Finding Your Voice in the Hospital Setting: Strategies for Advocacy
Finding Your Voice
It’s so easy for women to get caught up in the moment and agree to things they didn’t put much thought into while in active labor.
And you can’t blame them.
By golly, if it’s your first time around you aren’t entirely sure what to expect for pain let alone prepared for the million questions and procedures the medical field will ask and advise you to do.
I’ll go over some ways to better prepare you of what to expect while laboring in a hospital setting.
Most importantly, we’ll emphasize how important it is to use your voice.
Find A Provider Who Respects + Hears YOU
To some this may seem like common sense, but to others they may not know any different. There are MANY different medical professionals who can deliver your baby. We have the OB-GYNs + Midwives in all types of settings from strict hospital policy to homebirths. It is important to research your providers background, their perspective and beliefs in the birthing field and their practices. It is also important to research ALL the options, especially if you’re a first time mom as you don’t actually know what you will prefer when the time comes. It is important to have someone who aligns with your beliefs + vision of labor. After all you’re creating your birthing TEAM.
Go Over Your Birth Vision With Your Provider BEFORE Labor
I suggest in the 37th week appointment. Plan to take a few moments to go over how you envision your birth + make sure to note your plans for if things were to go wrong, in all scenarios. Will you allow the hospital to break your water or do you wish to wait it out? If pain begins to be too much, what are your pain management plans? Once baby is delivered, do you demand to wait for the cord to go white before clamping? (The answer is YES.. I hope. — Read our post on optimal cord clamping here.) Regardless, get your provider on the same page so there are no surprises when it’s go-time.
(I do understand this is not always an option as you may not have your OB-GYN actually deliver your baby, it happens all the time. That is why you must talk your birth plan over with your birthing partner and/or doula.)
You’re Allowed To Change Your Mind
Do so free of judgment and shame! You should feel heard, respected and never pressured to consider something you never wanted. Be familiar with informed consent. This is permission granted in the knowledge of the possible consequences, typically given by a patient to a doctor for treatment with full knowledge of the possible risks and benefits. Your care provider can always suggest something but you always have informed consent and can refuse.
Trust Your Intuition
You know your body and you know your baby. Trust this knowing. Remember your body and your baby know what to do. Have confidence in your divine feminine power. Remember you, your body and your birth are unique regardless of protocols or run-of-the mill care. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Don’t be afraid to ask for a different nurse or care provider. You are the only one who can birth this baby. And you can fully do it with the power of your voice and your divine feminine power.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Momentous Doula Care.