One of the most important things that we speak about to all expectant mums is that making sure that they know how to make the right decisions for themselves. Looking back on your birth experience, it’s important that you gave consent for any interventions that may occur during labour.
Interventions you may need to give your consent for…
- Having your waters broken for you.
- Having a sweep.
- Being induced.
- Having an episiotomy.
Of course, there are some emergency situations that may leave you without any time to have the relevant discussions about the pro’s and con’s but in most cases, there will be time to ask questions and make your feelings known.
How to be your own advocate…
How do you advocate for yourself when an intervention is recommended in your pregnancy or labour? We know that this can be a daunting time and if it is your first pregnancy, you may feel that you need to take the advice of professionals or others in order to know that you are giving your consent for the right reasons.
A really simple decision making tool that will help you to start making the decisions that are right for you is BRAINS. Asking questions and making informed decisions, doesn’t make you a difficult patient, it makes you a prepared parent.
B – what are the benefits?
R – what are the risks?
A – What are the alternatives?
I – what’s your intuition telling you?
N – what if you do nothing?
S – smile! 😁
All of these are questions that can be asked by you to clarify your understanding of a process, procedure or intervention. Your care providers should then provide you with evidence-based information leaving you to make an informed decision on how to birth your baby and what you are and aren’t comfortable with.
This is something that we actively cover in the JustExhale antenatal and Hypnobirthing classes.
It’s really important that leading up to the birth of your baby you understand what interventions may be offered, what you’d be giving consent to and what your options are.
Remember that you can still follow your intuition even if intervention is wanted or needed.
Save this for later and get in touch if you would like to know more tips on having an empowered birth!
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