In the first part of this blog, I discussed setting goals for labor. Those goals focused on your perfect labor and how goals can help you achieve it. The same is true for the actual birth and the time immediately following the birth. Clear goals and expectations can help you have the best possible experience.
Your birth plan should reflect your goals for the birth of your baby. Many of the issues that will need to be addressed involve medical interventions. Philosophically speaking, how do you feel about the interventions commonly used in child birth? Is your basic belief that birth is a natural process and shouldn’t be interfered with, if at all possible?
If this is the case, you will need to be very specific about this area of your plan. Some of the common interventions you may want to avoid include the episiotomy, which is routinely done by many doctors. If you want to avoid an episiotomy, include specific information about what will be done to help stretch the perineum, such as massage and warm compresses.
The positions you want to use during your birth should be included in your plan. If you have strong feelings in this area and are being cared for by a doctor, be sure to discuss this early in your pregnancy. Some doctors have strict rules regarding positions for birth. Midwives are generally more flexible and will offer a wider range of birthing options.
Finally, the moment you have been waiting for will arrive. Your baby will enter the world. This is a special time for the new family that can be complicated by a flurry of activity in the room. Studies have shown for a healthy newborn, this is not necessary. Human babies have survived since the dawn of human history without being dragged away from mommy the moment they draw their first breaths.
Many of the common tests and procedures done to newborns can be delayed for a bit to allow for bonding and breastfeeding. What is done to the baby varies by where you give birth and where you live. Each state has its own guidelines for newborn testing. Discuss with your doctor what will be done and how long it can be delayed.
The first moments of the baby’s life should be for the two of you to get acquainted. You are meeting face to face for the first time. Savor this moment and enjoy the miracle of this precious new life.
Related Articles:
Choosing Goals for Your Birth Plan for Labor
Talking to Your Doctor about Birth