There is a tool used widely called ‘BRAIN’, it’s so important to use the ‘BRAIN’ tool when making any decisions, but particularly those around your pregnancy and labour/birth.
Clinicians will usually only recommend something if they feel it’s appropriate and needed, but that’s not to say that their opinion may differ from your own, and that is absolutely fine, it’s your baby, your body and your birth.
The brain tool is a great way to help consider your options and help make the right decision for you.
B; Benefit; what are the benefits of agreeing to this/this option?
R; Risk; what are the risks fo agreeing to this/this option?
A; Alternative; are there any alternatives that might be better for us right now?
I; Instinct; what is my guy saying? Maternal instinct can be a very strong and powerful thing at times.
N; Nothing; what if we do nothing? what next? Can we wait and see?
Pregnancy, labour and birth is full of decisions, you will be presented with many choices and options at every stage.
You might want to print it out the ‘BRAIN’ tool, stick it in your maternity notes, on the fridge, your birth venue of choice or even just share it with your birth partner or supportive others. In the middle of labour you may not be able to use this tool as effectively as you like, but if your birth partner/supportive others are aware of it, it may help them to talk things through with you. I’ve put an example of how you might use the BRAIN tool below, when considering an induction of labour following waters breaking.
Induction of labour following waters breaking example:
B; Reducing the risk of infection and potential reduction in the time between waters breaking and labour starting.
R; May be more painful. More vaginal examinations likely to be needed and therefore an increased risk of infection. A longer hospital stay and limited birthing options (e.g. birth pool).
A; Alternative is to await spontaneous labour, start induction of labour immediately or delay induction of labour for 24/48 hours.
I; What is my gut saying? Do I feel safer in hospital or do I feel more likely to go into labour if at home and relaxed?
N; Doing nothing and just awaiting spontaneous labour. How long am I happy to wait? Will I be offered more monitoring? Can I change my mind at any point?
About The Author: Emily Boston
Emily Boston, our award winning lead antenatal instructor in Cheltenham, Cotswolds, boasts credentials as a certified antenatal and early postnatal educator, as well as a paediatric first aid expert.
Beyond her professional qualifications, she's a proud mother who deeply values perinatal mental well-being. Emily is dedicated to offering families evidence-backed, unbiased advice, ensuring they're well-supported throughout their journey.
Looking for an antenatal class?: We offer an initial call, completely free of charge and without any obligation. You can schedule a call with us, email us, or call us on: 07758 215954.
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