What is Hilary Erickson's definitive guide to informed consent during pregnancy?

Hilary’s “definitive guide” to informed consent in pregnancy is really a combo of a few core ideas she teaches over and over:

• You have the right to understand and decide what happens to your body during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
• True informed consent has five parts:
  • You understand the information
  • No coercion (no “you have to do this” pressure)
  • Clear risks, benefits, and alternatives are explained
  • You can say no or “not right now”
  • It’s documented in your chart
• It applies to everything from inductions, epidurals, C‑sections, episiotomies, cervical exams, to positions in labor—not just “big” procedures.
• You’re encouraged to keep asking: “What are the risks, benefits, and alternatives?” and “Do we have time to think or wait?”

Hilary’s main goal is that you feel informed, respected, and part of every decision, not just along for the ride.

Would you like examples of questions to ask your provider in a real‑life scenario (like induction or C‑section)?