you can say NO.

so many clients I speak with have truly no idea you can say no to a doctor, nurse, OB, midwife... whoever it may be. you have the right to decline what doesn't feel right to you or for your baby. a lot of the time in the hospital setting especially, things are presented to you as "we need your signature or your go ahead on this before we proceed" which can make you feel as if there's no option and you must give the go ahead or everything comes to a full stop.

mama you are allowed to ask for alternatives. you are allowed to ask what the risks are. you are allowed to ask for more time to think about something. you are allowed to say NO. remember this is your body and your baby. this is why I stress the importance of having a birth wishes list. speaking with your partner before you are actively having your baby is so important. you should discuss things like pain relief, what you want done with your placenta, what kind of support you desire from your partner, what you want to avoid at all costs, what makes you feel uncomfortable, the list goes on. having a list already written of what you are ok with and what you are not ok with will help everyone navigate the birth you desire. while things may not go 100% to plan, your wishes will be clear from the start and you won't have to try to explain or remember what you wanted in the moment. doctors are still required to ask your consent EVEN if you have written in your birth wishes you want something or don't want something. your birth wishes isn't your consent.

this single event is something that will live with you forever. I encourage all mamas to do research, get educated on what is happening in their body before, during and after birth and understand the common interventions and the rights you have. whether you have zero knowledge or all the knowledge on birth, I always recommend hiring a doula. this can make you feel less overwhelmed in the birthing process as they can be a guiding light. they will be able to help you navigate your birth, support you during, support your partner, provide advice and wisdom and most of all comfort. make sure you feel safe with the doula you choose as you do not want anyone in your space that you do not feel connected with.

being prepared can make all the difference. doing a prenatal class in your area or online can give you the confidence to enter your birth with the strength you already carry. you are able, you are strong, you made this baby you can birth this baby. birth is not something to be feared. it is magnificent and wonderful what our bodies are capable of! creating an entire human?! that's badas$ if you ask me!

women are beyond capable when we trust our bodies and educate ourselves. you can say no, you do not need to blindly go along with something that makes you feel uncomfortable just because it's coming from someone with authority or knowledge. ask questions mama, share your thoughts on the matter. your voice is of utmost importance as YOU birth YOUR baby. you've got this, mama. xo