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Birth Plan / Birth Intention /  Birth Preference

1/31/2015

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Especially in busy hospitals, it is unlikely that your particular preferences are all that unique.  That said, there are as many different thoughts about birth as there are hair styles, so make sure that the nursing staff is familiar with the type of birth that you want. 

Of course you've discussed your feelings with your doctor before you went into labor.  Now it is time to make sure that your nursing staff is also on the same page.  Unfortunately, during the intensity of labor, you might not be in the best position to describe (rationally) what you do and don't want during your stay at the hospital.

Do's

  • Keep it brief:  Try to keep your letter to the nurses easy to read and digest;
  • Introduce yourself and who will be with you at the hospital (a picture is nice);
  • Include relevant medical information to make sure it is top of mind;
  • Use bullet points to list preferences;
  • Be polite;
  • Bold and highlight relevant allergies to medicines;
  • Print out multiple copies so that one can be kept at the nurses station, and there is an extra one if the nursing shift changes;
  • Remember that labor is a process, knowing the facts and your personal preferences will empower you;
  • Bring food, healthy if possible;
  • Do your homework.  Find out about hospital procedures so you can be realistic in your expectations.  (e.g.: I would only like women with children to attend my birth is not realistic, but "Please do not offer me a pain scalle, I will let you know if I decide to consider an epidural" is totally appropiate)
  • Discuss your birth plan with your partner, doctor, and doula.
Don't

  • Threaten (If you do X I will sue);
  • Be insulting about different birth philosophies (I'm not one of those women who...);
  • Fill out some form on the internet and print out the results,  you should think through your wishes and describe them accordingly;
  • Ramble on.  Your birth plan is not a biography.
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A Doula Is

1/31/2015

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A Doula Is A doula is a woman who loves birth, loves laboring women, and is dedicated to bringing about a positive and meaningful birth in others.  A doula digs birth.  She is your own personal birth junkie.

A woman's job during labor is to focus her mind and body on birthing her child.  Her partner's job is to love and support her unconditionally.  A doula's job is to support that partnership and offer her experience and expertise to the laboring couple. 

A doula can help minimize the fear that can be present during labor.  She can offer suggestions, motivation and encouragement.

Her final job is labor support. Part of that occurs during labor, and part of that occurs before labor. The stronger the relationship you and your partner build with your doula, the better she can serve you during labor.

Her first job is a resource consultant.  She should be able to help you find the services you need in your community.  You should feel comfortable asking your doula about anything birth related, and she will help you find the resources you are looking for.

A doula knows that if a woman feels empowered and knowledgeable about her birth then she is more likely to look back on the experience favorably.  A positive impression of birth is beneficial to both mother and child.

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    Chelsea is a writer in Seattle, WA.

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