You need to feel comfortable with your prenatal care.
Many women hesitate to switch providers during a pregnancy. However, it’s important to find the care that’s right for you and your baby.
Here are three signs it’s time to switch providers.
You probably have a lot of questions about your pregnancy. Your doctor should listen to you, address your concerns, and help you care for yourself and your baby.
Make sure that your provider answers these self-care, prenatal appointment, and delivery questions:
Your provider is your best resource for questions, so don’t be afraid to speak up and ask these questions and any others you may have. There are no silly questions, and even if you’re hesitant to ask, chances are, we’ve heard it before.
At Voyage Healthcare, we strive to create an environment where all of our patients feel valued and comfortable voicing questions and concerns. It’s important for your well-being, and your baby’s.
If your provider doesn’t listen to your questions or dismisses your concerns, it’s time to find a new provider.
Prenatal appointments are a great time to ask questions. But sometimes, you need medical advice between appointments.
What does your provider recommend you do with questions? Is there a number you can call? Is someone available to answer questions outside of normal hours?
Finding a women’s health center that supports you throughout your pregnancy, and even between appointments, is essential.
Besides clinical training, active listening skills are one of the most important things to look for in a provider. According to this article in Women’s Health, “80 percent of diagnoses can be made just by listening to your story.”
During your pregnancy, you probably see your doctor more often than usual. So it’s especially important to find a prenatal provider with good listening skills.
One of the main places these listening skills should show up? When you’re talking through your birth plan and what to expect at your delivery.
Remember, a birth plan is just a guide. Babies can be unpredictable, and in the end, getting the two of you through delivery safely is what matters. However, in general, you’ll want to talk to your doctor about these considerations for birth:
Making a switch earlier in your pregnancy is definitely easier. But this doesn’t mean you can’t change providers later in your pregnancy as well.
Looking for a new doctor? Make sure you take this checklist with you. It includes key things to look for before, during, and after your first appointment to help you make a good decision for you and your baby.