What on earth is 'informed consent'? You may hear the term tossed about frequently and wonder what it means. Informed consent means your medical professional has filled you in on all the benefits AND the risks of a procedure and you have given your consent.
Here are some instances when you should receive information in order to give consent:
-Membrane sweep (done in late pregnancy to hopefully induce labor; they separate the bag of waters from the cervix which should cause a hormonal reaction causing contractions and putting you into labor)
-Anytime they want to do a vaginal exam (they should always ask permission; this can be especially hard for sexual assault victims if their medical professional is unkind, brash or doesn't ask permission)
-Screenings (Nuchal Transluceny, CVS testing, amniocentesis, etc.)
-Monitoring during labor (including IV, fetal monitoring
-During delivery (cutting an episiotomy, vacuum extraction, etc.)
-After delivery (cord clamping and cutting, etc.)
-Cesarean
-Pain relief (epidural, Stadol, etc.)
If you've given birth before how often were you asked permission or given information in order to consent (or deny) privileges? Many people argue that doctors have gone to medical school and they know everything, blah blah blah. I do agree that they are knowledgeable but we must also realize that their obstetric training does not cover every complexity of human birth. And it doesn't speak anything for their personality or bedside manner.
No, it is up to patients to realize their options, ask questions and if they ever feel uncomfortable to object until they are satisfied and at peace with their diagnoses and procedures. A cancer patient, a person with heart disease, etc. all have to also learn about what they're going through and make decisions WITH their doctor. A doctor should never just tell someone what to do, especially without full disclosure.
There are plenty of doctors to trust, don't get me wrong. Even if you trust your doctor never make a hasty decision (unless time is of the essence). Get the facts, mull over what they've told you and work together.
Now here's where birth is different. Birth isn't a disease to be cured. It is a physiological phenomenon that we were created for as women. It is as natural as breathing. It doesn't mean it is easy but our bodies are capable, our minds are capable.
If your doctor/midwife is performing procedures or scheduling screenings without giving you fill disclosure on risks and benefits make sure you're asking questions. Get the information.
And most importantly never be afraid to say NO if something is not right. Don't want 20 vaginal exams while in labor? Make sure they know it.
Okay that was a long ramble. What are your thoughts? Do you feel you receive information to make informed decisions for your healthcare and birth?