How to Decline Hospital Procedures While Protecting Your Birth Rights
When you first arrive to the hospital, it can feel like the rules suddenly shift. Everyone around you is doing things by the book, and you start wondering: can I really decline certain hospital procedures and still be in control? I say absolutely.
In this blog post, I’m going to walk you through exactly how to navigate those hospital policies that don’t align with your birth plan and how to protect your rights without feeling intimidated.
Your Birth, Your Rights: What you need to know
First things first: You have the right to make informed decisions about your birth. Hospital policies are not laws. They’re guidelines meant to standardize care, but they shouldn’t override your personal birth choices. Yet, many women find themselves feeling pressured into interventions because they believe the hospital’s rules are non-negotiable. However, that's not true.
Your rights include:
The right to informed consent and informed refusal (meaning you have the power to say yes or no to any procedure)
The right to ask questions and fully understand the risks and benefits of any medical intervention
The right to request alternatives to a suggested procedure
The right to refuse routine interventions like IVs, fetal monitoring, or even being induced
This knowledge is key. Hospitals and care providers may try to push policies or practices on you, but you have every right to stand your ground.
How to decline procedures without drama
I get it—standing up to a doctor or nurse can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not sure how to phrase things or what to expect in return. But let me tell you: being clear and firm about your choices isn’t rude. It’s your right.
Here’s how to decline a hospital procedure without drama:
1. Know Your Options
The first step to refusing a procedure is knowing what your options are. Research ahead of time, and if you’re unsure about something, ask. The more information you have, the more empowered you’ll feel to make decisions.
2. Communicate Clearly
Be straightforward and polite when expressing your desires. You can say things like, “I understand that the hospital policy is X, but I would like to decline that procedure because…” This opens up a conversation, rather than shutting it down.
3. Have a Backup Plan
If you know you’re going to decline a procedure, be ready with an alternative that works for you. For example, if you don’t want continuous fetal monitoring, suggest intermittent monitoring instead.
4. Involve Your Birth Team
A doula, your partner, or birth coach is invaluable when it comes to supporting you in these conversations. They can advocate for you, ensuring that your preferences are heard and respected.
Example Scenario: Navigating IVs and Monitoring
Let’s say you don’t want an IV for fluids during labor. Many hospitals will automatically suggest it for “hydration” or “comfort,” but it’s not mandatory unless you’re receiving medication or fluids for medical reasons.
What you can say:
“I’d prefer to stay hydrated by drinking water unless there’s a medical necessity for an IV. Can we re-evaluate later if needed?”
This request is reasonable and shows that you understand the hospital’s concerns while sticking to your preferences.
What happens if you face pushback?
It’s likely you’ll encounter some pushback at some point. Doctors, nurses, and hospital staff are used to following policies, and you’ll be challenging the status quo. Don’t let it intimidate you. Keep calm and stick to your convictions. Ask them to explain the reasoning behind their recommendations, and if you’re not comfortable with the response, politely repeat your stance.
If the pushback feels like it’s escalating:
Ask to speak with a supervisor or a hospital administrator.
Don’t be afraid to call in your support (like your doula or partner) to be your advocate during tough discussions.
Protect your birth rights: Know when to stand your ground
If you feel that your rights are being violated, or if a procedure is being pushed that you don’t want, don’t back down. You are not obligated to follow every policy, especially if it doesn’t align with your birth goals.
Having a birth plan that outlines your preferences—and your rights—is key to feeling empowered. Make sure you have it with you, and don’t hesitate to share it with your care team. If a procedure feels wrong to you, it’s okay to say no, even if it feels uncomfortable at first
What’s Next?
Standing up for your birth rights might feel daunting, but it’s also incredibly empowering. As you move forward with your birth plan, remember: You have the power to make choices that align with your values and vision for your birth. If you’re ready to dive deeper into how to confidently navigate hospital policies, protect your autonomy, and advocate for yourself, I’m here to help.
Sign up for the waitlist for my Autonomous Hospital Birth course—where I’ll give you the tools and strategies you need to take charge of your hospital birth and make informed, empowered decisions every step of the way.