VBAC Birth Plans, anyone have one to share

[kaje62]

hey if you can post your vbac plan here, i and other mamas sure would appreciate it. thank you.

[stafl]

Dont have one yet, but will before too long. Actually I'm going to have two birth plans. One for my ideal perfect vaginal birth, and another just in case it's another emergency. There were so many things that if I had been in my right mind would have been done differently with #1.

[julie128]

Don't pm her; post your plan here, so everyone can benefit!

[kaje62]

I agree please post here.

[kindmomma]

I have 2 totally different experiences with my VBACs. The first I was not well educated (I feel this is the key to 100% success). I mean you can have a VBAC and then you can have a birth experience VBAC KWIM? My first VBAC I was scared, terrified. But my dr made me so comfy that I did not stress too bad. But when I arrived at the hospital there was no way what I dreamed would happen. Yes, I successfully VBACed, but did I do it the way I wanted? NO
The second VBAC my idea going into it was this is my last baby and I am doing it the way I want!!!
So I found my midwives, hired a doula, drowned myself in VBAC knowledge (honestly I could teach a class on it), and vowed to never doubt myself at any point durning labor and birth. I believe in my soul that a positive outlook going into it would have a positive outcome. I also knew how toxic fear was to me going into labor. Gee I wish you had Ina Mae's spiritual midwifery she goes into this in depth. If you want I could copy the pages, do you have a fax macine. You really should read it.
Here was my birth plan for Anna
1st VBAC
I do not wish to have constant fetal monitoring, this will impair my movement which could stall labor which would cause more interventions.
I do not wish to have an epidural or any sort of pain relief offered to me by the staff once I have arrived, I am fully aware of my choices.
I do not wish to have an episiotomy preformed to deliver the baby quicker.
I want the baby to be delivered directly onto me and the cord attached until pulsing stops.
Blah blah blah
Sure you are tired of me by now.
With my midwives they told me make a birth plan if you want, but remember we are not OBs. They stay with you through most of your labor. Mine consisting of a grand 2 hours once I got to the hospital. But even though Josh had some issues during his very quick birth. She never cut me. That impresses me. I know with an OB that would have been the *first* thing that was done. She had faith in me, that was very special to me. The day after Joshua was born she visited me for quite a while and we talked and she said something I will never ever forget. She said "it is only once in a while I attend a birth that impresses me, let alone surprises me, your birth was amazing, thank you for allowing me to be with you" My midwife said that to ME! She has delivered tons of babies and she says labor and birth usually gets the best of women. She told me that it is rare for people to follow through and actually stick to their plan.
I stuck to mine, Joshuas birth was VERY important to me. It was my time to shine so to speak. I still cannot to this day watch the video with out bauling like a baby!
The best I can give you is do not be afraid, it is your worst enemy at this point. It is going to be intense, but in a good memorable way. You need to be upfront and serious about your choices. You need to trust yourself and the people you choose to be present. Let me know if you have any questions.

[Colorful~Mama]

Birth Plan for Barbara and Thomas S.

My goal is to deliver my baby as safely and naturally as possible without medical interventions unless the benefits outweigh the risks. I believe I am responsible for making my birth experience a positive, safe experience, and I plan to participate along with my husband, labor assistant, and my care providers in making decisions about my labor, delivery and postpartum care. Listed below are my preferences; I understand that final decisions about my care will be discussed and agreed upon in the delivery room with my well-being and the safe delivery of my baby as the most important considerations. I agree to sign consent forms for those "routine" procedures I opt against.

Labor:

I would like my environment to have dimmed lights and to have voices respectfully lowered. I would also prefer to wear my own clothing. I will be doing hypnobirthing using cassette tapes in a walkman. Please allow me to use these for relaxation without interruption. I would prefer to not have residents or students walking in and out during my labor and delivery.

I would like to keep internal vaginal exams to a minimum.

I would like, if possible, that my amniotic membranes be allowed to rupture spontaneously.

I understand that I will be working REALLY hard. I would like to insist on access to fluids, like water, Recharge, Gatorade, Jell-O, Popsicles, and/or ice-chips.

If IV prep is necessary I would like a heparin/saline lock.

Since mobility is extremely important to me, I would like Intermittent Monitoring using a Doppler. I do not wish to have continuous EFM unless it is required by the condition of my baby.

I'd like a drug-free birth. Please do not offer medications. I adamantly do not want Pitocin unless my midwife, labor asst, and family have fully discussed the ramifications.

I would like the hospital staff to know that I may have my own personal style to birthing -- from walking, squatting, moaning, or grunting. I would like to utilize any position at feels appropriate. I would be grateful for the personal space to do this comfortably without feeling hushed or rushed.

During Transition my body may be most sensitive. If I am feeling that my persons or a staff members voice and/or touch is too much, I will indicate so.



Pushing and Delivery:

When I am fully dilated, I trust my body's instincts to push my baby out naturally. I would like to feel the urge to push before starting this phase.

As long as it is clear that my baby's heart tones are good and that he is receiving sufficient oxygen, I would like to be free of time limits on pushing.

I would like to avoid an episiotomy. To that end, I would like my midwife, labor asst or partner to support me with perineum support, compresses, and directed pushing to prevent tearing. I would like local anesthesia for any repairs (stitches).

I would like the baby to be placed on my chest to for warming. Please wait to cut cord until it stops pulsating. Chelsey, my 13 year old daughter will be the one to cut the cord.

I would like to deliver the placenta unassisted -- without Pitocin, uterine massage, or cord traction. If a procedure is necessary, please explain it to me.

I would like in room triage of my baby. I would like my daughters to visit with my newborn and me as soon as possible if they are not actually present at the birth which we hope they will both be.

Cesarean Section:

In the unlikely event that vbac is not successful please give us a moment if at all possible, for me to give my express consent before initiating any procedure. It is important to me that my partner be present with me at all times during the birth.

I would like to remain awake and aware at all times, avoiding a general anesthesia if possible.

Assuming my baby is well, I would like to touch, hold my baby, and nurse as soon as possible.

Please remove my IV and catheter as soon as possible following my baby’s birth.

Please provide me with nutritious food and drink as soon as possible.

Newborn Care:

With either a vaginal or cesarean birth, I would like to postpone ALL routine procedures until we have had time to bond with the baby.

If any additional procedures are necessary I would like them thoroughly explained to us.

I would like to Room-In with no separation from my baby.

I will be exclusively breastfeeding; please do not offer pacifier, artificial nipples, sugar water, or formula.

I will be declining the antibiotic eye drops. Please do NOT administer them to my baby.

I prefer that my baby is gently wiped down and wrapped. Do not bathe until we as a family ask you to do so.

I prefer not to have my baby receive a routine vitamin K shot until we are almost ready to be discharged.

I would like to postpone any immunizations until my regular pediatrician in her office can do them.

I would like to postpone PKU test until after my milk has come in.

We will not be having a hospital circumcision.


Sick Baby:

If G-d forbid, my baby is not well, please allow myself or my partner to accompany the baby if at all possible

I would like to breastfeed or provide pumped breast milk for my baby.

I would like unlimited visitation for myself and my husband.

I would like all procedures to be thoroughly explained to us.

*Discharge *

If all goes well with a normal vaginal delivery with no complications, I would like to be discharged from the hospital with my baby as quickly as possible.I understand that it is customary to keep the mother and child for 24 hours. I respectfully request that if at all possible the baby and I be checked and allowed to leave as soon as we're both ready to do so. I want to be home with my baby and would be willing to follow up with the birthing center and/or my own pediatrician the following day.


Thank you for your understanding of our wishes and for helping us to bring our baby into the world!

dats it. parts are "borrowed" from other websites and other mamas who've posted their plans. what do you think?

[weesej]

Barb. I think it is a great birth plan. One comment:

I prefer not to have my baby receive a routine vitamin K shot until we are almost ready to be discharged.

Vitamin K is given to prevent newborn hemmorhaggic disease. It is rare but can be life threatening when it happens. The worst case occur within the first 24 hours. If you wait until disacharge to get the Vit K and you are discharged anywhere after 6 hours PP or so, it is not going to be effective at prevanting the worst complications. You can also opt not to do it at all, or use oral Vit K, shown in Europe to be just as effective and less obtrusive, although you need to give multiple doses over a period of weeks. Feel free to PM me.

[kaje62]

stafl, did you do your birth plan yet?

i am almost done so I will post soon.

[kaje62]

Birth Plan for Kathy Jo, Jerome and Baby #2 Peterson (Due Date: 8.8.03)

We wish to share our hopes for the birth of our baby with the staff of Fairview University hospital. These decisions have been made after much research, consultation and thought. Your help in attaining these goals is very much appreciated. We understand that birth is unpredictable and trust in the expertise of the Midwives of University Specialists and nurses. You can be assured that in the unlikely event of complications, our full cooperation will be rendered after an informed discussion with the midwives has taken place and we have had adequate time for private discussion. We hope to birth our baby as safely and naturally as possible without medical interventions unless the benefits outweigh the risks. I understand that final decisions will be discussed and agreed upon in the delivery room with Kathy’s well-being and the safe birth of our baby as the most important considerations.

About us:
• Second baby (Charles Andrew - March 19, 2001)
• Miscarriage, 2000.
• Kathy is a WAHM whose primary focus is Charlie. She does some grant writing, marketing and selling on EBAY from home.
• Jerry is a painting contractor and owns his own business. He will take at least a week off after the baby is born.
• We are committed to as natural of a birth as possible.
• Kathy is the oldest of five and Jerry is the oldest of three.
• We have chosen Angelyn Rosemarie, (our mother’s Angela and Lynda) and Edward John (Kathy’s brother and Jerry’s father).

Our labor and delivery preferences:
• Labor companions will include doula Carrie Dunbar (and/or backup, Sarah Biermeyer) and possibly, Christa Bauman, friend and photographer. Jerry will be present at all times.
• Plan to use tub for comfort, prefer room (462 & 460) with larger tubs as she’s a bigger woman.
• Kathy prefers the room to be dimly lit, calm and quiet. We will provide our own music. She requests to not be interrupted during contractions.
• Kathy prefers to not have residents or students during labor and delivery.
• Vaginal exams only upon consent, as few and as gently as possible to avoid premature rupture of membranes.
• Kathy hopes to change positions when need be, walk around as much as possible, squat, be on all fours, use tub, shower, etc. (prefer not to have bed broken apart)
• Since mobility is important, Kathy would like Intermittent Monitoring for as long as possible. During active labor she would like a waterproof telemetry for monitoring.
• Wish to not have constant fetal monitoring, which will impair her movement and may stall labor which would cause more interventions.
• Kathy may wish to drink tea and juice and have Popsicles that she will provide for nausea or exhaustion. She may also wish light snacks during the first stage of labor.
• Please do not offer pain medication. We hope to avoid the use of all medication.
• If she needs an IV, she prefers heparin or a saline lock.
• When she is fully dilated, she will trust her body's instincts to push the baby out naturally. She would like to feel the urge to push before starting this phase.
• Kathy prefers to not be coached in pushing or contractions, except during crowning she welcomes staff coaching and assistance for slow, natural pushes to avoid tearing.
• As long the baby's heart tones are good and that the baby is receiving sufficient oxygen, she would like to be free of time limits on pushing.
• She prefers perineal massage with oil by midwives and hot compresses by her doula or Jerry rather than episiotomy. Kathy would rather tear a bit than an episiotomy.
• Kathy prefers to not have artificial rupture of membranes.
• Jerry will announce gender and will place baby skin-to-skin on Kathy, immediately following the birth with cord attached and he will cut the cord after pulsing stops.
• Please do not wipe the baby’s hands.
• Kathy would like to breastfeed immediately, or shortly following the birth.
• It is our hope that this will be sufficient to control bleeding, as Kathy prefer’s not to receive pitocin, uterine massage or pulling on the cord unless bleeding is excessive.
• Please delay all routine exams and procedures and perform in mother’s room; weighing, vitamin k, antibiotic eye ointment, etc. until at least one hour after the birth to allow time for bonding.
• To protect the baby’s eyes, please no bright lights during bonding.
• If warming required, mother will hold baby on chest with blankets.
• Mother or father will bathe new baby in the tub with them.
• If there are complications during or after labor, we prefer to be informed immediately. If the baby needs to be taken from the room, Jerry will go with the baby and doula will stay with Kathy.
• If stitching of perineum necessary, please use local anesthetic.
• Kathy and Jerry ask that the baby not receive sugar water, formula, water or pacifier.
• Newborn to stay with parents at all times, not in the nursery, please.
• If baby is a boy, no circumcision.
• We would like all phone calls held until we inform staff we are ready for phone calls.
• Jerry to stay over with mother for first night, prefer double bed.

C-Section:
• If Kathy has c-section, she prefers a spinal if time permits and wishes for Jerry and Doula to be present in the operating room.
• Kathy and Jerry prefer to hold baby immediately after c-section if baby is doing well and baby to stay with parents for first feeding, breast feeding.
• Delay all routine procedures until after.
• Please remove IV and catheter as soon as possible following baby’s birth.

We thank you in advance for your support and kind attention to our choices. We look forward to a wonderful birth.

[kindmomma]

That has got to be the best birth plan I have ever read! Thank you so much for sharing that Kathy-Jo. Pleas elt us know how it goes, I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts! I know it will be great

PS Did you ever read that book?:D

[kaje62]

i am 3/4 done mama.
gotta go night night
love ya

[julie128]

Today, I went to my followup hypnosis appointment with my HypnoBirthing instructors (not all do this, btw), and, as I was leaving and telling her that I would have my Birth Prefs ready the next time we met, she mentioned that a doc she knows recommends writing them by hand rather than typing them. This is because when you hand write, your intentions are much more on the page, and those reading the prefs (docs, nurses, doulas) will take them more seriously, in addition to your body following the intentions of your hand. Anyway, I wrote up my rough draft today. After my ob and I discuss them on Wednesday, I'll post them.

[kindmomma]

Julie:
right on momma! You are on the right track:thumb
I did hypnobirthing too. It is awesome, really works. I agree with your instructor. I hand wrote my birth plans. It gives them a personal touch, a connection to you and the person reading it. Very intimate IMO
Sound like you are going to do well! Please follow up and let us know.
You CAN
YOU WILL:love :love :love

[stafl]

I wanted to keep it to one page, so maybe they'd actually read it!!! LOL! (it looks longer here than on paper, though)
I will go over it with my OB in case I don't make it to The Farm in time to deliver, and also with my doula and midwives... Anyone have comments or suggestions, please speak up! (I apologize ahead of time if the formatting is off, I just copied and pasted it and tried to fix the line breaks and such...)

Birth Plan for Stacy F. DOB 02/26/1969 EDD 11/26/2003
Please note: my bloodtype is O negative and I am allergic to Sulfa meds


I prefer to VBAC without any medications whatsoever and as few medical interventions as possible.
I would like dim lights and voices kept low at all times.
I do not want to be offered any pain medications. If I do request pain medication, please refrain from administering any drugs until I have requested them three times.
I would like to move around, to labor and birth in any position that feels right to me.
I would like to be allowed to eat and drink during labor.
I do not want continuous fetal monitoring except in the event of an emergency.
If any medications or other interventions are deemed absolutely necessary due to a risk to baby or myself, I want to be fully advised about the risks associated with accepting or
declining such before making my decision.
I wish to avoid an episiotomy. I would prefer someone perform perineal massage and apply counter-pressure during the pushing process.
I do not want the umbilical cord clamped and cut until after it has stopped pulsating.
I do want baby immediately placed on my chest following delivery.
I would like time to bond with my baby and establish the nursing relationship before any tests or medical treatments are administered.
Baby will remain with a parent (either myself or my husband) at all times.
Please do not put ointment in my baby’s eyes. I have been tested for STDs and am not infected.
Please do not give my baby any supplemental bottles or pacifiers without my consent.
Do not offer to take baby to nursery for any non-emergency reason.
If baby is a boy, I do not wish to circumcise.
PKU testing and any necessary vaccinations (with the exception of Vit K) will be done at my pediatrician’s office after we leave the hospital.
My older child shall be allowed to remain with me at any and all times, including labor and delivery, if she so desires.


In the event of an emergency c-section:

Please remain respectful of my wishes as outlined above.
I wish to be kept fully informed of all my options in the matter, and kept abreast of what is happening to me and my baby at all times.
I do not want my arms strapped down.
Please refrain from chit-chat during and immediately following the operation.
Please use a double-layer suture to close the incision on my uterus.
Please do not use staples to close the outer incision.
Please take measures to ensure that adhesions are not formed as a result of the surgery, including but not limited to the use of adhesion prevention product(s) near the incision site and any visible endometriosis lesions.
I do wish to nurse my baby immediately following delivery, even if that means having someone else hold and position baby properly.
If possible, I would like baby evaluated, tested, and cleaned while laying on my chest before I am taken to recovery.


(edited to add one more thing)

[kaje62]

beautiful birth plan stafl

[its_our_family]

WOW!

thank you so much!! I'm ready to start writing mine...i have awhile yet but i know i'll write and rewrite it 40 times!

Can I borrow from the ones posted here...since i know i wouldn't have thought about all of it??

[kaje62]

absolutely that's why we posted them here.

[its_our_family]

I'm not worried about my mw but the back up obs..there is one that willnot let you labor in the birthing ceneter but will only allow you to be admitted into l&d and I have a feeling he just will NOT listen me at all...I wish I could afford a doula for just in case....

Oh well, hopefully a really detailed plan will be sufficient!

[kaje62]

have you tried to try a doula in training.
that can be a great asset
what city are you in?

[its_our_family]

I am in newport news Va....I should ask my mw about a doula in training..... I would think they would know!

[kaje62]

what other cities are near newport news? i am doing a bit of research for you.

my update
medwife just called and said she is fine rescheduling surgery for Tuesday and will look at Monday also which by the way, they told me at one point that they do not schedule surgeries on Monday. Anyway.............she will do that as long as i understand the risks since my blood pressure has been high (140/90) for a reason and that i am taking a risk as in placenta abruption.

GRRR!!!!!!!!!!I am mad. first of all it has never been high in my eyes, maybe borderline!! and.............i hate the death scare.
glad it was on the phone instead of in person

[its_our_family]

I'm also near Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Hampton...

Your bp doesn't sound high to me either....what is it normally? I think they jsut freak out on us vbacs really easy....

I hope you go into labor on your own so you don't have to worry about all this crap anymore!

[kaje62]

last night we did home bp and it was high
so we called in and they said see you tomorrow
went in to medwives
bp was still quite high like 166/100
and on side 142/90
it has been borderline high for about 7 weeks
140/90 and 120/70 on side
my non stress test was fine

anyway they wanted to do a c-section today
or they wanted to induce me with cervadil
but my cervix is not dilated at all and i am just 25% effaced

she gave me the dead baby scare
and said, do you want to bring home a baby?

i said no to being induced and the c-section for now
so then they wanted me to go to the hospital for two hours of testing
to get several readings of my blood pressure and i said no
i want to go home

so i had another blood draw
and took home another 24 urine
and came home and took an hour nap with charlie

am i crazy
i am so so stressed out
they have me on total total bedrest except to pee
the c-section is scheduled for Monday
i cannot find any other provider that looks good in my insurance

if i go into labor will they be supportive and help me do my best?
or will they be against the idea from the get go

i need prayers and all kinds of help right now

[its_our_family]

I know c/s and induction aren't great options and I wouldn't opt for a c/s without very very good reason...not even induction really...

but I think given your situation that if you do go into labor on your own....they may even push for a c/s. I almost wonder if once your bp gets so much above your normal that they just do a c/s anyway...but I could be wrong.

I think once we get past a certain point in progress, or bp, or whatever that they right us off as needing "their" help. I hate that they give the dead baby scare but you have to wonder at which point they are really serious...I guess that is what they get for crying wolf so many times.

I'm really praying hard that this all works out for you.....

[julie128]

Julie's Birth Preferences
[I deleted the more personal info, last names, etc.]

General Information:
My full name and birthdate: Julie
Husband's full name: Bill
O.B.: Dr.
PLA: Yvonne or Michelle
We will be having a VBAC.
We will be using HypnoBirthing, so my labor and birthing may look quite different from a standard hospital birth.
My blood type is A-.
I am allergic to penecillin.
To reduce the chances of infections, before any doctor or nurse does an interenal exam, I would like her/him to scrub for 30 seconds and put on sterile gloves. Thanks!

Vaginal Birth:
We understand the need for constant fetal monitoring because of the VBAC. We would like telemetry monitoring to be available so that I can move around if I want. [hosp. req. cfm in vbacs]
I do NOT want an epidural.
Please do NOT offer any narcotics. If I want a narcotic, I will ask for it.
I would prefer NOT to have a saline IV.
If an IV is required, I would like a heplock, and I would like the heplock to be covered with a glove if the line is taken out.
I do NOT want an episiotomy.
I would like to be able to eat and drink if I want (probably won't want to).
We prefer dim lights and a quiet room.
I would like any idle chit-chat to be taken into the hallway.
We would like the door to remain closed and for doctors, nurses, and others except Bill to knock before entering.
We would like a birthing ball in the room.
I do NOT want cheerleading or aggressive coaching while birthing.
I would like to give birth in whatever position feels comfortable.
We would like to delay cutting the cord until after a good five minute APGAR.
Bill would like to cut the cord.
* We would like the cord blood to be used for the PKU and blood typing tests. [found out this was not possible because the PKU test must be taken from the baby between 12 hours and 6 days]
I would like an ice pack after the placenta is born.
I would consider allowing an intern or student to observe. Ask first, though.

Caesarian Birth:
I would prefer general anesthesia. [bad experience with attempted epidural and attempted spinal]
* We would like Bill to be in the OR during the surgery [as a witness].

After Birth:
We will be breastfeeding. Please do NOT give the baby bottles UNLESS I am comatose, dead, or we specifically request it.
Please do NOT wipe off the baby's vernix. Please leave it on his/her skin to be absorbed.
We decline eye drops for the baby.
We decline Hep B shot for the baby.
We decline Vitamin K shot for baby pending a discussion with the pediatrician.
* We would like to take home the placenta.
We would like the baby to room in with me.
If we have a boy, he will be circumcised at home at one week old, health permitting. We would like a doctor or nurse to discuss with us how to care for a newly circumcised penis.
We would like the Jewish chaplain to visit us before we leave.
We would like to read my and the baby's charts before we leave.

G-d forbid the baby should be ill:
I would like to nurse if possible and give the baby pumped milk if not. Bottles are not to be given without our consent.
We would like to stay with the baby as much as possible.
We would like to practice kangaroo care.

Baby Names:
Girl: Moya
Boy: Ilan
We do NOT want the baby's SSN to be shared with the hospital or anyone else.

To Bill, Yvonne, and Michelle:
Bill, as you may remember, I may not want to move or talk much. It may be different this time, or not. In any case, moving and talking are two things that I feel will help this birth go more smoothly. So, I would appreciate it if you would gently encourage me to change position about every half hour, and to quietly ask me how I am feeling every now and then. BETWEEN contractions please. Oh, and wear clothing that you can wash easily in case I throw up on you. :-)

* still must discuss with doctor.


[I hand wrote my birth plan for the doc and nurses, leaving space between sections so that I can add stuff if I think of anything else.]

[kaje62]

great birth plan

DH and I talked and I did a lot of research with ICAN and Dr. Brewer (www.blueribbon.org) I even talked to him on the phone and then Friday DH went in with me and we cancelled my c-section for today and rescheduled it for this Fridaywhich will make me 42 weeks. All my test including the non stress were great on Friday. I think my bp was 162/92.

I so want to VBAC and am bummed I am so overdue. And then MIL came by yesterday and said, "I don't think you will go into labor cuz you have been on bedrest for so long." Thanks MIL!!! You are so sweet.

[kaje62]

your 12 day overdue mama checking in

would love you to vote on my should i have a c-section on friday poll???

http://216.92.20.151/discussions/showthread.php?s=&threadid=81675

[kaje62]

Thanks all. I called my midwife that Thursday morning and she said, “Kathy why don’t you come in and we will check you out and if your cervix is favorable we can try a trial of labor with pitocin and if that does not work then you can have the surgery tomorrow.

So we called Grandpa Peterson who would be with Charlie until that evening when Corrine would come and spend the night with him. We spent some time with Charlie, packed up and went off to the hospital. Our doula Carrie met us there. My cervix was ripe enough so we were given the go ahead but my blood pressure was up a bit more so I was put on a magnesium drip shortly after our arrival. This makes you very hot and really hurt going in through the IV. It also limits movement during labor and actually is used to slow down labor for moms not full term. So before too long I was put on something used to speed up labor, pitocin and something to slow down labor, magnesium. About ½ way into labor, my blood pressure was not coming down enough so they increased the magnesium. Other than that, it was really a calm beautiful night and Jerry and Carrie were wonderful. A few hours into the labor, I started to have some bloody show which is a sign of your cervix thinning so we were feeling excited. A few hours later I felt discouraged and I had been on 12 hours of pitocin. I knew before I was checked that I had not advanced much. The midwife said that she was willing to do 3 more hours of pitocin but did not think we could go much more than that. After she left the room, I told Carrie to tell the midwife that I wanted them to turn the Pitocin off. And we started to be prepare for surgery. We called some family members and things moved quite fast.

It all seemed to go much more smoothly than the surgery with Charlie, including the spinal. When Charlie was born, we had in our birth plan that Jerry would announce the gender so at that exciting moment, theOBasked Jerry to stand up. Jerry stood and said, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I am proud to announce the birth of my baby boy, Charles Andrew Peterson and then he broke down in tears. So on Friday we once again made it clear that we wanted Jerry to announce gender. TheOBgave him the cue and Jerry said, "It's a girl, right?" And theOBsaid, "It appears to be." And the anesthesiologist said, "And that it is."

Angelyn Rosemarie Peterson was born Friday August 22nd at9:28 a.m.weighing 9 pounds 13 ounces and 20 inches long. (I was born at9:28 a.m.onMay 20, 1962. Pretty sweet that we were born at the same time.) The trial of labor was valuable as Angelyn's apgar scores were 9 and 9 (same as Charlie's) at birth. Even though Charlie was c-section, my water broke with him and it is said that a trial of labor even for awhile can help babies lungs and apgar scores once born. I feel I made all the right choices during the last few weeks. I not think I should have waited any longer for baby to arrive or do not think we waited too long. Angelyn is beautiful and is in no way overcooked.

http://f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/kaje62/lst?.dir=/Angelyn+Rose+Peterson&.order=&.view=l&.src=ph&.done=http%3a//f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/bc/kaje62/lst%3f%26.dir=/Stuff%2bto%2bsell%26.src=ph%26.view=l

[stafl]

bump:)

[stretchmark]

This thread is becoming so valuable to me. I am glad I decided to read it. All the birth plans sound wonderful and I plan on modelling mine after them. Reading them did raise some questions that I have. I am faced with the option of VBAC and am getting ready to discuss with my doctor what happens if I end up in surgery. I too want the baby put right on my body and have the chance to breastfeed. I do not need him weighed or any of that crap. I have been wondering about the fluid in the lungs procedure though. Does this always happen? How do they get it out? Is it invasive? I fortunately live in a town with a great birthing center and maternity center and they are all about rooming in and anti-circumcision, so my worries are a bit lessend. I did have a freind with no birth plan and a c-section with a terrible experience. They took the baby away and weighed her, measured her, and other things that took a full hour. My friend still cries when she thinks about it. She had her husband following them around saying, we can measure her later, we can do that later. He even put the baby up to his nipple so she wouldn't experience any problems nursing. I do not want this to happen.
One other thing I am wondering is: If you have a birth plan and the doc has read it and they don't abide by it, can they be sued? I met a Johovas Witness who carries around a paper that says, Do not give me a blood transfusion, I prefer death. And according to her, she can sue a doc or hospital if they give her one. I realize that this may require even more of an extensive birth plan than even those listed here because they could always make up some reason as to why they did what they did.
I am working on my hand-written birth plan.
Thanks,
Tiffany

[stafl]

*~*~bump~*~* :)

[elvispupy]

here's mine:http://www.freewebs.com/icanofalaska/files/birthplan.doc

[stafl]

bump :)

[aisraeltax]

:notes: :notes:

[AngelaB]

One item in my birth plan that I found EXTREMELY HELPFUL was the heprin lock in my forearem and not in my hand or wrist. To apease the hospital staff I agreed to have a heprin lock in case of emergency, however Its hard not to pull on or even think about that rediculous Heprin lock when its in the back of your hand and its hard to bend your wrist, so anyways I was able to labor in the tub as well as in many different positions and I completely forgot about the lock.
They had to find a nurse that had enough experience doing a lock in the forearm( not the underside but just between my wrist and elbow on the top) but the nurse they found did a great job and after I explained why I wanted it they understood.

Im glad that I had that written down. During labor it is imposible to remember all that you want done and its nice to refer to your plan for reminders. Its also nice for your birth attendents as well.

By the way my husband had to yell at and request a new nurse when one tried those rediculous scare tactics whith the constant fetal monitoring. SHe told me that "for the safety of my baby". Anyways my husband made her cry and we went home. WHen we came back we had a doll of a nurse!

[AngelaB]

Anouther thing I just remembered was that I took my birth plan to my OB, head nurse of labor and delivery, my babies doctor and gave them all copies after I had all of their signatures on the plan at least a month before labor in case I went early. My husband and I signed it as well.
That way they had a reminder that they were all cool with it before labor and that they should honor their decision to support me.

[happyfrog]

:lurk: :notes:

[PennyS]

BIRTH PLAN FOR HELENA & SCOTT STACEY
EDD: DECEMBER 20, 2003

We realize that every birth experience is different. In our desire to have the most memorable and happiest birth possible, we have listed our preferences below. These decisions have been made after much research and thought. Therefore, your help in attaining these goals is very much appreciated. You can be assured that in the unlikely event of complications, our full cooperation will be rendered after an informed discussion with our doctor has taken place and adequate time for private consideration has been given to us.

Induction/Augmentation
• I would prefer to allow labor to begin spontaneously and without augmentation once it has started.
• I do not want an amniotomy. I would like my membranes to rupture on their own.
• If AROM becomes medically necessary (labor has significantly stalled), I would prefer that it not be performed until labor is well-established (greater than 4 cm. dilated).
• In the event that the baby is posterior, I would like to avoid AROM until baby has rotated to anterior.
• I do not want induction by means of Pitocin or any other synthetic hormone to be administered.
• If Pitocin becomes medically necessary, I would like the lowest dosage possible and do not want it increased at routine intervals. I would also prefer to have it turned off once labor is established.
• I do not want any gels applied to my cervix and will not consent at any time to use of Cytotec.

Monitoring and Exams
• I would like to be able to move around freely during labor so I would like to have only intermittent fetal monitoring. If intermittent fetal monitoring is not an option, I would like the use of a portable telemetry monitor so that I may remain mobile.
• I do not want internal fetal monitoring.
• To reduce chance of infection, I would like vaginal exams to be kept to a bare minimum especially once my membranes have ruptured.
• I would prefer the use of a heparin or saline lock, rather than an IV. I would like to be allowed to drink fluids while I labor.

Labor
• I would like to be allowed to move freely during labor (walk, rock, use birthing ball, etc.) and assume whatever position I feel most comfortable.
• I would prefer that no time limits be placed on labor so long as Mom and baby are doing well.
• I do not want non-essential hospital staff in my room at any time during labor and delivery and do not consent to being treated by any medical students or residents.

Pain Management
• I will be having my husband and a doula assist me during labor with pain management. Please do not ask if I want pain medication. I will request it if needed.
• I would like access to a shower or tub for pain management.
• If I elect to receive an epidural, my goal is to wait until I am at least 5 cm. dilated and the baby’s head is engaged in the pelvis. I would like support and understanding in trying to reach this goal.

Delivery
• I do not want time limits imposed so long as Mom and baby are doing well.
• I would like to assume different birthing positions if I am physically able (on hands and knees, squatting, side-lying).
• I would like to avoid an episiotomy. If I am to suffer a small tear (1st or 2nd degree), I would prefer to tear rather than be cut.
• I request that warm compresses [and counter pressure] be applied to my perineum at the time of crowning to minimize tearing.
• If I elect to receive an epidural, I would like it turned down during delivery so that I can feel the urge to push.
• I would like to use of a mirror so I may watch the delivery.
• I do not want a uterine examination after birth unless medically indicated (excessive blood loss, HBP, fever).
• I would like to deliver the placenta naturally allowing the full 5 or 10 minutes for expulsion without any medication or physical assistance, specifically no pulling or holding taught on the umbilical cord. I do not want a routine injection of pitocin after the delivery to aid in expelling the placenta.
• I would like the baby to be placed on my abdomen or chest (cord permitting) immediately after birth and cleaned and suctioned while I hold him or her.

Baby
• All procedures on our baby should be done where my husband and I can see and if necessary to remove the baby from the room, I would like my husband to be present.
• I will be exclusively breastfeeding. Please no supplementary bottles.

If a Cesarean Becomes Necessary
• I would like my husband to be present during prep and anesthesia.
• Unless absolutely necessary for the safety of the baby, I want a low transverse incision to be done and preferably along the same scar as my first.
• I would like to screen to be lowered and the baby shown to me before he/she is taken to the warmer to be cleaned.
• I would prefer that my arms not be restrained or at least freed after baby is born in order to hold him/her with assistance from my husband.
• I would like the surgeon to note any scar tissue or damage from my previous cesarean.

[Slackermom]

I just finished mine, after a few re-writes with my doula. It was much longer, but we felt it was important to be able to give them one page (front and back). We're having a hospital birth, although I wish we were having a homebirth. I've omitted the identifying info. Also, it doesn't contain any requests about breastfeeding or rooming in, because that's pretty standard at our hospital (as is early discharge after birth). It's a cut and paste, so I apologize if the formatting is wonky!
****************

This will be a VBAC. I look forward to working with nurses and doctors who truly believe in VBAC, and who will help us to achieve the most natural birth possible for our baby. We strongly wish that any medical procedures be discussed with us in advance so that we can make informed decisions. We thank you in advance for your support and wisdom. (my doula suggested adding this...sucking up never hurts, I guess!)

IMPORTANT NOTE: I am a survivor of a sexual assault, and experienced flashbacks during my daughter’s birth that may have contributed to my labour stalling. Privacy and feeling safe and in control will be VERY important to me during this birth. I thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Present for the labour and birth: I request that as few people as possible be in the room at any given time during labour and the birth. I do NOT wish any students to be involved in the labour and birth.

Environment: We will be using a variety of natural relaxation and pain management techniques, including hypnosis. To assist us in this process, I require that my environment has dimmed lights and that voices are respectfully lowered at all times. Please do not ask me a question during a contraction. Please knock lightly on the door before entering.

Labour: I prefer to allow labor to begin spontaneously and to progress without augmentation once it has started. I would like labour to be allowed to proceed at its natural pace, no time restrictions placed on any stage.

I do not want induction or augmentation by means of Pitocin or any other synthetic hormone. I will not consent at any time to the use of Cytotec.

I prefer that my membranes rupture on their own. In the event that the baby is posterior, I would definitely like to avoid AROM until baby has rotated to anterior.

Since mobility is extremely important to me, I request intermittent monitoring using a Doppler. I request that the number of internal exams be kept to a minimum.

Pain management: PLEASE DON’T OFFER ME PAIN MEDICATIONS OR SUGGEST THAT I NEED THEM, including an epidural. In particular, I do not want to use narcotics. If I feel I need medication to deal with pain, I will ask for nitronox.

In addition to hypnosis, we will use the following as tools: breathing/relaxation, music, use of the shower/tub, walking, birthing ball, massage, and position changes.

Second Stage: I request quiet coaching during the second stage. No loud cheerleading or counting, please.

As long as it is clear that my baby's heart tones are good and that s/he is receiving sufficient oxygen, I would like to be free of time limits on pushing.

I wish to avoid an episiotomy, and would prefer to tear naturally if it seems unavoidable. I request care of the perineum to prevent or minimize tearing, to include the use of warm compresses and controlled pushing.

Andrew does not want to cut the cord, but we ask that he be the one to announce the sex of the baby.

We ask that the cord not be cut until it stops pulsating.

Third Stage: I wish to receive a local anesthetic for perineal suturing if necessary.

Postpartum: I wish to have the baby placed on my abdomen immediately following birth.

Please postpone Vitamin K and eye medication until after the initial hour of quiet alertness and parental bonding is established.

I’d like to breastfeed as soon as baby is ready.

Cesarean Delivery: I REQUEST A SECOND OPINION BEFORE CONSENTING TO A C-SECTION.

I prefer anesthesia by epidural/spinal ONLY, with a general to be used only in the most dire of emergencies.

I do not wish to be given any medication via IV or epidural that will alter the baby’s or my alertness. This includes the use of any medication typically given to ‘help the mother rest’ after surgery.

My husband and doula are to be present during surgery.

Please remove my IV and catheter as soon as possible following my baby’s birth.

Please provide me with nutritious food and drink as soon as possible.

If the baby must be taken to the special care nursery, Andrew will accompany him/her.

I’d like skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding to take place as soon as possible.

[yellowwood mama]

These are all so, so great! :thumb Thanks to all for sharing. You're really inspiring me to get on the ball and start writing (or at least really, really thinking about it seriously)!

[blackberrymama]

Wow, these birth plans are so great to read! So many details I would never have thought to mention and certainly would have forgotten in the moment. I wasn't even really planning to write one, but now I think I should start cutting and pasting like mad.

But I must say, I was always given the impression (by my previous doula, midwife, birth class instructor, etc.) that providers don't really care about birth plans and may or may not respect them, and that detailed birth plans even annoy them to a point that might make things more difficult for you. In Stafl's birth plan she mentioned requesting that staff not chit-chat before or after a c-section (if a c-section were to happen) and while I WISH I had thought to request something like that during my son's birth (nothing made me feel more invisible and like less of a person than having the staff talk about their recent vacations while I was strapped to the table crying my eyes out!) it seems like a request like that would surely annoy them, like, "Who does this woman think she is, telling us what we are or are not allowed to talk about while we're working?!?"

Have you folks had good experiences with having your birth plans honored? Do you have recommendations for wording or item limits or anything that might help a birth plan go down more smoothly? Have I been completely misinformed about how birth plans are received by providers???

[Megs Mom]

When I went in for the twins, the nurses immediately asked me if I had a plan they could look over. I took that as a good sign. I had discussed it with my OB ahead of time, and she signed it, so I knew before I went in what would be do-able.

This time, my doula suggests a very brief first page with the most important elements on it, phrased very briefly. She's also going to make a couple of signs for the door (like dark, quiet and cool, please!)

[all boys]

Here is what we wrote up for our vbac in Dec 2002...based largely on what we "knew" to expect from the hospital policies.

The information contained in our Birth Preferences includes our desires and wishes for how we would like to see the birth of our child proceed. We understand that there is no way to “plan” his birth and that unexpected circumstances can arise. We ask that in such circumstances we be included in the discussion of the potential risks, benefits and the necessity of the procedure/intervention being proposed. We request the opportunity to have private time to consider such changes to our preferences.

FIRST STAGE LABOR

• Husband (Brian) and doula (Gina xxxx/or back up) present at all times
• Use of telemetry unit during active labor if monitoring is need.
• Room preference is a birthing room equipped with a tub/shower, a birthing bar, and a birth ball.
• Bring and utilize comfort measures such as music, hypnotherapy tapes, etc.
• Vaginal exams only upon mother’s consent, as few and as gentle as possible to avoid premature rupture of water membranes.
• Request that birthing room be dimly lit, no excess hospital staff, door to room kept closed, and privacy when requested.
• Freedom to move and walk around during labor.
• Use of tub or shower as desired.
• Liberty to consume clear juice/liquids, popsicles, ice chips, hard candy, etc.
• No augmentation of labor via artificial rupture of membranes or use of Pitocin without discussion and consent of mother.
• Please do not offer any pain medication.

SECOND STAGE OF LABOR

• Choice of positions for birthing.
• Room to remain dimly lit during delivery and bonding.
• Freedom to touch baby during delivery.
• Mother directed instinctive pushing rather than coach directed.
• Request that crowning stage be taken slowly with freedom to use compresses rather than episiotomy.
• Request that father assist in “catching” the baby.
• After suctioning, baby to be placed immediately on mother’s abdomen, skin to skin contact.
• Father to cut the cord when pulsating of the cord has stopped.
• Local anesthesia should there be tearing in need of repair.
• Private time for family bonding after delivery.

AFTER BIRTH

• Please perform all physical exams and weighing in room with parents present.
• Baby to be fed via formula/bottle feeding.
• Request that routine procedures and exams be delayed until after bonding time (appx. 1 hr).
• Bathing to occur in room in presence of parents.
• No pacifiers.
• If warming required, place baby on mother’s chest with blankets.
• In case of life threatening complications for baby or mother, request that Chaplin be called.

BIRTH PREFERENCES IF CESAREAN IS NECESSARY

DELIVERY

• Discuss medical reasons for cesarean.
• Husband and doula allowed in OR at all times including surgical prep.
• Doctor to narrate procedure and hold up baby for viewing after delivery.
• Photography by doula.
• Use of spinal instead of general anesthesia.

AFTER BIRTH

• Father to hold baby after birth, and place against mother’s cheek.
• Mother to have a minimum of one hand free/unstrapped following delivery in order to touch baby.
• Baby’s health to be judged on own merit. No special nursery care unless necessary and parents allowed to participate in decision-making process.
• Baby to room in with mother. No nursery visits unless requested.
• Please perform all physical exams and weighing in room with mother and father present.
• Request that routine procedures and exams be delayed until after bonding time (appx 1 hr).
• Bathing to occur in room in presence of mother.
• No pacifiers.
• In case of life threatening complications for baby or mother, request that Chaplin be called.

[Megs Mom]

:topic Hey, Cynthia, come visit us on the March due dates forum!