The last time I wrote about my birth plan I was not able to go into very much detail as I did not really know anything about positions and pain relief. Now that my NCT course is drawing to a close I feel that I am a little better prepared.
Here is my updated birth plan, ready for 4 weeks on Saturday, or whenever she decides to come.
Jennie Henley
This plan is a reflection of my wishes and plans for birth but is in no way inflexible. I understand that for many reasons my plans may need to change to suit the needs of myself, and our baby.
My Birth Partner
I would like my husband David to be with me at all times, offering support, encouragement and to keep me focused on what is important. In addition should I not be in a position to make an informed decision myself I will trust David’s judgment to do what he feels is best for myself and our baby.
Monitoring
If possible I would prefer not to be tethered for long term monitoring however if a short, constant monitoring period is required I would prefer to sit upright or stand rather than be lying down.
Mobility
I would like to be as mobile as possible during labour and free to try various positions for both contractions and second stage. Ideally I would like to remain as upright as possible allowing gravity to take it’s course. I would also like to use my birthing ball.
Coaching
I would appreciate being informed of what is happening during my labour and having all processes explained to me before they are undertaken. In addition, should myself and/ or David need to make a decision regarding intervention I would appreciate all alternate options and the rational for hospital choice being explained in advance.
Pain Relief
I would ideally like to manage for as long as possible without pain relief. When the time is right I would like to use the birthing pool and also gas and air.
I really do not want to have Pethedine or an epidural if at all possible. Should an epidural be necessary I would prefer one which allows me to remain mobile.
Second Stage
I am flexible about delivering baby on land or in the water and would like to play it by ear. I wish to know when the head is crowning.
I will appreciate advice and guidance at this time to hopefully prevent a tear.
Post Birth
I would like to meet our baby as soon as possible and have skin-to-skin contact before any intervention. If for any reason Baby cannot have skin to skin with me then I would like her to have it with David. I am keen to cuddle Baby lots and allow her to find the breast and start to suckle on her own.
Placenta
I wish to exit the pool to deliver the placenta. I wish the cord to remain attached until it stops pulsating. David will decide on the day whether he wants to cut the cord.
I am happy to have a managed placenta delivery if needed so I am free to spend time with Baby earlier.
Vitamin K
I am happy for Baby to be given an injection of vitamin K.
Theatre
If I have to undergo a c-section I would like David with me. I would like the catheter to be inserted after anesthetic. If I need to be separated from our baby in theatre or for stitching after a tear I would like David to stay with our baby.
Feeding
I would like to breastfeed our baby and would appreciate any available encouragement and support.
What do you think?
Have I missed anything important?
Is there anything else you would add?
Baby Bump