Tag: pregnancy

Birth, Labor

How To Write a Birth Plan

What is a birth plan? How do you write one? Is there a specific way to do it? In this post, we will explore strategies for writing a birth plan and why you should have one in the first place.

The Reason for a Birth Plan

The goal of a birth plan is to clearly communicate your wishes to your birth team and have them written down for easy access. It is always important to talk over your birth plan with your care provider and doula. This way they can be aware of your wishes and help you work towards achieving them. Your partner should also be familiar with your birth plan in order to advocate for you.

What is a Birth Plan?

Birth plans are a list of choices and preferences for your labor, birth and immediate postpartum period. They do not guarantee a certain outcome but communicate your wishes for birth. They specify the kind of care you would like to receive and what you would also like to avoid.

Birth plans range in length from a short list of bullet points to multiple detailed pages. The point of a birth plan is to communicate your wishes clearly and concisely. Dividing it into categories can make it easier to navigate. Ideally, a birth plan should be between one and two pages in length to make it easy to reference.

What Subjects Should Your Birth Plan Include?

Since your care team will be referencing your birth plan, consider focusing on specifics that regard the care that they provide and describe what you do and do not want to happen during labor.

Consider mentioning your preferences on pain relief, medications, ​comfort measures​, position changes, how you want to push, whether you do or do not want various interventions, and which support people you want in the room.

For your baby, indicate what you do and do not want for their care immediately after birth. This might include when to cut the cord, whether or not they receive shots, and your feeding preferences.

Yes or No

It can be helpful to have a “yes” section and a “no” section in your different birth plan categories. For example, during labor, you may say yes to free movement, changing positions, and using counter pressure. On the other hand, you may say no to an episiotomy or certain medications. Whether you use this system or something else, the goal is to make it easy to read and navigate.

Other Things to Think About

While it is not necessary to list all of your preferences regarding the environment of your birth, it is a great idea to brainstorm and decide these things ahead of time. Let your partner and doula know these preferences so they can help you with them. Consider creating a playlist of your favorite music, writing out encouraging birth affirmations, and using essential oils. You can also hang up cozy string lights, wear a comfortable gown, keep the lights dim, and use a fan. These simple strategies go a long way in making you feel safe and comfortable which supports labor progression.

How To Use a Birth Plan

Once you have written your birth plan, print multiple copies to have on hand. During pregnancy, talk over your birth plan with your doctor or midwife. This is a great way to get on the same page, encourage good communication, talk about your preferences, and learn how they can help you achieve your goals. It is always good to acknowledge with your provider that plans might change and communicate that in such cases, you would like to be informed of your options and make the decision that is best for you.

Often doctors will include a copy of your birth plan in your patient portal or file for easy access. When going to the hospital, it is wise to bring multiple copies for staff that may need them. Some parents display a copy of their birth plan in the room or give a copy to their nurse so that their care team is informed of their wishes.

What if Plans Change?

While birth plans outline your preferences and decisions for your care, there is always a chance that plans will change. While this is not something to be afraid of, it is wise to be aware of this possibility. When writing your birth plan, think of alternative options as well so that you are familiar with them. Ask your doula to help you consider different scenarios and prepare for possible changes in plan.

A supportive care team who knows your needs and desires can help you navigate changes. They will work to do what is safest and best for you and your baby while staying in accordance with your wishes as much as possible.

It is very important to give your permission and informed consent before something is done to you or your baby. This gives you the power of decision making and the ability to advocate for yourself. Knowing your options ahead of time will make it easier to make decisions in the moment.

Bottom Line

To sum it all up, birth plans are a helpful communication tool. They do not guarantee a certain outcome, but they state your preferences and desires for your birth. They save you the trouble of having to answer lots of questions during labor and make it easy for your care team to serve you. Creating a birth plan also encourages you to research, consider your options, and determine what you feel is best for yourself and your baby.

Did you learn something from this post? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!

~Hannah

Natural Remedies, Pregnancy

Natural Remedies for Pregnancy

While there are many herbs and substances to stay away from or use in moderation during pregnancy, in this post we will talk about some choices that are generally considered safe. Due to your tiny baby developing in your womb, it is important to make careful decisions about what you consume. Herbs and natural remedies should be used with caution, and it is important to always do your research and make sure your choices are safe for baby. There are some options, however, that are considered safe. In this post, I will introduce you to nine of these helpful remedies.

Elderberries

Elderberries are a well-known immune boosting herb, and they are consumed in teas, tinctures, syrups, and various other preparations. They are antiviral and antibacterial and contain significant levels of vitamins A and C. Elderberries are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. During pregnancy, your immune system is not as strong, so taking immune boosting herbs, especially when exposed to sickness, is a great strategy.

Echinacea

Echinacea is used to both stimulate and modulate the immune system, making it a great ally for preventing and fighting illness. Its antimicrobial properties help to kill pathogens and bacteria, and it also supports the lymphatic system. It is an amazing aid in cases of bacterial infection and venomous bites and stings. Echinacea is best taken early on in the case of illness or infection for best results.

Stinging Nettle

Stinging nettle is known for its effective antihistamine properties and is a fantastic ally for allergies. It is also full of vitamins A, C, E and K, and minerals, including calcium, iron and magnesium. Stinging nettle is often used to aid the body in eliminating waste through the urinary system. It is also tonifying to the kidneys and combats water retention. For breastfeeding mothers, stinging nettle leaf may benefit and increase milk production. It is often combined with red raspberry leaf to make a nourishing tea blend.

Peppermint

Peppermint is especially useful for morning sickness and nausea. Its strong, minty volatile oils work wonders to relieve nausea, prevent vomiting, alleviate dizziness* and is a great catalyst and companion to other herbs. Peppermint tea is a great way to consume peppermint, and it can also be combined with other nourishing herbs such as red raspberry leaf, stinging nettle, and alfalfa. Peppermint essential oil can be added to a diffuser or applied topically with a carrier oil. Chewing non-artificial peppermint gum is another way to benefit from peppermint.

*If you are experiencing dizziness, contact your provider immediately. This is not something to ignore.

Ginger Root

Ginger root (or rhizome) is another amazing morning sickness remedy. It fights nausea and helps prevent vomiting. Ginger has a host of other benefits, including increasing blood circulation, boosting the immune system, and fighting inflammation. Ginger can be taken during early pregnancy, specifically to address morning sickness, but should be avoided later in pregnancy. Teas, capsules, and candies are good ways to take ginger, and it can also be added to smoothies.

Dandelion Root

Dandelion root is commonly used as a coffee substitute. While it does not give the same stimulating qualities as caffeine, dandelion root is known to provide a more controlled form of energy to the body. Dandelion root has benefits to the liver and digestive processes and is beneficial to the gut microbiome due to its prebiotic starches which feed healthy gut bacteria. Dandelion root can cause low blood pressure so use it with caution if this is an issue.

Red Raspberry Leaf

Red raspberry leaf is a great herb to take during and even before pregnancy for many reasons. It is known to increase fertility, tonify the uterus, decrease postpartum bleeding, increase breastmilk production and is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium and magnesium. It is best to wait until after the first trimester to begin taking red raspberry leaf, especially with a history of miscarriage, as it may cause uterine contractions. Some say that red raspberry leaf has caused them to have extra strong labor contractions, so keep this in mind. Red raspberry leaf is typically consumed as a hot or cold tea and can be combined with other herbs.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a must-have in so many ways! Research shows that it impacts 300 different body functions, including sleep, brain and heart health, bowel movements and leg cramps. Magnesium comes in several forms, each of which aid the body in various ways. Magnesium helps relieve constipation, supports the nervous system and better sleep, and alleviates leg cramps, all of which can be annoying pregnancy symptoms.

Activated Charcoal

Activated Charcoal is a must-have natural remedy for every individual and household! This simple black powder binds to toxins and poisons, rendering them ineffective and preventing them from harming the body. Activated Charcoal is charcoal that goes through an oxidation process to make it more effective at absorbing harmful substances. It can be mixed in water and taken internally for food poisoning, stomach aches, and anything that is harming your body. It can also be used externally as a soak or poultice to fight infection, bites, and stings by pulling out the toxins.

Due to its binding actions, Activated Charcoal should be taken two hours apart from supplements or medications. In case of emergency, however, it can be taken regardless. Always drink extra water when taking Activated Charcoal to avoid causing constipation.

Natural Remedies During Pregnancy

Natural remedies can go a long way in promoting health and wellness and fighting off sickness, annoying pregnancy symptoms, and nutrient deficiencies. These are a few herbs and natural remedies that are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Always do your own research, however, and consult your care provider before using anything new during pregnancy. Discontinue use if you have negative effects.

Here’s to a healthy pregnancy!

~Hannah