At what point did you discuss the birth?

[GrandPoohBah]

I'm currently 35+6, on my first pregnancy (to get this far anyway) and have been seen by different midwives and under consultant care all the way through.

I'm aware that the birth is becoming more imminent day by day but at no point has it been raised for discussion by any of the HCPs I've seen.

I'd like to have the baby in the MLU attached to my large local hospital. I have had a straightforward pregnancy, I was under consultant care for recurrent miscarriage so nothing to affect the birth, and apart from a higher than average (but not so high to get me extra care) BMI I am generally healthy.

Do I need to actually tell anyone my plans, or get it cleared or anything? Or do I (fingers crossed) pitch up at the MLU having spontaneously gone into labour?

Because I'm seeing the consultant in between, I'm now not seeing a MW until 41 weeks, so I don't really know what to do. Any advice anyone?

[Marcheline]

Seems strange that you haven't discussed it yet? With DD I planned a home birth from before 30 weeks - I think I discussed it with my MW at the booking appointment, she put it in my notes, and followed up with me after the 20 week scan.

With this pregnancy, We have moved and things are a little different, so I'm giving birth at the local hospital in their lovely unit - again, discussed at booking appointment.

I thinly ou should mention it as soon as you can, in case they have made a mistake?

[Graciescotland]

I was asked at my booking in where I wanted to deliver. Check your notes there should be contact details for the maternity unit as generally they expect you to call before pitching up. You could always give them a ring to confirm.

[StarlightMcKenzie]

In 3 births, it was only discussed on birth 3 after I had gone considerably overdue and it became clear to the midwives that my birth plan was very different to theirs.

Only then was anyone ever interested.

[PotteringAlong]

It was done for me at my booki g in appointment and was on the front of my maternity notes - double check what's there and speak to your midwife ASAP!

[GrandPoohBah]

At my booking in appointment they asked whether I wanted a home birth, but it hasn't been raised other than that - I don't know if it's a) because the MLU and labour ward are next to each other so both considered 'within the hospital', or b) it has been overlooked! The sticker on the front of my green notes has the telephone number for both places. I think maybe I need to ring them.

[CitizenOscar]

Can't remember exactly but I was surprised it was so late - I think maybe it was my last appointment (38 weeks?!).

Next time I'll probably raise it earlier (if there is a next time). As a newby, I assumed they knew best!