Connecting With Your Physician: Finding Your OB/GYN

An OB/GYN can be the best resource for having the best birthing postpartum experience, so it’s essential to find one you feel comfortable with on this journey. But where do you begin to find one that suits you best?

How to find an OB/GYN

An OB/GYN is a physician who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology. The majority of young women begin seeing a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 18. Most gynecologists are most likely also specialized in obstetrics as well. If yours is not, it’s essential to begin finding a physician who is during your pregnancy. Some ways to find an OB/GYN is:

• Insurance - Reach out to your insurance provider to see which providers are on your current plan. They will be able to provide you with a list of providers and hospitals to begin your search. 

• Your Network - If you ask 10 of your friends who they would recommend, there’s a reasonable probability that you will get a lot of information on who they recommend and why. 

• Ask Your Family Doctor - Your family doctor is already familiar with you and your health history. They are also familiar with other physicians and can recommend one that fits your needs the best. 

• Consider Your Health History - some situations require a more specialized physician, such as chronic health illnesses, IVF, or multiple births.

Questions to consider

Every pregnancy is different for every woman. Here is a list of some questions to ask as you interview for your OB/GYN 

• What hospital(s) do you deliver?

• How many C-sections have you performed? 15%-20% is typical for C-sections; however, if you are interviewing a high-risk physician, the percentage will be higher.

• What are your thoughts on episiotomies?

• Will you allow a doula or midwife? 

• Are you supportive of breastfeeding?

• Who will be on call if you’re not available during the birthing?

• Where do you stand on vaginal births? This conversation is for the mom who had a previous C-section but would like to have a vaginal birth. 

• Where do you stand on pain relief?

• Where do you stand on inducing?

Additional Key Points:

• How responsive are they to your phone calls, text messages, or emails? (Within reason)

• How is the staff? Are they friendly, courteous, and accommodating?

• Do you feel they your physician listens to you?  During your pregnancy, it’s essential to connect with your physician so that you are comfortable having conversations about everything you are experiencing.

• Are you comfortable asking questions?

• Is your physician easy to understand in providing you a clear explanation? 

There are many things to consider when finding the right OB/GYN. The one you select must understand your medical history, and you are comfortable around them. The correct physician will likely be the one you stay with for many years to come.