Hello and welcome back to the blog! It’s Megan here, I’m thrilled to introduce a guest to the blog today…someone I met at a local Bump & Baby show (Norfolk Bump & Baby Show) who left a lasting impression with her expertise and warmth. Lily is a midwife, mum of three, and the inspiring founder of Yuula—a one-stop shop for all things related to birth environment and preparation. On top of that, she runs "Text the Midwife," a modern midwife support service throughout your pregnancy.
Today’s blog post is all about birth rights, a topic close to both our hearts. First things first, what exactly are birth rights? In essence, birth rights are the fundamental rights that individuals have during pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. These rights ensure that everyone giving birth is treated with respect, dignity, and autonomy.
Key Birth Rights Include:
Informed Consent and Refusal: The right to receive comprehensive information about all procedures and to make decisions based on that information.
Respect and Dignity: Being treated as a valued individual with unique needs and wishes.
Clear and Correct Information: Having access to accurate and complete information to make informed choices.
Right to Privacy: Ensuring personal space and confidentiality are maintained.
These rights are crucial in protecting against unnecessary medical interventions, discrimination, and violations, while also playing a significant role in reducing birth trauma.
You might wonder how hypnobirthing ties into birth rights. Hypnobirthing is much more than a set of relaxation techniques; it’s a powerful tool for empowerment during childbirth. Through hypnobirthing, you gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions, helping you to advocate for your birth rights.
How Hypnobirthing Supports Birth Rights:
Informed Choices: Hypnobirthing educates you on every aspect of birth, enabling you to weigh the benefits and risks of each situation. It encourages you to ask questions and confidently challenge care providers when necessary.
Mind-Body Connection: Techniques in hypnobirthing, such as relaxation, breathing, and visualisation,help manage pain and maintain calmness during labor. This not only enhances your birthing experience but also reduces reliance on medical interventions.
Creating a Birth Plan: often encourage the creation of a detailed birth plan that reflects your wishes and rights. Sharing this plan with your healthcare providers ensures everyone involved in your birth respects your preferences.
The Role of Midwives in Protecting Birth Rights
Midwives play a pivotal role in upholding birth rights. They are often the primary advocates for birthing individuals, ensuring that their rights are respected throughout the process. It’s important to acknowledge that, unfortunately, there are times when patients' wishes may be overlooked. It’s important to use your BRAINS to make decisions
Benefits
Risks
Alternatives
Intuition
Nothing
Second opinion
Take a look at the Yuula website for all things birth prep! https://www.yuula.co.uk MEGANWOOLLARD will get you 10% off!
You can find lily on instagram @iammidwifelily or you can find me on instagram @bump2babieshypnobirthing
Our inboxes are always open for a chat!
Thanks for reading, lots of love
Meg x
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