From the moment you receive , a universe of unknowns opens up before you. You have probably spent a lot of time thinking about which brand of you will use, whether you would like to breastfeed, and if you will request a leave of absence after the birth... But if you haven't done so yet, it's also important to reflect on how you want to experience childbirth. It’s true that countless unforeseen events can happen at this very special moment, but it’s important that you can express your wishes and preferences regarding care during labor and the birth of your little adventurer. How? Through a birth plan—a document you can create yourself that offers many advantages and helps you face the process with more confidence. In this article, we’ll tell you exactly what it is, why it matters, and how to write it. Join us.

What is a birth plan?

A birth plan is a document in which you can record your needs, preferences, desires, and expectations regarding your baby’s labor and birth. As a reference, the Ministry of Health published in 2011 a document aimed at helping women who wish to do so create their own plan based on the most appropriate practices for their care according to the , so it can be very useful as a guide.

Creating a birth plan gives you the opportunity to discuss all your questions with your midwife during pregnancy and learn more about what happens during labor—something that will help you make more informed and, therefore, freer decisions. You should know that it is not a rigid document, but rather a guide, and you can change your mind about your wishes at any time.

When should you write it?

There is no ideal time to draft a birth plan; you can do it at any point during pregnancy, but experts recommend preparing it between weeks 28 and 32. This way, you’ll have enough time to gather all the necessary information and resolve any questions about prenatal care, labor, and postpartum.

Is a birth plan mandatory? No, it is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended because it allows you to make certain decisions at a very important moment for your health and that of your little adventurer.

Can the hospital refuse your birth plan?

According to the association " ", a birth plan is a document with the value of informed consent and therefore must be taken into account by healthcare professionals and, legally, cannot be rejected. While this document can serve as a “help for the professional team attending during childbirth,” as stated in the "Birth and Delivery Plan" by the Ministry of Health, it also serves as a guarantee for the pregnant woman, who can exercise her right as a user to accept or refuse a medical treatment.

Why is it important to draft a birth plan?

Although a birth plan is not mandatory and, of course, this document is always subject to change, it gives you the opportunity to explore your options and feel more prepared. These are the advantages we find:

1. It helps you get the information you need to decide

Before drafting a birth plan, it’s important to understand the childbirth process in detail. This research will help you better understand how your body works, what this biological process is like and what its phases are, as well as possible medical procedures and their consequences. A birth plan can help you have a better experience because knowing what might happen can give you peace of mind. Having information also helps prevent unrealistic expectations, thereby minimizing disappointment.

2. It also supports the healthcare professional

This document is very helpful for the healthcare professional attending your childbirth because it allows them to get to know you better: what your needs are, what you expect, and how to respect your wishes. This is especially important when the midwife or gynecologist has not been in contact with you before and does not know you. A respectful birth experience often leads to a much more satisfying childbirth.

3. It helps prevent your rights from being violated

Labor is unpredictable, but creating a birth plan greatly reduces the risk of your rights, your partner's rights, and your baby's rights being violated, as it can help you feel more empowered to refuse certain protocols when they are not of vital importance.

How to create your own birth plan

To prepare a birth plan, don’t hesitate to ask your midwife or the hospital you have chosen for the birth of your little adventurer for help. Here are some things you should keep in mind:

• The document should be no more than four pages and written in a simple, clear way so that the healthcare professionals attending you during childbirth can quickly access the information.

• At the beginning of the Birth Plan, it is recommended that you dedicate a paragraph to introducing yourself and write a few lines explaining what you expect from the center where you will be attended. Your personal details and signature should go here.

• Next, you can write down your wishes and needs by dividing care into several stages: arrival at the hospital, dilation phase, expulsive phase, birth plan and baby care, and special circumstances. The document Birth and Delivery Plan can serve as a guide for you to create your own plan and ensure you don't leave out any important points. You can also find several examples in maternity support organizations such as El parto es nuestro or Amamanta . For our part, you know we love to help you, and below we have left you a document that can serve as a guide for you to draft your own birth plan. You just need to print it out and take your time to write it.

• It is important to provide the birth plan in advance to the professional team that will be attending you. You can deliver it in person or send it by email to the Patient Care Service of the hospital you have chosen for your delivery. If you are unable to send it or bring it beforehand, you can present it on the day of admission with two copies. Don’t hesitate to ask everything you need!

Birth Plan Template

Here we offer you a downloadable birth plan template, where you can mark your wishes and add other useful comments.