27/02/2024
I am such a huge advocate of creating a birth map during pregnancy. I prefer conceptualising it as a map as this allows you to plan for many different scenarios, and include your preferences for all of these. You might have heard the argument that “because can be unpredictable, there’s no point planning for it” or that you are “setting yourself up for disappointment” by making a birth plan. I disagree with this, I think creating a birth map is so helpful and empowering, for the following three reasons:
1. The process of creating a birth map is invaluable in providing an opportunity for you to do your research and learn about your options. Thinking about what matters to you and what your preferences would be in a variety of situations is so empowering, and means you won’t be stuck trying to learn a bunch of new things during labour.
2. A clear map allows your care providers to get a good sense of where you are at and support you appropriately. If you are in a continuity model, you will have the chance to discuss this antenatally, which can help everyone get on the same page. If you are meeting your care provider on the day, a clear plan can really help them understand you and tailor their care. For example, if you’ve said you’d like to ask for pain relief only if you need it, they’ll know not to offer it. Or if you’ve said you are keen for a water birth, they can organise you a bath without you having to discuss it too much during labour.
3. Your support people will feel so much clearer and empowered about their role. If you can involve your support people in the writing process, they’ll be able to show up in the birth space knowing how best to support you, and not uncertain or anxious about what they should do.
I’ll be making a post soon about some of the things you might like to include ♥️