SAFETY CARD ✨Safe and Respected Birth: Knowing Your Rights as a Berlin Mum✨
- Anne Matei
- Aug 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 16
PRINT THIS CARD AND PUT IT IN YOUR MUTTERPASS
It's a sad truth that too many women carry a difficult memory of their birth because something happened without their full consent.
Traumatic births are not always avoidable, but being prepared, informed and supported helps.
Your voice is incredibly powerful during labor, and knowing how to use it is key to feeling safe and respected throughout your birth journey.
That's why I created this special bilingual safety card for you. It's a quick reminder of your rights and has helpful questions to discuss with your providers during birth.
So, how can you best advocate for yourself when the moment comes?
1. Prepare Ahead! 📖
Write a birth plan. A plan? That sounds ambitious—especially when birth is something that can't truly be… planned!
A birth plan isn't just about wishes; it helps you understand common interventions and decide what you're comfortable with (or not!). This prep empowers you to make informed decisions later.
2. Know Your Rights! ⚖️
Under German law, you have the right to:
- Be informed clearly before any intervention.
- Understand benefits, risks, and alternatives to any intervention
- Give or refuse consent: nothing can be done without it!
- Access your medical file after birth.
3. Make a REAL Decision in the Moment! 🤔
When a suggestion comes up during labor (and it's not an emergency!), remember you have the right to:
✨ Ask questions
✨ Take time
✨ Say yes, no, or something in between!
Don't hesitate to say:
"No, thank you."
"Not right now, I'd like to wait."
"Thank you for your concern, we’ll make our own decision and and get back to you."
Or simply: "I’d like a moment alone." "I want to go for a walk/the toilet, and will get back to you later"
And a super helpful tool for those moments? The BRAIN acronym! (https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=122102473268960617&id=61578818528396 )
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As a doula, I can help you understand your rights & options before birth and craft a birth plan that reflects your values.
And during birth, I am her to support you stay confident & grounded during and advocate with you when things feel overwhelming.
Feel free to save, share, and reach out if you'd like support on your beautiful birth journey! 💫
After a traumatic birth...:
Useful resource in German: https://traumageburtev.de/
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