Birth Plan: Labor and Delivery

If you’re planning your birth plan: labor and delivery, this post is for you. 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.

Today we have made it to Birth Plan: Labor and Delivery. This is the big one—the part most expectant moms think about almost daily. From managing pain to planning that first golden hour, there’s a lot to consider. Let’s break down some of the options you may want to include in your plan:

• What kind of pain relief would you like (e.g., epidural, IV meds, natural methods)?
• Do you think moving around during labor will help you? Would you prefer to labor in bed?
• Would a bath or shower help you cope during contractions?
• Do you have someone in mind to cut the umbilical cord? Do you want to bank the cord blood?
• Do you want skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible?
• When do you want baby’s first feeding to happen, and who will do it?

Tips for Your Birth Plan: Labor and Delivery

These are just a few of the decisions that can shape your labor experience. Thinking about them now allows you to focus more fully on your baby when the moment arrives. The clearer you are about your preferences, the easier it is for your support team to advocate for you.

For more information on labor preferences, Parents.com has a great breakdown of labor and delivery questions to consider.

Birmingham Maternity and Newborn Photography

If you’re preparing for baby and would like to document this beautiful chapter, I’d love to work with you. Whether you’re finalizing your birth plan: labor and delivery or just getting started, visit my Contact Page to send a message. You can also explore my Investment Page to learn more about what’s included with each session. If you’re considering maternity and newborn portraits together, be sure to check out From Bump to Baby.

What Comes After Labor and Delivery?

Up next: Birth Plan: Postpartum