How to Own Your Birth Choices and Communicate Them Like a Pro
Advocating for your birth choices can feel like trying to order a custom latte in a rush-hour coffee line. ☕ You know what you want, but suddenly, everyone’s got an opinion—and none of them involve oat milk or respect for your preferences.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Making informed decisions and then confidently standing by them in the sometimes intimidating world of birth can be tough. But here’s the thing: you deserve to be heard, respected, and in control of your birth experience.
This blog is your crash course in owning your birth choices like the boss you are and communicating them with clarity and confidence. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to advocate for yourself without feeling like you’re auditioning for a debate team.
Why It’s Hard to Speak Up (and Why It’s Worth It)
Let’s start with some honesty: speaking up about your birth preferences can feel…awkward. Maybe you’re worried about being labeled "difficult," or maybe you’re wondering if you even can push back against a suggestion from someone wearing scrubs.
Here’s the truth: Your voice matters more than anyone else’s in the delivery room. Sure, the medical team brings expertise, but you’re the expert on you—your body, your baby, and your boundaries.
Step 1: Get Crystal Clear on What You Want 🔮
You can’t advocate for your choices if you’re not sure what those choices are. So start by figuring out what really matters to you.
Do Your Research: Look into things like birth plans, pain management options, and interventions. Not sure where to start? (Spoiler: Joining my email list will get you a cheat sheet full of research hacks.)
Define Your Non-Negotiables: Is delayed cord clamping a must? Skin-to-skin immediately after birth? Write it down.
Stay Open-Minded: Birth is unpredictable. Flexibility isn’t just for yoga—be ready to adapt as needed without losing sight of your core values.
Step 2: Practice Your Pitch 🎤
Advocating for your birth choices doesn’t mean memorizing a TED Talk. But a little prep can go a long way in helping you feel confident.
Keep It Simple: “I’d prefer X because of Y” is often all you need. No medical degree required.
Use ‘I’ Statements: “I’d like to...” or “I’m not comfortable with...” keeps things focused on you and avoids sounding confrontational.
Practice with a Partner: Role-play scenarios with your birth partner or a friend. Bonus points if they can channel their inner skeptical nurse for added realism.
Step 3: Build Your Dream Team 🌈
Your birth team should be your hype squad, not a group of skeptics trying to poke holes in your plan.
Pick the Right Providers: If your OB or midwife dismisses your concerns faster than you can say “birth preferences,” it might be time to shop around.
Involve a Doula: (Hi, that’s me!) Doulas are like the ultimate birth BFFs—here to support your decisions and help you navigate tricky conversations.
Prep Your Partner: Make sure your partner knows your preferences inside and out. They can be your second voice when you’re busy, you know, birthing a human.
Step 4: Master the Art of Saying No 👎
Let’s be real: sometimes you’ll need to stand firm. Here’s how to do it without the drama.
Ask Questions: “Can you explain why this is being recommended?” This shows you’re engaged and helps you make informed decisions.
Request Time: Unless it’s an emergency, you can usually take a minute to weigh your options. “Can I have a moment to discuss this with my partner?” is perfectly reasonable.
Be Respectful but Firm: “I hear your concerns, but I’d prefer to stick with my original plan” works wonders.
Bonus Tips for Rocking Your Birth Choices 🚀
Write It Down: A written birth plan keeps everyone on the same page (literally).
Educate Yourself: The more you know, the easier it is to spot unnecessary interventions.
Stay Calm: Confidence is contagious. The calmer you are, the more likely others are to respect your wishes.
The Next Step Toward Empowered Birth
You’ve got the tools to own your birth choices—now let’s make sure you have the support to match. Join my email list for exclusive tips, empowering resources, and the inside scoop on building the birth experience you deserve.
✅ Research shortcuts to help you make informed decisions without endless Googling
✅ Confidence-boosting strategies to advocate for yourself without the stress
✅ Insider birth insights straight to your inbox—because knowledge is power
Your journey to a more confident, connected birth starts here. [Sign up now!](insert link) Let’s make sure your voice is the loudest one in the room.
And don’t forget—DM me CHEAT SHEET on Instagram for my free Research Cheat Sheet to help you cut through the noise and find real, evidence-based answers! 💡
