Birth Plan: A Right, a Source of Support, a Space for Dialogue
At the Maternity Unit of the American Hospital of Paris, we are committed to supporting you with kindness, attentiveness, and respect throughout your pregnancy and delivery.
A birth plan is fully part of this approach. It is a right for every patient and a valuable tool to reflect in advance on your wishes and how you would like to experience this important milestone. It also helps you envision not only the moment of birth but also the first hours and days with your baby.
Your partner is welcome to take part in expressing their wishes alongside you.
A Document to Support You—Even in the Unexpected
A birth plan is not a rigid list of requests, but a starting point for open discussion. It allows you to express your preferences, expectations, concerns, or uncertainties. It helps you prepare for what you hope for—and think about how you'd like to be supported if things go differently than planned.
For example:
- In case of a cesarean birth, whether scheduled or decided during labor (presence of a partner, dimmed lighting, option to lower the surgical drape at the time of birth),
- In case instruments are used (vacuum, forceps),
- Or in any unforeseen medical situation requiring adjustments to your initial preferences.
Even if not all scenarios can be anticipated, discussing them beforehand often makes them easier to face.
Our goal is that you feel informed, supported, and involved every step of the way.
We're Here to Help You Write It
If you're not sure where to start, we can assist you in creating your birth plan.
A guide created based on input from healthcare professionals (obstetricians, midwives, anesthesiologists) and patient associations is available should you wish to use it.
It consists of simple questions to help you express your preferences.
A Trust-Based Dialogue
Talk to the care team during your prenatal appointments. This conversation helps us better understand your wishes and assess together whether they align with our care model and the medical context.
Your partner is also encouraged to share their expectations with the team.
We will always do our best to respect your choices, while ensuring your safety and that of your baby.
