Finding an
Obstetrician How can I find an obstetrician to care for me during my pregnancy? If you’re seeing a gynecologist you like who practices obstetrics as well, you may want to ask him or her to care for you during your pregnancy - particularly if you like the hospital where the doctor attends births. If you need to find an obstetrician, ask one of your healthcare providers to recommend someone or talk to your friends or relatives who have recently had a baby or who work in healthcare in your area. Childbirth educators are also a good source for referrals and friends. If you don’t come up with any recommendations on your own, try calling the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, in Washington, D.C., at (202) 638-5577. They can give you names of boardcertified ob-gyns in your area. You can also visit the ACOG website (www.acog.org) to find a doctor in your zip code.
What criteria should I use to choose my obstetrician? Only you can decide which are the most important considerations for you – it’s a very personal decision. Keep in mind that you may be able to narrow your list of choices with a simple phone call. There’s no need to meet with a doctor who isn’t in your network of providers if that’s a requirement for your insurance coverage.
Here are some other things to consider: Your Health History
Finding a physician with whom you are comfortable is very important. The ability to relax and ask questions with your obstetrician is vital to maintaining a positive relationship and pregnancy. Remember - if you suspect you may be pregnant or if you have taken a positive pregnancy test, make an appointment with your doctor to ensure that you will have a happy and healthy nine months!
6 | Oh Baby!
Do you have any chronic illnesses - such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, heart disease, or diabetes - or previous complications that may require special care? If so, ask the doctors you’re considering what experience they have caring for patients with your circumstances, and consider whether you should be cared for by a perinatologist (a doctor who specializes in high-risk births). If you’ve previously had a c-section, would you like to try to have a vaginal birth this time? In that case, you’ll want