Planning for baby's birth now will help you feel more prepared when the time comes. A birth plan keeps important information in one place. You could use a form or an online tool. Consider where you'd like to give birth.
Options include:
- Home birth
- Hospital birth
- Birthing centre
Facilities like birthing pools may be available at these locations. Research your options and discuss with your midwife. Consider how to create relaxed environment at your chosen location. As this is proven to positively impact your birthing experience.
Your birth plan sholuld include your chosen birth partner. For example your partner, a friend or a doula. Your preferred birthing position. The best positions are upright, allowing you to easily change position if needed.
Standing
- Widens pelvis
- May relieve pain
- Encourages regular contractions
- Lets gravity work
You may prefer squatting
- Ask your partner for support to avoid pressure on knees and back
- And try using a birthing ball
A natural birth may reduce the need for medication to manage pain. If you do decide to receive pain relief, options include:
- A TENS machine, especially effective in the first stages of labour.
- Pain killing drugs for example diamorphine and pethidine.
- An epidural, a local anesthetic injection.
- Pain relief options vary depending on location and stage of labour.
Discuss with your midwife to make an informed decision. If you're having an elective C-Section, include this information in your birth plan. After the birth you'll be offered an injection to deliver the placenta. And a Vitamin K injection for baby.
Speak to your midwife in advance if you have any questions about these procedures. It's also worth considering how you plan to feed your baby.
After the birth you'll enjoy skin-to-skin contact with your newborn: Which encourages breastfeeding, helps regulate baby's heart rate, breathing and temperature and helps with bonding. Baby may not feed at first, especially if tired. Let your midwife guide you. Resting baby on your skin will encourage the first feed.
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