This study, "I no longer had a voice, I was just a vessel": Birthing women's experiences of information gathering, choice and dismissal, published in *Sex Reprod Healthc*, explores the profound impact of how information is (or isn't) provided to birthing women. The research highlights how a lack of adequate information gathering and opportunities for genuine choice can lead to women feeling disempowered, reduced to mere physical vessels rather than active participants in their birth experience. This sense of dismissal underscores the critical importance of effective communication and shared decision-making in maternity care. The findings underscore the significant emotional and psychological toll on women when their voices are not heard or their choices are disregarded during childbirth. For clinicians, this research emphasizes the need to prioritize clear, comprehensive information dissemination and to actively foster an environment where birthing individuals feel empowered to make informed decisions. Understanding these lived experiences is crucial for improving the quality of care and ensuring women feel respected and supported throughout their birthing journey.
Original publication date: 2026 Apr 11
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