Advocating for Yourself: How to Get the Support You Need from Healthcare Providers

As a seasoned birth educator, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless women through their pregnancy, labor, and postpartum journeys. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of self-advocacy. Your voice matters, and understanding how to communicate your needs and preferences effectively can make all the difference in your birthing experience.

In this blog post, I’ll share insights on how to advocate for yourself and ensure that you receive the support you need from your healthcare providers. Whether you’re navigating prenatal appointments, making decisions during labor, or addressing postpartum concerns, these strategies will help you feel empowered, informed, and respected every step of the way.

1. Educate Yourself About Your Options

Knowledge is power. The more you understand about pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions. Take the time to research your options, whether it’s different types of birth settings, pain relief methods, or postpartum recovery strategies. Attending childbirth education classes, reading reputable books, and discussing your options with trusted sources can provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge.

When you know what’s possible, you can confidently express your preferences to your healthcare provider and ask informed questions. This helps create a collaborative relationship where your provider sees you as an active participant in your care.

2. Create a Birth Plan—But Stay Flexible

A birth plan is a powerful tool for communicating your preferences to your healthcare team. It allows you to outline your desires for labor, delivery, and postpartum care in a clear, concise way. Include your preferences for pain management, labor positions, interventions, and any specific cultural or personal practices that are important to you.

While a birth plan is a valuable guide, it’s also important to remain flexible. Birth can be unpredictable, and circumstances may change. Trust your provider to adapt to the situation, and focus on the overall experience rather than the specifics. A flexible mindset combined with a well-communicated plan can help you navigate any unexpected twists with confidence.

3. Ask Questions and Clarify Information

Never hesitate to ask questions. If you don’t understand a recommendation or feel uncertain about a decision, seek clarification. Your healthcare provider’s role is to support you, and that includes ensuring you’re fully informed. Ask about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to any proposed intervention or treatment.

If you’re presented with new information during labor, take a moment to pause, ask questions, and consider your options. The BRAIN acronym can be a helpful tool in these situations:

• Benefits: What are the benefits of this option?
• Risks: What are the risks?
• Alternatives: Are there any alternatives?
• Intuition: What is your gut feeling telling you?
• Nothing: What happens if you do nothing or wait?

This approach can help you make decisions that align with your values and goals.

4. Build a Supportive Birth Team

Your birth team plays a critical role in your experience. Choose healthcare providers who respect your wishes, communicate openly, and make you feel comfortable. Whether you opt for an obstetrician, midwife, or doula, ensure that your team understands your priorities and shares your philosophy on birth.

Don’t be afraid to switch providers if you feel your current one isn’t aligned with your needs. It’s never too late to seek a second opinion or find a provider who makes you feel truly supported. Remember, you deserve care that honors your preferences and promotes your well-being.

5. Practice Effective Communication

Clear and respectful communication is key to advocating for yourself. Use “I” statements to express your needs, such as “I would like to discuss my pain management options” or “I’m concerned about the risks of this intervention.” This approach focuses on your feelings and needs, making it easier for your provider to understand your perspective.

Active listening is also crucial. Pay attention to your provider’s responses, and seek clarification if something isn’t clear. Effective communication is a two-way street, and fostering a collaborative dialogue can help build trust and mutual respect.

6. Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights as a patient is essential for effective self-advocacy. You have the right to be fully informed about your care, to ask questions, and to refuse any treatment or intervention that you’re not comfortable with. You also have the right to change your mind at any point during your care.

If you ever feel pressured or coerced into making a decision, remember that you can take a step back and ask for time to think, consult with your partner, or seek a second opinion. Your autonomy and consent are central to your care, and you should never feel rushed into a decision.

7. Involve Your Partner or Support Person

Your partner or support person can be an invaluable advocate during labor and delivery. Involve them in your birth plan discussions and ensure they understand your preferences and priorities. They can help communicate your wishes to the healthcare team, especially if you’re in a situation where you find it difficult to speak up.

Encourage your support person to ask questions, voice concerns, and seek clarification on your behalf if needed. A well-prepared and informed support person can provide you with both emotional and practical support, helping you feel more confident and empowered.

8. Trust Your Instincts

Your instincts are a powerful guide. If something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s a recommendation, a procedure, or the way you’re being treated, trust your gut. You know your body and your baby better than anyone else. If you’re uncomfortable or uncertain, speak up, ask for more information, or seek a second opinion.

Your instincts are especially important during labor and delivery, when you may need to make quick decisions. Trust yourself, and don’t be afraid to advocate for what you believe is best for you and your baby.

9. Plan for Postpartum Advocacy

Advocacy doesn’t end after your baby is born. Postpartum care is just as important, and you deserve to feel supported and heard during this time. Prepare for postpartum advocacy by discussing your postpartum care plan with your provider before birth. Ensure you understand what to expect, from physical recovery to mental health support.

If you experience any postpartum complications or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider. Trust your body, and advocate for the care you need, whether it’s additional follow-up appointments, mental health support, or breastfeeding assistance.

10. Seek Support When Needed

Advocating for yourself can be challenging, especially if you’re feeling vulnerable or overwhelmed. Don’t be afraid to seek additional support from a doula, childbirth educator, or patient advocate. These professionals can help you navigate the healthcare system, communicate your needs, and ensure you receive the care you deserve.

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with people who support your choices and respect your autonomy. Advocacy is a collective effort, and having a strong support network can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Self-advocacy is about more than just getting what you want; it’s about ensuring that your voice is heard and that your needs are met in a respectful, compassionate manner. By educating yourself, building a supportive birth team, and practicing effective communication, you can create a birthing experience that honors your values and empowers you as a parent.

Remember, this is your journey. You have the right to advocate for yourself and the care you deserve. Trust in your ability to navigate this experience, and know that your voice is an essential part of the birthing process.

Wishing you a confident, empowered, and supported birthing journey.