A Step-by-Step Guide to Birth Plans in Surrogacy

teaminclusives
Sep 11
2 min read

Putting together a birth plan is an important part of the surrogacy journey. It helps ensure that both the surrogate and the intended parents share a clear understanding of roles, expectations, and preferences during labor and delivery. A thoughtful plan not only reduces stress but also creates a smoother, more meaningful birth experience for everyone involved.

Why a Birth Plan Matters

A birth plan is essentially a roadmap for labor and delivery. It outlines preferences for the birthing environment, medical interventions, pain management, and post-birth care. For surrogates and intended parents, creating this plan together fosters open communication, avoids misunderstandings, and ensures a more harmonious experience on delivery day.

Steps to Creating a Birth Plan

Start Early: Begin conversations about the birth plan early in pregnancy to give everyone time to share preferences and make necessary arrangements.
Keep Communication Open: Discuss expectations honestly—covering topics like birth location, delivery type (vaginal or cesarean), pain management, and who will be present in the delivery room.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Meet with the medical team to confirm that the plan is both safe and realistic. Their guidance ensures medical needs are balanced with personal wishes.
Define Roles and Responsibilities: Clarify who will do what during labor and delivery. Decide who will be in the room, who may cut the cord, and who will provide skin-to-skin contact after birth.
Plan for Emergencies: Talk through potential scenarios—such as cesarean sections or other interventions—and agree in advance how decisions will be made.
Post-Birth Care: Outline newborn care preferences, including who holds the baby first, feeding choices, and bonding time for the intended parents. Don’t forget to include recovery needs for the surrogate.
Address Legal Considerations: Ensure the plan aligns with the surrogacy agreement and any legal requirements, especially around establishing parental rights after delivery.

Key Components of a Birth Plan

A complete birth plan often includes:

Personal Information: Names and contact details for the surrogate, intended parents, and healthcare provider.
Birthing Environment: Hospital, birthing center, or home birth preferences.
Labor Preferences: Preferred positions, use of aids (like a birthing ball), or special techniques (like water birth).
Pain Management: Choices ranging from natural methods to epidurals or medications.
Medical Interventions: Preferences for induction, episiotomy, or assisted delivery tools.
Post-Birth Procedures: Decisions about umbilical cord cutting, first contact, and initial feeding.
Special Requests: Cultural, religious, or personal considerations that are meaningful to those involved.

Finalizing the Plan

Once drafted, the plan should be reviewed and agreed upon by the surrogate, intended parents, and healthcare provider. Copies should be shared with everyone involved. Revisit the plan throughout the pregnancy to make adjustments if circumstances or preferences change.

Creating a birth plan isn’t just about logistics—it’s about collaboration, trust, and shared intention. By preparing together, surrogates and intended parents can approach the birth experience with clarity and confidence, ensuring it becomes a positive, memorable milestone for all.