Birth preferences for homebirth, birth centre or hospital

I prefer the term birth preferences or birth map because birth is not a checklist you have to complete. Your preferences are a way to tell your team what matters, and to think ahead about decisions you might be asked to make.

Start with what matters most

Think beyond positions and playlists. Do you want explanations before examinations? Who do you want speaking with you if a decision is needed? What helps you feel safe? Would you like your baby placed straight on your chest when possible? Is there anything from a previous birth that your team should know?

Keep the important points clear and easy to scan. A page or two is often enough. Talk it through with your midwife or doctor rather than only handing it over on the day.

Homebirth considerations

With a planned, professionally attended homebirth, you might describe your preferred environment, water use, people attending and care for older children. Also talk through your midwife’s clinical equipment, indications for transfer, travel arrangements, and what you want to happen if you or your baby need hospital care. A transfer plan is simply thoughtful preparation.

Birth centre considerations

Ask about admission criteria, water availability, pain relief choices, monitoring, and when transfer to a labour ward might be recommended. A birth centre may have a different scope of care from a hospital birth suite, even when both are on the same site.

Hospital considerations

Your preferences might include a calm environment, freedom to move where safe, intermittent versus continuous monitoring when clinically appropriate, your thoughts on pain relief, and a request to discuss proposed interventions before they occur. Ask which choices depend on your particular hospital or health circumstances.

Include a “what if things change?” section

• Who should be present and how would you like explanations given?
• If caesarean birth is recommended, what is important to you about communication, your support person and meeting your baby?
• If your baby needs special care, who will go with them and how will you receive updates?
• What are your preferences for skin-to-skin, feeding and photographs when safe and possible?

Your preferences can change during labour. You always have the right to ask questions and make informed decisions. If this is new territory, start with my guide to informed consent and the overview of birth options around Perth and Mandurah.

Further reading

• Birth choices and preferences — Pregnancy, Birth and Baby
• Being a birth support partner — Pregnancy, Birth and Baby

This article is general education, not personal medical advice. Your midwife, GP or obstetrician can help you understand what applies to your individual circumstances.