Birth Plan / Birth Intention / Birth Preference

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.