How to pick the right doctors for your pregnancy.

Ask around.

Odds are that you have a friend or two who thinks their doctor is great. Talk to childbirth teachers, your general practitioner, or your chiropractor. If you are already seeing a gynecologist, find out if they practice obstetrics as well.

Do you like where your doctor has hospital rights?

When my wife had our first baby, she delivered at a large area hospital. We both disliked the “move 'em in, move 'em out” mentality. So despite a great OB, she switched to a different practice for our next two. She delivered in a smaller hospital where we felt we got a lot more individual attention. However, everyone values different things.

Some things to think about:

Does my hospital have a high level neonatal intensive care unit? Does my hospital have 24 hour anesthesiologists? Do I have an option for labor tubs or showers?

Does my doctor have similar views or respect mine?

What are your doctor’s views on natural childbirth? Inductions? Elective c-sections? Fetal monitoring? Episiotomy? Be sure to discuss these things with you doctor early on, so you are completely comfortable later. In the whirlwind of giving birth, you don’t want to find out you are on different pages.

Practice Size?

 Do you like to see the same doctor every prenatal visit? Would you like more than one opinion? Do you mind waiting or rescheduling a visit if your solo practitioner is at the hospital? Does the practice include midwives?

Chiropractor?

Look for a chiropractor who has advanced education in pregnancy and pediatrics. This doesn’t mean that a general chiropractor can’t do a great job, but if you are starting out check out the American Pregnancy Association for a great recommendation.. Before making an appointment, call the office and ask if the practice sees a lot of pregnant women. Ask about the techniques used and if the doctor is certified in the Webster Technique.

It may seem like a lot of work to do at the beginning of your new adventure, but these tips will pay bid dividends in the end.

Any other good ideas? Leave a comment!