Weiss Family Birth Plan
October 2000
We are planning our third homebirth and have very few requests, although we have learned that we do need to be clear about our expectations of our support team as well as what we plan to do for ourselves.
During early labor we intend to maintain our normal schedule, but we will alert everyone that the time is drawing near. Our children, Hilary, Benjamin, and Isaac have been prepared for this day and will be accompanied by Kellie Powell for their support. The children will be in and out during the entire process, having the freedom to come and go as Robin needs or as they wish.
Our house will be open to those awaiting the baby, however, we would prefer that you stay downstairs unless invited in. Please help yourself to the telephone, television, kitchen, etc. There is no smoking in our home. Also, strong perfumes and the like also aggravate our allergies. Please wear clothing that is not distracting.
Support is the intended mainstay for comfort measures, the use of our tub, massage, and relaxation are also very important. We are very flexible for the rest of the labor plans, and intend to see what works at the time.
Once the birth draws near, we would like to continue the quiet surroundings. As we've found out, babies come when they are ready, so we don't have one particular place designated for the birth. Our bed will be made should the birth occur there. Kevin or Robin will catch the baby. Hilary will be announcing the gender of the baby, although you may need to remind her to do so.
We would prefer that the cord be cut after it has stopped pulsating; this will be Benjamin's job. For educational purposes, we would like Hilary and Benjamin to be present while you examine the placenta, and to be allowed to use gloves and to look at the placenta in depth, if they wish.
When everyone is settled, Kevin and Robin would like some time alone with the new baby, and possibly the other children.
Thank you very much for being a part of the birth.
