Having a baby can be a wonderful experience. The New York State Department of Health wants you and your family to have the safest and most rewarding childbirth possible. To do this, start now to make plans with your family
and with your caregiver (doctor or licensed midwife). This booklet will help you better understand childbirth and the choices available to you. With that understanding, you can work with your caregiver to develop a Birth Plan. A Birth Plan is a personal guide to your labor and delivery. It contains information you will need at the time you are giving birth, and includes opportunities for you to make choices about your labor and delivery. An outline for a Birth Plan is provided at the end of this booklet. If you find that you are alone, tell your caregiver. He or she can help. And be sure to talk with your caregiver about any special needs you may have that are required by your religion, family traditions or culture.