basic philosophy about your birth.


2. Remember to keep it brief. List only what's most important to

    you - don't list every possible intervention you'd like to avoid.

    Remember that you can refuse any intervention when it is  

    offered.


3. Use positive language whenever possible.


4. Make it easy to read. Avoid using a small font or handwriting

    unless your handwriting is clear and easy to read. Use bullet

    points and leave some white space.


5. Make a separate birth plan for the nursing staff and the

    doctor, including only relevant items on each.


6. Try to use statements about what you do want, instead of

    what you don't want. For example: "To avoid an Episiotomy or

    tearing of the perineal tissues, please use warm compresses

    to help ease the baby out." - instead of "I don't want an

    Episiotomy."


7. Be specific: "I want to be free to move around throughout

    labor as I choose." - rather than "I want an active birth."


8. Don't try to cover everything, only the areas that are of major

    concern to you. If there is too much detail then the main

    points may be lost.


9. Use Organizational headings. Some example headings are:

1st Stage of Labor, 2nd Stage of Labor, Birth, Infant Care, Supporting Breastfeeding, Emergencies


10. Some parents want to include sections on emergencies such

      as cesarean operation, intensive care for their infant, or

      stillbirth.


11. Read over your birth plan and ask yourself how it makes you

       feel. Put yourself in the healthcare provider's shoes.


12. Discuss your birth plan with your birth companion, childbirth

      assistant, and care provider. Make sure that all of your

      personal chosen options are available at your hospital.


13. When you have revised your birth plan, use a highlighter to

       call attention to the most important points.




REMEMBER: Keep it simple, keep it positive, and personalize it. These interactive plans are for you and your partner to help you decide what is most important. It is better to bring a short, easy to read and remember list that is meaningful to you.