Example completed birth preferences: calm hospital birth

About me and my birth partner

My birth partner is my partner. I would like them to be with me and included in conversations wherever possible. We are using breathing and relaxation techniques, and I would appreciate calm, kind support throughout labour and birth.

Place of birth and environment

I am planning to give birth in hospital. If possible, I would prefer a private room and access to a birthing pool for comfort and pain relief. I would like the room to feel calm, with dim lighting and minimal noise where possible. I would like to be able to play my own music or audio tracks, and I am happy to use headphones if preferred.

Communication and language

I would appreciate clear explanations in plain English. Positive, calm encouragement would help me. If plans change or decisions need to be made, please explain what is happening, what the options are and what happens next. Please include my birth partner in conversations wherever possible.

Pain relief and comfort

I would like to try breathing, movement, relaxation techniques, music and gas and air first where possible. I am not opposed to further pain relief, including an epidural, but I would like my options explained clearly and to ask for this if I need it.

Movement and positions

Where possible, I would like to stay mobile and use upright, forward leaning or open positions. I would prefer not to lie on my back unless clinically necessary. Please offer guidance on positions that may help me feel more comfortable or help labour progress.

Second stage and birth

If everything is safe, I would prefer calm support and guidance rather than being rushed. I would like to be encouraged to breathe and stay calm. I would like immediate skin to skin after birth where possible. If I am unable to hold the baby straight away, I would like my birth partner to be offered skin to skin if appropriate.

Third stage and cord preferences

If safe and appropriate, I would like my options around cord clamping and placenta delivery explained clearly. I would like my birth partner to cut the cord if possible. Please note any cord blood or tissue collection arrangements if relevant.

If plans change

I understand that birth can change quickly and that my preferences may need to adapt depending on my health, my baby’s health and clinical advice. If plans need to change, please explain what is happening, why it is being recommended, what the options are and what happens next. Please include my birth partner wherever possible.

Caesarean birth preferences

If a caesarean becomes the safest option, I would prefer to be awake if clinically appropriate and for my birth partner to be present where possible. If safe, I would like skin to skin as soon as possible after birth and support with feeding.

After birth and feeding

I would like skin to skin after birth where possible. I would like support with feeding after birth, including breastfeeding support if this is how I choose to feed my baby. I would like my baby's post-birth care options, including vitamin K, to be explained clearly so I can confirm my choices. Please explain any post-birth care decisions clearly.