Wondering about birth plans, hospital policies, and natural birth options? Get expert advice from a labor & delivery nurse turned doula, plus tips on pain management, delayed cord clamping, eating during labor, and more.
Because becoming a parent is one of life’s most transformative experiences and having a birth plan can be your roadmap through labor and delivery. But how do birth plans really work in a hospital setting? What options are truly flexible, and which hospital policies are negotiable? I sat down with Cassie Subler, a labor and delivery nurse, doula, and childbirth educator, to unpack everything you need to know about birth plans, pain management, hospital protocols, and empowering yourself as the center of your care.
EPISODE 19 | HOLISTICALLY WELL PODCAST: INFORMED DECISION MAKING ON A LABOR & DELIVERY UNIT: HOW TO HAVE THE BIRTH YOU DESIRE IN A HOSPITAL SETTING OR BIRTH CENTER (WITH CASSIE SUBLER, RN + DOULA)
Whether you learn best by listening or watching, there is something for you! You can catch the full conversation on the Holistically Well Podcast—available on all your favorite platforms!
🎧 Holistically Well Podcast on Apple | Episode 19
🎙️ Holistically Well Podcast on Spotify | Episode 19
💻 Holistically Well Podcast on YouTube | Episode 19
What Is a Birth Plan? (And Why You Need One)
Birth plans often get a bad rap in hospital culture — sometimes dismissed as “a ticket to the OR.” But that couldn’t be further from the truth. A birth plan is really a communication tool, a way to prepare yourself and your care team to align on your preferences — whether it’s delayed cord clamping, preferred pain management, or desired birth positions.
Cassie Subler of Womb by Cassie explains that birth plans don’t have to be complicated or long. For example, at her birth center, birth plans were a simple checklist submitted by 36 weeks. It helps you and your partner discuss what’s most important to you ahead of time — so you know what you care about (and what you don’t).
Pro tip: Use your birth plan as a springboard for conversations with your care provider and your partner well before labor starts.
Midwives vs. OB-GYNs: Who Should Be On Your Birth Team?
Understanding the difference between midwives and OB-GYNs can help you choose the right provider for your birth style:
- OB-GYNs are highly trained surgeons who handle both vaginal births and C-sections, as well as other gynecological procedures. They’re essential for managing emergencies and surgeries.
- Certified Nurse Midwives come from a nursing background and specialize in supporting natural, vaginal births. They often provide continuous labor support and focus on helping things go smoothly.
For low-risk pregnancies, working with a midwife can mean more personalized support throughout labor, with doctors available if emergencies arise. Many women find switching to a midwife around 20 weeks beneficial if they want a more natural birth experience.
Key Hospital Birthing Policies You Should Know and How to Navigate Them
Delayed Cord Clamping
Delayed cord clamping — waiting until the umbilical cord stops pulsating before cutting — benefits your baby by transferring more blood and nutrients. Ideally, wait until the cord stops pulsating (usually 5-10 minutes). If your hospital wants a strict time limit, advocate for at least five minutes.
Bathing Your Baby
Immediate bathing isn’t always necessary — and waiting helps preserve your baby’s microbiome, which is vital for lifelong health. Some hospitals require immediate baths if there are concerns about infections or STDs, but you can always ask to delay until you’re home. Bring your own gentle products if you want to be involved in your baby’s care routine.
Eating During Labor
Contrary to old hospital rules, eating light, nourishing foods during labor is safe and important for energy. Hospitals often restrict food to reduce risks if an emergency C-section with general anesthesia is needed — but the risk is very low, and keeping your energy up supports labor progress. Ask your care team about eating policies and advocate for your needs.
Movement and Birth Positions
You don’t have to give birth lying flat on your back! Moving freely during labor and choosing positions that feel right can reduce pain and help baby get into optimal position. Options include side-lying, hands-and-knees, squatting, or even walking. Intermittent or wireless fetal monitoring can help you move more easily.
Pain Management for Giving Birth
- Epidurals are effective and minimize medication transfer to your baby.
- IV narcotics (like morphine) affect both you and baby, potentially depressing baby’s breathing, and have more side effects.
- Non-medical options like heat/ice packs, showers, and movement can help manage pain naturally.
Remember, you can decline or accept pain relief at any time during labor — it’s your choice.
How to Be the Center of Your Birth Care Team
Cassie stresses that you are not just a patient — you are the center of your care team. Care providers work for you, bringing their expertise to help you have a safe, healthy birth. Understanding your options ahead of time, taking childbirth classes, and having clear conversations with your care team empowers you to make informed choices.
When Hospital Policies Clash With Your Preferences — Advocate With Confidence
Hospital policies can vary and sometimes lag behind current evidence. You might encounter pushback on things like eating during labor or delayed bathing. Here’s how to navigate:
- Ask for clear explanations of risks and benefits.
- Express your informed decisions respectfully.
- Request documentation in your medical record about your choices.
- Remember, you have the right to make decisions about your birth experience.
Every birth is unique, and your preferences matter. Whether you’re delivering in a hospital, birth center, or at home. Creating your birth plan is about knowing your options, asking questions, and owning your experience. With knowledge and preparation, you can create a birth that feels right for you.
Resources to Support Your Birth Journey
- Connect with Cassie: Instagram @womb_by_cassie
- In-person childbirth classes and one-on-one birth plan chats with Cassie
- Holistically Well Pregnancy Program
A deep dive into physical and emotional preparation for birth for the natural-minded pregnant mama to prevent pain, avoid peeing your pants, and prepare for childbirth while living the active life you love — available worldwide!
