Birth plan template – Word/PDF/Excel & English guides

Birth plan – template in Word, PDF and Excel with Swedish and English versions. A practical document package for preparing and communicating preferences before childbirth. Collate your priorities regarding approach, communication, pain relief, support person, changes in the birthing process, and the time after birth. The package includes a short version, a detailed birth plan, product-specific guides, and an Excel checklist.

This is included in the updated package

• Birth plan – short version: an easy-to-read page with your three most important wishes, needs, and priorities for a quick handover.
• Detailed birth plan: environment, communication, sense of security, pain relief, movement, medical issues, and postpartum wishes.
• Support person – communication plan: the practical role of the support person, information exchange, privacy, and possible tasks, without claiming to hold medical power of attorney.
• If the birth takes a different path: how you wish to receive information regarding, for example, a caesarean section, a changed progression, or if the baby requires separate care.
• After birth – my wishes: skin-to-skin contact when medically appropriate, feeding support, calm, recovery, and questions before discharge.
• Handover to maternity staff: a short document with contact and communication details and a reminder regarding the current patient record.
• Swedish User Guide and English User Guide: step-by-step, common mistakes, patient rights, and practical guidance.
• Excel – preferences and checklist: six worksheets with an overview, wishes, control status, contacts, legal sources, and instructions.

A total of 29 customer files in the new delivery: 14 DOCX, 14 searchable PDF, and 1 XLSX. Swedish and English versions are included. The English documents are intended for Swedish maternity care and Swedish patient rights.

What is a birth plan used for?

A birth plan describes what feels important to the person giving birth. This can involve, for example, previous birth experiences, fears, desired atmosphere, how information should be provided, thoughts on pain relief, the desired presence of a support person, and how the baby and the birthing person should be supported after the birth. It is voluntary. The staff also review information in the patient record and discuss needs and medical options during the period of care.

The person giving birth decides on their preferences

The individual's current wishes and consent are central. It is possible to change your mind regarding pain relief or other matters during labor. The medical assessments of the healthcare staff and patient safety simultaneously influence which measures can be offered.

The role of the support person

A partner or other support person can assist with presence, questions, and communication when the birthing person wishes and confidentiality rules allow. A partner does not automatically gain the right to make medical decisions on behalf of an adult patient.

How to fill out the templates

1. Choose the short version. Write down your two to three most important priorities.
2. Elaborate if necessary. Use the detailed plan for wishes regarding interaction, birthing environment, pain relief, and the time afterward.
3. Discuss with the midwife. Ask questions about possibilities, care routines, and how specific support needs can be met.
4. Complete the support person's plan. It is an information document, not a power of attorney.
5. Bring the letter. Have a printed short version and a secure electronic copy, and provide it upon arrival.
6. Update during labor. A birth plan should not prevent you from reconsidering your wishes.

Frequently asked questions about birth plans

Is a birth plan legally binding?

No. It is an aid for the dialogue with healthcare staff. The patient's statutory rights are provided for by the Patient Act, among others, but the letter does not mean that every wish must be implemented or that the healthcare provider has received consent for certain measures in advance.

Must you write a birth plan?

No, it is voluntary. The maternity staff also have access to relevant medical records. The plan can nevertheless make it easier to communicate priorities, especially if you are feeling anxious.

Can I change my mind about pain relief?

Yes. A previously written wish does not preclude a new discussion about pain relief. Healthcare staff can provide information about current options, effects, and risks.

Can the support person make decisions if I am unconscious?

Not automatically. The support person can contribute information about your expressed wishes but does not have a general right to override your own capacity for consent. In cases of acute serious danger and if your wishes cannot be determined, Chapter 4, Section 4 of the Patient Act may be applicable.

Can the plan require a specific way of giving birth?

No, it does not guarantee a specific measure, pain relief method, or specific birthing process. The labor can change, and the care team makes assessments based on medical conditions and the provisions of the law.

Are both Swedish and English included?

Yes. The new ZIP package includes document templates and guides in both languages. The English templates apply to Swedish maternity care, not British or American law.

Legal basis and disclaimer

Legal sources checked on October 13, 2026: The Patient Act (2014:821), particularly Chapters 3–5, the Health and Medical Services Act (2017:30), particularly Chapter 5, and 1177 – Birth plan. The document package is a general planning and communication aid; it does not replace individual medical advice and does not guarantee a specific care outcome.

See also Birth plan – English sister product and Templates for private individuals.