Cervical Exams and Consent

Cervical Exams are not a one-size fits all evaluation of labor progress.

It’s ok to….

• Ask for 5 more minutes or an hour

• Ask to be explained what’s happening

• Ask not to find out how dilated you are

• Say “Stop”

• Cry

• Close your eyes

• Decline it

• Put your hand on the hand of whoever is doing the exam

• Ask your partner, Doula, or nurse to step out of the room

• Ask for an exam and to “be checked”

• Not be flat on your back

• Be afraid

• Feel shy

• Make noise and tell people what you are feeling

• Check yourself

• Ask for help with learning how to check yourself

It’s important that you feel safe and comfortable with cervical exams.

You are in charge of your body. No one else.

- Margaret Romano, Birth Doula