Everything you need to know about birth plans

Thinking about writing a birth plan? A labor and delivery nurse is here to break down four key things every parent-to-be should know — no stress, just support and solid info.

Birth plans are all about you — your preferences, your comfort, your care. Whether you keep it simple or go more in-depth, creating one can help you feel more prepared and confident heading into labor. 

• It’s a list of preferences — a tool to help your care team support your priorities 
• Studies show birth plans can reduce fear, promote informed decisions, and even improve outcomes
• They’re a great way to learn about birth, interventions, and your options
• No need to get fancy — use whatever format works best for you 

Remember: birth rarely goes exactly as planned, but being informed and having your voice heard can make a big difference. Flexibility + communication = key.