Every well-prepared couple should develop a delivery plan to discuss with their obstetrician during prenatal visits. It is a good idea to prepare this plan during the second trimester (middle three months of the pregnancy) so that changes can be made if appropriate.

Here are some decisions that should be made:

1) Who can (and will) be in the labor room with Mom.

2) Type of anesthesia, and use of medications for pain.

3) Location of hospital where baby will be born.

4) Specific preferences of the family and of the
parents-to-be.

The obstetrician will discuss the types of deliveries available and what would constitute reasons for a C-section. A meeting of the minds of the doctor and both parents provides peace of mind through this wonderful but sometimes nerve-wracking process.