After welcoming two little ones into my life, I’ve come to realize that the only plan you really need is to expect the unexpected. While childbirth is a miraculous experience, it’s also filled with chaos, uncertainty, and a fair amount of pain—trust me, I’ve selectively forgotten parts of it! Ultimately, Mother Nature has her own agenda, and trying to stick to your birth plan is often futile. Here are some of the things that are likely to go off-script:
Timing
Birth Plan: Welcome baby on the due date with a nursery ready and a freezer full of homemade lasagna.
Actual Plan: Baby arrives a whopping 11 days late. You devour all the lasagna because cooking is the last thing on your mind, and you feel like a beached whale.
Birth Location
Birth Plan: Enjoy labor at home for as long as possible before heading to the hospital.
Actual Plan: You end up laboring at home a bit too long and nearly deliver the baby in your car, with your partner breaking every traffic law in a mad dash to the hospital.
The Accessories
Birth Plan: Request a mirror to watch your baby crown during labor.
Actual Plan: The mirror? Completely forgotten as contractions take your focus away from anything visual.
Birth Plan: Use a stopwatch to time contractions while your partner cools you down with a damp cloth.
Actual Plan: Who needs a watch? It hurts nonstop, and you definitely don’t want anyone touching you.
Breaking the News
Birth Plan: FaceTime family and friends to share the big news right away.
Actual Plan: You decide to ban all cameras from the room and simply rest while your partner does the calling.
Even though my plans went out the window, I was lucky to have two healthy babies. Sure, one of them arrived before the doctor, but after I calmed down, everything fell into place. You’ll get through it too, so go ahead and toss that birth plan!
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In summary, while your birth plan may be a great starting point, be prepared for surprises. Embrace the chaos, and remember that every journey is unique.