Birthplace decisions - planning where to give birth: guidance - easy read

Planning where to give birth

Planning where to give birth is an important decision. You can make it at any time during your pregnancy and in early labour. You can also change your plans at any stage.

When you are pregnant staff will talk to you about you and your baby’s health. They will advise you of your choices of where you can give birth. They will help you make the right decision for you.

Health care staff will give you information about benefits and risks of the different places. They can answer any questions you have.

You will have a choice of places. They should all be comfortable and give you privacy.

To find out more see It’s Okay to Ask! – Publication | NHS inform and Realistic Medicine | NHS inform

Making your birth plan

You should make a birth and after birth plan with staff. It should be looked at during your pregnancy. It should say what matters to you, what has been spoken about and what you have chosen.

An important part of the plan is choosing the place that is right for you.

Your decisions will be recorded in your birth plan. This will be updated at each appointment. You can change your mind at any time.

When making your plan, you can think about:

• what sort of birth you would like. Who you want supporting you. Where you feel safe and supported.
• travel and time for you and your birth partner(s).
• if you or your baby may need medical help.
• being able to have care from a doctor.
• what type of pain relief will be available.
• whether you want to use a birthing pool.

All of the places you can give birth should have people who are kind, respectful, and support your choice and rights.

All places should have one-to-one care. There should be privacy and support with feeding.

Families should be supported to remain together.

For further information see the Ready Steady Baby! resource on Your Birth Plan.