How to Choose the Best Doctor to Deliver Your Newborn

The birth of your baby is a joyous occasion, but it can also be a stressful one. One way you can help make your birthing experience a positive one is by choosing the right obstetrician. When broken down into simple steps, this task isn't as daunting as it seems. Here is what you need to consider when choosing the doctor who will deliver your new bundle of joy.

Referrals

Your gynecologist is an excellent source for an obstetrician referral. Remember to ask friends, relatives and coworkers who have recently given birth for a recommendation as well. Those who have had a positive experience typically sing their doctor's praises openly. Those who had a bad experience, too, are usually eager to share and warn others. The final decision, of course, will be yours to make, but free advice from people you trust never hurts.

Your Health

Conditions such as chronic hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and epilepsy can impact delivery. If you have one of these conditions or another health issue that could make delivering your baby tricky, make sure you chose an obstetrician who is experienced in these special deliveries. Both you and your baby should have access to any special care you may need.

Background Checks

Before finalizing your choice, be sure to do a background check on your obstetrician through your state's medical licensing board. Look to see if any disciplinary actions have been taken against them and if they have been named in any malpractice suits. It's common for a doctor to be taken to court once or twice throughout their career, but multiple suits may indicate a problem. You can always contact a lawyer from places like Snyder & Wenner, P.C., if you or your baby are injured during delivery, but an ounce of prevention truly is worth a pound of cure whenever possible.

Making It Click

Sometimes relationships just feel right, and that is a feeling you should get from your obstetrician. Schedule a consultation with one early in your pregnancy so you can get to know each other better. Does this doctor have privileges at your preferred hospital? Do they champion c-sections or try to avoid them when possible? Does this obstetrician embrace birthing tubs and other nontraditional delivery methods? Try to find someone whose philosophies on child birth align with your wishes. This doctor will be seeing you through one of the most intense experiences of your life, so make sure you are comfortable with him or her long before you head into the delivery room. If you listen to suggestions and get to know your obstetrician before the big day, you can rest assured that whatever happens in the delivery room, you and your birthing team are ready to handle it. Being comfortable with your choice of obstetrician will help you relax and celebrate your newest addition.