You have a choice
When you need to make a decision about your maternity care, your midwife or doctor should give you the information you need to decide what is right for you. This is called informed consent.
You have a right to be involved in every decision about your care, at every stage of your pregnancy and birth.
What you can expect
You should:
- be given clear, factual information
- be told the risks and benefits of all options
- have time to ask questions and think
- feel supported, not pressured
- be able to change your mind at any time
You can say yes or no
You can accept or decline any treatment, test or intervention.
Your care team will respect your decision and continue to support you.
Using the BRAIN tool
The BRAIN tool can help you ask questions and feel confident in conversations about your care:
- B – Benefits: what are the benefits?
- R – Risks: what are the risks for me and my baby?
- A – Alternatives: are there other options?
- I – Intuition: how do I feel about this?
- N – Nothing: what happens if we wait or do nothing for now?
Decide what is right for you
Everyone’s situation is different. Your history, values and preferences matter.
Once you have the information you need, you are the best person to make the decision that is right for you.
If you feel unsure, speak to your midwife or a member of your maternity team.
The safety of you and your baby is our priority. We will work closely with you so you feel informed, supported, and confident in your choices.