Before you go home
If you are being advised to go home but still feel worried, you can ask what has been checked, why it is safe to leave, what to watch for and when to return or call again.
You could say
“Before we go home, please can you explain what has been checked, why it is safe to leave, what would mean we need to come back or call again, and who we should contact if things change?”
Your birth partner could say
“We still feel worried. Before we leave, please can someone explain the plan clearly, tell us what would mean coming back or calling again, and document the advice given?”
Questions to ask
- · What has been checked?
- · Why is it safe for us to go home now?
- · What should we watch for?
- · What would mean we need to come back immediately?
- · Who should we call if things change?
- · What if pain, contractions, baby’s movements, bleeding or waters change?
- · When should we call back?
- · Can this advice be written down?
- · Can our concern be documented before we leave?
The core question
“What has been checked? What is the plan? When will this be reviewed again? Who is responsible for the next decision?”
Trust the feeling. Ask again. Hear Her First helps you ask clear questions and seek further review if you do not feel reassured.