What is the role of a birthing plan?

The primary role of a birthing plan is to outline the mother's preferences for labor and delivery. It serves as a communication tool between the expectant mother and her healthcare team, detailing her desires regarding various aspects of the birthing process, such as pain management, positions during labor, skin-to-skin contact with the newborn, and the presence of support people. By clearly expressing these preferences, the birthing plan helps to ensure that the mother's needs and wishes are respected during the labor and delivery experience.

While other options may relate to important aspects of childbirth and newborn care, they do not fit the specific purpose of a birthing plan. A focus on potential complications, scheduling vaccinations, or outlining postnatal care are relevant areas of discussion but do not capture the true essence of what a birthing plan encompasses.