Choosing Your Healthcare Provider During Pregnancy

Mom Stages - Pregnancy

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You've taken the pregnancy test, and it came out positive. What's next? One of the very first things you're likely to do is to look for a healthcare practitioner to care for you and your baby. Choosing the practitioner that's right for you can be an overwhelming process. Consider these things when making your decision.

You've taken the pregnancy test, and it came out positive. What's next? One of the very first things you're likely to do is to look for a healthcare practitioner to care for you and your baby. Choosing the practitioner that's right for you can be an overwhelming process. Consider these things when making your decision.

Type of Practitioner

There are a few basic choices when looking for a healthcare provider to care for you during pregnancy and the birth of your baby. The choice is a very personal one. You'll be spending a good deal of time with whomever you choose, so take your time to do some research.

An obstetrician is a medical doctor trained specifically in women's gynecological issues. Look for one certified by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. They usually practice in conjunction with a specific hospital, so take this into consideration as well. A Certified Nurse Midwife may be the best choice for you if you hope for a more natural birth experience and the freedom to choose less medical intervention. Some women even opt to receive prenatal care from their general medical practitioner. 

Healthcare Setting

Investigate the office of the practitioner as well. Are the staff friendly? Is this a multi-member team of caregivers? Will you be able to choose the member who delivers your baby or will you receive whichever person is on call? 

What kind of atmosphere do you prefer? Would you feel more comfortable in a large hospital with state-of-the-art birthing rooms or would a more quiet and subdued environment like a small maternity clinic appeal to you more? It's a wise idea to visit the facility early on in your pregnancy so that you get a feel for what to expect.

Medical Philosophy

It's been my experience that some practitioners are very strict when it comes to the "rules" of pregnancy, almost to the point of being inflexible, while others are more laid-back and will be more receptive to taking your feelings and wishes into consideration. Ask questions of your intended provider early on. Such questions may include information such as attitude toward pain relief, thoughts on nutrition, and feelings about various aspects of pregnancy such as early induction.

Go with your gut. Even if you realize a few months into your pregnancy that you're uncomfortable with your choice, it's not too late to switch. I changed doctors seven months into my first pregnancy after learning that the hospital did not offer elective epidurals. Having all pain relief options available to me was extremely important. Changing physicians was the best thing I could have done, as I ended up with a wonderful obstetrician whom I felt extremely at ease with and confident in. And I got my epidural.

These are a few things to consider when deciding on your healthcare options during pregnancy. This is just the first of many choices you'll make throughout your journey. Trust your instincts and ask questions. 

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