What a birth plan is for
A birth plan tells your midwives and doctors what matters to you. It is a list of wishes, not a contract: labour does not always go as planned, and your care team will talk with you about the safest choices.
What your plan can cover
Place of birth and who is with you
Hospital, midwife-led unit or home; your birth partners; and whether trainee midwives and doctors may be present.
Moving, positions and equipment
Staying active or resting, and things like a birth pool, a birth ball or dimmed lights.
Pain relief
From breathing and water to gas and air or an epidural, or simply “let’s discuss on the day”.
After the birth
Skin-to-skin contact, how you would like to feed your baby, and vitamin K for your baby.
If you need help to give birth or a caesarean
Whether you want your birth partner with you if you need forceps, ventouse or a caesarean (NHS).
Language, religious or access needs
An interpreter (also sign language), food, religious or other special needs: add anything that matters to you in the last step (HSE).
When to write it, and who to show it to
- Talk about it with your midwife or doctor a few weeks before your due date.
- Keep a printed copy in your hospital bag.
- Share it with your birth partner.
If plans change
Many births do not go exactly as planned, and that is normal. If a wish is not possible, your midwife or doctor will explain why and help you choose. Your plan still helps them know what matters to you.
Questions people ask
Do I need a birth plan?
No, it is optional. Your midwife or doctor will explain your choices during labour anyway, but a plan helps you think about what matters to you (HSE).
When should I write my birth plan?
Many people write it after antenatal classes, then talk it through with their midwife or doctor a few weeks before the due date (HSE).
How long should a birth plan be?
One or two pages is enough. Short, clear wishes are easier for a busy team to read.
What if my birth doesn’t go to plan?
That is common. A plan is a list of wishes, not a contract. Your team will explain if something changes and help you choose the safest option (NHS).
Can I make a plan for a caesarean?
Yes. You can say whether you want your birth partner with you if you need a caesarean (NHS). Talk your other wishes, like skin-to-skin, through with your care team.
Can I add language or religious needs?
Yes. Add needs like an interpreter, food, religion or access needs in the last step (HSE).
Who should have a copy?
You, your birth partner and your midwife. Keep a printed copy in your hospital bag.
Read the full guide: Birth plan template
Sources
- NHS: What to include in your birth plan · checked October 26, 2026
- HSE Ireland: Birth plans · checked October 26, 2026