Being in control and having a sense of choice can be the difference between a positive or negative birth experience, but how much choice do women really have?

India Rakusen speaks to Dr Anna Nelson about consent for cervical examinations and how muddy this area can be. Leah Hazard discusses what these examinations are for and how useful they can be, and we also hear from Dr Ihab Abassi about his decision to only perform gentle caesareans and the long lasting positive impact this can have on women.

Presented by India Rakusen
Producer: Ellie Sans
Series Producer: Ellie Sans
Production Team: Ella McLeod & Georgia Arundell
Executive Producer: Suzy Grant
Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts
Original music composed and performed by ESKA
Mix and Mastering by Charlie Brandon-King

A Listen production for BBC Radio 4