Decision Making During Birth
BRAND: An Acronym for Decision Making during Labour & Delivery
Throughout pregnancy, and particularly during the labour and delivery phase, there is often a flurry of information and advice rolling in. Use this acronym (and ensure your partner/spouse also knows it) to help gather information, slow the pace and allow time to process information. Almost everything can wait until these questions have been answered:
B: BENEFITS AND RISKS
What are the BENEFITS/RISKS associated with a suggestion? For example, if an early induction is suggested, find out the various benefits and risks associated with this recommendation. Take notes!
R: REASONS
What are the REASONS a recommendation is being made? Is my health at risk? Is the baby’s health at risk? Is it a matter of comfort/choice? What are the reasons a particular health intervention or treatment is being suggested?
A: Alternatives
Are there any ALTERNATIVES? Are there other options available to consider? Request a list of alternatives for consideration. Is waiting/time an option to moving ahead? Gather the facts and take notes for careful review.
N: Nothing
What happens if we do NOTHING? This should always be a consideration. What does “just wait and see” look like? What should be considered in this scenario? Is doing nothing an option? Why or why not?
D: Decision
How long do we have to make a DECISION? Is this an immediate situation? (Keep in mind, if it’s an extreme emergency, the BRAND acronym may not be an option…but these types of emergencies are rare) Do I have 1 hour to decide? 12 hours? 24 hours? What is the window of time for considering all of the information above?
This tool is easy to remember and can be used to help gain information, make informed decisions and includes your voice and considerations during your pregnancy and birth experience.
Interested in joining us? Our classes are a great way to meet other new parents. Fitmama Strong Online has been operating classes online from our virtual studio since 2020. Our community is a thriving and welcoming space for you and your littles.
We offer Prenatal Fitness classes, live from our virtual studio. Our series of Prenatal classes includes On-Demand Prenatal Yoga classes. Our 30 minute live, online Express classes our our On-Demand library of pre-recorded workouts are a favourite for busy mamas who enjoy consistency in their workout regime.
If you’re new to Fitmama Strong Online, try one of our 3 Class Passes! You can use them at our postnatal Express Strong and Express Elevate classes. It doesn’t matter if your baby was born 6 weeks ago or 6 years ago, we have something for all postnatal members! Already been to Fitmama Strong classes? Grab a monthly membership and keep moving:)
Finally, we offer in-person Stroller Fitness and Babywearing Fitness through our Durham Region and Ottawa locations. We can’t wait to have you join us!
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