The Institute of Medicine defines patient-centered care as “providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs and values, and ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.” It’s crucial to acknowledge that even when evidence or a provider’s experience supports a specific treatment plan, it may not align with your personal comfort level or objectives regarding your care. This disconnect between a provider’s recommendations and a patient’s desires is particularly prevalent in labor and delivery situations.
Healthcare providers often struggle to remain objective and attuned to individual needs, especially when their extensive training has led them to favor certain interventions. Topics such as elective induction of labor, cesarean sections, labor augmentation, epidurals, and breastfeeding are frequently debated. Many women report feeling as if their providers impose their own preferences rather than respecting the patient’s choices.
Although a significant number of women I assist choose to have epidurals during labor, I have witnessed others successfully utilize hypnobirthing and other natural pain management techniques. While breastfeeding is celebrated for its health benefits and is often recommended by healthcare professionals, it may not be the best choice for every woman. We must respect each individual’s decisions and help them find suitable alternatives that benefit both the mother and the baby.
Women should listen to their instincts and feel secure in their care plans. If you sense that your needs don’t align with the suggested plan, you should feel empowered to voice your concerns. You are your best advocate, and nobody knows your body and values better than you do.
Trusting your instincts can be crucial for your health and wellbeing. I recently encountered a woman who bravely shared her birth experience. After giving birth, she didn’t feel well during her discharge. When she expressed her concerns to the nursing staff, her vitals were checked. Although her borderline blood pressure didn’t technically qualify as high, she knew it was abnormal for her, as it was significantly higher than her usual readings. Unfortunately, her care team dismissed her worries, attributing her symptoms to exhaustion and anxiety.
Despite her instincts, she left the hospital only to return later with dangerously high blood pressure readings, which led to a diagnosis of severe preeclampsia. This situation highlights the importance of listening to one’s body, even when medical professionals may overlook or misinterpret symptoms.
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, my advice is to:
- Trust your body – Your feelings and instincts matter.
- Listen to your intuition – If you’re uncomfortable with the care plan, heed that inner voice.
- Empower yourself to speak up – You know yourself best. Seek out those who will listen.
- Enlist trusted advocates – Friends and family can help voice your concerns if needed.
If you still feel unheard or struggle to express your message, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Continue seeking answers until you feel validated and confident in your care. Remember, your comfort with your care plan and the medical team is essential. If you’re not satisfied, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion.
Many women are conditioned to be accommodating and selfless, especially during pregnancy and motherhood. However, taking care of yourself is essential for your own health and that of your baby. When you are well, you can better care for your family.
During my training, I experienced the loss of a mother due to a rare complication called an amniotic fluid embolism, which cannot be predicted. The memory of informing her partner of this tragedy is one I will carry forever. It underscores the importance of being vigilant and listening to signs of distress, particularly when patients express concerns that may be overlooked.
Always trust your instincts, advocate for yourself, and never accept dismissal or judgment from others. You are the authority when it comes to your body!
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