Got second thoughts about the doctor or midwife or physician group you chose early in your pregnancy?

Having Second Thoughts?

 

You Are Not Alone  

In the 25 years that I’ve been teaching childbirth classes, I have yet to have a class during which at least one student did not change their care provider.  I even had one student who changed her provider at 39 weeks!  That took a lot of gumption and a lot of work.  She ended up having a great birth experience.  So all that courage and work she did was worth it.

Feeling Overwhelmed?

Most couples are either resistant or overwhelmed just thinking about changing providers.  I often tell them:

  1. Don’t put pressure on yourself by thinking that you HAVE TO make this change.
  2. You are just asking questions and gathering information.
  3. Once you have the information, you can then evaluate your situation or circumstances.
  4. Make a list of the Pros and Cons of changing care providers.
  5. Once you have re-evaluated the situation, then decide whether a change is what you truly want and if it is beneficial.

Arguments and Rebuttals for Staying with Your Current Care Provider

I’m too far along in my pregnancy and I feel like my provider knows me already. Most providers accept new patients as far along as 36 weeks. Some may even accept you as a patient later than that, depending on the circumstances.  In the last months or weeks of your pregnancy, you will see your provider every week.  That’s plenty of time to get to know each other.
I feel uncomfortable “firing” my provider.  I don’t want to hurt their feelings or make them angry. A good doctor or midwife will not take it personally.  As you get further along in your pregnancy you also become more educated and knowledgeable.  Your needs and desires about your labor and your baby’s birth may change.  This is potentially one of the most memorable moments of your life.  Don’t risk a negative experience or outcome because you don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings.
My provider knows what’s best for me. Remember that this is your body, your birth.  The choices that are made should be yours with and you should feel fully supported.  You should feel as though you are getting personal attention and that your needs are met.

How to Make the Change

Research and Make a List Pros and Cons

  • Interview other care providers first.
  • Weigh the pros and cons. Make the decision.
  • Notify your care provider’s office. You can let them know why you’re leaving if you think they would learn from it.  Or just let them know with no explanation.
  • Cancel any previously scheduled appointments.
  • Have them transfer all your medical records to the new care provider.