the Price of Prenatal Care

I received prenatal care from May until November 2008. I had appointments to keep track of mine and the baby's growth. The doctor would tell me what was going on with my body and what would be happening in the coming future. Books that would or could be helpful to have a healthy pregnancy or just to help me be a happier pregnant woman were recommended. We would go over how I was doing not only physically but emotionally and mentally. The doctor would ask about my questions and concerns and then answer them honestly whether it was the answer I wanted to hear or not. We discussed my nutrition and how important it is to eat right and often so that the baby has nutrients to help it grow. My doctor prescribed prenatal vitamins, iron and fluoride. The doctor explained in depth the importance of taking these prescriptions for not just me but for the baby. I was advised of healthy and unhealthy physical behavior including exercise, lifting and endurance of activities. The doctor explained, even though I already knew, why an expecting mother shouldn't drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, use illegal drugs or use certain medications. I was sent out for regular blood work to make sure the baby and I were each healthy and to test for certain diseases.

I received great prenatal care. My doctor delivered both my children and will delivery my future children. This doctor has been treating me for many years. I love this doctor so much and the great care I receive that I chose an employer sponsored health plan that was not very good just to keep the doctor. I had a choice of three health plans and chose the lower of the three because that was the only insurance my doctor accepted of the three. I paid more out of pocket but I didn't want to have to find another doctor. I always feel that I am getting the attention I need and pay for even when the appointment feels rushed. This doctor always takes the time to answer any questions I have no matter how silly they are. The entire staff is welcoming and friendly. They make you feel like they have taken the time to get to know you. They recognized me and remembered that I had a daughter though I hadn't seem some of them in at least six months. What I like most about my doctor is that I was considering having a tubal ligation after giving birth at the end of 2008 and just reversing it if my husband and I decided to have more children. Everyone told me it would be easy to reverse and that it would be just so simple. Well, I was sorely mistaken for listening to everyone because my doctor sat down and explained it completely. I almost made a huge mistake because it's a lot more involved than I ignorantly thought. I relied heavily on others instead of asking my doctor first. Everyone was laid out to me and all questions were answered. The doctor had asked if I wanted the procedure and before I could ask any questions, everything was explained.

I recommend to anyone receiving prenatal care, that they like their doctor. It eases unnecessary stress if you like the doctor. You may be inclined to ask questions and make sure you receive their full attention than if you didn't like the doctor or weren't comfortable. Everyone should also remember that you pay for this service and should be happy with the care you receive. Happy mommies make happy babies. I had OB-GYN's in the past that I didn't really like but kept going back. I never felt I had all my questions answered or that I mattered as a human being to them. I more or less felt like a paycheck. You should also stand up for yourself. Be informed by reading the pregnancy books so that you understand things but also know what questions to ask. I learned so much from my doctor but the books triggered more questions that I had. Knowledge is the best weapon in life so finding a great doctor and being involved in your care is the most important thing you can do for not only yourself but for the baby. Make the most out of your appointments because you are the only voice for that innocent child. Speak loudly and clearly, they are counting on us.