What is a birth plan? It is an outline of how you envision your labor, delivery, and recovery, and a helpful guide to let your care team know what you desire. A birth plan can be a good way to help you organize your thoughts and feelings around labor and delivery, and helps you and your partner align before the big day comes. It may help to role-play different scenarios with your partner as you are planning. For example, what if the doctor recommends you have C-Section? How would you feel about this and what questions might you want to ask before making a decision? Do you intend to chest/breastfeed? Make sure your care team is aware and that you know where to get support. Talking through different scenarios ahead of time with your partner and care team while you are making your birth plan may help you to stay calm and confident during your labor.
Important items to pack in your hospital bag for birth, baby and immediate postpartum. Don't stress about packing for labor and delivery! Our comprehensive hospital bag checklist covers everything you'll need for mom, baby, and your birth partner. Get the essentials and optional comfort items for a smooth and positive.
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