Week 29: Birthing Class & Birth Plan
Get educated, get aligned, get the plan on paper
If birthing class hasn't started yet, it should be starting now. This is also the week to formalize the birth plan — move it from 'things we've discussed' to an actual document you'll share with your OB and bring to the hospital. Your role during delivery starts with preparation.
What's happening this week
The baby's muscles and lungs are continuing to mature. The baby is running out of room for big movements — you'll feel more rolls and pushes than kicks. The brain is developing the characteristic folds and grooves. She may experience more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions and leg cramps.
Your checklist
0 of 4 completeWhether in-person or online, take the class together. You'll learn about stages of labor, breathing techniques, pain management options, C-section procedures, and newborn care basics. The dad-specific content is especially valuable — you'll learn exactly how to support her during labor.
Keep it to one page. Include: pain management preferences (epidural, natural, open to either), who's in the room, delayed cord clamping preference, skin-to-skin immediately after birth, breastfeeding initiation, circumcision preference (if applicable), and any religious or cultural considerations.
Bring it to your next appointment. Your OB can flag anything unrealistic and confirm what the hospital can accommodate. Remember: the birth plan is a set of preferences, not a contract. Flexibility is key.
Drive the route during different times of day. Know alternate routes. Time it. Know where to park (ER entrance is usually for active labor). Know which entrance to use at night vs. daytime. Small details reduce big stress.
Recommended products
Online Birthing Class — Tinyhood
On-demand video birthing class covering labor stages, breathing techniques, pain management, C-sections, and dad coaching. Watch on your own schedule — no need to coordinate an in-person session.
Birth Plan Template — Printable PDF
Simple, one-page printable birth plan template. Fill-in-the-blank format covering pain management, delivery preferences, cord clamping, skin-to-skin, and newborn procedures. Print three copies: OB, hospital, and home.
A birth plan is a simple document that communicates your preferences for labor, delivery, and immediate postpartum care. It's not legally binding — it's a communication tool that helps your medical team understand your priorities. Most OBs appreciate receiving it in advance so they can discuss feasibility.
Key elements of a birth plan include: pain management approach (natural, epidural, open to discussion), movement preferences during labor (walking, birthing ball, shower), who is present in the room, delayed cord clamping (waiting 1–3 minutes before cutting), immediate skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding initiation timeline, newborn procedures (vitamin K shot, eye ointment, hepatitis B vaccine), and circumcision preference if applicable.
Related weeks
Get notified when we publish the next week
We write each week in real time. Drop your email and we'll let you know when new content goes live.