This week we’re talking about Shared Decision Making as an ideal model for having conversations between birth consumers and professionals that allow for true informed consent. Conversations that lead to informed consent should not feel generic or boring or paternalistic; they should be dynamic discussions where all involved parties feel understood and are able to proceed with a care plan that best supports the birthing person’s values.
Here is a great video from Osmosis that models a Shared Decision Making conversation. This from the National Learning Consortium clearly explains the process and benefits. This sticker from Oxytocin Emporium lives on my work badge lanyard and reminds me to ensure everyone understands the “BRAINS” of any decision they’re being asked to make.
We find this week’s topic to be extremely relevant in helping all of us to remember our autonomy and to empower consumers to reclaim some agency in a time when many of us have felt powerless against the threat of COVID-19. Especially in this time of crisis, let’s work even harder to help ensure birthing people can be inspired, respected, trusted, and heard throughout their birth experience.
Music from https://filmmusic.io
“Gonna Start” by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com)
License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)