When you're pregnant in America, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of tests and medical interventions offered at each prenatal visit. Every appointment introduces a new test, leaving you to wonder—do you really need all this? It's ultimately for you to decide. Join me as we explore some practical steps to help you determine which tests to consent to and which you might choose to pass on, allowing you to embrace your pregnancy with confidence and faith.

Are you a Christian woman yearning for a God-focused pregnancy and birthing experience, rather than one dominated by medical tests? Are you worried about achieving the birth you desire, feeling like you're navigating a healthcare system that treats pregnancy as an impending mishap? I'm Lori, your host of Your Birth God's Way. After nearly two decades in a conventional maternity system, I felt just as you do now. Seeking the birth God intended for me led me to a profound truth—God's way is indeed the best way.

Do you long for a safe birth that aligns with your values, free from unsolicited medical interventions? Do you fear unnecessary procedures like C-sections? You're not alone. Imagination gives rise to possibility, and you deserve to envision a pregnancy and birth that respects your individual needs and beliefs. Through The Midwife and Me Power Hour, I offer personalized coaching to help you achieve your pregnancy and postpartum goals, keeping God at the heart of your experience.

This episode might ruffle some feathers in the medical community, and I'm okay with that. Remember, pregnancy is about you and your baby—your right to choose is paramount. Being informed empowers you to make decisions without needing a medical degree. You can decide which tests are essential for you and which aren't.

Medical testing often stems from a place of fear, driven by the belief that something must go wrong during pregnancy—it must be an accident waiting to happen. Yet, this outlook transforms pregnancy into a horror film, with mothers dodging potential negative outcomes. It's crucial to acknowledge that most mothers will not encounter the conditions these tests seek to identify.

Before consenting to any test, reflect on these critical questions:
1. Impact of Test Results: Will knowing the results change your pregnancy journey positively? If not, the stress might outweigh the benefits.
​2. Consequences of a Positive Result: What if you skipped testing, and an issue went undetected? Evaluate the risks and consider if the knowledge would alter your course.
3. Likelihood of Positive Outcomes: Weigh the odds—are you worrying about something incredibly rare? Decide if it’s worthwhile.
4. Mental Health Considerations: How would a positive result impact your peace of mind during pregnancy? Consider the emotional toll.
5. Preparation based on Test Results: Would certain results require you to adjust your birthing plan? For example, conditions like placenta accreta might necessitate a hospital birth.

As you consider these questions, remember that you can dissent—‘No’ is a complete sentence. It’s essential to engage with these decisions thoughtfully and remember false positives do exist. Trust your instincts and knowledge under God’s guidance.