Pregnancy is a sensitive and transformative time, and selecting the right provider to support you can have lasting impacts not only on your life but also on your future baby’s. Providers come in various forms, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and doctors, but there’s much more to consider than just their credentials. As a nurse practitioner with a home birth practice and experience delivering my own children in the hospital, I want to share some key considerations that every expectant parent should keep in mind when choosing a provider during pregnancy.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Your Provider is Always in a Rush:

• We understand that the medical field is incredibly busy, but your experience should never suffer as a result. Every expectant mom deserves to feel valued and important. Prenatal visits lay the foundation for your transition to motherhood and establish the vital relationship you will build with your provider. If you consistently feel rushed during appointments, it might be time to reconsider.

Your Provider Doesn’t Include You in Decisions:

• Many providers rely on standardized management plans, which can often leave little room for patient input. While efficiency is essential in a busy practice, it’s crucial that you are included in discussions about your care. If your provider doesn’t encourage you to voice your preferences or concerns, this could indicate a lack of respect for your autonomy.

Resistance to Alternative or Holistic Approaches:

• While OBGYNs play a vital role in managing high-risk pregnancies, many are not trained in or familiar with alternative or holistic approaches to care. If you are a low-risk pregnant woman seeking options that resonate with your values—such as nutritional guidance, yoga, or mindfulness practices—it's important to find a provider who is open to discussing and integrating these approaches into your care plan.

Green Flags to Look For

Your Provider Encourages Open Communication:

• Effective communication is essential during pregnancy. Your provider should allow for two-way communication, welcoming your questions and concerns. Pregnancy can be filled with unknowns and unexpected experiences, so you need a provider who creates a safe space for discussion—without rushing you or passing judgment.

You Receive Personalized Care:

• Every pregnancy is unique, and care should reflect that. Your provider should tailor their approach based on your preferences, medical history, and family dynamics. Whether you have specific dietary needs, previous birth experiences, or cultural practices, a good provider will consider these factors in your care plan.

You Are Empowered Through Informed Consent:

• Informed consent is a crucial aspect of your care. Your provider should present you with the pros and cons of each decision and empower you to make choices that align with your values and preferences. This approach not only enhances your confidence but also fosters a collaborative partnership between you and your provider.

Choosing the right provider during pregnancy is a critical decision that can shape your experience as an expectant parent. By being vigilant about red flags and attentive to green flags, you can find a provider who respects your individuality and supports your unique journey. Remember, you deserve a partner in your care who listens, values your input, and is committed to your well-being. Trust your instincts, advocate for yourself, and seek out a provider who embodies the compassionate care you deserve as you embark on this incredible adventure of motherhood.