This is easily one of my favorite topics when it comes to our bodies and specifically regarding health.

The beautiful thing about being in a human body is that you get to choose how you utilize it. Of course we can choose to stay open to knowledge and take into consideration suggestions / advice from others and specifically medical professionals. When it comes to pregnancy, there is a plethora of options when it comes to choices available to you, so let’s dive into a few of them….

Standardized Care | The Medical Model

When we choose the standard medical model of care either through a General Practitioner, Obstetrician or Midwife (these are the general options in British Columbia), there is a framework of questions, procedures and testing that it is recommended when it comes to prenatal care. Did you know you can ask if they are mandatory? Did you know that you can respectfully decline? Here are a few examples:

Genetic Testing. Typically done in the early stages of pregnancy via blood sample to determine if there are any genetic abnormalities / concerns to be considered. You can decline this. A consideration I suggest pondering is that if you complete this testing and something is brought forth as a cause for concern, what would you be willing to do with that information? For some, the option to terminate would be available, for others, that would not even be a consideration. So let’s play out the tape here and say that you opt to continue with the pregnancy with the knowledge that something is not what the system would describe as an ideal baby; what are the implications on your emotional well-being and stress levels? There is ample research available to us regarding the impact of maternal stress, happiness and attachment on the baby while they are in womb. Do you want to spend the remainder of your pregnancy anxious or woefully naive? It’s a personal decision! Woefully naive may feel like the better option to some but regardless, this is something to be considered and discussed with your birthing partner.

Ultrasounds. These are typically done throughout the pregnancy, the three most common are the “Dating” Ultrasound, Anatomy Scan and sometimes a late-stage scan to determine placement, well-being of baby and to determine if there are any considerations to be made regarding the birth process. None of these scans are a requirement. You can decline any or all of them. You can decline an internal scan. You can also ask to insert the internal probe yourself if that is more comfortable for you. Something to consider as you make decisions for yourself is to keep the question in mind “Is this for my benefit or for the medical practitioner ordering it?” These scans are of course a wonderful opportunity for you to see and connect with your baby while they are in womb; even more so if your partner is able to attend. They can provide peace of mind and confirmation when it comes to baby’s growth and ensuring there are no possible complications to keep on your radar. Ask all the questions you want of your care provider so that you can make a decision that feels aligned for you.

Gestational Diabetes Testing. Did you know that you can opt to decline this testing? Did you know that there are multiple ways you can track your blood sugar levels and determine the same outcome as opposed to the standard test that is issued? Talk to your medical care provider to learn more.

Internal Exams / Cervical Checks. Your body, your choice. Talk to your medical care provider about the purpose behind these exams, when they are absolutely and who you are comfortable with performing these checks. If your plan is to birth in-hospital, you can voice whether you want the same nurse to do every check, or your midwife, or a medical student (or not). You are well within your rights to vocalize your preferences when it comes to your care structure. It’s your responsibility to understand your options, to know the purpose behind these exams, the risks associated with doing (or not doing them) and ultimately the impact on you, your baby and birth experience.

YOUR Birth Experience

Keep in mind that every step of the way, you are the star in this show. Your experience matters. Your emotional well-being matters. Ensuring that you are heard and your concerns / questions are addressed MATTERS.

If you don’t feel heard by your current medical care provider, give them feedback that you don’t feel like you’re being listened to or heard in your concerns. If all else fails, seek out a care provider that does allow you to feel heard, seen and supported.

I went through two midwives (third time is a charm!) before I was connected with the absolute best midwife for me. As soon I spoke to her on the phone I immediately felt like “she gets it”. It wasn’t that I was looking for a unicorn or anything super fussy when it came to my care, but I did know that I wanted someone who was going to listen to me, ask me questions that were valid to the journey in pregnancy and offer information that I may want to consider. I found myself feeling safe, listened to and dare I say, understood.

Remember that pregnancy is the beginning. This is the chapter where we learn about ourselves, our bodies, our baby, our communication with our support partner(s) and family. This is the start of being a watchful parent and advocate for the education and care that our child deserves.

So roll up your sleeves and start advocating for yourself!