If you're expecting your first child, you may have heard the words "birth plan" before, but you might not know what they mean. A birth plan is a document that describes your ideal outcome for your labor and delivery. It helps you articulate your preferences for medication, type of birth, and even who will be allowed in the delivery room. Here are four tips to help you create your birth plan.

1. Ask your obstetrician lots of questions.

When making your birth plan, it's important that you're as well-informed as possible. If there's anything you don't understand, don't hesitate to ask your obstetrician at any of your prenatal appointments. Establish a good relationship with your doctor so you feel comfortable calling them with any additional questions you think of in between doctor visits. Don't be embarrassed to ask personal questions. Your doctor has probably heard every possible question before, and nothing you say will shock them.

2. Discuss your desires ahead of time.

When you've decided what you want, whether that's a natural birth or a planned C-section, make sure to discuss it with your obstetrician. They can advise you on whether your desires are realistic, and it's a good idea to get everyone on the same page. Although you'll bring a copy of your birth plan on your delivery day, it's still a good idea to talk through it in advance.

3. Print several copies.

Print several copies of your birth plan and give a copy to each of the medical staff who will be assisting you. Give one to each of your nurses and to your obstetrician, since you don't know who will be assisting you when it's time for you to finally give birth. It's easy for papers to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the labor and delivery ward, so you should also keep a copy of your birth plan with you.

4. Be flexible.

While it's a great idea to have a detailed birth plan, in reality, giving birth is an unpredictable situation. You have to be ready for the possibility that things may not go according to plan. This is one of the reasons it's so important to choose an obstetrician that you trust so you know they're making the best decisions for the health of you and your baby when things don't go as planned.

A birth plan is very important. It can help ensure that your delivery is as pleasant and easy as possible. You will be very busy during labor, so your birth plan will communicate your desires to your medical team while you focus on having a baby.

Discover more about what an obstetrician can help you with by contacting an OB/GYN clinic in your area today.