stirrupsandstories
Reclaiming the OB/GYN Patient Experience through Imagery and Words
Stirrups and Stories
please be aware: some of the images on this site may be graphic or unsettling.
Find a medical provider who meets your needs, respects your values, and provides real care for who you truly are and what you truly need. Speak up. Sometimes you may have to educate your provider or her/his staff, and we'll all be better off if you do. Do not compromise when you're in the stirrups, on the table, at the pharmacy, on your back or squatting on your haunches laboring to bring life into this world, or feeling small in a big waiting room chair or frail beneath a stupid paper napkin. You are valuable. Your best advocate is your own, well-armed, well-informed, inquisitive, assertive self.
Every woman benefits when one woman cares for herself.
If something happens to you that is amazing, respectful, reassuring, miraculous, quietly comforting, an example of extraordinary kindness, or a feat of applied medicine, tell us. Through the work of various medical and holistic health care providers, the lives of parents, siblings, friends, lovers, and ourselves are improved and extended and saved. We and are our loved ones are those parents/siblings/friends/lovers.
If something happens to you that is painful, wrong, unacceptable, or just plain sad - you are not alone. People will care. Sometimes you may need to seek legal counsel, second medical opinions, or further advice. Sometimes you may need to file reports, speak to medical directors, or confront the provider. There are organizations that work to protect the rights of patients. Please refer to the "Links" page for additional resources.
And remember: we are here to listen. Tell us your stories.
stirrupsandstories@gmail.com
The images and statements depicted on this website are based on individuals' own experiences and knowledge, and may not apply to your situation. They are not to be considered medical advice, nor ought they replace the medical advice given by your provider. 'Stirrups and Stories' is intended to empower you, the patient, to address concerns with your provider and to find additional information to demand satisfactory, safe, and appropriate health care. Please do not consider anything found on this website to be specific medical advice.