Birth Preferences
26th Jun 15 | FamilyResident Pregnancy and Baby Blogger blogger Kathy from ‘Bump Baby and Me’ disccuses birth preferences in detail.
What are Birth Preferences?
This is a document that communicates what you would preferably like to happen during and after your baby’s birth, whether you are planning to have your baby in a hospital or at home, vaginally or by Caesarean section.
Why are they important?
Everyday we make decisions about all sorts of things and our decisions can be influenced by our preferences. We all have a way in which we’d like something to be done no matter how big or small. So lets think about one of the BIGGEST events you will ever experience: BIRTH, and talk about why having preferences can be a very good idea.
The phrase ‘Birth Plan’ is still widely used, however I prefer the phrase ‘Birth Preferences’. Birth by its very nature is unpredictable, so by using the word ‘plan’ we may be putting ourselves at a slight disadvantage should the birth not go ‘to plan’. Birth Preferences are a list of things that you would ideally like to happen, but you aren’t working off a set-plan. By simply phrasing it differently, it can be received in a better light and understood better by both yourself and your caregiver. Most caregivers love to see your preferences as it gives them a blueprint to work from!
How do I write my Birth Preferences?
‘What would I like for myself and my baby during my labour/ baby’s birth?’
There is no set way to write Birth Preferences. They are your preferences so it’s really about what’s important to you, your partner and baby. Many of us know what we don’t want, so when we get our brains into gear and start thinking about what we do want, it allows us to focus on positive outcomes and gets the mind in a great place for birth.
Below are some things you might consider when thinking about your preferences (Do a little research into these so you can make the right decisions for you & your baby).
- My husband/ partner (X) will be supporting me in labour /during my babys birth (mention your Doulas name also if you plan on having one)
- On admission to hospital: listening to baby: CTG V auscultation (by Doppler). and intermittent V continual.
- VE (vaginal exams)- Some women request minimal exams.
- Pain relief methods: Detail what you plan to use: some people like to try a few options before asking for pethadine or an epidural, for example:
TENS machine, Hot/Cold compresses, the shower/bath, birth ball & yoga mat, massage, acupressure points, music/affirmations through earphones, gas and air
- Would you like to bring an item or two from home to make your surroundings more comfortable? (pillow case, a picture)
- Would you like to drink/ eat during labour where appropriate?
- Would you prefer for your waters to release spontaneously rather than having ARM (artificial rupture of membranes)?
- Would you like time for your baby to descend and use your own urges to push instead of being coached to push?
- What are your thoughts on the use of instruments (forceps/ventouse) or an episiotomy (surgical cut)
- Would your prefer a natural 3rd stage rather than an actively managed one? (delivery of the placenta with medication)
- Would you like delayed cord clamping /wait for cord to stop pulsating and for your husband/partner to cut it?
- Would you like immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby to delay washing your baby?
- Would you like support in initiating breastfeeding?
- In the case that unexpected events happen would you like for circumstances to be clearly explained to you and for you to be included in the decision making where possible?
If you are having a planned caesarean section you can tweak quite a few of these birth preferences to make your experience a little more personal and if you have an unplanned caesarean, one or two may still be possible.
Your choices and preferences are important. Some practices/procedures are done routinely in maternity units, unless you specify otherwise. The key is to be flexible and open to change since no one knows how your labour will progress. Unplanned events may change the care you need, so including the options you prefer if the “unexpected” should occur are a good idea as this helps you remain actively involved in your care.
Language like, “If possible” “unless medically necessary” “I prefer” tells the staff that you know that a change in plans is sometimes needed and you are OK with that. Having your birth partner involved in your care is also important. There may be times when you may need them to speak on your behalf so it is really important that they are confident and comfortable verbalising your wishes. They are your voice when or if you need them to be.
Remember, drawing up you Birth Preferences encourages you to do research on what is important to you and your partner during this hugely important time in your lives. It is not a legally binding contract that cannot be broken or changed. It is just a guide detailing how you would like things to happen during your labour.
Once you’ve written out these preferences you should feel prepared, calm & confident during the remainder of your pregnancy and during your baby’s birth, whatever path it may take!
Kathy, our resident Pregnancy & Baby Blogger, runs Bump Baby and Me in Malahide, North County Dublin, where she teaches Pre/Postnatal Yoga, Infant Massage Classes & Gentle Birth Workshops. www.bumpbabyandme.ie
Have you missed Kathy’s first few blog posts? You can read them here:
