Birth plan and questions for your midwife - PDF checklist
A birth plan helps you tell your care team what matters to you. You can note your needs around communication, support, comfort and the first moments with your baby. Treat it as the start of a conversation: available options and safe care depend on the pregnancy, labour and the wellbeing of both mum and baby. Preferences can change.
Preferences can change
You do not need every answer in advance. Write down what you want to learn and leave some decisions for discussion. The document should support communication even when a change of care is needed. Ask for an explanation of the options and update your arrangements as you go.
Start with what matters to you
Choose a few key needs instead of copying a long list of ready-made decisions. Calm communication may be essential for one person, while another prioritises a loved one's presence or information about pain relief. Ask your chosen hospital which options are available and what depends on individual medical circumstances.
Connect your plan with practical preparations
Keep the plan with the documents your hospital requests. Your support person can know your preferences and help you communicate with the team. They do not need to know the medical answers. Organise your bag, journey and paperwork separately so your preferences remain easy to find and read.
Preparation checklist
Communication and feeling safe
- Discuss how you would like proposed examinations and care explained, and how you can ask questions.
- Note any language, sensory or accessibility needs, or previous difficult experiences you want to share with staff.
- Agree who you would like with you and check the hospital's arrangements for a support person.
- Ask about privacy and the presence of trainees; discuss your preferences with the team.
Comfort and labour
- Ask about available pain relief, its limitations and whether you can change your mind.
- Discuss movement, positions, a shower or other available facilities, taking medical needs into account.
- Find out whom to ask questions and how staff will explain a need to change earlier plans.
- Ask about eating, drinking, monitoring and using equipment in your own circumstances.
First moments and possible changes
- Discuss contact with your baby after birth, considering mum's and baby's health and safe observation.
- Note what support you would like with the first feed and the questions you want to ask.
- Ask about care, communication and your support person's role if a caesarean or separation from your baby is needed.
- Review your plan with a midwife or doctor, prepare a copy and show your support person where it is kept.
Questions to discuss with a professional
- Which of my preferences can be supported here, and what might need to change?
- How will things be explained if additional care is needed?
- How can support and contact with my baby be arranged if labour takes a different course?
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a completed birth plan?
You can start with a few questions or needs. Ask your hospital about its own form and how to share your arrangements. Discussion and the option to update preferences matter most.
Can I change my mind during labour?
Your needs may change. Tell staff and discuss the options available in your current circumstances. Earlier preferences do not stop you asking questions or changing a decision.
How to use this checklist
Tick the points you have discussed or prepared and add your own arrangements. Ticking a box does not confirm safety, health status or completion of a medical procedure. Revisit the checklist as your family's needs change.