60. Informed Consent: Take Your Birth Back by Being Active in Your Care and Asserting Your Birth Rights

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Informed consent is a crucial topic to discuss in childbirth. I love helping women take control of their birthing experiences by asking questions and making informed plans, so they can love their birth no matter what!

In this episode, I spoke with Katie Spinks, a doula and childbirth educator, who bravely shares her story of experiencing uterine rupture during an elective induction with pitocin. Katie opens up about her journey, highlighting issues of uninformed consent and medical negligence that led to a severe birth injury to her daughter, Jolene, and the emotional toll it took on her family. She stresses the importance of questioning medical advice, standing up for oneself, and exploring alternatives.

Topics we talk about:

• The lack of information about potential risks and interventions in typical prenatal care…
• The importance of informed consent and necessity for better childbirth education…
• How healthcare providers should be respecting women’s autonomy and choices during labor…
• The uniqueness of each birthing experience and care should be tailored to each woman’s needs and preferences…
• Strategies for self-advocacy and navigating medical interventions confidently…
• …and much more!

Informed consent is vital for respectful maternity care, empowering women to make informed decisions about their birthing experiences. By sharing stories like Katie's and fostering dialogue, we aim to raise awareness and empower women to reclaim control in their childbirth journeys.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 60! Join us next time as we continue to explore topics related to women's health, empowerment, and informed decision-making in childbirth. Remember, your voice matters, and your birth experience deserves to be respected and honored.

My #1 Downloaded Resource Here: Understanding Your Hospital Birth Options

Connect with Katie

Instagram @katie_spinks_ 

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🌸 Connect with Beth

Website - www.familyfocusedmidwifery.com
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👋 WHO AM I?

Welcome, friends! I am Beth, a certified nurse midwife, doula, and childbirth educator. My philosophy is rooted in autonomy, informed decision making, and positive mindset to help expecting parents plan for a beautiful, stress-free birth. I am here to provide value to YOU through tips and practical advice, either to guide you through pregnancy or to help you prepare for childbirth, postpartum and beyond. There’s no fluff here - only info that adds to your positive experience and saves you stress and uncertainty.