ABSTRACT
The nine months of waiting, worrying and dreaming have all been leading up to this - the birth, the day when expectant mothers and fathers officially become parents. Even with a relatively straightforward birth, labor and delivery can be a psychologically complex event. Expectant parents who approach labor and delivery with realistic expectations, and who understand the possible complications that may occur, can reduce their stress levels and have a more satisfying birthing experience. Educating themselves about the childbirth process can help them maintain some perspective on the big day, when things may not be going according to plan, and anxiety and frustration levels are running high. A birth plan is a document written during pregnancy which states what the couple expects and wants during labor and delivery.
