Asking Questions and Using Your B.R.A.I.N

© Dgm007|Stock Free Images

This blog post talks about asking questions and getting answers while in labor and looking at using possible interventions. You are to use your "B.R.A.I.N" which is an acronym to remind you of the things to ask before consenting to a routine or emergency procedure (by the way I find this very helpful not only with labor/birth questions, but also with other medical procedures especially when talking about my daughters health with her pediatrician.)


I saw a blog post like the one above a while back but it had one of the letters a little different.

The link above does:

B- benefits

R- risks

A- alternatives

I- intuition

N- negotiate

but it misses a very important question I prefer the N to stand for nothing as in "what if we do nothing?" Of course it is important to know the risks and benefits of a procedure and knowing your alternatives is necessary for informed consent. And in general it is always good to go with your gut, but sometimes we get so caught up in wanting to DO SOMETHING that we forget in some cases doing nothing-even if its just for a certain amount of time- is the best option.

-For example at 40 weeks many doctors/midwives will begin wanting to schedule an induction (if you weren't already). If you think you might be interested in an induction at that time then you will want to discuss risks and benefits of inductions. Alternatives would be a good discussion since there are many natural ways to induce labor and many options of induction methods (remember you need to discuss the risk and benefits of each procedure. All natural induction methods and medical induction methods have different risks and benefits). Following your intuition if you think there is a problem or not would also be wise since you know your cycle, baby, body and situation the best. You will also want to ask what about doing nothing. According the the ACOG you are not "overdue" until at least 42 weeks. Therefore, inductions are not automatically necessary at 40 weeks (or even 41 weeks).

It would be better to ask if you can "do nothing" until 42 weeks. Then at your 42 week appointment you can reevaluate the issue (however I will tell you that there are many women that have gone to 43 weeks + and had perfectly healthy babies even though the doctors/midwives didn't think it was possible...but that was their situation and you will need to evaluate your own situation and comfort level).

The negotiating is a helpful tool but it sort of gives the impression that your doctors/midwives have some sort of say over you. You have the right to birth how you feel comfortable. As I heard one person say "This is America, they can't make you do anything you don't want to do. And if they ever do force you to do something you don't want to then you have the full backing of the law and usually the hospital to complain or sue and get justice." Negotiating can be helpful but only if they are willing to cooperate. Don't ever be afraid to put your foot down. They don't have to live with the consequences of your labor experience but you and your baby do.

-Also always remember to do your own research. The internet is a beautiful place. Be careful to only use reliable websites though. Also read the inserts given and websites made my pharmaceutical companies. They have a lot of information and can help you in asking questions to your doctor. But also look at independent websites. Read lots of books (if you are using me as your doula I have books you can "check out" and read) Take control of your birth by being as informed as possible. Sure it takes work, but its worth it.

-Some doulas can help you in this research. (they however CANNOT give medical advice, but they do know of websites to help you find information and get questions ready for your healthcare professional). I offer this help to my clients when they ask for it.

May you always feel free to ask questions and get the answers you need.
-The Cowgirl Doula