SMC Online Doula Training – August 2026
Instructor:
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Creating a Birth Plan
Creating a Birth Plan
1. Before Labor Begins – If my baby is overdue, prior to induction, I would like to try the following techniques first (with the guidance and supervision of my doctor or midwife):
It is important for a birth mom to know exactly what to expect and to inform their providers of what they want from pre-labor to birth. This reduces fear and keeps stress levels low which gives way for oxytocin. This clear start shows the commitment to natural birth and gives mom power from the beginning.
2. First Stage: Latent Labor – Upon entering the hospital it is crucial for me to not be separated from my partner at any point during labor or birth.
Emotional and physical support from a partner is very important. It makes the mother feel safe and supported. Having a partner there can increase oxytocin, decrease anxiety, and relax the mother which helps the labor process.
3. First Stage: Pain Relief – I would like the opportunity to try non medical, non invasive pain relief methods. No pharmaceuticals.
It informs the medical team beforehand that low intervention strategies is preferred. An epidural is not wanted and should not be offered. This avoids the question during labor. When in pain a mom can do and say things she does not mean or want. This will prevent confusion. It empowers mom to trust her body push.
4. Second Stage: Vaginal Delivery/Pushing – If it is clear that my baby’s heart tones are good and that she/he is receiving sufficient oxygen, I would like to be free of time limits on pushing. It is important to me to allow my body to operate in its natural rhythm and timetable.
It protects against the traditional hospital shift timeclock and promotes a patient led birth. Where everything is on the mothers time and not on a clock. It reduces the likelihood of surgical interventions and trauma.
5. Second Stage: If Complications Lead to Cesarean – It is always important to me that my partner be present with me during all birth situations
Medical complications still require a trusting environment and a strong advocate or partner who will speak for you when you can’t. It protects the mothers emotional safety knowing that she has physical support. This relaxes the body and ensures she is never alone. In many instances women of color are treated differently. Having someone there while you are conscious or unconscious gives you a sense of comfort.
6. Third Stage: Delivery of Placenta – I would like to see the placenta. I understand that the placenta had been my baby’s life support system. I would like my doctor to show me the maternal and fetal sides.
It provides closure and deepens the mothers connection to the pregnancy and the power of her body and womanhood. It empowers her self esteem and provides vital information that satisfies her curiosity.
7. My feeding preference for both mom and baby – I would like my baby to be placed on my chest immediately and fed via breast crawl. I will be exclusively breast feeding.
It promotes the connection and natural instinct between mother and her newborn. It allows the baby to thrive in doing what it naturally is supposed to do and supports its survival instinct. It shows mom that the baby trusts and knows her well. The skin to skin contact stimulates oxytocin and helps the uterus to contract, reduces the risk of postpartum hemorrhage and establishes breastfeeding.
- 1 Reply
Blessed day, Nardia! Your birth plan was thoughtful, detailed and centered on the mother‘s voice and autonomy. I especially appreciated how you included, continuous partner support, even if complications lead to a cesarean, as well as your attention to the placenta, immediate skin of skin, contact, the breast crawl, and breast-feeding. Your plan beautifully honors the mother’s natural instincts while still allowing room for safety and medical guidance.
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