Choice, Autonomy, and Childbirth Education

In this column, a reader challenges the idea that choice in childbirth is a myth. The ways in which women's choices in childbirth are undermined are explored. The relationship between choice, autonomy, and decision-making is discussed. Autonomy is considered as a foundation for decision-making and an important way to make birth safer for mothers and babies. Strategies for increasing autonomy within the framework of childbirth education are presented.