Informed consent is the process of learning about a medical procedure, including what to expect, possible risks and benefits, and other choices, before deciding whether to move forward. It helps you understand your healthcare and gives you the opportunity to make a voluntary decision with your medical provider.
What Does Informed Consent Mean?
When a doctor recommends a medical procedure, you may be asked to sign a consent form. But informed consent is about more than signing paperwork. It is a conversation between you and your healthcare provider that helps you understand the care being recommended before you agree to it.
Your provider should explain the purpose of the procedure, what it may involve, possible risks and benefits, and other options that may be available. You should also have a chance to ask questions and make sure you understand the information.
Why Is Informed Consent Important?
Medical decisions can sometimes feel confusing or stressful. This may be especially true when you are dealing with an unexpected pregnancy or considering a medical procedure.
You may find information online or hear opinions from people you know. While these sources may help you think through your questions, your healthcare provider can give you information based on your individual health and circumstances.
Informed consent gives you a chance to understand your choices before treatment begins. It also allows you to discuss concerns you may have instead of feeling like you need to make a decision without enough information.
What Should Your Doctor Explain?
The information you receive will depend on the procedure and your personal situation. However, your healthcare provider should generally discuss important information that may affect your decision.
This may include:
- Why the procedure is being recommended
- What the procedure involves
- What you may experience during and after the procedure
- Possible risks or complications
- Potential benefits
- Other available treatment choices
- What could happen if you delay or decline the recommended care
You do not need to understand every medical term before making a decision. If something does not make sense, ask your provider to explain it in simpler language.
What Questions Can I Ask?
You are allowed to ask any questions before agreeing to medical care. In fact, asking questions can help you better understand what you are considering.
Depending on the situation, you might ask:
- Why do I need this procedure?
- What will happen during the procedure?
- What are the possible risks?
- What are the possible benefits?
- Are there other options?
- What happens if I wait?
- What should I expect afterward?
- Is there anything about my health that changes these risks?
If you are still unsure, let your provider know. A good healthcare conversation should give you the opportunity to understand the information and make a decision without unnecessary pressure.
Does Signing a Consent Form Mean I Am Informed?
A consent form may be part of the process, but signing a document does not automatically mean informed consent has taken place.
This is one reason it is important to read consent forms carefully and ask about anything you do not understand before signing.
How Does Informed Consent Apply to Pregnancy?
Informed consent is important throughout pregnancy and reproductive healthcare. If you are pregnant, your healthcare provider can help you understand information about your health, pregnancy, and available medical care.
Shared decision-making can also be part of this process. This means you and your provider discuss the benefits and risks of different choices while considering your individual circumstances, questions, and priorities.
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may have questions about parenting, adoption, or abortion. You deserve the opportunity to learn about your situation and consider your options. If a medical procedure is being considered, speak directly with a qualified medical professional about the procedure, risks, and alternatives that apply to you.
What If I Feel Pressured?
You should feel comfortable asking questions about your medical care. If you do not understand something, tell your provider. You can also ask whether you have time to think about your decision when the situation is not urgent.
In some situations, medical care may need to happen quickly. Your healthcare provider can explain how urgent your situation is and what choices may be available. If you are unsure about a recommendation, you can ask for clarification or discuss your concerns with another qualified medical professional when appropriate.
Start With the Right Information
If you think you may be pregnant, you may not know what to do next. Before making major healthcare decisions, it can help to first understand your pregnancy and have your questions addressed.
Community Pregnancy Clinic offers free pregnancy resources and supportive services for women facing an unexpected pregnancy. You can make an appointment to learn more about your pregnancy and discuss your questions in a confidential setting.
You Have the Right to Ask Questions
Informed consent gives you an opportunity to understand medical care before agreeing to it. It involves more than signing a form—it involves receiving information, asking questions, understanding your choices, and making a voluntary decision.
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and are not sure what to do next, you do not have to navigate your questions alone. Schedule an appointment and learn about the free resources and support available to you.
