Choosing a Birth Practitioner

Among the many issues facing a pregnant woman and her partner is deciding who will assist in delivering their baby. To find the practitioner who can give you the best medical care and emotional support, interview several and then decide who you are most comfortable with.

Here’s a look at your options when it comes to choosing a practitioner and birthing facility.

Ob/Gyns

Training – An obstetrician/gynecologist is a medical doctor who has four years of additional training in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecological problems and in the obstetrical care of pregnant women.

Prenatal care – Ob/Gyns watch for deviations from the norm. In the office, these physicians provide routine prenatal care.

During labor – Ob/Gyns tend to rely on the hospital nursing staff. The obstetrician checks the patient upon admission to the hospital and directs the nursing staff on medical care issues. The nurses care for the patient, with the physician returning at periodic intervals. When the woman is ready to deliver, the doctor assists the patient and performs the relevant medical procedures.

Questions to ask when interviewing an obstetrician.