Question: Writing a birth plan is a common practice in the West. Is it necessary to have one here?

Answer: Writing a birth plan gives you an opportunity to think about – and discuss with your husband and your gynaecologist – how you’d ideally like your baby to be delivered. Even though there’s no way you can control every aspect of labour and delivery, a printed document gives you a chance to make your wishes clear.

Just remember that you’ll need to stay flexible in case something comes up that requires your gynae to depart from your plan. A written birth plan will also help refresh your gynae’s memory when you’re in labour.

Birth plans are not compulsory, so it is entirely up to the patient as each birth is a unique experience. About 10 to 20 per cent of my patients will prepare a birth plan, which I will discuss with them in detail on what’s possible and what may not be feasible because of safety reasons.