How to Select an Obstetrician

If you are planning to become pregnant or are already pregnant, you will need an obstetrician. You will need to start your search for a good ob/gyn if you do not already have a physician who will provide your pregnancy care. First, you will need to locate an obstetrician and then you will need to fine one who will provide you with the highest level of care.

Instructions

1. Ask for recommendations for obstetricians from friends and family members who have already had babies. Write down names of obstetricians who seems to be the most popular so that you can follow up on the physicians of interest to you.

2. Use a doctor's search online to find obstetricians in your area. This is especially helpful if you do not have friends or family in the area who can offer you advice on quality pregnancy care providers. Websites such as WebMD.com make it simply to find potential physicians in or near your town/city.

3. Research your list of obstetricians that you have drawn up after asking for referrals and online searches. There are ways that you can learn more about these healthcare providers. Talk to your primary care physician to find out if they have worked with any of the obstetricians on your list. Visit the obstetricians office to evaluate the environment of their facilities. At this visit, you can also talk with other expectant moms you meet in the waiting room to find out how much they like the obstetrician.

4. Make an appointment with the obstetrician who you have determined to be your best choice after all your research. Your first prenatal appointment provides you with an opportunity to get to know your physician. Ask questions to determine the extent of his or her knowledge. You can talk to the OB to learn where they attended college, how long they have been practicing medicine and even an approximate number of babies they have delivered.

5. Be certain that you are comfortable with the obstetrician you have chosen. They will be taking care of you and your baby for many months. Even if they are an excellent doctor, if you do not feel comfortable and at ease with your doctor, they are not the best choice. You need a doctor with whom you will not feel shy to talk to when you have a concern about your pregnancy.