[blParent] Tips for Self-Advocacy During Delivery

[wisdom f]

Hello to all,
I normally don’t post, I normally just read the emails that are sent out. I
have learned so much from all of your insights. I just thought I would at
this time share a little bit of my own personal experiences. I wrote a
birthing plan, outlining certain expectations such as wanting to be in a
room with me and my son by my side at all times, with the exception of when
they needed to take my son out for different testing. I also outlined
different things that are essential for my comfort level And absolute
necessary things that I expect from the staff. Announcing yourself when you
come in the room, letting me know who you are, identifying yourself. I also
outlined very specific things that I am capable of and do not want to be
questioned about. They did have a social worker come in the room and talk
to me, and it was basically two outlined all of my comfort and things that
I might have questions and need support. Just be kind and very
matter-of-fact about what your needs are, And do not let anyone make you
feel like you are not capable. Most of the times people are trying to
gravel with the idea of something that they are unfamiliar with and unsure
of how to help.just let them know that you  Are very confident and know
what your needs are and you will express it when there is a question. I
think by having this in writing before hand, and asking to keep it in your
chart , even the nurses will have it on hand and will ask you specific
questions in a different kind of tone. I found that it was very helpful to
me. Hope it helps, just thought I would share my two cents. Please feel
free to email me personally if you have any other questions. Sending you
peace and happy birthing.

On Saturday, October 24, 2020, Star Gazer via BlParent <blparent at nfbnet.org>
wrote:

> You can and should let the head of the practice know what was said to you.
> You can also have this obgyn banned from your room at the hospital, let
> the hospital know.
> If it’s any comfort, this doctor is probably just a nasty person, I had a
> woman who was terrible to me during a blood draw when I was pregnant. Turns
> out she was nasty to lots of other women too.
> If there is a nurse that you’ve bonded with, let her know too, nurses do
> have a lot of power and a lot of visibility into what’s going on.
> If this is your first baby, you will be treated like an idiot.
> I’ve had 3 children in 3 different hospitals and for whatever reason you
> get treated differently and better with each birth experience.
>
> I have friends who have all said the same thing.
>
> Remember, the hospital deals with the lowest common dominator just like
> school or church or any other group experience.
>
>
> Sent from Mail for Windows 10
>
> From: Natalie via BlParent
> Sent: Friday, October 23, 2020 9:56 PM
> To: 'Blind Parents Mailing List'
> Cc: natalieccharbonneau at gmail.com
> Subject: [blParent] Tips for Self-Advocacy During Delivery
>
> H
>
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