4 Steps for Choosing Your Obstetrician
Congratulations! You have a baby on the way, and now you need a doctor to guide you through the pregnancy and delivery. What are the top four factors to consider when choosing an obstetrician (OB doctor)?
- Location. You’ll have 15 or more prenatal appointments with your obstetrician during your pregnancy, so you’ll want a doctor within easy driving distance from your home and/or workplace.
- Insurance Network. Check with your insurance provider to make sure this provider is in the network – it will be less expensive than visiting an out-of-network doctor.
- Personality/Philosophy. It’s important to choose a doctor who listens to your preferences for birth – from pain management to nonmedicated to birthing balls. Interview your potential doctors so you find someone you’re comfortable with. Be sure to do it early – some OBs won’t accept new patients past their first trimester.
- Delivery Privileges. Not all doctors are able to treat patients at all hospitals! Some expectant families prefer to choose a delivery location first, and then search for doctors who have privileges there. For instance, if you want a Norman-area delivery facility that offers maximum mother/baby bonding time and a Level III NICU, choose an obstetrician with privileges at Norman Regional HealthPlex.