Can you refuse an IV?

Question

Can you refuse an IV at the hospital when you give birth? I get horrible panic attacks every time I get one and I’ve had them everywhere in my arms and hands and most of the time they have to stick me multiple times. Yesterday I had to get fluids and they gave me an IV I soon after freaked and had to have it taken out, I’ve been shaken up since. I’m worried I’ll be having panic attacks during labor if I do have to have one.

Answer

Idk hun.. i mean yeh its yuk and sometimes painful gtn them but an unfortunate necessity to help your body get through whatever your going through. Think your fear is crippling you and spinning you out more than it should. Fear is your worst enemy. You will be ok I promise. Let that fear go. You will amazed at how freeing it is and you may not even need IV in the end. Good luck.

Answer

My guess is this might* be a hard accommodation. But definitely have an honest conversation with your care team. Sometimes you need an IV for antibiotics, blood clotting medications, hydration fluids, etc depending on what happens in birth. But if they can hold off until the need presents itself instead of just doing it right away you might end up being lucky! They also might be able to give you the IV somewhere else that may be more comfortable, like your arm instead of your hand? Midwives for home birth will also give IV’s as needed, it’s not just a hospital thing. But at the end of the day you can always advocate for yourself to get the experience you want

Answer

Yes. I've given birth with OB in a hospital 4 times and delivered no IV two of those times.  The first time (2nd birth) the doctor never requested an IV and it was great.  The second time (4th birth) I requested no IV and had to haggle a bit with the doctor about it. He had a strong preference for an IV but did allow me to go without it.

Answer

you can refuse whatever you want to. however it would be worth mentioning to your care team if you are wanting a medicated/unmedicated birth. 
many hospitals also have an IV team that can place them using an ultrasound so it greatlyyyyyyyyy increases the chances of getting it the first try.

Answer

You can always decline medical intervention.

Answer

Explore a birth center or homebirth. Neither do IVs unless necessary. I've never had one in any of my 6 homebirths.

Can you refuse an IV?

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