So you and your spouse just got the great, world-altering news that you’re life is about to be turned upside down with a new baby boy or girl.

Congratulations!  Now what do you do?

One simple solution is to make a birth plan. This will be instrumental in helping you organize and communicate your wishes for the successful birth of your infant. It is important, though, to keep your birth plan simple, preferably to one page. Also, don’t procrastinate. Get going on the plan now while it is fresh in your mind. These next few tips will help you get started.

For starters, think about keeping a journal. Journals are great for organizing thoughts, setting priorities and overall communicating your wishes to those around you. Don’t be shy. Tell those loved ones involved in the baby’s birth where to find the journal and what to expect when they read it. Make sure the important people in your life have a copy of your birth plan.

There are also important questions to consider. For instance, you and your spouse should discuss which family members and friends will be present at the hospital on the big day; what to do with siblings; what birthing position would you prefer? Talk these issues over with your spouse and record them in your journal.

One of the most important aspects of the birthing process is pain management. This topic should occupy a prominent place in your birth plan. Start with your doctor. Schedule a consultation to speak exclusively about the types of pain medication available to you and which ones he/she recommends. You don’t want to go into labor without a good game plan for managing the pain associated with bringing a child into the world.

Before you see your physician for this consultation, take a moment to prioritize all the questions you might have. This will help the physician know the top concerns you have.

Stress and tension have no place in the delivery room. Massages by your male companion, or someone else on your birth team, are a good way to relieve these aspects of having a child. Some facilities also offer hot tubs or even hot packs for relief.

During the birthing process it is important to stay hydrated, and there are several methods for achieving this goal: some prefer to use ice chips, while still others prefer to take small sips of water. An IV drip is also one solution.

Your birth plan should also contain important information on topics such as Caesarean section or how you will be transported to the hospital or medical facility you have chosen. Simple things, such as what clothes you will wear and need afterward, should not be forgotten.

The birth of your bundle of joy is not an event you should take lightly. Yes, you will have health care professionals to guide you along the way, but there is much you can do to prepare yourself and your family for the coming addition. A birth plan is a major step in the right direction.