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Expecting Moms Should Create A Birth Plan

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - If you are pregnant you may want to consider developing a birth plan.

A birth plan is a written summary of what you want during your labor and delivery. It is a great idea.

Before making a birth plan, take some time to think about what's most important to you and your partner. Here are just a few ideas: any special instructions for your room, such as dim lighting or quiet; special options during labor such as a birthing chair or a warm bath.

You might want to think of positions you'd like to try for labor, such as standing, moving around, sitting, or lying down. Do you want your baby to remain in your room with you after birth? Do you want to breastfeed and, if you don't, is you hospital choice supportive of this?

These are all questions that you should think of ahead of time and the birth plan can be a big help.

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