Find an obstetrician who's right for you

Having a baby presents the opportunity for parents-to-be to experience many diverse situations. From extremely personal conversations to awkward or embarrassing trips to the hospital for false labor pains, an obstetrician is a vital member of your baby's birthing team.

Welcoming a stranger into such a personal and intimate aspect of your life is not always a comfortable or natural process. Many women struggle with feeling uncomfortable or uncertain about their obstetrician. Knowing what questions to ask and what level of care and comfort you should expect when you're expecting will help ease your worries and ensure everyone has a wonderfully memorable nine months.

Don't stop at just one. Interview a few potential obstetricians to find one that best suits you and your partner and meets your needs. Talking with many doctors, and asking about their labor and delivery styles can help you find a doctor with whom you feel secure.

Know who is treating you. Many patients find scheduling an informative consultation helpful to establish a relationship with their physician. Holding a conversation to discuss your history and your physician's philosophy builds an increased security and comfort that you can rely on during your pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Be comfortable enough to honestly speak your mind. Many women frequently experience physically uncomfortable symptoms during examinations as pregnancy progresses. The ability to honestly express yourself to your doctor is essential, especially when you're pregnant. Make sure you choose a doctor you trust, who will respect your opinions and input.

Check references. Although it may seem unbelievable, unfortunately there may be some individuals who are not as professional as you'd prefer. Consult friends, office and hospital staff, and the American Medical Association at www.ama-assn.org for information on your licensed obstetrician. Ask for the names of current patients who may be willing to provide a reference for the obstetrician you are considering selecting.

The right bedside manner for you. Just as no two pregnancies are the same, no two doctors treat their patients the same. Take time to evaluate what personality and bedside manner you're looking for to ensure you feel at ease and receive the best possible care.

Do you share similar birthing philosophies? Some women strictly prefer the assistance of epidurals while others insist on a completely natural delivery. Knowing your doctor's practices, threshold for your discomfort, testing regimens or schedules, and labor and delivery techniques means you'll find a doctor that fits your personality and childbirth style.

Accessibility is important. There's nothing worse than not feeling well or suspecting something's not quite right, and not being able to reach your obstetrician. Find out how accessible your obstetrician is. Having a cell phone number and knowing that you will be able to get your obstetrician on a moment's notice will go miles toward relieving anxiety during this vulnerable time.

Your doctor, his colleagues, and you. It can be disappointing or worrisome to become accustomed to seeing an obstetrician throughout your entire pregnancy only to arrive at the hospital on the big day and be greeted by a stranger. Ask about the chances of one of your doctor's colleagues attending at your delivery. If your doctor is one of many in a practice, ask to rotate or alternate appointments between your primary obstetrician and his colleagues. You'll be thankful for the chance to familiarize yourself with all the people who may potentially help you bring your child into the world.

Location, Location, Location. Selecting a doctor means you're also selecting a hospital. Ask which hospitals your obstetrician has privileges at and where her patients primarily deliver. You'll also want to know what hospital to contact in the event of any complications or when you go into labor.

The incidentals. Hidden fees or charges not covered by insurance may be a factor for some patients when selecting a doctor. Make a list of questions or issues you want to address to bring with you to a consultation or check-up-and don't be afraid to ask them!

Remember, you are selecting someone to share in the care and birth of you and your unborn child. If you begin to feel uncomfortable or have concerns for the level of care you're receiving, you always have options. Consult a physician referral service, your insurance provider, or personal support system for advice and alternatives to finding another obstetrician you're at ease with.

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