LABOR  

-- I prefer that people present in the labor room not wear surgical masks. 

-- I may prefer to wear my own clothes rather than a hospital gown. 

-- Please allow me to vocalize as desired during labor and birth without comment or criticism. 

-- To preserve my privacy and dignity, I would prefer that everyone knock before entering. 

-- I would prefer to avoid an enema and/or shaving of pubic hair. 

-- I would like to be free to walk around during labor, and use the restroom, if needed. 

-- I wish to be able to move around and change position at will throughout labor. 

-- I would like to be able to have fluids by mouth throughout the first stage of labor. 

-- I would like the environment to be kept as quiet as possible. 

-- I would like the lights in the room to be kept low during my labor. 

-- I would prefer to keep the number of vaginal exams to a minimum. 

-- I do not want an IV unless I become dehydrated. 

-- I may wish to have my husband join me in the birth tub. 

MONITORING 

-- Electronic fetal monitor: external and only for an initial 20 minute strip if needed, after that I would prefer intermittent Doppler monitoring.

-- I do not wish to have continuous fetal monitoring unless it is required by the condition of the baby. 

-- I do not want an internal monitor unless the baby has shown some sign of distress. 

LABOR AUGMENTATION/INDUCTION   

-- I do not wish to have the amniotic membrane ruptured artificially unless signs of fetal distress require internal monitoring. 

-- If my labor needs augmentation, I would prefer to be allowed to try changing position and other natural methods (walking, nipple stimulation) before pitocin or other medical augmentation methods or artificial rupture of membranes are administered. 

ANESTHESIA/PAIN MEDICATION 

-- I realize that many pain medications exist I'll ask for them if I need them.