No matter in which trimester of your pregnancy you are in, start writing your birth plan soon. A birth plan is like a wish list where you can write about all your needs related to your labour the type of atmosphere you would prefer during the birth, the pain management options you would like to opt for, if you would like medical interventions during labour etc.
Remember labour is very unpredictable and often things don't work as planned. So provide with enough options in your birth plan, in case your most preferred choice doesn't work out. For instance, if deep breathing and accupressure isn't helping you deal with labour pains, would you want to go for an epidural instead? Write the options in the order of your preference. Include a little bit about neonatal care too. Would you like to breastfeed after birth? Want to give your child kangaroo care? Or would you prefer a breast crawl? Know why a breast crawl after the birth is important.
To get your doctor and the hospital staff acquainted with your plans carry the sheet during your antenatal visits and discuss your options with your doctor in details. But keep it clear and concise; remember it is your birth plan that will do all the talking with others when you are on the labour table and can hardly communicate. Also read how to write a good birth plan.
Though in India, till the recent past, not much emphasis was paid to the needs and desires of a labouring woman, but things are changing and doctors are more more open to such ideas. So be ready with your plan.
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