Before a decision is made
If a decision is being recommended, you can ask for it to be explained clearly. In an emergency, decisions may need to happen quickly, but you still deserve kindness, clarity and support wherever possible.
You could say
“Please can you explain what is being recommended, why it is needed, how urgent it is and what the options are?”
Questions to ask
- · What is being recommended?
- · Why is it being recommended?
- · How urgent is this?
- · What are the benefits?
- · What are the risks?
- · What are the alternatives?
- · What happens if we wait?
- · Who is making this recommendation?
- · Can you explain this in plain English?
- · Can my birth partner stay with me while this is explained?
Quick prompts
Use these questions if any of the following is being recommended.
- Vaginal examination
- Induction
- Continuous monitoring
- Assisted birth
- Episiotomy
- Caesarean birth
- Pain relief
- Transfer to labour ward
- Neonatal review
Hear Her First does not tell you what clinical decision is right. It helps you ask clear questions, understand the plan and seek further review if you do not feel reassured.