Written by Melissa Mitchell, Birth and Postpartum Doula
Melissa Mitchell is well-known for her loving and supportive energy, wealth of womb knowledge, and holistic approach to maternal and infant care. She is a birth advocate, budding herbalist, and dance-a-holic, using every opportunity to move her body and enjoy this life we've been given.
Selecting a healthcare provider for pregnancy and childbirth is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the well-being of both mother and baby. As racial disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes persist in the United States, it’s more important than ever for expectant parents to be proactive in their healthcare choices. By asking critical questions, parents can ensure they find a provider who aligns with their values, offers comprehensive care, and is prepared to address potential complications.
Why asking questions matters
Asking thoughtful questions before hiring a healthcare provider serves multiple purposes:
It helps ensure alignment between the provider's care philosophy and the parents' preferences.
It allows parents to assess the provider's experience and expertise.
It clarifies expectations for the care process.
It empowers parents to make informed decisions.
It builds trust and opens lines of communication.
It can reduce anxiety and uncertainty surrounding pregnancy and childbirth.
It helps ensure comprehensive care throughout the pregnancy journey.
5 critical questions to ask your healthcare provider
1. What is your approach to prenatal care, and how often will I have check-ups?
Regular prenatal visits are essential for monitoring the health of both mother and baby. Most providers recommend check-ups every four weeks until 28 weeks, every 2–3 weeks until 36 weeks, and weekly after that. If you choose to give birth at home or with a midwife, the number of visits will likely be higher.
2. What is your philosophy on pain management during labor and delivery?
It's crucial to find a provider whose approach aligns with your preferences, whether that's natural pain management techniques or medical interventions like epidurals. Some options, such as epidurals and spinal blocks, are only available in hospital settings.
3. What is your cesarean section rate, and under what circumstances do you recommend them?
The national average C-section rate is around 32%. Understanding a provider's C-section practices can give insight into their overall approach to birth. A high C-section rate without improved outcomes for mother and baby may indicate a tendency to induce pregnancies, which can contribute to higher C-section rates.
4. How do you handle high-risk pregnancies or complications?
Even low-risk pregnancies can develop complications. Ask about the provider's experience and protocols for managing issues such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. Ensure that your provider maintains a collaborative model of care throughout your pregnancy and postpartum period if complications arise.
5. What is your practice regarding allowing support people in the delivery room?
Many women want partners, family members, or doulas present during labor. Clarify the provider's policies on this, especially considering former COVID-19 restrictions. You can choose a family member, partner, friend, or doula to support you during labor and birth. You can also ask people to leave, including requesting the charge nurse to switch who provides care from the nursing staff. The important thing to note is that it is your right to choose. This question sparks a conversation with your provider to gauge their level of support for your rights.
Making an informed decision
By thoroughly exploring these questions, expectant parents can make well-informed decisions about their healthcare provider, substantially increasing the likelihood of a positive, satisfying, and healthy pregnancy and birth experience. The impacts of this choice can have long-term effects on the health and life expectancy of both mother and baby.
Signs that you may not feel comfortable with your doctor include:
Feeling rushed during appointments.
Not feeling heard or understood.
Feeling judged or dismissed.
Simply feeling uneasy around your physician for reasons you may or may not be able to articulate.
Given the current infant and maternal mortality rates and racial disparities in the United States, parents must make informed choices and feel empowered to hire or change providers based on the respect, care, and consideration they receive. Trust your instincts and ensure you feel safe with anyone providing information and guidance on your birth journey.
Remember, this decision is not just about the short-term experience of pregnancy and childbirth. It’s about setting the foundation for the long-term health and well-being of both mother and child. By asking these critical questions and carefully considering the answers, expectant parents can take a significant step toward ensuring they receive the best possible care from someone who is excited to work with them on their pregnancy goals and respects their voice and choices.
Read more from Melissa Mitchell
Melissa Mitchell, Birth and Postpartum Doula
As a doula, Reiki Master and wellness warrior, Melissa is on a mission to empower women with the emotional, physical and spiritual support they need to step into their power during this miraculous journey called "womanhood." Her strategies extend beyond advocacy for birthing women; it's about education, encouragement and creating a space where her clients can have a conscious and empowered lived experience. Her mantra. You are powerful beyond measure!
Citations:
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/questions-to-ask-your-doctor/questions-to-ask-your-do ctor-about-staying-healthy-during-pregnancy
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/Questions-to-ask-your-obstetricia n-or-midwife
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000960.html
Ask these 5 questions to choose your pregnancy care provider
12 Signs You Should Fire Your Doctor and Find a New Primary Care Physician
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/high-risk-pregnan cy/art-20047012
