What rights do women have regarding their maternity care in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, women have the fundamental right to informed consent and support in their maternity care. This right ensures that women are fully informed about their pregnancy, birth options, and any proposed interventions, enabling them to make educated decisions regarding their health. Informed consent is a critical component of patient autonomy, allowing women to engage actively in their care rather than simply complying with medical directives.

Support encompasses the understanding that women should receive comprehensive emotional and practical assistance throughout their maternity journey. This includes access to information about their options, the ability to discuss their preferences with healthcare providers, and receiving care that respects their individual needs and circumstances. Enhancing this aspect of care ensures that women feel empowered and respected during a significant life event.

Although other options may reflect certain aspects of women's rights in maternity care, such as the desire for choice and autonomy, they do not encapsulate the full scope of what informed consent and support entail, which are central to the maternity care framework in New Zealand.