Should I find a new OB??

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, M/S.

I am 19 wks pregnant with my first. I am feeling increasingly uncomfortable with my MD and would like input if I should find a new one. I am not very experienced with OB care so I don't know if he is out of line. He is a family practice physician.

The first problem I have is with that AFP test that I was under the impression you have the "option" of having. He tells me at 14 weeks, "come back in 2 weeks and get this blood test done." I ask what it is for and he says, "to test for birth defects." I told him I wasn't really sure I wanted it done and he says "well you don't have to but it is better." He acted like it was no big deal, and from what I learned about it and read about it, I feel that the negatives outweigh the positives for me to have it. Also I have known of 2 people that had a false positive and were put through alot of unnecessary stress and expense.

My next appt. 1 mo later he walks into the room and says something to the effect of "go to the lab and get your blood drawn right now and then come back in a week." Again, I ask why and he tells me. I told him I decided not to have it and he says "why not - are you afraid to get your blood drawn?" I told him my experiences with the false positives and he says"it is very uncommon" and then really tries to pressure me into having it done and then seems upset when I did refuse. Basically, from what I have read, the false positives aren't uncommon. Also, I am a little unsure of my LMP and the dating sonogram put me 1 week ahead of my actual due date (what I thought it was), and from further research, I find out the age of the fetus is very imp in terms of interrpreting the results.

Okay, so then he goes to doppler the fetal heart rate, and gets it on the first try. I just don't think it sounded as fast as last time and I know I tend to be on the tachycardic side (esp after what was said) so just a hunch but I don't think he even auscultated the fhr. What I learned was you are supposed to be careful of that.

Also, he doesn't seem to be very communicative. So I am just wondering - if complications develop is he even going to tell me what is going on??

Am I being paranoid? I don't exactly know what the norm is. Can anyone give me any more advice on how to choose an OB and how you can find out what their background is?

Thanks!

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I wouldn't be comfortable either, from what you're describing. And you should absolutely be able to feel comfortable with the person who is going to manage your pregnancy and birth.

If it were me, I would want an actual OB/GYN MD or a CNM, not a FP. But that's just my personal preference.

Do you know anyone who can tell you who is good/not good? I've found that word of mouth is most helpful. If you work in a hospital, you can always head up to the OB floor to ask them who they like.

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Specializes in Medical.

I don't nothin' 'bout birthin' no babies, so I can't sy anything about him clinically, but I think it's vital you have a good rapport with you OB/GYN, so if you're uncomfortable, and you can change, do.

Good luck with your pregnancy :)

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

Sounds as if this person is not a good match for you. IF you can, find a dr or midwife whose listening skills are at least a match for his/her desire for needless intervention. My best advice.

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Find somebody else!

The most important quality for your attending is that you feel comfortable and he or she inspires confidence. Your own attitude and emotional comfort level can have such a huge impact on whether you enjoy or endure your pregnancy and delivery! (You should enjoy as much of it as possible.)

Find a friend who has had a child and who liked their OB, or a friend of a friend, or whatever. Then go see that one and see if you feel more comfortable.

Do let us know how it works out. There may be more creative ideas on how to find a physician. (I was looking for a plain ole GP last year and got a referral from an RN who called me following some outpatient surgery. She was wonderful and I trusted her--and her referral is wonderful as well! And I've never even met her..... You never know where your best help comes from!)

Good luck!

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Specializes in Inpatient Acute Rehab.

I would find someone else. If you are not comfortable with his care now, then when the delivery time comes around, you will have a not so good experience.

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As others have stated, it is soooo important for you to trust your care provider not only throughout your pregnancy but during your labor and delivery. I would find another one if you can...

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That is just absolutely ridiculous. He should present the pros/cons of the AFP so you can make an informed decision, not try to pressure you into it. FWIW, I think it is a totally useless screening test, so many people are subjected to stress because of it, and I know personally of many people whose results were normal, but their babies had Down syndrome. If you wouldn't have an amnio, then what is the point, except for the dr. to cover his behind? He doesn't sound like a very good partner in caring for you, and it would probably make sense to try to find an OB. Good luck.

Shannon

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I agree with the other posts.. Find a different doctor.. When I was pregnant with my daughter I don't know what I would have done if I wouldn't have had my ob doctor.. He was wonderful to me and always listened to me and never brushed me off.. Close to the end of my pregnancy I had problems with my blood pressure and he would call me at home to make sure I was ok and even took time out of his weekend to see me in his office.. Since this is your first baby its stressful enough and you shouldn't have to worry about your doctor on top of that.. Find a different doctor b/c you don't want to stress about if he is giving you the quality of care you need.. Good luck!! :wink2:

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Is this his pregnancy or yours? If you are uncomfortable, switch providers now.

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Specializes in ER, NICU, NSY and some other stuff.

YOu have the right to see a provider that makes you feel at ease, adresses your concerns and RESPECTS you wishes and decisions. Barring them being illegal, unethical or unrealistic.

What would he pressure you to do if something came back on the AFP? Would that be what you wanted to do? Would you succumb because he said so? Sound like this would be his expectation.

I would ask around or call you hospital help line and investigate and INTERVIEW someone else to make a good fit for you. You are trusting this person with one of the most important, intimate events in your life. Expect the best!!!

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The AFP is simple and safe. It is a screen, not really a 'test' which is why it is less than perfect and requires follow up in some situations. An abnormal AFP should be followed up with further testing to determine if there is a a problem with the baby- not necessarily so one can terminate but to help one prepare if there is something wrong. It provides pretty good information and can help date your pregnancy. I personally would not like to find out my baby has a problem at delivery.

Ultimately, if you don't like your doc, you should pick another one.

I'm not clear why you oppose the test however. Can you tell me more?

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