Birth Options

Options are not just for natural birth! Discover how you can tailor your birth experience whether it is natural, medicated or cesarean birth. Take the opportunity to make your birth a family experience, not just a medical procedure.

Birth Options for vaginal births – natural and medicated (epidural) and planned cesarean births (147k PDF)

Mothers and partners are frequently are not aware they can make health care choices on behalf of themselves and their babies. Our list of options is a complete and comprehensive "menu" of choices. These options serve as educational tools and are endorsed by supportive Mother-Friendly providers to help you avoid or postpone unnecessary medical standards and procedures for birth and baby. Knowing your options and having a doctor or midwife who supports your choices can produce a birth experience that is your design, even in the face of unanticipated changes. Make the most of this day that you will remember forever.