BIRTH MYTH: "I don't need a birth plan, because nothing goes according to plan anyway"
Updated: Apr 2, 2022
It's true, birth is very uncontrollable and rarely goes according to plan. Once we get into labor, we need to stay flexible! BUT the benefit of the birth plan isn't the plan itself.
Benefits of a Birth Plan:
The time you spent educating yourself on all of the different options. You'll want to do a little learning before putting something on your plan, and this will help you understand all of the possibilities so that you're not hearing of them for the first time in labor. Utilize Evidence Based Birth's resources to start your research.
The connection you have with your partner, about your birth and parenting choices. Creating your birth plan gives you space to discuss choices, before you're arguing in the moment.
The discussions you have with your care provider about your plan. Bring your plan to a prenatal appointment. Ask your care provider questions like: "When was the last time one of your clients had a water birth?" and "Can you describe what delayed cord clamping means to you?" During these prenatal discussions, watch for red flags that they might not fully support the birth you want.
The advocacy that your doula can provide, when they know your plan. (Note: not all doulas advocate the same way. Here at Bright Earth Doulas, we believe strong in advocating for our clients. When interviewing doulas, be sure to ask how they feel about advocacy. If they say, "I don't speak directly to care providers" or "I teach you how to advocate for yourself" those are signs that they won't be a strong advocate for you.
The empowerment that you feel to birth your baby your way.
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As your birth changes course, it matters how you got there. Will you be in the driver's seat calling the shots? Or will you get caught up on the medical highway?
Not sure where to start with a birth plan?
Take our Preparing for Childbirth class to learn all of your options, and/or book a 2-hour Parent Coaching Session with us where we can walk you through creating your plan.