LITTLE SHOP

Your Birth Plan

Giving birth is a miraculous experience, but it can also be a time of last-minute decisions because of all that is happening around you. Talking to your doctor about your birthing preferences is always helpful but sometimes isn't enough. When it comes time to deliver, your doctor may not be available, and the person on call may not be aware of your wishes.

What is a birth plan?
A birth plan is a simple and clear way to let your doctor know what you would like during labor and delivery. It is a simple letter stating your preferences.

When to write a birth plan
You should discuss your birth plan with your doctor between 32 to 36 weeks into your pregnancy. Your doctor should be able to tell you how much flexibility the hospital will allow when you make choices for your labor and delivery.

Who should see it
Once you have finalized your birth plan with your doctor, make sure to give copies to:
. Your doctor (one for your office chart and one to send with your records to the birthing site)
. Your support people (i.e. labor coach, family)
. The birthing site - pack copies in your suitcase and give one to the admitting staff, one to keep in the birthing room, one to your labor coach & one for yourself

If you change your mind during delivery about the information on your birth plan, don't worry. It's merely a statement of preferences, not a legal contract. However, remember that a birth plan will never override medically necessary procedures.

Choosing the Birth Setting that is Right for You

How do you envision yourself giving birth? Are you surrounded by friends and family, in a quiet setting alone with your mate, or, perhaps, on a busy labor floor with many doctors and nurses looking after you? Would you feel safest and most secure in your home or a hospital? And which health care provider will you trust to help you to give birth to your baby?

Thinking about your options in pregnancy care and childbirth can be a daunting task. But if you take the opportunity to research your options you are much more likely to look back at your birthing experience with satisfaction.

Where does one start?
Referrals: Ask friends, playground acquaintances, co-workers, your health care providers, etc., about their birthing experiences and if they would recommend their providers.

Meet and Interview: Make an appointment, and take your notebook and list of questions! Think about what you want, and focus on those topics.
Evaluate the Settings: Tour the hospital labor units in your area. Take a good look at your home as an option.

The Printed Word: Visit your library or bookstore. You will be amazed at the number and range of books about pregnancy and childbirth!

	Tips for Planning a Baby Shower
	Baby Shower Themes - Themes for showers are abundant. You could have a traditional baby shower with a light luncheon and baby games or a girlfriends' evening out at a great restaurant. Showers for Subsequent Children - ost people think of baby showers as being only for the first born in the family. But each baby is special and should be celebrated. Shower Gifts - Since mom is focusing most of her time and energy on her pregnancy you may choose to pamper her a bit. Give her a gift certificate for a manicure and pedicure, prenatal body massage, or spa day. Also popular are gift certificates for pre- and post-delivery portrait photography and even belly casting.

	Pregnancy Mementos
	Mommy's Album Save photos & keepsakes in a "Mommy Album". It is a fun way to record your pregnancy over the course of nine months. And it can be a great teaching tool when your little one some day asks, "Where do babies come from?" or "What will my little brother/sister look like?"! Dear Diary Keep a journal. It's therapeutic and may remind you of questions you'd like to ask your health care provider! A Belly Cast Make arrangements to have a belly cast made. It's unique, it's permanent, & it's art! Baby's Birthday Card Send a greeting card to your baby (drop it in the mail days before your due date). You just may get lucky and receive it "on time". Or, write a letter to your child to be read years from now. Measure Your Belly You will likely want to save the measuring tape from baby's first exam. Why not save a measuring tape of your belly? It can be saved alongside of baby's tape, or it can be a helpful encouragement as you lose your baby weight after baby's birth.

	Tips for Buying Maternity Clothing
	. Purchase fewer pieces and opt for higher quality so your wardrobe will look every bit as crisp at the end of your pregnancy as the day you bought it. . Stick to classic colors in basic pieces that are easy to match. . Select skirts and pants that have no-panel waistbands with plenty of stretch to gently escort you over the post-baby threshold. . Follow the manufacturer's washing instructions - they put the fabrics through rigorous testing and know how to achieve the best results. . For more demanding suit needs, consider a second suit in an alternate color or chic black & white pinstripes that coordinates with blouses and top. An additional separate print top and/or pant can be easily woven into weekend or evening wardrobe.