Unlocking Your Power: Empowering Self-Advocacy in the Workplace

Childbirth is often anticipated to be a joyous occasion for most individuals, yet it doesn't always unfold smoothly as expected. According to Jen Hamilton, a labor and delivery nurse from North Carolina, the process of delivering a baby can be unpredictable and may deviate from initial expectations.

The goal of labor is to have a happy and healthy mom and baby at the end, but it should be the minimum of what we strive for, she said.

(add caption)

Cavan Images/Getty Images

According to a study, maternal deaths in US hospitals are on a decline, but birthing complications are increasing. In an interview with CNN, Hamilton provided insights on how patients and healthcare providers can collaborate to enhance birthing experiences.

This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

CNN: What do people need to know about the birth experience?

Birth trauma is not limited to emergency C-sections or traumatic deliveries involving forceps. It can also arise from feeling unheard, unprepared, or lacking sufficient explanations. Additionally, having the wrong individuals on your team, be it healthcare providers or personal support, can contribute to birth trauma.

CNN: What can individuals anticipate from their healthcare team during the delivery process?

Hamilton: I want individuals, particularly my patients, to be aware that we strive to advocate for them, actively listen to them, trust their experiences, and ensure their sense of safety and support. However, it is important to acknowledge that the current state of obstetrics does not always align with these expectations.

I additionally desire their awareness of the availability of options during the birthing process. It seems to me that we currently lack proficiency in this aspect, as obstetrics tends to dictate the course of action instead of providing recommendations, presenting alternatives, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions. Therefore, understanding the concept of autonomy during childbirth holds immense significance.

CNN: At what point can individuals advocating for themselves occur during hospital births?

Hamilton believes that many people are unaware that they have the ability to pause and communicate during any given situation. He emphasizes the importance of taking the time to talk, ask questions, and discuss things before taking any action, unless it is an emergency.

In his experience, Hamilton has encountered numerous patients who are filled with fear and uncertainty, often lacking the knowledge of what questions to ask. Therefore, he stresses the significance of either being able to express their concerns and inquiries themselves or having a reliable companion who can effectively convey these concerns on their behalf.

As health care professionals, it is our responsibility to create a safe environment for patients, ensuring that they do not feel like a burden or that they are bothering us. Our primary goal is to make sure that they feel safe and supported throughout their entire experience in our care.

CNN: How can families prepare a birth plan, knowing that it may need to be adjusted if unexpected circumstances arise during labor and delivery?

Hamilton believes that having a birth plan is valuable as it allows healthcare workers to understand a person's values and priorities. Additionally, Hamilton emphasizes the significance of discussing potential scenarios in the future. He personally supports the idea of "birth vibes," where individuals may not have a predetermined plan upon arriving at the hospital. This is because many people base their birth plans on extensive research and external opinions, but often find that their preferences change when the time comes.

However, there are certain aspects that remain consistent - the desire for respect and the need to feel empowered to make choices.

I have developed a personalized approach, similar to a birth vibe template, which helps me as your nurse understand the best way to provide care for you. For example, when I was young, it was soothing for me when my mother placed a damp cloth on my forehead whenever I felt unwell. However, something that does not provide me comfort is when someone touches my hair - I find that uncomfortable.

I can offer support during your labor and discuss your preferences for receiving information. Do you prefer to have all the details when something is changing, or do you prefer to focus on the most important points? Understanding your communication needs will help me effectively interact with you and respect your preferences regarding who should be present.

These considerations are valuable while planning for a positive birthing experience, but it's important to note that plans may change. Nevertheless, I will closely adhere to the plan and advocate for every patient. My aim is to ensure that each decision made is informed and empowering.

Is there a distinction between birth plans in terms of their effectiveness?

According to Hamilton, there is a prevailing inclination towards pursuing purely natural birth experiences without any form of intervention. However, she highlights that the emphasis on 'natural' can potentially lead to emotional distress and disappointment if complications arise during childbirth.

Certain natural processes, such as infection, can have negative outcomes. Additionally, there are other unfavorable occurrences that are considered natural processes. However, during labor, certain interventions may be perceived as tools to facilitate a positive birth experience. For instance, when a person enters the labor and delivery room after being advised to have a "natural" birth, they may interpret it as an unmedicated one, without an epidural or any medication. Nonetheless, they may eventually realize that this approach does not align with their vision of a positive birth experience.

And suddenly, they find themselves in a state of panic, overwhelmed by the unexpected turn of events. They have to make quick decisions, lacking the necessary knowledge and confidence, as they had anticipated a different outcome.

To prepare for such situations, it is beneficial to initiate discussions beforehand, considering scenarios like, "What if I go into labor and it deviates from my expectations? What resources or assistance would I be open to using? And what are the advantages and disadvantages associated with those options?"

CNN: How should someone having a baby pick the people in the room with them?

Newborn baby crying in mother hands

Damircudic/E+/Getty Images

The initial medication for postpartum depression instills hope in a psychiatrist before her delivery. However, one wonders if it is sufficient.

Hamilton: The most crucial aspect in such circumstances is to surround yourself with the appropriate individuals. It is acceptable to make decisions based on who you are certain will be present for you during labor, even if your baby's father may not fulfill that role.

How your partner cares for you during sickness is a reflection of how they will care for you during childbirth. If your partner expects you to cater to their needs while you have the flu, such as cooking and cleaning, it is probable that they will display a similar lack of support while you're in labor. If you have doubts about someone, it is best to not have them present at all.

To ensure a positive experience, choosing the right provider is crucial. Whether you opt for a doula or rely on your support team, such as healthcare professionals, it is essential to have the right individuals by your side. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel that your current support team is not suitable for you, do not hesitate to request a different nurse or provider immediately.

Express, "This is not my desired choice; I require someone else." I advise individuals that there will always be another nurse available. If you sense that this individual is unresponsive to your concerns and not fulfilling your needs, it is best to avoid continuing down that path with them.

Furthermore, if you are in search of a healthcare provider, consider seeking recommendations from moms groups or individuals who have experienced childbirth. Additionally, if you have connections working in labor and delivery who can provide insights on the provider's performance in real-life scenarios, that would be advantageous.

CNN: What is the best way for someone in the room to provide optimal support for their loved one during childbirth?

Hamilton: A valuable approach would be to educate oneself about the labor process and participate in prenatal classes alongside their partner, enabling them to be well-informed about the various occurrences that can take place.

Some support individuals can be excessively rigid about adhering to a birth plan, even when the pregnant person desires to make changes. I have encountered patients who initially declare that they do not want an epidural, but later find themselves in excruciating pain and requesting one, only to be denied by their support person. It is crucial to provide support and affirm the decisions made by the pregnant person in those critical moments, respecting their game-time decisions.

I appreciate it when support individuals actively participate in the process instead of being passive. Kindly avoid lounging on the couch throughout. Please refrain from bringing your Xbox into the room. Also, avoid eating a deep-dish pizza in front of your partner. I have witnessed numerous unexpected occurrences.