You always hear “the experts” telling you to ask questions.  Weren’t we raised to be nice girls?  We aren’t supposed to question those in authority (for all the schooling the doctors sure do deserve some authority haha).  I always viewed myself as being informed and asking all the questions I had, especially with the complications pregnancy brings to my life.

Maybe it’s the fact it’s number four, or perhaps I feel empowered by the books I am studying to become a doula.  I don’t know for sure.  I have asked any question that has come into my head without hesitation.  I find myself speaking up more.  Example, your random fact for the day….Did you know the blood pressure cuff doesn’t actually measure your heart?  I thought it measured the intake and outflow at the heart.  The top number is the number when the blood starts flowing through the cuff and the bottom number is when blood is fully flowing.  I just learned that one last week and it was by asking.  Although I love those caring for me and would recommend them to anyone, I feel like I have some control over my health (my PICC line is a great example of that one!  I was persistent and got it.)

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if they are as silly as how a blood pressure cuff works.  I have found the nurses and doctors are more than happy to explain it to you.  If they aren’t, it is time to find others who do.  You deserve good care!  Think of this as good practice.  If your child’s teacher mentions your child having a hard time at school, wouldn’t you ask tons of questions?  In a way, not only are you advocating for your own body, but you are beginning to be the advocate for that little baby swimming in your uterus.  If you feel lost or timid, visit your local library.  There is such great power in books!  The Birth Partner is a fantastic book to get you started.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions!  The more you ask, the empower you will be to make good choices for you and your baby.