My Birth PLAN

Since I'm getting closer to my due date with only 5 weeks left, I've decided to "attempt" to make a birth plan...using a free website of course.

I've also heard from many, many people that birth plans are pointless and doctors don't care what you want. I guess it matters to me to at least make one and try to get the birth experience that I want.

This is just a basic birth plan. Things may change.

Labor:
I would like to have fluids by mouth throughout 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.

Labor Augmentation/Induction:
I do not wish to have the amniotic membrane artificially ruptured unless signs of fetal distress require internal monitoring.
I would prefer to be allowed to try changing positions and other natural methods (walking, nipple stimulation) before Pitocin is administered.

Anesthesia/Pain Medication:
I would like to have a standard epidural.

Cesarean:
Unless absolutely necessary, I would like to avoid a Cesarean. 
If a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to be fully informed and to participate in the decision-making process.
I would like Justin present at all times if the baby requires a Cesarean delivery.
If the baby is not in distress, the baby should be given to Justin immediately after birth.

Episiotomy:
I would prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely required for the baby's safety.
I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the preineum can stretch.
If possible, I would like to use perineal massage to help avoid the need for an episiotomy.
I would like a local anesthetic to repair a tear or an episiotomy.

Delivery:
I would like Justin and/or nursers to support me and my legs as necessary during the pushing stage.
I do not want to be offered a mirror.
I would appreciate having the room lights turned low for the actual delivery.
I would appreciate having the room as quiet as possible when the baby is born.
I would like to have the baby placed on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.

Immediately After Delivery:
I would like to have Justin cut the cord.
I would like to hold the baby while I deliver the placenta and any tissue repairs are made.
I would like to have the baby evaluated and bathed in my presence.
If the baby must be taken from me to receive medical treatment, Justin will accompany the baby at all times.
I would prefer to hold the baby rather than have her placed under heat lamps.
I do not want a routine injection of Pitocin after the delivery to aid in expelling the placenta.

Postpartum:
I would like a private room, if available.
Unless required for health reasons, I do not wish to be separated from my baby.
I would like to have the baby "room in" and be with me at all times.

Breastfeeding:
I plan to breastfeed the baby and would like to begin nursing very shortly after birth.
Unless medically necessary, I do not wish to have any bottles given to the baby (including glucose water or plain water.)
I do not want the baby to be given a pacifier.
I would like to meet with a lactation consultant.

Photos/Video:
I would like to take still photographs during labor and the birth.

Other:
I would prefer that no students, interns, residents or non-essential personnel be present during my labor or the birth.

I wonder what my doctor will say. Hmph.