Real Stories of Autonomy in Childbirth
by Michael J. Hervey II MD
đ¸ From the Patientâs Perspective (Expecting Mothers & Families):
âHow much of my birth experience is really my choiceâand how do I tell the difference between hospital rules and my own rights?â
âWhat happens when women say no to interventions, and yes to their own instincts?â
âCan I truly have a safe birth that reflects my values, even if it doesnât match my doctorâs preferences?â
𩺠From the Providerâs Perspective (OBs, Midwives, Nurses, Doulas):
âWhat do real patient stories reveal about the gap between standard protocols and individualized care?â
âHow can honoring autonomy reduce conflict, build trust, and actually improve patient outcomes?â
âWhat happens when we stop asking, âWhatâs wrong?â and start asking, âWhat matters most to this patient?ââ
âI will not push without an epidural.â
Her body was ready. Her baby was near. But Kiearaâs voiceâcalm, clear, and unshakableâcut through the urgency. She heard the facts. And still, she chose.
This is the heartbeat of Her Body, Her Baby: real women, real choices, real power.
In childbirth, where two lives are at stake, decisions often collide with protocol. But what if the key to safer, more empowering births isnât controlâbut trust?
In this bold, story-driven book, OB/GYN Dr. Michael J. Hervey II brings you into delivery rooms where women like Kieara take ownership of their birthsâand where providers learn to listen, not lead. These real stories show that honoring autonomy doesnât weaken careâit transforms it.
Whether you're a patient, a partner, or a provider, Her Body, Her Baby invites you into a new model of careâone grounded in respect, compassion, and shared power.
Not just a book. A call to listen. A call to trust. A call to change.
Dr. Michael J. Hervey II, a U.S. Navy veteran, earned a Bachelor of Science from Morehouse College, and a Masterâs in Biology from Harvard. He trained at the University of Virginia and University of Minnesota, excelling in leadership and research. After completing his OB/GYN residency, he focused on high-risk womenâs health and inclusive care. Dr. Hervey now practices at Premier OBYGN LLC with his wife, Ellie Tan CNM, MSN, WHNP.
A 7-Day Guide to Reclaiming Your Story After Birth
by Michael Jerome Hervey and MD
A birth plan prepares you for the day. This book prepares you for everything after.
Whether youâre expecting your first baby or preparing for another, Beyond the Birth Plan is the compassionate companion every mother deserves. This guided journal and seven-day healing journey helps you explore your hopes, name your fears, and build emotional resilience long before labor begins.
Inside, youâll find grounding exercises, reflective prompts, body-centered healing tools, and gentle psychology-informed practices that strengthen your voice and protect your sense of self during childbirth. You will learn how to advocate for your needs, recognize your boundaries, and stay connected to your inner wisdomâeven when birth takes unexpected turns.
For every pregnant mother who wants to feel informed, empowered, and emotionally supported, this book offers a safe space to slow down, listen inward, and prepare your heart as much as your birth plan.
You deserve a birth experience anchored in clarity, confidence, and care. Let this be your guide.
The Role of Midwifery and Physician Collaboration in Modern Maternity Care
by Michael J. Hervey II MD and Premier Midwife Team
đż For Midwives
âHow can midwives protect physiologic birth while building stronger partnerships with physicians who may see birth differently?â
âWhat does true collaboration look like when midwives are respected as equal voices in maternity care?â
𩺠For Physicians
âHow can physicians honor patient autonomy and still feel confident that safety standards are met?â
âWhat shifts when doctors and midwives move from competition to collaboration in the birthing room?â
đ¸ For Patients
âWhat kind of birth experience is possible when your providers actually work together instead of pulling apart?â
âHow does respectful teamwork between midwives and doctors change not just outcomesâbut how mothers feel about their birth?â