Pregnancy is one of the most precious times in a woman’s life. It’s also one of the most nerve-racking even for those who have done it before. Just as every woman is different, every pregnancy is as well, so it is important that everyone involved be prepared and on the same page. The OBGYN is going to be a large part of that process. Asking the following questions can help ensure that no matter what happens, everyone’s expectations will be met.
What is your ideology on the pregnancy and birthing process?
Knowing how the OBGYN handles the pregnancy and birthing process in advance will save on unwanted surprises throughout the entire experience. One thing to talk about is whether they prefer to use medical technology from the start or if they let things move along naturally unless there is a problem. Find out how often appointments are and if they will include teaching about parenting along with the prenatal care. The relationship between expecting mother and doctor should be open and bring comfort and trust to any situation that may arise.
How much and what kind of experience do you have?
The last thing a woman in labor wants to find out is that her doctor doesn’t have a whole lot of experience. Also, it is important to know what kinds of issues the OBGYN has dealt with in other pregnancies. Things to find out are the doctor’s induction rates and how many high-risk or special needs patients have been treated. Knowing the history of the doctor will allow the mother to be assured that no matter what arises during pregnancy or delivery she is in capable hands. For women with high-risk pregnancies, it’s important to work with a maternal-fetal specialist like Dr. Gilbert Webb.
How can I keep in contact with you?
Issues can come up during pregnancies that cannot wait until the next appointment to discuss. In these instances, women should know how and when they can speak to their doctor. Some are on call, others have someone to cover for them if they are unavailable and yet others use email to communicate between appointments. How contact will be made once labor begins should also be in place well beforehand.
What can I expect at delivery?
So many things will be happening at such a quick rate once the mother is in labor. Knowing what to expect beforehand can help take some of the stress out of an already stressful situation. Things to discuss include which hospital the OBGYN delivers at, if or when they will perform an episiotomy, will the doctor induce and at what point, and what pain management techniques can be expected.
What happens after the baby is here?
Once the baby is born, the relationship between mother and doctor is not over. Patients will remain in the hospital until released by the OBGYN. As the amount of time differs, it should be discussed with the doctor so that arrangements can be made. As most doctors will schedule at least one postpartum appointment to make sure the vaginal area is healing properly and that there are no complications, the mother should find out at what point she will be going back to her primary care doctor.
Every woman has their own idea on how they would like their pregnancy and delivery to go. Bringing a baby into the world is a team effort so communication becomes key in making the experience as pleasant as possible. Speaking to the doctor and making sure that everyone knows what to expect from each other can help mothers-to-be have a sense of control and comfort throughout the entire birthing process.
