The Poppin Family Birth Plan

     This birth plan is intended to express the preference and desires we have for the birth of our baby. It is not intended to be a script. We fully realize that situations may arise such that our plan cannot and should not be followed. However, we hope that barring any extenuating circumstances, you will be able to keep us informed and aware of our options. Thank you.

First Stage (Labor):

• Dim lights.
• Peace and quiet.
• Music of our choice.
• Would prefer my own clothes to gown.
• Would prefer to keep vaginal exams to a minimum.
• Aromatherapy .
• Maintain mobility (walking, rocking, up to bathroom, etc.)
• Eat and drink to comfort.
• Intermittent Monitoring (ACOG Standards) with a fetoscope.
• Please do not offer me pain medications, I will ask for them if I want them.
• Relaxation techniques (breathing, focusing, etc.).
• Positioning as desired.
• Water (shower or tub).
• Heat or cold packs.
• Massage (back, foot, counter pressure, etc.).
• Acupressure.

Induction:

• I would prefer to use natural methods to start labor.

Augmentation:

• I would prefer to walk to speed labor.

Second Stage (Birth):

• Choice of position.
• Prolonged length, if progress is being made.
• Spontaneous bearing down.
• Birth/squat bar.
• I would prefer to tear than have an episiotomy, but please use perineal support, olive oil, massage and positioning.

Baby Care:

• Delay the cord cutting.
• Prefer partner to cut the cord.
• No eye medication.
• Breast feeding only.
• Baby to stay with me at all times.

Cesarean Birth:

• Spinal/epidural anesthesia .
• Partner present.
• Doula present.
• Free one hand (at least) to touch the baby.
• Breastfeeding in recovery room.
• Multiple, very warm blankets.

Sick Baby:

• Breastfeeding as soon as possible.
• Unlimited visitation for parents.
• Handling the baby (Kangaroo care, holding, care of, etc.)
• If the baby is transported to another facility, move us as soon as possible.