Overall Philosophy

Labor and birth are natural processes that the female body was designed to accomplish. The end goal is a healthy mom and baby. We would like to reach that goal in the most natural way possible.

Visitors

Friends and family are welcome to visit After the delivery. We ask that only mother, father, birth photographer and medical staff be present for the delivery itself, any checks or interventions, any procedures done on the baby, and any nursing sessions. Visitors may be asked to leave the room at mother or father’s request.

Photography

As a birth photographer myself, documenting my own labor/birth experience is very important to me. There will be a birth photographer present at all times during this labor/delivery. (Who also happens to be my best friend) I add this so no one is caught off guard. She understand Dr Whitaker's wishes. 

Labor

I would like to have freedom of movement and position for as long as possible during the laboring process. If possible, inbetween doses of antibiotics I would like the IV unhooked to give me better freedom. 

Pain Management

Labor is an uncomfortable and painful process, however, please DO NOT offer me pain medication of any sort. I do not want any drugs for pain unless surgical intervention is required. I have discussed this with my doctor and have made an informed decision on this matter.

Interventions

Please only offer interventions when needed for the safety of mother and baby, not for comfort. The most natural and least invasive interventions and methods should be exhausted before proceeding to more extensive, risky, or invasive options whenever possible. Pit being a last resort. 

C-Section 

This should be reserved for emergencies, or when all other interventions have failed and there is risk to myself or baby to continue to attempt a vaginal delivery only.

Birth

I would like the option of birthing in the most comfortable position for me at the time.. An episiotomy should be done only if needed; to be decided at the doctor’s discretion.

Immediately After Birth

We would like skin-to-skin contact immediately after the birth for a minimum of one hour. (Kangaroo care) Baby's measurement can wait until after baby's first nursing session once mom and baby have bonded. We would prefer to delay cutting the cord for 2+ minutes to allow the blood from the placenta to get to the baby. My husband would like to cut the umbilical cord.

****We also prefer for Baby not to be taken away for a bath or out of mother's care AT ALL on the day of birth.****



Infant Care

Vaccinations/Medications: NO vaccinations are to be given in the hospital. NO eye ointment is to be put on the baby. 

Feeding: I plan to exclusively breastfeed. Please do not offer baby ANY bottles or pacifiers.

Rooming: We prefer for baby to stay with us at all times. 

Myself or my husband would like to be present for all infant exams or procedures as permitted.