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How to develop a birth plan

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Pregnant woman giving birth and husband holds her hand

Before you go into labor, it is important to think about the different choices you will have to make during and immediately after delivery.

That is why a birth plan is so important. Your hospital may give you a birth plan to fill out. You also can find many different birth plans on the Internet and choose one that fits your needs.

Your birth plan is a way to express what you and your family want to happen during delivery.

Some things to consider:

• Who do you want in the delivery room?
• Are there any special traditions you want to have when your baby is born?
• Do you want to hold your baby immediately after delivery or after your baby is cleaned off and swaddled?
• Do you want to move around during labor?
• Do you want your partner to film or take photos in the delivery room?
• Do you want to avoid using pain medication?
• Do you want to be offered pain medication as soon as possible?
• Who do you want to cut the umbilical cord?
• What kind of support do you want during labor ,such as help with breathing, massage, etc.?

Think through the steps of labor and discuss the various options with the person who will be there to support you during labor and birth. Remember that while you may have a plan, it may be medically necessary for hospital staff to take certain actions.

Discuss your birth plan with your doctor in advance.

If you have questions about a birth plan, you can reach out to Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County at 561-623-2800.

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