Written by Melissa Mitchell, Birth and Postpartum Doula
Melissa Mitchell is well-known for her loving and supportive energy, wealth of womb knowledge, and holistic approach to maternal and infant care. She is a birth advocate, budding herbalist, and dance-a-holic, using every opportunity to move her body and enjoy this life we've been given.
Childbirth is a transformative and significant event in a person's life, and as such, it's essential to recognize and protect the human rights of individuals throughout the entire process. This article will explore various factors related to informed consent and the treatment of birthing individuals' rights within hospital settings. It will also discuss strategies for enforcing these rights and addressing feelings of disempowerment that may arise during pregnancy and delivery.
Understanding informed consent
Informed consent is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, including childbirth. It involves providing individuals with comprehensive information about potential risks, benefits, and alternatives related to medical interventions. By educating themselves on their rights and the potential consequences of any interventions, birthing women and their families can make informed decisions and assert their preferences confidently.
Ensuring respectful treatment
Birthing individuals have the right to respectful and considerate care during their pregnancy and delivery. Healthcare providers must prioritize patient autonomy, ensuring that the individual's values, beliefs, and cultural background are taken into account throughout the process.
Factors influencing the treatment of birthing individuals' rights include effective communication, privacy, and emotional support. It is crucial to create a supportive environment where individuals feel safe expressing their concerns and asking questions without fear of judgment or dismissal. Families should be supported and respected for what may be considered “alternative” practices in the birth space as well. This includes practices like lotus birth, where the placenta remains attached to the baby through the umbilical cord until the cord dries up and naturally detaches from the baby’s belly button.
Enforcing rights and navigating challenges
Parents can take several steps to protect their rights and advocate for their preferences during pregnancy and childbirth:
1. Create a birth plan
A birth plan is a document outlining the birthing person's preferences, including pain management, desired interventions, and support requirements. Share this with healthcare providers and discuss any concerns or clarifications to ensure everyone is on the same page.
2. Choose a supportive care team
Surrounding yourself with supportive individuals, including a doula or birth advocate, can provide additional guidance, emotional support, and help in advocating for your preferences.
3. Understand hospital policies and procedures
Research the hospital's policies on specific interventions or procedures, such as cesarean births, episiotomies, or induction. Understanding these policies can empower parents to make informed decisions and advocate for their rights if necessary.
Solutions for addressing disempowerment
Feeling disempowered during pregnancy and childbirth is not uncommon. To address these concerns, consider the following strategies:
1. Open dialogue with healthcare providers
Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers fosters trust and understanding, empowering parents to express their needs and concerns freely.
2. Mental health support
Seeking mental health support from a therapist, counselor, or support group can help individuals navigate emotional challenges and develop coping strategies throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey.
3. Educational resources
Participating in childbirth education classes and researching evidence-based information can help parents gain confidence in their decision-making abilities and advocate for their preferences.
Childbirth is a transformative experience, and every individual has the right to respectful and supportive care throughout this journey. By understanding informed consent, advocating for their preferences, and utilizing available resources, parents can create an empowering birth experience that prioritizes their human rights and individual needs.
Read more from Melissa Mitchell
Melissa Mitchell, Birth and Postpartum Doula
As a doula, Reiki Master and wellness warrior, Melissa is on a mission to empower women with the emotional, physical and spiritual support they need to step into their power during this miraculous journey called "womanhood." Her strategies extend beyond advocacy for birthing women; it's about education, encouragement and creating a space where her clients can have a conscious and empowered lived experience. Her mantra – You are powerful beyond measure!
