It's important to research, interview, and get referrals when choosing a primary care provider for your pregnancy. Here are some questions to ask while you are interviewing providers:

Will you work with me to create a realistic birth plan?
What hospital do you have privileges at and do they take my insurance?
Will you have other physicians/midwives that I may get if you are not on call? And if so, will I meet with them during my pregnancy?
What are your intervention rates for: Inductions? Cesareans? Episiotomies?
What are your policies and practices in labor regarding:
- Walking, moving, and changing positions
- Having continuous labor support with a doula or family member
- Eating and drinking before and during labor
- Intravenous lines (IVs)
- Monitoring the mother's vitals and baby’s heartbeat
- Inducing labor, rupturing membranes, using Pitocin
- Cervical checks
- Pushing
- Baby tests, baths & procedures immediately after birth.
- Rooming in with baby
- Breastfeeding and formula feeding
- Guests
- Hiring a doula
- Covid policies

It is important that whether you choose an OBGYN, a family practitioner, or a midwife, you really want to feel safe and heard. Your prenatal visits should give you insight as to how you will be treated when it is time for you to give birth. Ask questions and listen to your gut. If something doesn’t seem right, or the energy isn’t good, it is never too late to switch providers!

At the end of the day YOUR needs should be met and you and your baby should be valued and respected. Take time to choose the provider that is right for you!