Seek Support from Loved Ones: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you. Share your journey with loved ones who remind you that you are amazing just the way you are. Having someone attend medical appointments with you can also be immensely helpful. You may find having a straight size person with you in these appointments can allow for both emotional support and advocacy if you encounter any weight-related biases. Be sure to bring your friend who is fearless, or makes you feel fearless and keeps you centered!

Visiting doctors and nurses during pregnancy can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. For plus-size individuals, there might be challenges, but remember, your voice matters. You deserve respectful, compassionate care that focuses on the whole person’s well-being of you and your baby rather than your size.

Find the Right Provider: If you’re feeling uncomfortable with your current healthcare provider due to insensitive comments, dismissive attitudes, or harm, don’t hesitate to switch if that is an option for you. You deserve a provider who sees you as a whole person and respects your feelings and concerns. If you are unable to switch providers, we are here to help! We provide consultations to walk alongside you on your journey to becoming a parent by working on dialogue practice, review evidence, and prepare for and debrief from appointments. You can also check out our Guide to Finding a Size Inclusive Pregnancy Provider.

Hiring a Doula: A doula can be a game-changer during pregnancy. Not only do they provide emotional and physical support during labor, but they can also help you navigate interactions with medical professionals. Their expertise can empower you to communicate effectively and assertively, ensuring your needs are met. Make sure you ask questions about weight inclusion or fat positivity views when interviewing your doula. Be fearless in your questions, it’s an important decision.

Knowledge is power, my friends! Educating yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and your rights can help you confidently advocate for your needs and preferences. Don’t let weight stigma undermine your ability to make informed decisions.

Research and Knowledge: Arm yourself with information about pregnancy for plus-size individuals. Understand the potential challenges, but also focus on the incredible strengths you possess. Knowing your body and its capabilities can help you feel more confident and fearless in discussions with healthcare providers. You can check out other blog posts we’ve written, request a consultation to discuss evidence behind a concern you have and, or check out these other AMAZING folks advocating for and educating about fat positivity: Plus Mommy, Sara Wickham, Nicola Salmon.

While these folks are all about uplifting folks in larger bodies, please note there is gendered language in some of the articles. We also suggest reviewing the research and podcast available from Evidence Based Birth. While this site provides up to date research, much of the information does still consider BMI. 

Communication is Key: Open, respectful communication is essential when working with medical professionals. Remember, you are an active participant in your healthcare journey. Share your feelings, ask questions, and assert your preferences. 

Speaking up for yourself can be extremely difficult, especially if you also have other marginalized identities. We recognize the medical system as a whole in the States is not set up to support people of the global majority, (?? What does that mean? Find out more here), LGBTQIA+, disabled or neurodiverse folks, (along with many others).

Thus, finding a provider that you feel safe with is your first step. If that is not possible, find people who can support you in other ways, those who can attend appointments with you, hold space for debriefing, or even those who can offer a hug.