Many women are a victim of unnecessary interventions. Ask the right questions to make sure you pick the best doctor and hospital for your next birth.
1) What percentage of women have had a c-section this year? C-sections are necessary in some cases however many doctors in all parts the U.S. can become a little knife happy. Some bad reasons for a doctor to perform a c-section is "the baby isn't coming quick enough" or "your too small to have this baby". If this number is over 30% it may be time to make the switch.
2) Natural birth. This term by itself will erk some doctors since many believe that birth cannot be a natural process. They forget women have birthed everyone on this planet without the assistance of doctors as little as a hundred years ago.
3) Ask your doctor to look over your birth plan with you. Birth plans are great to have however many doctors may overlook them during the birth. A doula can be a nice advantage at these times as she can help you to have a voice. Showing your doctor your birth plan and noting their reactions can let you know how much your doctor agrees with and respects your beliefs and ]how smoothly your birth may or may not go in accordance to your doctor.
4) What can I expect? What is your philosophy of birth? knowing how your doctor feels about birth can help a lot when the time comes. If he/she feels negatively or different then you do your birth will probably be harder and less bearable than a supportive care provider. Switch if you find this is the case. If you feel you cannot find a doctor in the area who is supportive of your beliefs hire a doula and let her fight for your rights while you sit back relax and have the baby the way you want.
5) Bring Someone to your appointments. Ok I know this one isn't really a question to ask however if you are feeling as though you are being "bullied" by your doctor the best thing to do is bring someone along. Doulas can help a tremendous amount in this situation since they know the ins and outs of birth and know the patient bill of rights. Sometimes doctors will tell you "you have to..." but this is not so you have a choice. If you want something fight for it and have someone there for back up. If you find you are struggling with your doctor too hard it may be time to switch providers.
Your doctor may attend 10 births a week and may sometimes forget their humanity and bed side manner along the way. Make sure your voice is heard and you do what feels best for you and your baby. This is your birth, take control and go for it.
Happy Birthing,
~Arielle of Natures Birth Right Doula Services
