1 of 4

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 3

the doctors "drop the drape" for the delivery of the baby. During the initial stages of delivery, there is a drape of cloth hung over your chest so that you cannot see the surgery itself. If desired, when the time comes for the baby to be pulled out of the incision, the nurses can remove the drape and hold up your head so that you can see your newborn as he or she enters the world.

If you do not choose to view the actual birth moment, you can opt to have the baby brought around to your view immediately, or you may choose to wait until the baby has been cleaned up at the warming table and bundled in a blanket and cap. If your partner or spouse chooses to watch the birth event, you can ask the doctors to let your partner discover the sex of the child.

After the baby is taken to the warming table, the umbilical cord will be further trimmed down. If your partner is interested, he can cut the cord at this time. Although largely ceremonial, as the cord was initially cut by the doctor during surgery, this can help your partner feel more involved and participate in the experience.

Some women wish to view the placenta after it is removed from the uterus. Most operating room staff will be more than happy to show you the placenta, if you wish. Some hospitals, though not all, will allow you to take the placenta home with you if you wish to plant it under a tree or in a garden plot. However, you should not consume a placenta that has been removed by cesarean as it will contain traces of any medications that you have been given.

If you wish to have a tubal ligation, you will be able to have it done at this time. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor beforehand. The benefit of having a tubal ligation done at this point is a reduction the financial cost of a tubal and because it adds no extra healing time to your recovery.

After a few minutes with your newborn, he or she will most likely be taken to the nursery for blood tests and administration of the Hepatitis B vaccine, antibiotic eye ointment, and/or Vitamin K shots. If you do not wish your child to receive any or all of these, be sure to state this clearly on your birth plan and to the doctors involved. If your partner accompanies the newborn to the nursery, he can act as an advocate for your wishes there.

Once the surgery is complete, you will be taken either to a dedicated recovery or post-op room, or to a combination Labor/Deliver/Recovery (LDR) room. Discuss your hospital's policies with your doctor. If your

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Sample birth plan for the childbirth experience parents desire?
We want to hear your view. Write now!