What is Birth Mapping? Creating your birth plan with your MAIA House doulas
Imagine setting out on a journey without a map – just you, the open road, and endless possibilities. It might feel exhilarating, but it can also be overwhelming. Birth is often described as such a journey, one that’s deeply personal and transformative. But unlike most journeys, you don’t have to navigate it alone, nor do you have to wander without direction. That’s where birth mapping comes in – a collaborative process that research has shown can lead to better outcomes, including improved satisfaction, realistic expectations and a greater sense of control during childbirth¹.
At MAIA House, our doulas recognize that every birth is as unique as the individual experiencing it. Rather than adhering to a rigid plan, we assist you in crafting a Birth Map – a dynamic and personalized guide that outlines your preferences, values, and choices. This approach, known as Birth Cartography®, acknowledges the various pathways and decision points in childbirth, empowering you to make informed decisions tailored to your unique circumstances.
“Gem was very intentional in learning about my wife and I, understanding our priorities for the birth, identifying issues we maybe hadn’t thought of and questions we still needed to answer, then using her expertise to weave that all together into a plan that addressed the medical, physical, emotional, and logistical aspects of our delivery.”
Why map instead of plan?
Unlike traditional birth plans that often feel static and restrictive, Birth Mapping adapts to your needs, empowering you to navigate decisions confidently in real time. Think of it as designing a route with alternate paths in mind, ensuring you feel supported no matter how the journey unfolds. Research highlights that this adaptability not only fosters realistic expectations but also protects against disappointment, ensuring you feel empowered no matter how your journey unfolds¹. Our doulas will help you reflect on what matters most – your priorities for labor, birth, and the postpartum period – and prepare for the unexpected without feeling unprepared.
Taken from: https://birthmap.life/mapping-your-birth/ (21 Jan 25)
What a birth map includes;
Exploring birth pathways: Labor wards are far from ideal for last-minute planning. Together, we’ll explore a range of birth scenarios – from pain management options to positions and potential interventions – so you feel informed, grounded, and ready to make decisions that reflect your values.
Reflecting your values amidst the unexpected: Your Birth Map prepares you for the unknown while anchoring you in what matters most – from a calm environment with soft lighting to continuous presence from your partner or doula. It's your guide to feeling seen and supported, even when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Post-birth intentions: Mapping continues beyond the moment of birth. We’ll help you outline how you hope to spend those first tender hours – bonding, feeding, and receiving the support you need as you recover and settle into this next chapter.
Encouraging collaborative communication with your birth team: A Birth Map opens the door for meaningful conversations with your care providers. It helps set the tone for mutual respect, ensuring your voice is heard, your preferences are known, and your values are honored throughout. But a Birth Map isn’t just for you – it supports your birth partner, doula, and anyone on your care team. While you lead the decision-making, your support team often advocates and executes on your behalf during labor. A clear map gives them confidence to show up in ways that truly reflect your wishes.
Supporting informed decision-making: In the intensity of labor, it can be difficult to fully process new information. Birth mapping shifts the focus from reactive consent to proactive decision-making. Rather than being asked for a "yes" or "no" in the moment, you're equipped ahead of time with knowledge and clarity. You chart your own course – and while birth doesn’t always go to plan, being aware of your options makes all the difference. That’s exactly what makes birth mapping empowering.
A Birth Map is not just preparation – it’s empowerment. It’s about countering the idea that birth happens to you, rather than something that you do. It reflects your values and priorities, adapts to the unexpected, and helps ensure your voice is heard throughout your birthing journey.
“During labor, Gem was an unwavering source of comfort and encouragement, offering helpful techniques and suggestions to manage my pain and keep me focused. She was also an invaluable advocate for my wishes and helped ensure that my birth plan was respected.”
How can MAIA House doulas help?
Birth mapping is a collaborative process at MAIA House. Together, we’ll sit down and listen to your hopes, fears, and questions. As one of the few doula teams in Singapore trained in Birth Cartography®, we bring specialized expertise to help you create a Birth Map that reflects your unique circumstances and vision.
Book your initial consultation with one of our MAIA House doulas here. Our aim is to empower you with information and support so you feel confident in your choices, even if the journey takes an unexpected turn.
Remember, birth is not about sticking to a plan at all costs; it’s about feeling in control and cared for. With a Birth Map, you’ll have a guide to navigate the experience with flexibility and peace of mind.
Let us help you create a map that reflects you – your values, your vision, and your voice. Because at MAIA House, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Ready to begin? Schedule a 30-minute discovery call with one of our MAIA House doulas here. Let’s explore how we can support your journey.
1 Bell CH, Muggleton S, Davis DL. Birth plans: A systematic, integrative review into their purpose, process, and impact. Midwifery. 2022;111:103388. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103388.
