Pregnancy is an exciting yet overwhelming time, and it’s natural to have a million questions for your healthcare provider. With so many decisions to make, it’s important to feel fully informed. To help, we’ve compiled the Top 10 Questions to Ask Your OB-GYN or Midwife during pregnancy. Whether you’re seeing an obstetrician or a midwife, these essential questions will ensure you’re prepared and confident as you navigate your pregnancy journey. Read on to discover the best questions for your OB-GYN or midwife and make sure you get the answers you need to have a healthy, empowered pregnancy!
Top Ten Questions to ask your OBGYN/Midwife from the How 2 Mom Team (in no particular order):
1. What is your Philosophy on Birth and your Role in it?
It’s crucial to ensure that your OB-GYN or midwife shares the same core values as you and your partner when it comes to birth. The person guiding you through labor and delivery should align with your birth preferences and philosophy. Open, honest communication is key to building a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable asking any questions. Take your time to find a provider who fits well with your birth team, as this person will play an important role in one of the most memorable moments of your life.
2) What is your standard postpartum and newborn care procedure?
Understanding your provider’s standard postpartum and newborn care procedures is essential for ensuring your preferences are respected. Ask about practices such as delayed cord clamping, immediate skin-to-skin contact, and their overall approach to newborn care. Are their recommendations in line with what you and your partner envision for your birth experience? Knowing this upfront will help you feel more prepared and confident in your care choices.
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3) What are your Cesarean, Induction, and Natural Birth Rates?
Understanding your provider’s history and experience with C-section, induction, and natural birth can provide valuable insight into their practice and approach to childbirth. Ask about their rates for these different types of births, as this can help you gauge how closely their practices align with your birth preferences. Having this information may also give you peace of mind, knowing that your provider is transparent and experienced in handling various birth scenarios.
4) What does Prenatal Care look like at your Practice?
It’s important to understand what prenatal care will look like with your OB-GYN or midwife. Ask about the number of visits you’ll have throughout your pregnancy, how many ultrasounds are included, and what their approach is to minimizing interventions during birth. Additionally, inquire about the level of monitoring you can expect during labor. Understanding the structure of your prenatal care helps ensure you feel comfortable and confident with the person who will be caring for you and your baby.
5) What happens if I'm "overdue"?
The term “overdue” often causes concern, but it’s important to remember that every baby chooses their own arrival day! Since due dates are just a guideline and not an exact science, different care providers have varying approaches to handling pregnancies that go past the due date. Be sure to ask your OB-GYN or midwife how they manage overdue pregnancies and what their care plan looks like in this situation. Knowing their approach ahead of time can help ease your mind and ensure you’re prepared for whatever comes.
6) What happens if there is a pregnancy complication?
Knowing how your care provider handles pregnancy complications can give you peace of mind during your pregnancy. It’s essential to ask about their protocols for managing complications and whether they have a plan in place for referring you to specialists if needed. Understanding where you might be referred for further evaluation or treatment allows you to do your research ahead of time and feel more confident and at ease if any unexpected issues arise.
7) Where do you Deliver Babies?
It’s important to know where your OB-GYN or midwife delivers babies so you can plan ahead for your delivery. A great idea is to schedule a tour of the facility with your partner so you can familiarize yourselves with the layout and policies. During the tour, take note of key details like check-in procedures, parking options, and the best entrance to use when you’re in labor. This will help you feel more prepared and avoid any stress when the big day arrives!
8) How does the On-Call Schedule Work at your Practice?
It’s essential to understand how your OB-GYN or midwife’s on-call schedule works, especially for times when they are not in the clinic. Different facilities have varying procedures for after-hours care, so knowing what to expect in case of labor or any emergencies will help reduce stress. Ask your provider how they manage situations when the provider you’re seeing is not on call and who will be caring for you if you go into labor at an unexpected time.
9) Do you Include Nutrition Education?
During pregnancy, nutrition plays a crucial role in both your health and your baby’s development. While we’ve all heard the common do’s and don’ts about pregnancy foods, it’s important to understand your provider’s approach to pregnancy nutrition. Ask your OB-GYN or midwife about their recommendations and how they incorporate nutrition education into your care. Make sure you’re on the same page and that you feel supported in making the best dietary choices for you and your baby.
10) Can I Continue Taking my Present Supplements/Medications?
It’s crucial to ensure that the supplements and medications you’re currently taking have no contraindications for pregnancy. Ask your OB-GYN or midwife about any potential risks or benefits to continue taking your current medications and supplements, so you can make an informed decision for your baby’s safety. Many providers offer a list of pregnancy-safe over-the-counter medications for common health concerns like headaches or a cough. Be sure to ask if they can provide you with a list to take home for quick reference.
Finding the Right OB-GYN or Midwife for Your Pregnancy Journey
We hope this list of top questions to ask your OB-GYN or midwife has provided you with valuable guidance in choosing the right care provider for your growing family. By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and confident throughout your pregnancy. If you have any questions, suggestions, or need further assistance, we’d love to hear from you! Wishing you a healthy, joyful pregnancy and a smooth, positive birth experience.
Want to go into birth and postpartum confident?
Research finds that moms who receive childbirth education have less fear and more confidence about the birth process and decrease their risk of unplanned C-sections, inductions, tearing! So what are you waiting for? Let us give you POWER in your birth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Doulas:
Are Doulas and Midwives the Same?
No, doulas and midwives are not the same. While midwives are trained healthcare professionals who provide medical care during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, doulas offer non-medical support, providing emotional and physical assistance throughout the birth process. To learn more about the differences and how both can support your pregnancy journey, check out our detailed blog post here.
Can Doulas Delivery Babies?
No, doulas cannot deliver babies. Doulas provide non-medical support during labor by offering emotional, physical, and informational assistance, but they are not trained to perform medical procedures or deliver babies. For more on how doulas support the birthing process, read our full blog post here.
How Much do Doulas Cost?
The cost of hiring a doula can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of services offered. On average, birth doulas typically range from $800 to $2,500, while postpartum doulas may charge $25 to $50 per hour. For more details about our doula services and pricing, visit our service page.
What Trainings do Doulas Receive?
Doulas typically complete specialized training programs that focus on childbirth education, emotional support, and comfort techniques for labor. These training programs often include coursework on anatomy, labor stages, breastfeeding support, and techniques like massage and breathing exercises. While doulas are not medical professionals, their training equips them to provide continuous, non-medical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. To learn more about our doulas and their training, visit our Meet Our Team page.
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