Congratulations on your pregnancy! One of the first and most important decisions you will make as a parent is your oby-gynecologist. He or she will play a big role in the next nine months. You need to find someone who is professional, experienced, but also credible and compassionate.
Here are some things you need to consider while choosing an oby-gynecologist, from credentials to personal rapport. Remember, you are putting your (and your baby’s) life in his or her hands.
What is your medical history?
Your choice of doctor depends on your medical condition. If you’re considered a high-risk pregnancy, or have health issues that need specialized treatment (like diabetes or a heart condition) you should seek a doctor who has experience in that realm.
Is he or she open to questions and concerns?
It’s important to have a rapport with your doctor. If you feel comfortable with him or her, it will be easier for you to ask questions. You may also want to observe whether he ors he answers them clearly and completely, and respects your feelings and concerns.
Is the doctor easy to reach?
Considering the nature of pregnancy and how emergencies often happen in the most inconvenient hours, it’s important that you can reach your doctor easily. Can you get the doctor’s cell phone number? Can you call any time? If he or she is not available, who will attend to you?
What is your budget?
How much does the doctor charge for consultations and operating fees? Is he or she affiliated with your health card?
What is the doctor’s reputation?
Can your friends, relatives or co-workers personally vouch for the doctor’s experience, professionalism and personality? Since referrals can be subjective, approach people who you feel are a lot like you. Ask them what kind of pregnancy they had, and what kind of patient they were. Did they ask a lot of questions? Were they very particular about their birth plan?
What hospital is the doctor affiliated with?
Choose a doctor, and you also choose the hospital he or she is connected with. Do research. Do the hospital policies support your birth plan? (ex: you want to breastfeed exclusively, room-in your baby or have your husband present with you during the birth) How much does the hospital charge for rooms? How good are the neonatal facilities? If there is an emergency, is it near your home and office?
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