Advocating at Birth
The best way to advocate for oneself in the delivery room is to begin the process well before stepping into the space itself. According to a recent international survey, up to one-third of women experience some trauma during birth, which means that at some point during labor, they felt that their emotional well-being or even their or their babies’ lives were under threat. In addition, one in four American women who underwent either labor induction or a C-section reported experiencing pressure from a health professional to do so. To guarantee a positive birth, finding an empathetic provider and establishing open communication will reduce the stress that accompanies unwanted developments. The following are some steps to take to ensure a positive birth experience:
Consider the type of care that is important to you.
Ask questions of potential providers, just as you would if you were conducting a job interview.
During the heightened and intense period of labor, some interventions may be necessary, but they should never be performed without your informed consent.
Have a labor support person.
In addition, informed consent is a fundamental right of every individual, including birthing persons. It means that you have the right to be fully informed about any medical procedure or intervention, including the risks and benefits, and have the right to accept or refuse that procedure or intervention. This right is essential to ensure that you have an active and informed role in your birthing process and that your choices and preferences are respected. It is important to know that you have the right to ask questions and receive clear answers about any aspect of your care and to take the time to consider your options before making a decision.