Selecting the right obstetrician can help ensure that you have a healthy, successful pregnancy. Each doctor brings their own unique approach and set of skills, so make sure that you are a good fit with your doctor. There are a variety of ways to find a doctor, such as asking friends for recommendations, especially those who were happy with their pregnancy, as well as working with a certified midwife nurse (CNM) and looking at all of your options.

Schedule an initial appointment with the doctors that you are considering, and ensure that your views are aligned on a variety of issues. Some of the major issues that you’ll want to cover are the use of electronic fetal monitoring, the possibility of C (cesarean) sections, as well as the overall fit in terms of personality compatibility. Your OBGYN will provide important counseling and guidance, in addition to medical advice, from the beginning to the end of the process.

Importantly, the doctor should be covered on your insurance policy, and should help to provide you with guidance related to all aspects of your pregnancy, from nutrition and medical advice to what you need to do during the labor process. Ideally, the OBGYN should be associated with a maternity center at a local hospital or birthing center, so that you have continuity in treatment from beginning to end. Always cover your medical history with your doctor, so that she or he can provide you with crucial guidance as to what steps you need to take to ensure a health pregnancy.