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Nicci & Tim's Birth Plan

This birth plan is intended to express the preference and desires we have for the
birth of our baby. It is not intended as a script. We fully realize that situations
may arise such that our plan cannot and should not be followed. However, we hope that
barring any extenuating circumstances, you will be able to guide us toward the birth
experience we desire. 

If procedures or medications are proposed, we ask that you discuss them with us and
suggest alternative therapies and comfort measures so that we can make well-informed
decisions. We are striving for flexibility on our part, as well as on the that of the
birth team. 

We plan to have a doula, ______, present during labor and delivery as a primary
support person. We plan for her to give comfort, encouragement, and generally support
us. 

Early and Active Labor 

     Want to be able to move about, changing positions often, walk, etc. as desired. 
     External fetal monitoring only as required by the condition of the baby; we
     prefer use of the fetoscope. 
     Would like to have light food and liquids as requested. 
     Prefer no IV unless I become dehydrated; will accept heparin lock if it is
     needed. 
     Prefer no artificial rupture of membranes. 
     Prefer no enema unless the labor team feels it will speed up a slowly-
     progressing labor. 
     No shaving of pubic hair. 
     Want to avoid medications; prefer to use relaxation techniques, breathing,
     massage and emotional support to deal with pain. Want to discuss side
     effects and alternative comfort measures with my husband and doula before
     accepting any pain medication. 
     Would like to be able to shower and or sit in the jacuzzi as desired (unless
     membranes have broken in the case of the jacuzzi). 
     Would like to play music as desired.

Birth 

     Would like a mirror for mother to see what's going on. 
     Prefer no episiotomy except to avoid extensive tear; have been preparing by
     doing Kegel exercises and plan to use warm compresses to help avoid tearing. 
     Father would like the opportunity to cut the cord. 
     Would like to nurse immediately after delivery if possible. 
     Prefer to wait for spontaneous placenta separation and delivery rather than
     inducing. 
     Avoid pain relief except for local anesthesia for stitching up. 

Contingency Plans 

C-Section 

We want to discuss any problems and the associated risks unless there is a medical
emergency. If we require a C-section, we want the father and doula to be present
unless there is an emergency. We would like to use an epidural anesthesia rather than
general unless there is an emergency. We prefer that the anesthesia take effect
before the catheter is inserted and that there are no "hot spots" (areas which are
not yet numb) before the surgery begins. We would like to hold the baby after
delivery if she doesn't need immediate medical attention. 

Ill Baby 

If complications arise with the baby, we would like to remain as involved in her care
as possible. If possible, we still want to hold and nurse the baby as soon after
delivery as is reasonable.