Pregnancy is a powerful and life-changing journey, but it can also bring challenges; especially for Black and Latinx mothers who often face systemic inequities in healthcare. These disparities can lead to inadequate care and poorer outcomes.

At FIERCE Advocates, we support expecting parents in standing up for their health and well-being. Every mother deserves to be heard, respected, and surrounded by care that reflects her values and culture. If you're preparing to give birth, we invite you to explore tools that can help you speak up, feel confident in medical spaces, and protect your well-being.

We’re also proud to share how our CoCo Doulas program is changing birth experiences for families in Contra Costa County.

Why Self-Advocacy Matters

Pregnancy is a time of joy, but it’s also a moment to be active in your healthcare decisions. Black and Latinx mothers face higher rates of complications, including preventable outcomes. Self-advocacy helps ensure that your care matches your needs and priorities.

When you ask questions and speak up, you take charge of your health and help build a relationship with your provider based on mutual respect.

Pause & Reflect: Think back to a time when your voice wasn’t fully heard in a healthcare setting. What would it look like to take one small step toward speaking up today?

Tip 1: Trust Your Instincts

You know your body best. If something doesn’t feel right, whether it’s physical discomfort, emotional stress, or a concern about your baby, share it with your provider. You have the right to be taken seriously.

Your concerns, questions, and insights matter. Whether you're asking for a second opinion or clarification, your voice should always be part of the conversation.

Take the First Step Toward Advocating for Your Needs:

Prepare Questions in Advance: Write down any concerns or questions you have before your appointment. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything during the conversation with your healthcare provider.

Practice Saying No or Asking for More Information: If you feel uncomfortable with a decision or recommendation, practice respectfully saying “no” or asking for more information. For example, “I need more details before moving forward” or “Can you explain this to me further so I can make an informed decision?”

Keep a Health Journal: Document any physical symptoms, changes, or questions you may have throughout your pregnancy. Having a record of your experiences can help you clearly communicate your needs during appointments and provide healthcare providers with important context about your health journey.

Tip 2: Be Clear About Your Birth Plan

A birth plan is a great way to communicate what matters most to you during labor and delivery. Whether it’s about pain management, the environment you want, or cultural practices you'd like honored, sharing your preferences helps your care team support you more fully.

Even when things shift during the birth process, you still have the right to be involved in all decisions.

Pause & Reflect: What are your hopes for your birth experience? How can you make sure those are clearly communicated?

Tip 3: Ask for Culturally Competent Care

Not all providers understand the cultural and personal needs of Black and Latinx families. But your identity, traditions, and beliefs should be acknowledged and respected.

If something about your care doesn’t feel culturally aligned, it’s okay to speak up. You can request a provider who better understands your background and values.

Pause & Reflect: Are there cultural traditions or practices that are important to you during pregnancy or birth? How can you share those with your care team?

Tip 4: Bring a Support Person

Medical settings can be overwhelming, especially if you're facing unfamiliar systems or language. Having a trusted friend, partner, or family member with you can make a big difference. They can help ask questions, take notes, and make sure your voice is heard.

A support person can also help you stay calm, focused, and reminded of your power in the room.

Tip 5: Know Your Rights and Resources

You have the right to understand the care you’re receiving. You can ask questions, request more time, and seek a second opinion. If your care team isn’t listening to you, you’re not alone—there are people and programs that can help.

FIERCE Advocates is proud to offer CoCo Doulas, a free community-based doula program serving Black and Latinx families in Contra Costa County. CoCo Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Our doulas are trained professionals and trusted community members who understand the importance of culturally rooted care. Whether you're preparing to give birth or just beginning your pregnancy journey, CoCo Doulas are here to walk alongside you.

Pause & Reflect: Who can be part of your support system? What kind of care feels most aligned with your values?

Join FIERCE in Supporting Maternal Health

FIERCE Advocates is committed to reducing maternal health disparities and supporting families every step of the way. Through programs like CoCo Doulas and a focus on parent-led empowerment, we’re building a future where every birth is safe, supported, and respected.

We invite you to learn more about CoCo Doulas, advocate for culturally responsive care, and stand with us in supporting Black and Latinx mothers across Contra Costa County.

Together, we can ensure every expecting parent is heard, honored, and equipped to thrive.

Self-Advocacy During Pregnancy: Tips for Communicating Your Needs