It’s important to find a healthcare provider you can trust. This can be an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), midwife, or family doctor. They will make sure you’re healthy during your pregnancy and birth journey.
The importance of trust and compatibility
- Better care: A good doctor or midwife should make you feel at ease. They should listen and empower you. You should be able to discuss your goals and worries. This will lead to better care and outcomes for you and your baby.
- Open communication: You'll have questions and concerns during pregnancy. You need a provider who listens to you. They should answer your questions in a way you can understand.
- Prenatal care: Regular prenatal visits are important to keep you and your baby healthy. You should be able to talk about your health, your body, your feelings, and your baby with your provider.
- Emotional support: Pregnancy can bring on a lot of feelings. A caring provider who supports you can be a big comfort during a stressful time.
What to do if you’re unhappy with your provider
- Do your research: Look online for providers with good reviews.
- Check your plan: Call your health plan or visit their website to find in-network providers. Your insurance might help pay for visits.
- Ask for advice: Get suggestions from friends and family. Or ask a doctor you trust for a referral.
- Consider a midwife: Midwives specialize in prenatal and postpartum care. They may align better with your preferences.
- Set up interviews: It may sound silly, but interviews or meet-and-greets can help you learn about providers. You can call to schedule an appointment and explain that you are pregnant and are looking to “establish care.” This is a chance to see if you feel comfortable with the provider.
Remember, if you don't feel understood or supported by your provider, you can find a new one. You should feel at ease talking about your body and feelings with them. Better communication means better care for you and your baby.