How to Take Ownership and Have an Empowered Birth Experience Through Radical Responsibility
Have you ever felt uncomfortable when you think about having to stand up and advocate for yourself? Have you ever been hesitant to make decisions about your birth and motherhood journey because you’re scared about what the outcome will be?
If you are ready to start taking radical responsibility for your life and making choices with confidence, this episode is for you!
In this episode, I dive into:
Why taking ownership of your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is so important
How to deal with the fear and anxiety surrounding your decisions and their potential outcomes
The power of choice
And reframing your mindset
We're going to dive deep into a topic that's near and dear to my heart: taking ownership and radical responsibility for your birth experience, pregnancy, and motherhood journey. As a doula and birth educator, I'm here to help you find the power within yourself to make informed decisions that align with your values and desires.
Why is Taking Ownership of Your Birth So Important?
I've seen so many incredible women struggle with their birth experiences, feeling helpless and disempowered. But here's the truth: your birth experience belongs to you and no one else. It's crucial for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being to take ownership and be actively involved in the decision-making process. When you do, you're more likely to have a positive birth experience and feel satisfied with the care you receive.
Addressing Fear and Anxiety Around Taking Responsibility
Now, I totally get it. Fear and anxiety can be big hurdles when it comes to taking ownership of your birth. Especially if you've had a previous traumatic birth or you've been conditioned to believe that birth is a scary, emergent, medical event. But here's the thing: fear can actually be a powerful motivator. It can push you to take action and ensure a positive birth experience. The key is to channel that fear into advocacy and action, rather than letting it hold you back. Trust me, I've been there, and I'll share how I turned my fear into empowerment on my own VBAC journey.
Remember That You Have a Choice in EVERYTHING
I want you to know that you have a choice in EVERYTHING. Your pregnancy, your birth, your postpartum journey—it's all in your hands. Sure, you'll receive recommendations and advice from your care team, family, and friends, but at the end of the day, the decision is yours. It's about finding a provider who aligns with your birth goals, doing your research, and interviewing multiple providers if needed.
Reframe Your Mindset and Own Your Choices
Okay, let's talk about reframing your mindset. I've heard so many women say things like, "I had to be induced," or "I had to get an epidural." But guess what? Those are still choices. YOU made those choices, even if they weren't the ones you initially wanted. By reframing your mindset and taking ownership, you can see your birth in a whole new light. It's about recognizing that you made decisions based on what you believed was best for you and your baby. So let's shift that power back to you and be confident in the choices you made!
Taking radical responsibility and ownership of your birth is crucial for a positive and empowering experience. Whether your birth goes exactly as planned or takes unexpected turns, remember that you have the ability to make informed decisions and advocate for yourself. Your birth belongs to you, and by embracing ownership, you can create a beautiful and memorable experience that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Want to learn more about VBAC?
Download my free First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide to get started on your VBAC prep journey!
