Advocate for yourself with BRAIN
You might think that, when it comes to birth, your only decision is “natural” or surgical, But this couldn’t be further from the truth. First, “natural” means something different to everyone; second, you have incredible power over your birth and what it looks like. This post will help you learn about advocating for yourself during pregnancy and birth.
In order to to take control of your pregnancy and birth, you must spend time learning about your options and how to advocate for them. Being your own advocate or having an advocate present is essential.
What does advocating look like?
You ask questions, you speak up for your desires, you ask for time to think, and you refuse services that and staff who aren’t the best fit for you.
During pregnancy, ask your OB or midwife questions and make sure he or she doesn’t ignore you or seem closed off to your preferences. And know that you’re allowed to request another nurse or doctor and refuse treatments at any time. If you don’t feel like your doctor or nurse listens to you, request another or have another advocate like a birth doula present.
If advocating still seems intimidating, remember B-R-A-I-N:
Benefits
How will this help my labor?
How will this help my baby?
How will this help me?
Risks
How will this affect my labor?
How will this affect my baby?
How will this affect me?
Alternatives
What are my other options?
Intuition
What does my gut say?
Need Time
I need time to think this decision through.
I need a private moment to talk with my family.
I would like to wait for now.
Everyone is entitled to assert power of their own bodies, especially during birth. If you aren’t being respected and listened to by your doctor, remember that you can refuse advice and treatments; you can advocate for your preferences and/or have an advocate present.
Hi! I'm Gigi; I'm a postpartum doula, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I’m a #swiftie who loves cheesy novels.
As a former teacher, I bring realistic, evidence-based, and actionable advice (and LOTS of handouts.) I help families get all the tools they need to prepare, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. I’m here to streamline the newborn learning curve and help birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn’t ONE way to have and raise a little human. I’m here to guide parents to find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond.
Ready to learn how to create an actionable postpartum plan?
Ready to get the support you need in the fourth trimester?
Then learn about my prenatal planning services here!
