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How to write a birth plan

A birth plan is a short note about what matters to you in labour. Keep it to one page that your team can read in a minute.

In short

One page is enough. Use plain words and put your most important wishes first.

Who you want with you, positions and movement, pain relief wishes, and your feeding plan.

Birth can go a different way. Add what you would want if plans change, such as skin-to-skin after a caesarean.

Talk it through with your midwife before labour and bring a copy.

A birth plan is a short note of what matters to you in labour and after the birth. It helps your team get to know you quickly.

Who you want with you. Where you want to give birth. How you want to cope: movement, water, breathing or pain relief.

What happens after: skin-to-skin, delayed cord clamping, how you want to feed, and vitamin K for your baby.

Add a short section for if plans change, for example if you need induction, an assisted birth or a caesarean. What would still matter to you?

Keep it to one page. Use bullet points, and put the most important things first.

Talk it through with your midwife around weeks 34 to 36, and bring copies to your birth place.

Based on NHS and NICE guidance on shared decision making in maternity care. Mia teaches. Your midwife knows you best.

Sources: NHS: How to make a birth plan · NICE guideline NG235: Intrapartum care

Is a birth plan a promise?

No. It is a wish list. Your team will keep you and your baby safe first.

Who should see my birth plan?

Your midwife, your birth partner and anyone supporting you in labour.

When should I write it?

Many people start around week 32 and finish by week 36.