The BRAIN Acronym: A Simple Tool for Empowered Birth Decisions

Using the BRAIN Acronym to Make Confident Birth Decisions

Pregnancy is full of decisions—some big, some small, and sometimes, a little overwhelming. When you’re in the moment and faced with choices about your care, it helps to have a simple way to think things through. That’s where the BRAIN acronym comes in! This easy tool helps you slow down, ask the right questions, and make informed choices that feel right for you and your baby.

As your Seattle birth doula, this is one of the things I go over with you in our prenatal meeting. This decision making tool was created in collaboration with a number of groups, including the Patient Voices Network.

What is the BRAIN Acronym?

The BRAIN acronym is a handy decision-making tool that stands for:

• Benefits – What are the positives of this option or procedure?
• Risks – Are there any downsides or possible side effects?
• Alternatives – What other choices do I have?
• Intuition – What is my gut feeling about this?
• Nothing – What happens if I wait or do nothing for now?

How to Use the BRAIN Acronym During Birth

If your provider suggests an intervention or you’re faced with a decision, the BRAIN acronym can help guide your conversation. Here’s how it works in real life:

• Benefits: Ask how this option could help you or your baby. Will it make labor easier? Could it prevent complications?
• Risks: Are there any possible side effects or challenges? How might this impact you, your baby, or your labor progress?
• Alternatives: Are there other approaches? Can you try a different position, wait a little longer, or explore non-medical options first?
• Intuition: Pause for a moment and check in with yourself. Does this choice feel right? Sometimes, your intuition knows best.
• Nothing: If you wait or decline, what happens? Can you reassess later? Will labor continue safely?

Why This is So Helpful

Using the BRAIN acronym puts you in control of your birth experience. Instead of feeling like decisions are made for you, it gives you a framework to gather information, consider your options, and make choices that align with your birth vision.

How I Can Help as Your Doula

As your Seattle area birth doula, I’m here to remind you to use the BRAIN tool when decisions come up. I’ll support you in processing the information, help you weigh your options, and give you space to decide what feels best. You deserve to feel confident and informed every step of the way!

Curious about more ways to prepare for birth? Let’s connect—I’d love to support you on this journey!