What is a birth plan?

Wish list: If you had complete control of everything that occurred during your labor and delivery what would you want to happen. This would include your wishes for pain control, walking around in labor, having an iv, an episiotomy, eating in labor, who would be in the room, who would cut the cord, etc.

Birth Plan: Some people have specific things they would like to do at the delivery of their baby. Discuss these in advance with your ob-gyn and pediatrician to find out what is realistic and safe. Remember that the baby didn't read the plan! the most important thing to do is to stay flexible. If the mother or the baby need a different treatment, be prepared to adapt as needed.