Pregnancy and birth involve many decisions, many professionals, and many moments where information is shared and choices are made. Understanding your rights helps you participate actively in your care and feel more grounded as you move through each stage. These are just a few of many rights recognized in medical frameworks around the world that exist to support safe, respectful, and person-centered care.

I have the right to decide how, where, and with whom I give birth.

This means you can choose your birth location (such as a hospital, birth center, or home), your prenatal provider, and the support people you want present during labor. These decisions can be shaped by your preferences, your health needs, your comfort, and your cultural or personal values.

I have the right to informed consent.

Informed consent means you receive explanations about any test, procedure, or intervention being offered. This includes what it is, why it’s being recommended, what the benefits and risks are, and what alternatives might exist. It also means you have the opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to say yes or no.

It’s simply a process of making choices with clarity and understanding.

I have the right to freedom of movement in labor + to give birth in the position of my choice.

In most situations, you should be able to move around, change positions, use different tools or comfort measures, and follow what your body is telling you without being overly encumbered by wires, machines, etc.

Similarly, you can choose the birth position that feels best for you, unless a specific medical situation requires otherwise.

‍I have the right to care that is appropriate to my culture and/or religion.

Everyone brings their own traditions, beliefs, and practices into pregnancy and birth. This right means your care team should make reasonable efforts to respect and accommodate those needs — such as privacy preferences, prayer practices, dietary considerations, or the involvement of cultural birthworkers or family members. Health systems are responsible for creating care environments that are adaptable and responsive to the cultural and religious needs of the communities they serve.

I have the right to receive information in a language I can understand and communicate in.

Clear communication is essential for safe care. You are entitled to interpretation services, translated materials when possible, and explanations that use language you can understand. You should never feel pressured to make decisions based on unclear or incomplete information — or feel burdened to create accessible communication options for yourself.

I have the right to refuse surgery or medical procedures.

You always have the option to decline or delay a procedure after hearing the available information. This includes things like inductions, cesarean births, episiotomies, or other interventions. Your care team may make recommendations based on their training and experience, but the final decision belongs to you.

I have the right to receive treatment when in labor or experiencing a medical emergency.

If you are in labor or facing a health emergency, you will be evaluated and treated regardless of your insurance status, ability to pay, or other circumstances. This right exists to ensure timely care in urgent situations.

I have a right to privacy at all stages of pregnancy.

Your medical information, your exams, and your birth experience are private. This includes privacy in your physical space during labor as well as confidentiality in your medical records. You choose who has access to personal details about your pregnancy and birth.

I have a right to access to all available records related to my and my infant’s health and care.

There’s no single “right” reaction, and no one timeline for processing it. You don’t have to feel ready right away. You don’t have to have it all figured out.

Finding out you’re pregnant can bring a flood of emotions: joy, anxiety, fear, excitement, disbelief, gratitude, grief —
or some complicated blend of them all.

I have a right to access to all available records related to my and my infant’s health and care.

You can request copies of your medical records, ask questions about what you see, and use the information to make informed decisions. Access to records can help you understand your health history, reflect on your birth experience, and coordinate ongoing care.

I have the right to uninterrupted contact with my newborn.

In most cases, you and your baby can stay together immediately after birth. Practices like skin-to-skin contact, early bonding, and rooming-in support both connection and newborn health. If separation is needed for medical reasons, your care team should explain why and support reconnection as soon as possible.

I have the right to complete and accurate information about my infant feeding options.

Whether you plan to breastfeed, chestfeed, formula-feed, or combine methods, you should receive straightforward information about each option. You can ask questions, express your needs, and make choices based on what works best for your family’s well-being.

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