Routine vaginal examinations can cause more harm than good. Sometimes they are needed but most of the time they are not. Vaginal examinations are offered as routine surveillance during most births, but you have a choice. Know that if you don’t want one, that's ok, because there is no evidence that shows that routine vaginal examinations improve outcomes - in fact, it’s more likely to be the opposite.

Some complementary episodes that go with this topic include:

• Ep.88 what if I have to push before I am fully dilated
• Ep.143 - declining medical recommendations

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Disclaimer

The information and resources provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. Instead, all information provided is intended for education, with its application intended for discussion between yourself and your care provider and/or workplace if you are a health professional.

The Great Birth Rebellion podcast reserves the right to supplement, edit, change, or delete any information at any time. Whilst we have tried to maintain the accuracy and completeness of information, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or currency of the information. The podcast accepts no liability for any loss, damage or unfavourable outcomes howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.

This podcast is not a replacement for midwifery or medical clinical care.

The below transcript was created with AI and may contain errors.