Birth Plan Builder
Create your personalized birth preferences and download a free one-page PDF to share with your care team.
Essential Information
Birth Environment
Labor Preferences
Pain Management
Monitoring & Interventions
Delivery Preferences
Cesarean Preferences
In the event a cesarean birth is needed, these are my preferences:
Newborn Care & Postpartum
A birth plan is a document that communicates your preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care to your healthcare team. While birth is unpredictable and plans may need to change for medical reasons, having a written plan helps ensure your voice is heard and your care team understands what matters most to you.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) encourages patients to discuss their birth preferences with their provider well before their due date. Bring 3-4 printed copies to the hospital so every member of your care team can review your wishes.
When should I create my birth plan?
Most providers recommend creating your birth plan around weeks 28-32 of pregnancy. This gives you enough time to research your options, discuss preferences with your provider, and make revisions before your due date.
Will the hospital follow my birth plan exactly?
A birth plan is a communication tool that outlines your preferences, not a contract. Medical situations can change quickly, and your care team may need to adjust the plan for safety. The best approach is to discuss your plan with your provider in advance and stay flexible.
How long should a birth plan be?
Keep your birth plan to one page. Nurses and doctors are more likely to read and follow a concise, clearly organized plan. Focus on your strongest preferences and use bullet points rather than paragraphs.
Should I include a C-section plan?
Yes. About 32% of births in the US are cesarean deliveries, and having preferences ready - even if you are planning a vaginal birth - means you will feel more prepared and in control if plans change.
How many copies of my birth plan should I bring?
Bring 3-4 printed copies of your birth plan to the hospital: one for your labor nurse, one for your provider, one for your support person, and a spare. Shifts change during labor, so having extra copies ensures everyone on your care team knows your preferences.