New Mom 101: Ten Questions to Ask When Choosing an OBGYN for Prenatal Care

Congrats – You’re Pregnant! … Now What?

Finding out you’re pregnant often brings a mix of emotions, excitement, joy and sometimes a little overwhelm. After the positive test, many parents-to-be quickly realize they have plenty of questions, especially when it comes to prenatal care and choosing the right obstetrician.

The good news is that finding an OB-GYN who fits your needs doesn’t have to feel confusing or rushed. With a few key questions and a little guidance, you can find a provider who will support you throughout pregnancy, delivery.

Asking Questions is OK

Finding an OBGYN to guide you through the pregnancy and childbirth journey is an important step. We spoke with UM Health West about finding an obstetrician and they had some great tips.

“When choosing an obstetrician, it’s about more than just credentials,” advises Dr. Stephanie Getz, University of Michigan Health West OB/GYN.

“You want to know that your physician understands your values, is willing to collaborate on your birth plan and has an office that’s convenient for each visit until your bundle of joy arrives,” she continues.

To determine if a prospective care provider is a good fit for you, then, it’s essential that you ask about details important to you.

10 Things to Ask a Prospective OBGYN

To make choosing an OB easier, we consulted with Dr. Getz on a list of 10 questions to consider when choosing an obstetrician and how to determine if a practice is the right fit.

1 – Does the physician accept your insurance?

Having a baby comes with a price tag, which is why it’s important to know ahead of time what your insurance covers.

Find out if the physician accepts your insurance, and also whether or not they are considered in-network. Out-of-network physicians will likely cost you a bit more. Also important, make sure your physician actually practices at a hospital where you’d like to give birth.

2 – Does the physician practice both obstetrics and gynecology?

Most OB/GYNs practice general women’s health, which includes both obstetrical services – like prenatal care and delivery – and gynecological service like routine annual exams and gynecological surgery.

If your gynecologist also provides obstetric services – and you’re happy with the physician – you’re all set!

3 – Is the physician’s office location convenient and do the call hours work for you?

Most women will have monthly OB/GYN visits until 26 weeks, then biweekly until 36 weeks and then weekly until delivery.

Wow, that’s a lot of visits! That’s why you should make sure your physician is located somewhere convenient to either your home or work. Consider whether you need a physician who answers calls and/or texts throughout the day or one who will call you back after you leave a message by phone on on mychart. Sometimes physicians will do a little bit of both.

4 – What is the physician’s support system like at the office?

Some physicians are committed to seeing their patients at every single visit, others work with teams of physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

Ask whether or not your physician will be at every appointment, or if some visits will be handled by other experienced staff. There isn’t a right or wrong answer. It’s about what you’re comfortable with.

5 – Does this physician come recommended by someone you trust? For example, by your primary care physician or a family member or friend?

You know you’re in good hands if a physician referral comes from a trusted person in your life.

Maybe your bestie had a fantastic experience with this physician, or your doctor says this OB/GYN is highly regarded. Referrals give you a feeling of peace and security. Connecting with other parents or finding a local support group can also be helpful when gathering insights and experiences

6 – For those who have already delivered a baby, but by Cesarean section, does the hospital where the physician practices offer VBAC?

Many hospitals provide the opportunity to try a vaginal delivery following a previous C-section, but not all do.

If you have a history of Cesarean birth and want a vaginal delivery this time around, this information is extremely important to know.

7 – What are the options for pain during labor where you will deliver, and how will your wishes be addressed?

If you want a natural birth, you’ll want to know what options there are for labor without any medication. Start a dialogue about your ideal birth experience and find out if these expectations can be met.

If you would like to work with a midwife or a doula, ask your physician how he/she feels about having them in the room during labor and birth.

8 – How does the physician handle high-risk pregnancies or other health concerns while pregnant?

If you have existing health conditions – such as diabetes, asthma or high blood pressure – ask how the physician manages those concerns during pregnancy. It’s also helpful to understand what additional monitoring or specialists may be involved if complications arise for a high risk pregnancy.

You may also want to discuss the practice’s approach to prenatal testing, ultrasounds, procedures and vaccinations for both the mom and baby. Understanding how the physician explains options and supports your preferences can help ensure your care aligns with your comfort level and goals.

9 – Do you feel comfortable with this physician?

This is more of a personal question, but it’s a critical one. Your new doctor should be easy to talk to, someone who listens to your thoughts and concerns and explains processes in a way that makes sense to you.

You want to know that you and your physician can work together toward the best experience possible. It’s also okay if the first provider you choose doesn’t end up being the right fit. Some patients switch physicians or practices during pregnancy if their needs or comfort level change, and that’s completely normal.

It can sometimes feel intimidating to question a physician, but asking questions is an important part of your care. Consider writing down questions between appointments so you can bring them to each visit and make sure all of your concerns are addressed.

10 – Is your physician the one who delivery your baby?

In many OB-GYN practices, the physician who delivers your baby may simply be the doctor who is on call when you go into labor. Because babies don’t follow schedules – and physicians rotate hospital coverage – it’s common for another provider from the practice to handle the delivery.

Ask how the practice manages on-call coverage and who might deliver your baby. If important, try to meet several providers in the practice during prenatal visits so that whoever is on call when the big day arrives feels familiar.

Best Wishes for Your Pregnancy Journey

So, there you have it. You are now armed with important factors to consider when choosing the perfect physician to deliver your precious baby. Choosing an obstetrician is one of the first important decisions in pregnancy, and taking time to find a provider who aligns with your preferences and needs can make the experience more comfortable and reassuring.

And, we’re about to make it even easier. Here’s a  printable PDF checklist that includes all of these questions to take with you to your physician interviews.

Now that that’s done, kick up those feet because you’ve earned yourself a solid “baby nursery” Pinterest search!