This is the birth plan I used for the birth of my son, Adrian. Read the birth story.

My birthing companion will be my husband, Martin.

I have M.E. which means that am likely to tire easily during labour and may require an assisted delivery, though I would prefer to deliver normally if possible.

I want to be kept informed of how the labour is progressing and to have any interventions explained along with other possible options. I would prefer interventions to be kept to a minimum.

I would prefer to be allowed to labour and birth in the birthing pool.

For pain relief I hope to use just gas and air.

When my baby is born I would like to have the lights turned down low (if possible) and for it to be delivered straight onto my tummy. I would appreciate help establishing breastfeeding soon after delivery.

I would prefer that the cord is not clamped and cut until after it has stopped pulsing, and that I have a natural third stage unless there is a need for the syntometrine injection.

If an assisted delivery is needed I would prefer to have ventose rather than forceps, and would rather avoid an episiotomy.