What issues should I consider when choosing an OB/GYN?

There are many questions you should ask yourself when you're choosing your OB/GYN. Here are some of the most important: Is the doctor board-certified? If you have health insurance, does your health insurance cover this doctor's charges and the charges at the hospital with which this doctor is affiliated?

Ask her philosophy on birth. You'll gain valuable insight about her approach. Ask how much choice you and your partner will have along the way.

People tend to have better experiences when they're encouraged to have choices during the process. Convenience - you'll be going for appointments at least once a month. What is the reputation of the hospital with which the doctor is affiliated and how convenient is its location (you may need to get there in a hurry)?

Is doctor a solo practitioner or part of a group? Are midwives available? If solo, who covers when the doctor is away?

Will you have a chance to meet the other partners? If in a group, will you always be seen by your personal doctor, or will you rotate through doctors at each appointment (we actually don't mind this, as you may deliver with one of the others who may be on call when you go into labor)? Who will be present for the delivery?

What is the doctor's C-section rate? Under what circumstances does he/she call for a C-section? Is the doctor's philosophy regarding episiotomy compatible with yours?

What would the doctor do if you presented with a breech baby in labor? Is the doctor's philosophy on pain management compatible with yours? What is the doctor's policy on induction?

Does she set a time limit on labor before inducing? How long past your due date will the doctor permit you to go before inducing? Does the doctor have a policy on who may accompany you during prenatal visits and labor?

Is the doctor's feeling about doulas compatible with yours? If you have a complication, what is the doctor's experience with cases such as yours? Would she refer you to a specialist?

If you're considering a VBAC, what is the doctor's success rate with VBACs? (Ideally it's between 60 and 80 percent.)If you're considering a water birth, is the doctor's experience and philosophy with water birth compatible with yours and will the hospital permit it?

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