Planning for labor and delivery: your birth wish list | Progyny

Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — February 2026. 

You may have heard it called a “birth plan,” but a better term might be a birth wish list.

Labor and delivery can be unpredictable, and things don’t always go according to plan. A birth wish list reflects this reality and allows you to share your hopes and priorities while staying flexible if circumstances change.

What is a birth wish list?

It’s a simple summary of your preferences for labor, delivery, and newborn care. A wish list can help you outline your goals, indicate any concerns, and share what’s important to you with your care team.

Rather than mapping out every detail, think of it as a conversation starter that keeps everyone on the same page while leaving room for the unexpected.

Benefits of writing a list 

In the process of creating one, you can:

• Clarify what’s most important to you

• Reduce anxiety about labor and delivery

• Help your partner or support person advocate for you

• Encourage meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider about your options

Even if every preference isn’t possible, having these discussions can help you feel more prepared and supported.

What do you want to include in your list?

Keep your list focused on what matters most to you. Aim for one page, use bullet points, and review it with your provider before your due date.  

Here are some common areas to consider: 

Labor and comfort 

Think about how you’d like to experience labor and what will help you feel calm and supported. 

• Who would you like in the room with you? 

• Do you want freedom to move around or try different labor positions? 

• What environment feels most comforting (dim lighting, music, limited interruptions)? 

• Are you interested in medical pain relief methods, non-medical options, or a combination? 

• How would you like your care team to communicate with you during labor? 

Delivery preferences  

If you’re planning a vaginal birth, you may want to consider: 

• Would you like your support person involved (encouragement, counting during pushing, cutting the umbilical cord)? 

• Do you prefer immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth? 

• Would you like delayed cord clamping? 

• What are your preferences regarding cord blood collection? 

• Would you prefer that newborn assessments happen while your baby remains on your chest, if possible? 

If a C-section becomes necessary or is planned, consider including: 

• Would you like immediate skin-to-skin contact in the operating room, if possible? 

• If you’re unable to hold your baby right away, would you like your support person to provide skin-to-skin contact? 

• Would you like your provider to explain what’s happening during the procedure? 

• Are you interested in viewing the delivery through a clear drape or mirror, if available?  

After birth 

Your wish list can also include newborn care preferences. 

• How do you plan to feed your baby (breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, combination feeding)? 

• Do you prefer your baby to room-in with you, stay in the nursery at certain times, or always remain with you if available? 

• Who would you like to be around during the first hours after delivery? 

If plans need to change

Birth can be unpredictable. You may want to include a note about communication. For example, if your provider has a recommendation, you can ask them to explain it or answer your questions before a final decision is made.

Final thoughts 

Every birth experience is unique. Focus on what matters most to you, keep your list simple, and stay open to the unexpected. Your care team’s shared goal is a safe and healthy delivery for you and your baby.

If you’d like a template to get started, we suggest using this one from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Be sure to review it with your provider during a prenatal visit.

If you have questions or concerns, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.