After reading the catheter post, I thought it might help someone if I posted my birthing plan. I am planning on the au natural Bradley method. Here is what I have asked for in my birth plan, let me know what you think:
Due Date: January 12th, 2009
Patient of Dr. Hawkins
Scheduled to Deliver at Horizon Medical Center.
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Labor
- I would prefer to avoid an enema and/or shaving of pubic hair.
- I would like to be free to walk around during labor.
- I wish to be able to move around and change position at will throughout labor.
- I would like the lights in the room to be kept low during my labor.
- I do not wish to be catheterized.
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Labor Augmentation/Induction
- If labor is not progressing, I would like to have the amniotic membrane ruptured before other methods are used to augment labor.
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Anesthesia/Pain Medication
- I realize that many pain medications exist — I'll ask for them if I need them.
- Before considering an epidural, and if the situation warrants, I would like to try an injection of narcotic pain relief (Nubain, Demerol, Stadol or similar).
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Cesarean
- Unless absolutely necessary, I would like to avoid a Cesarean.
- If a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to be fully informed and to participate in the decision-making process.
- I would like my husband present at all times if my baby requires a Cesarean delivery.
- I wish to have an epidural for anesthesia and catheterized if necessary.
- So that I can view the birth, I would like the screen lowered just before delivery of my baby.
- If my baby is not in distress, my baby should be given to my husband immediately after birth.
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Episiotomy
- I would prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely required for the baby's safety.
- I am hoping to protect the perineum. I am practicing ahead of time by squatting, doing Kegel exercises, and perineal massage.
- I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the perineum can stretch.
- If possible, I would like to use perineal massage to help avoid the need for an episiotomy.
- I would prefer an episiotomy rather than a tear.
- I would like a local anesthetic to repair a tear or an episiotomy.
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Delivery
- I would like to be allowed to choose the position in which I give birth, including squatting.
- I would like my husband and/or nurses to support me and my legs as necessary during the pushing stage.
- I would like a mirror available so I can see my baby's head when it crowns.
- I would like the chance to touch my baby's head when it crowns.
- I would appreciate having the room lights turned low for the actual delivery.
- I would appreciate having the room as quiet as possible when my baby is born.
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Immediately After Delivery
- I would like to have my husband cut the cord.
- I would like to hold my baby while I deliver the placenta and any tissue repairs are made.
- I would like to have my baby evaluated and bathed in my presence.
- If my baby must be taken from me to receive medical treatment, my husband or some other person I designate will accompany my baby at all times.
- I do not want a routine injection of pitocin after the delivery to aid in expelling the placenta.
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Postpartum
- I would like a private room, if available.
- Unless required for health reasons, I do not wish to be separated from my baby.
- I would like to have my baby 'room in' and be with me at all times.
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Breastfeeding
- I plan to breastfeed my baby and would like to begin nursing very shortly after birth.
- Unless medically necessary, I do not wish to have any bottles given to my baby (including glucose water or plain water).
- I do not want my baby to be given a pacifier.
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Circumcision
- I would like my baby to be circumcised before we check out of the hospital.
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Photo/Video
- I would like to take still photographs during labor and the birth.
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Other
- I would like my other child to be able to visit me and my baby in the hospital.