This case study helps doula examine the legal and ethical issues in this case with an expectant mom of the Jehovah's Witness faith.

1. A Doula Case Study
Jamie Bodily, MS, Counselor in
Training, Certified Professional Birth
Doula (toLABOR)

2. Background
You have been hired by an expectant
mother who is a Jehovah’s Witness.
She has stated during prenatal visits
and asked you to include in her Birth
Plan that she will NOT accept blood
products.
She is healthy and well, and there
are no expected complications for
delivery. She is attempting a VBAC.
Her husband is of a different faith
which does not prohibit blood
transfusions and
the use of blood products.

3. Pre-Delivery Advice
• What options are available pre-delivery?
Excessive blood loss during delivery, while not
expected, can be serious and life-threatening.
Knowing the client will not accept blood
products provides an opportunity for
discussion about personal blood banking. This
is an acceptable option for this faith.

4. Pre-Delivery Advice
• This option reduces stress on the mother and
to know a viable option for care is available if
needed.
• This option puts healthcare providers in a
better position to deliver life-saving care
should it become necessary.

5. IF…
• The client decided not to bank her own blood
(or was unaware of this option) and does NOT
have a medical power of attorney or living
will, who gets to decide in a critical situation
whether or not blood products get delivered?