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
Comments