A birth plan is a simple list that informs your doctor, midwife and nurses of what you’d like to happen.  Of course, you might not be able to stick to it, but preparing a wish list for how you'd like things to go is good way to start thinking about birth.

Here are key things a birth plan should include:

• Where do you want to deliver?
• Do you want music playing?
• Should someone film the birth?

Who do you want with you during labor and delivery?

• Your children, parents or grandparents
• Do you want a coach or doula present
• Is there anyone you want kept out of the room

Have you considered

• birthing positions or equipment
• stirrups

Do you have strong feelings about

• forceps
• vacuum extraction
• a cesarean section (C-section)

• Who will cut the umbilical cord?
• Are there specific ways you'd like to bond with your baby?

Once you've made a list of these preferences, share them with your care team, give a copy to your partner and keep a copy in your hospital bag. Be prepared to be flexible, as childbirth is unpredictable. Most professionals try to honor your birth plan requests as long as they're safe in that moment for you and your baby.