THE BIRTH PLAN: NOMENCLATURE, DECISION-MAKING AND INVOLVEMENT OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Authors

  • Natalia Gijón García Universitat de Barcelona

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1344/musas2016.vol1.num2.9

Keywords:

Pregnancy, childbirth, Birth Plan, midwife, decision-making

Abstract

Background: The Birth Plan is a document in which women can express their preferences, needs, desires and expectations regarding the process of labour and birth.

Objectives: To describe the Birth Plan and to outline the role of midwives in its preparation and creation.

Method: Bibliographical review searches in these databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Cuidatge and Enfispo.

Results: Twelve articles were retrieved: ten original articles and two literature reviews. Five articles used a qualitative methodology with a phenomenological focus, and five used a quantitative methodology with a variety of designs: two cohort studies, two case-control studies, and one experimental.

Conclusion: Midwives play an essential role in carrying out a Birth Plan. The prospective mother should make a realistic, flexible plan to make the birth experience as positive as possible. To this end, a relationship of trust must be built up with the midwife and time must be made available for discussion.

Author Biography

Natalia Gijón García, Universitat de Barcelona

Nurse from Universitat de Barcelona

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Published

2016-07-29

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 2 (2016): Chilbirth in Historical and Social Perspective

Section

Women and Family

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