Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth: - IAWG

TALKING WITH WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES C-5Pregnancy is typically a time of joy and anticipation. It can also be atime of anxiety and concern. Talking effectively with a woman and herfamily can help build the woman’s trust and confidence in her healthcare providers.Women who develop complications may have difficulty talking to theprovider and explaining their problem. It is the responsibility of theentire health care team to speak with the woman respectfully and puther at ease. Focusing on the woman means that the health care providerand staff:• respect the woman’s dignity and right to privacy;• are sensitive and responsive to the woman’s needs;• are non-judgmental about the decisions that the woman and herfamily have made thus far regarding her care.It is understandable to disagree with a woman’s risky behaviour or adecision which has resulted in a delay in seeking care. It is notacceptable, however, to show disrespect for a woman or disregard for amedical condition that is a result of her behaviour. Provide correctivecounselling after the complication has been dealt with, not before orduring management of the problem.RIGHTS OF WOMENProviders should be aware of the rights of women when receivingmaternity care services:• Every woman receiving care has a right to information about herhealth.• Every woman has the right to discuss her concerns in anenvironment in which she feels confident.• A woman should know in advance the type of procedure that isgoing to be performed.• Procedures should be conducted in an environment (e.g. labourward) in which the woman’s right to privacy is respected.• A woman should be made to feel as comfortable as possible whenreceiving services.• The woman has a right to express her views about the service shereceives.