Birth Plan

Monday evening I was slammed with a nasty cold.  I must have battled 3 or 4 of these already but it feels so much worse this time because of the size of my uterus.  It's up in my rib cage so every time I cough or have a sneezing fit, I think I am going to crack a rib.  I was supposed to do some meetings from 10:30 to 2:30 today and I just couldn't pull it together. In the last two nights I have only slept 1 hour at a time and eventually leave the bedroom for the glider or the couch.

Needless to say, I am behind on my spring break plans and blog updates.  Here's a quick one: the birth plan.  We just had our third trimester appointment with our doula last night and reviewed it with her.  Feedback is welcomed.  We are missing one piece regarding the placenta.  I am seeking a resource for placenta dehydration to use as pills for a speed recovery.  If I find an affordable resource I will include it in the plan.

Birth Plan for Vanessa and Pablo Garza

EDD: April 19, 2008

Our Birth Wishes...
Pablo and I are very excited about the birth of our first child. We have developed this wish list so that all involved will know how they can best help us. We do realize that circumstances may arise and that changes may occur.

During Labor
Freedom to use whatever position I find comfortable: standing, walking, squatting, birthball, etc.
Perform intermittent fetal monitoring.
I would like to use the shower as a comfort measure.
Listen to music and use dim lighting for relaxation.
Delay the use of an IV and would prefer a Saline Lock.
I am aware that pain medication is available to me and I will let you know if I want it...please do not ask.   

During Birth
To push in a variety of positions: semi-reclined, side-lying, squatting, hands and knees, etc.
To avoid an episiotomy and would prefer warm compresses, perineal support, peri- massage oil, and position of choice to achieve this.

Prefer to push with the urge and not with counting

After Birth
Do not suction the nose and mouth unless meconium is present 

I would like immediate skin-to-skin contact for the bonding and attempt self-latch breastfeeding.
Wait to cut the umbilical cord when it has stopped pulsating.

Have the father cut the umbilical cord.

Do not wipe the hands of the baby

Perform the newborn exam on my thigh.                                                                                         
We would like to delay any newborn procedures for the first hour.
We will delay the Hep B vaccine and have discussed this with our pediatrician.
I will breastfeed so please no bottles, nipples, pacifiers, etc.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for making this day a respectable one. We are eternally grateful for all your help, support and encouragement.

Signed  __________________________ (mom)       ____________________________ (dad)

            ___________________________ (doula)     _____________________________ (CNM)