My birth preferences

I’m open to going with the flow of labour, but I have things I’d prefer to avoid if at all possible. I get that birth is unpredictable, but I felt that it was important to educate myself on my options ahead of time. I took some time tonight to write out my birth preferences.

I prefer the term “preferences” over “plan” as we all know you can’t plan how exactly your labour and delivery will go. For example: If my Step B test were to come back positive, I’d have to be open to IV during labour. Or if the baby was in distress, we would consent immediately to a c-section to bring him safely into this world.

Here’s what I’ve got for our write up to bring to the hospital:

Birth Preferences for Lindsey

Support people: Michael (husband), Jesska (doula)

Thank you for taking the time to read our wishes for the birth of our son. This is a very special moment for us. Our son was conceived via IVF after going through infertility and a pregnancy loss. We are very grateful that he is about to join us and can’t wait to welcome him into our world.  

My ideal birth would be one where I am cared for physically and emotionally with as little interventions as possible. We understand that birth can be unpredictable; therefore, we will be flexible in our choices.

Environment/Pain Relief/Monitoring

• Dim lighting
• Utilize Hypnobirthing techniques for pain management
• No guests except required medical personnel, Michael and Jesska
• Intermittent fetal monitoring
• Little to no medications used

Labour

• Freedom to move around and try multiple labour positions
• To be consulted before the introduction of any medical procedure
• Avoid the use of vacuum, forceps or episiotomy
• Delayed cord clamping
• Natural delivery of placenta. Please keep it for us as we will be encapsulating it.

Newborn Procedures

• Delay routine procedures to facilitate bonding
• Delay cleaning of baby to allow vernix to be absorbed
• No ointment in baby’s eyes
• Breastfeeding only

In the event of a Caesarean birth:

We would like immediate skin-to-skin contact. If Lindsey is unavailable, Michael can provide skin-to-skin.  Breastfeeding in recovery.

In the event the baby is sent to the NICU:

Michael will remain with the baby and do skin-to-skin if possible. Please no introduction of bottles or formulas without consulting us.

We thank you in advance for the excellent care you will give us. Your kindness and desire to make this day special for us will not go unnoticed.

With appreciation,

Lindsey & Michael

I wanted to try to keep it as concise as possible – limited to 1 page. What are your thoughts? Is there anything I’m potentially missing? I plan on reviewing it tomorrow with my doula to see what she says as well.