The following is an example birth plan. Throughout your visits with Monica, you will develop a plan of your own. Use these ideas as stepping-stones. Try to think of techniques you want to use during labor, who you want present during labor and birth, and what attendees can do to help. Whether you follow it precisely or not, having a good plan is integral to your overall home birth experience.

Some ideas for labor:

• Labor in birth tub
• Use squat positions
• Move around
• Back Rubs
• Visualizations
• Iced drinks with straw
• Experiment with different positions
• Damp washcloth on face and neck
• Massage/compresses
• Mirror to see baby crowning

• Take care of pets
• Keep the phone quiet
• Light candles
• Keep doors from slamming
• Tidy up
• Be available to birth team for assistance
• Take photos
• Make pre-arranged phone calls

Siblings:

Witnessing labor and birth can be a very positive and memorable event for a young child with the proper planning. Read books, watch videos, and talk with your child about what labor and birth might be like, and give her a chance to ask questions and express concerns. Make detailed plans for what older siblings will do during labor. Arrange for a close friend or trusted relative to be with the child during this time. Line up several new and interesting activities. Discuss with the child if she wants to be present when the baby is born.