LEGAL RIGHTS
I want to know my rights during and after pregnancy loss.
Pregnancy loss can be a confusing and overwhelming experience, and many women are unsure about what to do and how to ask for help if they are expecting or experiencing pregnancy loss. If you have a history of miscarriage or a high risk pregnancy, we encourage you to speak honestly with your healthcare provider about your concerns, fears, and questions. If you would like more information and support during or after pregnancy loss, please review the organizations listed on our Pregnancy and Child Loss page.
Elizabeth Ministry International
Your Rights During a Miscarriage
https://elizabethministry.wordpress.com/2016/07/18/your-rights-during-a-miscarriage/
During a Miscarriage…
You have the right to another ultrasound to confirm beyond any doubt that your baby has passed.
You have the right to request a copy of the picture.
You have the right to a funeral for your baby.
You have the right to bury your baby. If the baby’s body passes in the hospital or the remains removed via a D&C, you have the right to your baby’s remains.
Be aware that in some states there may be laws governing how his or her body is released...
You have the right to ask to be tested for progesterone levels and an immediate prescription for supplements if there is a chance it could save your baby.
You have the right to know all the short term and long term risks of a D&C procedure. For some women a D&C may be the smartest option however women deserve to know that it has the risk of causing infertility or compromising a future pregnancy, weakening the cervix resulting in a future premature birth, or complicating a future birth because of scar tissue.
You have the right to refuse a vaginal exam. If baby is still alive, it can increase the risk of a membrane rupture and preterm labor, compromising the life of the baby. They also carry the risk of infection to the mother.
You have the right to have the father, a doula, and/or other support person present during any medical exams or treatment.
You have the right to hold your baby’s body and not be rushed.
You have the right to choose some sort of pain relief.
You have the right to take personal time from work. You have the right to say no. You have the right to choose to do nothing. You have the right to opt to deliver the baby’s body at home.
You have the right to ask questions. You have the right to trust your instincts.
You have the right to not have any concerns dismissed.
You have the right to be treated with respect and dignity and at any point you have the right to change providers or ask for a new staff member.
You have the right to name your baby, grieve your baby, and talk (or not) about your baby.
Catholic Miscarriage Support
http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/
Email: admin@catholicmiscarriagesupport.com
Catholic Miscarriage Support is a comprehensive miscarriage information and support website facilitated by lay Catholics. *There are many resources and information on this website that can be useful to pregnant mothers, regardless of your faith background.* The site provides in depth information on the physical and medical aspects of miscarriage and stillbirth deliveries. It addresses hospital preparation and navigation (including how to address a bad hospital experience). For those in need of spiritual guidance, Catholic Miscarriage Support provides guides for naming your child, burial, prayers, and so forth.
Expectant Management: http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/practical/the-physical-process/expectant-management/
Medical Management: http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/practical/the-physical-process/medical-management/
Surgical Management: http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/practical/the-physical-process/surgical-management/
How to Navigate the Hospital: http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/practical/how-to-navigate-the-hospital/
Specific to Stillbirth: http://www.catholicmiscarriagesupport.com/practical/specific-to-stillbirth/