Birth Plan: Arrival

Welcome back! If you’ve been following along in the series, we’ve already explored who you want by your side and where you’d like to give birth. Now it’s time to talk about Birth Plan: Arrival—what happens when it’s go-time and you’re headed to your chosen birth environment.

Before we go further, feel free to revisit the Complete Birth Plan Guide for Birmingham or last week’s post on Birth Plan: Environment for context.

Things to Consider Before Arrival

Once you’ve chosen your birth setting—hospital, birth center, or home—it’s time to get familiar with the arrival process. Schedule a tour if possible, so you feel confident and calm when the big day comes.

Next, think through the logistics. Who will drive you to your birth location? Do you have a backup plan? I always assumed it would be my husband, but that may not be everyone’s situation. Choose someone you trust, someone who can advocate for you and keep a cool head if things get intense.

My Story

I’ve experienced how unpredictable arrivals can be. With my first baby, I was induced and had a difficult hospital experience. By the time I delivered my second, I knew how important it was to plan. Labor came fast and hard. When we arrived at the hospital, I was overwhelmed with pain and couldn’t focus on anything but making it through. My husband handled every detail—from checking us in to keeping things calm. I was so grateful I didn’t have to make decisions in that moment. That’s why Birth Plan: Arrival matters.

More to Think About

Parents.com suggests thinking through these often-overlooked arrival moments:

1. Grooming & shaving – Your doctor may shave the pubic area before delivery. Don’t stress about doing it yourself—hospital staff have seen it all.
2. Enemas – While less common now, some providers still offer enemas during labor. Decide in advance how you feel about that.
3. IV placement – Most hospitals will insert an IV upon arrival. Even if you’re planning an unmedicated birth, the IV helps with hydration or fast care if needed.

Knowing about these small but common procedures can reduce stress on the day of your delivery. Learn how arrival planning connects with the rest of your decisions in our Complete Birth Plan Guide.

Want a Session?

Planning ahead doesn’t stop at birth prep. Next week in this birth plan series, we’ll discuss your labor preferences and comfort measures. Stay tuned!

If you’re expecting, it’s the perfect time to book a maternity or newborn photography session. Want to combine both? Check out From Bump to Baby for the benefits of booking together.

Have questions or ready to book? Reach out here. I’d love to connect.