• Take a childbirth education class rooted in reproductive justice. These classes are designed with the unique needs and experiences of BIPOC families in mind, often addressing systemic bias directly and providing tools for advocacy and self-advocacy.

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• Ask your provider about informed consent practices. Ask them to explain how they ensure patients understand their options, risks, and rights before any procedure—especially for interventions that disproportionately affect people of color, like inductions and cesareans.

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• Bring a written birth plan and review it with your provider ahead of time. Make sure it includes language around consent, communication, and advocacy. This can help clarify expectations and make it easier to advocate in the moment.

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• Ensure your support team is aligned with your values, and trained in anti-racism. This could include a culturally competent doula, a care provider of color, or a friend or family member who understands how to navigate bias in medical systems.

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• Practice advocating now—before birth. Role-play scenarios where you or your support person may need to ask questions, refuse a procedure, or request clarification. Confidence in advocacy grows with practice.

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• Get involved with organizations working to end birth disparities. Groups like Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Ancient Song Doula Services, and the National Birth Equity Collaborative are actively shifting policy and care.

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• Track your care. Keep a journal of your medical visits, concerns raised, and any care plans discussed. Documentation can be helpful if issues arise or if you need to switch providers.

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• Know your rights. Learn about your rights in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care—especially regarding informed consent, refusal of treatment, and who is allowed in your birth space.