Q: I just learned I am having a baby and, as a first-time Mom, would like some advice from someone who specializes in childbirth.
A: Make use of your doctor. Get to know your OB-GYN and his/her partners, as well as your own primary care doctor. The reasonable course of action is to maintain an ongoing dialogue about your expectations and rights as a patient with your care provider. Remember that birth is a cooperative process, and that your medical professional is there to assist and utilize his or her knowledge to you – and to your baby’s – benefit.
If there is an orientation program or tour of where you are having your baby, take advantage of that. If you are considering having an epidural, ask to speak with your anesthesiologist when you are admitted. Most importantly, do NOT rely on word-of-mouth information. Everyone has an idiosyncratic opinion or experience about childbirth which may not be applicable to you.
– Dr. Garrett K. Lam, UT Erlanger Women’s Health Services; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society