Birth Plan: Intervention

If you’re just joining this series, start with the Complete Birth Plan Guide for Birmingham for a full overview of the decisions you’ll want to make along the way.

By this point in your birth plan journey, you’ve probably thought about who will be with you and where you want to give birth. Now let’s talk about a crucial part of your plan: intervention.

Birth plan: intervention refers to the medical procedures or tools that may be used during labor and delivery. Some interventions are routine, while others are used only when medically necessary. Knowing your preferences in advance—and sharing them with your support team—can help you feel more confident and in control when the time comes.

According to Parents.com, it helps to think through a few key questions:

• Do you want fetal monitoring?
• How do you feel about maternal monitoring (internal or external exams)?
• What are your thoughts on induced labor or artificial rupture of membranes?
• Would you prefer to avoid or accept an episiotomy?
• Do you have strong feelings about vacuum extraction or forceps?
• How do you feel about cesarean delivery?
• Under what conditions would you be comfortable with any of the above?

Do Your Research

Each of these interventions has pros and cons, and the best decision depends on your personal values, health history, and specific labor circumstances. The more informed you are now, the easier it will be to advocate for yourself in the moment. Whether you’re planning for a natural birth or want to keep all options open, you deserve to feel empowered.

Want a Session?

If you’re preparing for baby and would like to document this season, I’d love to connect. Visit my Contact Page to get in touch. You can also read more about the experience on my Investment Page or explore From Bump to Baby to see how maternity and newborn sessions work beautifully together.

Next in the Series

Continue reading the series with Birth Plan: Labor and Delivery.