Preparation and planning guide · Published:
Published by: Ebe Melike · Our approach to content and sources
A birth preferences plan is a short communication tool that tells your healthcare team what matters to you. It cannot decide every detail of birth in advance, but it can help you think about the support you would like. The most useful plan is one that can be read easily and revisited together when needed.
Begin with how you would like to feel
Sentences such as “I would like an explanation before a procedure” or “I feel tense when the room is crowded” express a need directly. Start with the conditions that help you feel safe and comfortable. Then discuss with your team how these might be supported in hospital.
The NHS birth plan guide covers companions, relaxation and pain relief preferences, the birth environment and your baby's first care. Use these as a checklist; you do not have to choose or decide every option in advance.
Prepare a one-page draft
The outline below helps start a conversation without a long document. One or two sentences about what matters most to you in each section are enough.
- Communication: How would you like things explained, and what support would help when you do not understand?
- Privacy: What are your preferences about people in the room and taking photographs?
- Comfort: Where appropriate, which movement, positioning or relaxation options would you like to discuss?
- First hours: If your health allows, what would you like to know about first contact and breastfeeding support?
Discuss it with your hospital
Companion rules, room facilities and clinical practices differ. Bring up your plan during pregnancy care instead of simply packing it in your bag. If a request may not be possible, explain the need behind it; for example, discuss privacy before asking for a particular room.
Medical circumstances may change, and the plan may change too. This does not make your preferences less valuable. When appropriate, ask for an explanation of the proposed change and the next step. Avoid judging yourself as having succeeded or failed based on the outcome of birth.
Let your support person know the plan
The person beside you can read the plan to help remember your wishes and support communication, rather than make decisions for you. Even the answer to a small question such as “Would talking or quiet feel better right now?” can change during labour.
Date your draft after discussing it. If your preferences change later, use one current copy instead of circulating old and new versions together.
Related midwife support
Explore the scope of support on the Birth preparation page. For conversations outside Istanbul, explore support options across Turkey.
Related questions
Will every part of my plan definitely happen?
No. What is appropriate depends on your and your baby's health, hospital facilities and assessments during birth. The plan makes your preferences clear.
Can I prepare a plan for a planned caesarean birth?
Yes. You can discuss communication, privacy, your companion and support after birth with your team, whatever mode of birth is planned.
