5 Reasons to Question Routine Hospital Birth Procedures
How often are we told that interventions, procedures, and protocols are “just part of the process” and we should just go along with it? Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s time to question everything—because those routine hospital birth procedures might not be as necessary or beneficial as you’ve been led to believe.
In this blog, I’m breaking down five routine hospital birth procedures you should think twice about. I’ll explain why questioning these norms can be a game-changer, and how it can help you protect your birth choices. Whether it’s your first birth or you’re determined to do things differently after a tough experience, it’s time to learn why just “going along with it” isn’t always in your best interest.
1. Routine IVs: Do You Really Need One?
You’ve probably heard it a million times: “You’ll need an IV as soon as you arrive.” However, most women don’t need an IV unless they’re receiving fluids, medications, or an epidural. Routine IVs are often just hospital protocol, not a medical necessity. So, why the rush to hook you up to a needle?
If you’re planning a natural birth and you’re healthy, you may want to ask if it’s possible to decline an IV or request it only if necessary. If you don’t need medications, and you’re hydrated, the IV might just be an extra hassle that gets in the way of your comfort and freedom. Not to mention, it can be limiting if you want to move around during labor or try different positions to ease the pain.
Take control: Ask for specific reasons if an IV is being recommended—you don’t have to accept it blindly.
2. Fetal Monitoring: Is Continuous Monitoring Necessary?
Another hospital procedure that’s usually standard practice is continuous fetal monitoring. The idea is to keep an eye on your baby’s heart rate throughout labor, but here’s the catch—it’s not always necessary for everyone. While it’s recommended in high-risk situations, for most healthy women, intermittent monitoring can work just as well without being strapped to a machine for hours on end.
Intermittent monitoring allows you the freedom to move around, try different labor positions, and avoid unnecessary interventions. So if you're low-risk and your baby’s doing fine, ask if intermittent monitoring can be an option. Don’t be afraid to question why continuous monitoring is being pushed if it’s not medically indicated.
3. Labor Induction: Why Are We Rushing?
I get it—labor can be long, uncomfortable, and unpredictable. But the rush to induce labor in many hospitals is based on timelines, not necessity. It’s not uncommon for women to be told that if labor doesn’t start by a certain point, induction is inevitable.
Unless there’s a medical reason, induction should not be the go-to solution. It can bring on stronger contractions, more pain, and sometimes complications you might not want. Push back if you’re told you’re “overdue” or at risk of complications when there’s no clear evidence of a problem. If you’re healthy and your baby’s healthy, you have every right to ask for more time and avoid rushing into interventions.
4. Episiotomies: A Holdover from the Past
Episiotomies, the surgical cut made to the perineum during childbirth, were once routine. But studies have shown that routine episiotomies are not necessary for most women, and in fact, they can lead to a longer recovery time and more complications.
Many hospitals still push for them, but you have the right to refuse. Ask your provider about their stance on episiotomies and discuss alternatives, like positioning during birth that can reduce the risk of tearing. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to make a choice that aligns with your birth plan.
5. C-sections: When is It Really Necessary?
C-sections have become so routine in some hospitals that they’re often seen as just another option if labor doesn’t go “according to plan.” But they’re major surgeries with serious risks and recovery time. While sometimes necessary, it’s crucial to understand that not every difficult labor or stalled progress warrants a C-section.
If you’re facing a situation where a C-section is recommended, don’t be afraid to ask for more details. Is it medically necessary, or are there other options? You can request time to make a decision, get a second opinion, or ask for interventions that could help you avoid surgery, like a vacuum extraction or different labor positions. Knowledge is power, and knowing your options can prevent you from falling into the C-section trap.
Why You Should Question These Hospital Birth Procedures
You’re probably thinking, But won’t the doctors and nurses just know best? Your birth is your choice, and hospital policies aren’t always tailored to what you need or want. Routine procedures exist because they’re easy for hospitals to manage, but that doesn’t mean they’re always in your best interest. If you’re prepared and informed, you can question these procedures without feeling like you’re challenging authority.
Taking charge of your birth choices means asking tough questions and standing your ground. Don’t let fear, uncertainty, or the “it’s just standard” mindset dictate your experience. You can advocate for yourself and reclaim your autonomy in the hospital.
Ready to Reclaim Your Birth Autonomy?
If you’re ready to question routine hospital birth procedures and take control of your choices, it’s time to dive deeper into how to navigate hospital birth with confidence. Join the waitlist for Autonomous Hospital Birth course, where you’ll learn exactly how to protect your autonomy, advocate for your rights, and make informed, empowered decisions throughout your entire hospital birth experience.