The choices continue after labor and delivery and include decisions not just about your own care, but also about the care of your new son or daughter.

Cutting the Cord

You or your partner will probably be given the option to cut the baby's umbilical cord if you want to. Keep in mind that if your baby needs immediate medical attention at birth, it's possible the cord will be cut swiftly by the attending doctor or midwife instead.

The issue of when exactly to cut the cord could require some negotiations if you have strong feelings about delaying it. If your provider disagrees and believes a swift snip is in order, find out the reasons and research behind his opinion so you can explore the issue further and come to a meeting of the minds, if possible. (For more on cutting the umbilical cord, see Chapter 18.)

First Contact

Every woman wants her first encounter with her baby to be just perfect. After all, you've had a nine-month buildup to this moment, so wanting to stage and execute it seamlessly is natural.

I'm having a C-section. Why bother with a birth plan?

Even with a cesarean birth, there are many choices along the way. Will dad cut the cord? Can video be taken? Will you get to hold your baby right after the procedure? A birth plan will help you clarify these issues with your doctor ahead of time.

If you're giving birth in a hospital, find out whether there are strict procedures that must be followed with the baby's care immediately following the birth. Will you be able to nuzzle with her for as long as you'd like, or will she be whisked away for cleaning, fingerprinting, and the rest after a quick hello? Will your other children be able to meet her immediately, or will they have to wait until visiting hours? Contact your birth facility before you create this part of your plan so you aren't in for an immediate letdown if your wishes for the first encounter are against hospital policy. If you find the policies are just too restrictive, you still have time to explore other options for where you deliver.

Creative thinking may be required to make some rules and regulations acceptable to you. If you can only hold your baby for a few minutes before she goes for her after-birth tune-up, perhaps your partner can assist with those duties and use this special time to bond with baby himself.