ask:
- “Is this something you’re comfortable supporting?”
- “Are there any hospital policies I should know that might conflict with this?”
- “What happens if things change unexpectedly?”
A supportive provider will welcome these conversations — and so will your doula.
Step 5: Include a “Plan B” (and maybe Plan C)
If birth teaches us anything, it’s how to pivot. It’s okay to include statements like, “If induction becomes necessary, I’d prefer to try natural methods first,” or “If a cesarean is needed, I’d still like skin-to-skin and delayed cord clamping, if possible.”
Step 6: Share It With Your Team
Bring a few printed copies to your birth space and share it with your doula, your partner, and anyone else supporting you. Your birth plan isn’t just a piece of paper — it’s a reflection of you. Let it help your team support you more personally and intentionally. If you’re looking for clarity or a starting point, revisit Creating a Birth Plan — A Step-by-Step Guide to walk through the process with intention.
