Selecting an Obstetrician

An obstetrician or OB/GYN is a medical doctor who has specialized in a variety of women’s services, including pregnancy management, attending the birth and postpartum care. They can also help with any issues associated with the female reproductive system as well as surgical care. Obstetricians practice in private offices, hospitals, and group clinics.

Services Provided

The exact services that an obstetrician provides may vary, as some doctors choose specific areas to focus on, such as surgical care or gynecology. Here is a list of services an obstetrician may provide:

• Prenatal care

• Labor and birth services

• Annual exams including Pap smears and breast exams

• Follow up treatment for abnormal Pap test results

• Counseling on contraceptives

• Treatment for STDs

• Managed care for gynecological medical conditions

• Infertility treatment

• Menopause management

Types of Training

Obstetricians are licensed by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) and must meet strict requirements including graduation from medical school and completion of a residency program that includes obstetrics and gynecology. They also must pass a test given by ABOG to become board certified.

Advantages of Obstetricians

Many women already have an obstetrician, so they are already comfortable with their services and want to use them through their pregnancy. Other women may prefer an OB/GYN over their family doctor because they are in a high risk category. Benefits to having an obstetrician include:

• Training to manage pregnancy complications

• Access to specialized medical technology

• Surgical training should a cesarean be wanted or necessary

Disadvantages of Obstetricians

The majority of women (60-80%) have a low risk pregnancy, in which case an OB/GYN is not necessary, and woman who want a natural pregnancy may prefer to not have an obstetrician. However, since obstetricians are trained to handle complications, it is nice to have one nearby should you need it. Other disadvantages include:

• Higher risk of episiotomy, induction or assisted delivery

• Higher risk of cesarean

• Need for birth to occur at the hospital instead of home or birth center

• Increase cost for care and birth