The BRAIN Acronym

BRAIN is a simple acronym that you can use to help you make informed choices (decisions) about your healthcare during conception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum + parenting. It provides a logical approach in weighing in on the many choices you face during uncertain times in your journey. 

The BRAIN acronym stands for the following: benefits, risks, alternatives, intuition, + nothing.

brain acronym and informed choices

Benefits

What are the benefits of making this decision?

Risks

What are the risks associated with this decision?

Alternatives

Are there alternatives? If so, what are they?

Intuition

What does my gut say?

Nothing

What if I do nothing or wait it out?

When Can I Use the BRAIN Acronym?

In most cases, you will be able to speak with your care provider before your informed consent or informed refusal on a matter. By exploring the benefits, risks, alternatives, as well listening to your intuition, you are exercising your ability to think through your options. This will help you + your partner make the best choice(s) for your situation whether that looks like doing nothing at all, waiting it out, or moving forward.

Furthermore, it highlights evidence-based information versus the opinions + advice of others.  After all, YOU are in charge of making the decisions for YOUR JOURNEY + you have the right to know ALL of your options!

I love to remind my clients use the BRAIN acronym when they anxious about making a decision.  I equate it to “taking a breath” because it allows for a pause in action.  It is the dialogue needed before making a hasty decision.

Hire a Doula

If it seems to be too much (read: overwhelming), remember you can hire a doula to help you sift through your thoughts, navigate your way through information, + support you in your decisions!

What is a doula? Learn more here.

CONTACT YOUR DOULA TODAY

Please type "n/a" if not applicable.