Crafting Your Birth Preferences
Congrats!! You’re pregnant!! It’s a lot of big, messy, mixed emotions when we find out, and then the nausea sets in, and then the cute bump, the fun of planning a nursery and baby shower comes, and lastly preparing for birth! Yikes - most mamas don’t prepare for birth until are deep in the third trimester.
Welcoming your baby earthside is one of the most transformative moments of your life. While birth can be unpredictable, having a thoughtful and flexible birth plan allows you to feel prepared, empowered, and in control.
At Looma Birth, we like to think of it like planning an outdoor wedding—you have a vision for the perfect day, but you also prepare a backup plan in case the weather takes a turn. Your birth plan works the same way! It helps you set intentions for the birth experience you dream of while giving you the confidence to pivot if needed.
Here’s how to create a birth plan that honors your values, preferences, and unique journey—while staying open to the unexpected.
Step 1: Get to Know Your Birth Plan
Think of your birth plan as a guide, not a script—a simple way to share your wishes for labor, delivery, and postpartum care with your support team. It helps you communicate what’s most important to you while staying open to the unexpected.
Step 2: Explore Your Preferences
Before you put anything on paper, take a moment to reflect on what feels right for you. Ask yourself:
What kind of environment do I want? Dim lights and calm music, or a space with energy and movement?
Who will support me? A partner, doula, or a trusted friend or family member?
How do I feel about discomfort care? Do I want to focus on natural techniques like breathing and movement, or would I like to keep medical options like an epidural on the table?
What are my thoughts on interventions? Understanding things like inductions, cesareans, and episiotomies can help you make informed decisions. Research your birth location’s policies and stats to get a sense of what to expect.
What happens after birth? Would you like immediate skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, or support with breastfeeding?
Step 3: Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power! The more you learn about birth, the more confident you’ll feel in making choices that align with your values. Attend prenatal classes, read reliable resources, and have open conversations with your provider. At Looma Birth, our parenting education classes cover everything from labor stages to newborn care—so you feel fully prepared.
Step 4: Write It Down
Now that you have a clear idea of your preferences, put them in writing! Keep it simple and easy to skim. Consider including:
✅ Your name & contact info
✅ Who will be in the room with you
✅ Key preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care
✅ Any medical conditions or allergies your team should know about
Step 5: Talk With Your Provider
Schedule a time to go over your birth plan with your provider so they understand your preferences. It’s common for providers to have a longer meeting with you around 36 weeks to discuss these Birth Preferences. This also gives you a chance to discuss any medical considerations and how flexible your plan might need to be.
Step 6: Be Open to Change
Birth is unpredictable, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to stick to a rigid plan but to feel informed and empowered no matter how things unfold. Knowing what may or may not come, and how you feel about it is a huge step! Trust your team, listen to your instincts, and know that your choices matter.
How Looma Birth Supports Your Birth Journey
At Looma Birth, we believe every mama deserves the knowledge, support, and confidence to navigate birth and postpartum with ease. Here’s how we can help.
Birth Education Classes
Fun, engaging sessions covering everything from birth prep to postpartum recovery.
Doula Support
Personalized care from experienced doulas who help you feel calm and empowered.
Looma Community
Stay strong and connected with prenatal fitness classes and community events.
Postpartum Care
Lactation support, newborn care guidance, and everything you need to transition into motherhood smoothly.
Creating a birth plan is a beautiful way to prepare for this life-changing experience. And you don’t have to do it alone!
Visit www.loomabirth.com to learn more about how we can support you every step of the way.
