Availability of Information and Consent

The aim of this survey is to determine the availability of information to women in pregnancy and how this effects informed consent in labour, birth, and post-natally. Also to determine if consent is absolute in relevant instances. All medical procedures, tests, and treatments require informed consent by law. Informed consent is when information is presented to women in order for them to decide if they wish to consent to a procedure, test or treatment. Informed Consent by definition is to assist the woman in understanding why the procedure, test or treatment is being suggested, How the procedure is performed, and any risks and/or benefits attributed with the procedure.