Image: Adobe Stock<\/em>
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\n <\/figure>\nMartin, who is also a founder of HerResearch group, a nonprofit that brings those who are interested in obstetrics and gynecology research together, told Healio that the uncertainty in the literature and \u201cwhat we personally witness in the health care system\u201d were primary motivators for the systematic review and meta-analysis.<\/p>\n
\u201cDuring our training, it\u2019s common to see women in labor with little space to express their preferences, often feeling unheard or excluded from decisions about their own bodies. At the same time, we\u2019ve also seen how powerful it can be when there is real communication,\u201d Martin said. \u201cA birth plan is not just about limiting interventions, it\u2019s about building trust. When that relationship is established, women are more likely to feel safe and supported, even if an intervention becomes necessary. This way, medical decisions are understood not as impositions, but as part of a transparent process.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThat\u2019s why this topic matters so much to us,\u201d Martin continued. \u201cBirth is a moment of profound vulnerability, and reinforcing trust, respect and communication is essential if we want to move toward a more woman-centered model of care.\u201d<\/p>\n
The researchers searched several major databases \u2014 Cochrane Central, Embase and PubMed \u2014 for any studies published up to July 2025, and found that birth plans were linked to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe found a higher likelihood of normal vaginal delivery, better rates of early breastfeeding initiation and fewer NICU admissions,\u201d Martin said. \u201cFrom a clinical perspective, this suggests that birth plans are a practical, low-cost strategy to foster a more positive childbirth experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
Specifically, the researchers found that birth plans were linked to a higher chance of normal vaginal delivery (OR = 3.22; 95% CI, 1.49-6.95) and early breastfeeding (OR = 3.68; 95% CI, 1.48\u20139.15). However, there were no significant benefits for labor augmentation (OR = 0.65; 95% CI, 0.3\u20131.41) or episiotomy rates (OR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.02\u201310.49).<\/p>\n
Martin said she thinks these results ultimately come down to \u201cautonomy and communication. When a pregnant individual develops a plan collaboratively with their health care provider, it fosters a sense of preparedness and control. This reduces the \u2018fear of the unknown\u2019 and anxiety. It creates a space for shared decision-making, which naturally leans toward more physiological outcomes.\u201d<\/p>\n
Martin noted that the researchers \u201cdid not perform an item-by-item analysis of the specific contents of each birth plan,\u201d so they \u201ccannot draw firm conclusions about specific components within individual birth plans. However, we do believe that the core principle of a birth plan should be woman-centered care, particularly shared decision-making, respect for maternal preferences and supportive intrapartum care, rather than specific standardized elements,\u201d Martin said. \u201cBirth plans are a powerful tool for respect. They aren\u2019t just a list of demands, they are a roadmap for communication.\u201d<\/p>\n
For more information:<\/h2>\n
Giovanna Martin<\/b> <\/b>can be reached at giovannaccastrom@gmail.com or on Instagram @her_research.<\/p>\n\n
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Sources\/Disclosures<\/h3>\n Source: <\/h2>\n
Martin G. The birth plan role in shaping maternal and neonatal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Presented at: ACOG Annual Clinical & Scientific Meeting; May 1-3, 2026; Washington D.C.<\/p>\n
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\n Disclosures: <\/strong>
\n Martin and colleagues report no relevant financial disclosures.
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