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Birth preparation

Birth Preferences Worksheet

Turn personal priorities into clear questions and flexible discussion notes for your maternity care team.

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People and support Who would you like involved in your care and birth support?

Communication and decision-making

Please explain benefits, risks and alternatives before non-urgent procedures.

Please include my support person in discussions when possible.

I may need extra time, an interpreter or accessible communication.

Please tell me when the situation or recommended plan changes.

Notes for this section

Environment and comfort

I would like to move and change position when clinically appropriate.

I would prefer a quiet room and low lighting when possible.

I would like to discuss pain relief options as labour progresses.

I have sensory, mobility, trauma-informed or privacy needs to discuss.

Notes for this section

Immediately after birth

I would like skin-to-skin contact when safe and appropriate.

I would like my support person offered skin-to-skin if I cannot do it.

I would like feeding support that respects my informed choices.

Please explain newborn procedures and timing where circumstances allow.

Notes for this section

Baby, culture and accessibility Record cultural practices, feeding preferences, accessibility needs or baby care questions.

Questions for the care team Keep the most important questions together.

Preferences are flexible.

Birth can change quickly. This worksheet supports communication; it does not guarantee a particular intervention, sequence or outcome.

Official sources

Information reviewed 14 July 2026. Check linked guidance for later changes.

Pregnancy Birth and Baby: maternity care in Australia
Pregnancy Birth and Baby: going to hospital or birthing centre

This tool provides general Australian information only. Your GP, midwife, child health nurse or other qualified clinician should advise what is appropriate for you and your baby.

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