birth. You don’t have to create a birth plan, but if you would like one your midwife will be able to help. Discussing a birth plan with your midwife will give you the chance to ask questions and find out more about what happens in labour. It also gives your midwife the chance to get to know you better and understand your feelings and priorities. You can fill in or print out a birth plan at www.nhs/birthplan. If you do not have a computer your midwife can print you a copy.


You’ll probably want to think about or discuss some things more fully with the baby’s father, and your friends and relatives. Remember that you can change your mind about your wishes for labour and birth at any time.


Your birth plan is personal to you. It will depend not only on what you want, but also on your medical history, your circumstances, and what is available at your maternity service. What may be safe and practical for one pregnant woman may


Massage classes for all the family...


isa at Leamington Therapy Centre has been in practice since 2001; her baby massage classes teach the expectant mother or father not just massage techniques but also about reflexology points and how to create home-made oils and pillow sprays.


L


Lisa works with groups and on a one-to- one basis at her clinic and in the comfort of parents’ own homes on days and at times that suit Mum, Dad and baby.


For more information call Lisa Moore on: 01926 833003 or visit her website: www.leamingtontherapycentre.co.uk Small Steps 4


Making your birth plan... A


birth plan is a record of what you would like to happen during your labour and after the


not be a good idea for another.


It’s a good idea to keep a copy of your birth plan


with you. The maternity team who care for you during labour will discuss it with you so they know what you want.


But it is important to remember that you need to be flexible and prepared to do things differently from your birth plan if complications arise with you or your baby, or if facilities such as a birth pool are not available. The maternity team will tell you what they advise in your particular circumstances.


Things to consider • pain relief options • where and how you can give birth • forceps or ventouse (intervention or instrumental delivery) • your baby after the birth


You can also work out whether there is anything you feel strongly about and might wish to include.


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