Choosing the Right Provider

The Most Crucial Decision in Your Pregnancy Journey

One of the most important, if not the most important, choices you can make during your pregnancy journey is selecting the right provider.

Your provider will be with you throughout your entire pregnancy and will play a huge role in your birth experience. So, why would you settle for someone who makes you feel uncomfortable, belittled, or unsupported during one of the most significant moments of your life?

In the United States, it is most common for women to be seen by an OB in a hospital. However, there are also midwives who work in hospitals, birth centers, or attend home births. Depending on your location, you may have access to these alternative birthing options.

Regardless of where you choose to give birth, your provider remains the most critical choice you make. Even with a home birth, a midwife who doesn't respect your choices or makes you feel uncomfortable may not be the best fit.

Interviewing Your Provider

The best thing you can do is to interview your potential provider. This involves setting up a specific appointment to ask them questions about their style of care. 

It's ideal if this can be done outside of an exam room, especially with your clothes on. Taking it outside of an exam room removes the perception of you being the patient and them being the authority, allowing for a more even, assertive conversation.

What to Ask

When interviewing your provider, ask open-ended questions to encourage them to explain their perspective. Listen carefully for red flag phrases like “We can let you,” “We typically allow,” or “We’ll talk about that later.” These suggest a controlling approach, indicating that they might not respect your choices during labor and birth.

Recognizing Red Flags

During labor, you don't want to be in a position where you constantly have to advocate for your choices. This can be stressful and unhelpful for your labor process. If your provider uses scare tactics or fear-mongering to convince you to follow their recommendations, this is a significant red flag. Such behavior in a clinical environment likely indicates that they will use similar tactics when you are most vulnerable during labor.

The Power of Choice

You are never trapped with the same provider. You can change providers at any moment, even during labor. If your provider doesn't respect your choices or makes you feel uncomfortable, it is crucial to find someone who aligns with your birth philosophy and supports your decisions.

If you’re unsure what questions to ask, Click Here To Get Your Free Provider Guide that offers a comprehensive list of questions to help you in your interview process.

Final Thoughts

Your provider is the most important choice you'll make in your pregnancy. They will significantly influence how you feel about your birth experience. Take the time to interview them, question them, and ensure their views align with yours.