A Guide to Safety and Self-Advocacy During Pregnancy

Various factors, including where you live, income and education, can impact the safety and outcomes of a pregnancy. If you ever feel that your health or that of your baby is at risk or that your concerns are not being addressed, it's crucial to advocate for yourself and seek support. Your health and well-being are extremely important, and resources and communities are available to help you navigate these challenges.

Your voice is powerful, and advocating for yourself can significantly impact your pregnancy experience. It is critical to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Advocating for yourself

How to advocate for yourself

    • Trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know your body best.
    • Choose a healthcare provider you feel comfortable with and who respects your preferences.
    • Don't hesitate to ask questions about your care and procedures, and share any concerns you have.
    • Educate yourself about your pregnancy, potential complications and your rights as a patient.
    • Bring a trusted friend or family member with you during appointments to help advocate on your behalf.
    • Keep a record of your symptoms, questions and the advice given by your healthcare provider.
    • When making decisions, consider the benefits, risks, alternatives, your intuition, and what happens if you do nothing. This is called the “B.R.A.I.N. tool.”
    • If you feel dismissed or uncomfortable with your care, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion.
    • You can also report concerns about the quality or safety of care. Each hospital typically has a patient advocate or ombudsman who can help.
      • You may also file a complaint here. Maryland residents can explore resources through the  Maryland Patient Safety website.
      • If you're in D.C. or Virginia, check with your local health department or hospital for similar support.

Want to share your experience about a provider? CareFirst is collecting feedback to help improve maternal healthcare.

Fill out our member feedback survey

Your voice helps us improve care for everyone.

Key moments when you should speak up

Knowing when to advocate for yourself during pregnancy is also important. Here are some key moments to consider:

  • If something doesn’t feel right, it’s the right time to speak up.
  • If your questions or concerns are not being addressed by your healthcare provider, don’t hesitate to ask again or seek a second opinion. You can also ask for a notation in your patient record if your request is being repeatedly dismissed and you feel strongly that there is a serious issue.
  • If you experience symptoms like severe headaches, vision changes, swelling or unusual pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
  • If you notice a significant decrease in the baby’s movements, it’s important to get checked by your healthcare provider quickly.
  • Always ask questions about your care, procedures and any medications prescribed. Make sure you understand the answers.

Finding Supportive Networks and Community Resources

Consider looking for additional support through community organizations and online groups. Libraries and community centers frequently have information on local resources and support groups. Additionally, universities and colleges often have resources, support groups and research centers focused on diversity and inclusion. You can also check federal, state and local government websites for programs and initiatives supporting maternal health and underserved communities.

If you're facing challenges with food, housing, transportation or other basic needs, findhelp.org can connect you to free or low-cost services in your area.