Options To Consider When Creating Your Birth Plan
Hi, I’m Lily, a midwife with 12 years of experience supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. I’m fun-loving, open, and always happy to answer any and all questions, no matter how big or small. You’ll find me on the Tommee Tippee stand at the Baby Show, all weekend where I’ll be chatting, supporting, and helping you feel confident in your choices. I’m so excited to meet you all.
I’m really looking forward to seeing you at the Baby Show on 10th May at 10:30am on the main stage, where I’ll be hosting my talk: Write Your Birth Plan With Midwife Lily.
Today, I wanted to talk a little about the different options available when it comes to creating your birth plan.
You might already have access to electronic notes, such as Badger Notes (most UK hospitals use this) where you can create a birth plan. These are great for covering the basics and ensuring your NHS midwife understands your key preferences. Alternatively, you can download an NHS birth plan template or something similar. These tend to be more detailed but can sometimes feel lengthy or even a little overwhelming.
At my talk, you’ll be provided with a birth plan that is concise, easy to use, and practical. You can fill it out with me during the session or simply take notes and complete it in your own time, whatever works best for you.
One of the most important things to remember is that birth doesn’t always go to plan. A birth plan isn’t about scripting every single moment. It’s also not enough (or safe) to simply write “I want a vaginal water birth with no tearing, no episiotomy, and no intervention.” While that may be the ideal (for many people), birth can take unexpected turns.
What really matters is thinking about how you would feel and what you might want if circumstances change. For example, what if you’re faced with the decision of an instrumental birth? What if you need to get out of the pool and move to the delivery suite for an epidural? What if, even at 10cm dilated, you’re advised that a caesarean section is the safest option?
Preparing for the unknown is key. And the best way to do that is to read, learn, and put pen to paper. A well-thought-out birth plan helps your team understand not just your preferences, but your priorities, your concerns, and how best to support you if plans need to change.
I’m so excited to help guide you through this.
See you very soon,
Midwife Lily
Find me on socials: @midwifelilyy
For educational sessions in groups or 1-1 format visit frombumpstobabies.net

