Midwife to OB

rnleolife7

Has anyone or is anyone going from using a Midwife to an MD. My first two children were delivered by our family doctor and my last two with an amazing Midwife group.  This baby I am going to a different hospital and have scheduled an appointment with an OBGYN.

I am a little nervous about letting the new doctor know the things that I would like to have happen during Labor and Delivery.  My last hospital was a Certified Baby Friendly Hospital, this one is not.  (Having to change due to insurance

kissthesky32

I've only delivered with MDs and both hospitals were very friendly about letting me do whatever I wanted during L&D. I walked, bounced on my ball, got in the shower and tub, etc. Most of my labors were spent in the hospital hallways, scaring the other patients with my groaning.

I would recommend bringing up your expectations with your OB during your first appointment. You'll be able to gauge their comfort level and find out what is approved by the hospital. You're also doing this for the 3rd time. You'll be able to advocate for yourself much better than a FTM - you know what works for your body.

kissthesky32

Another thought - maybe you'd feel more comfortable with the OB delivery if you hire a doula. They won't do the actual delivery, but they will give you the more personal feel and help you with the natural birth coaching. They can also help advocate for you and your preferences.

rnleolife7

I didn't think about that.  Good idea!  Thank you!

darlabauer

@kissthesky32 completely agree, with my previous twin pregnancy we had to switch from midwife to OB and they were great but our doula really helped! 

cmessamore

The practice I go to has midwives and MD's. I have had all 3 delivered by MD's and they were all very understanding for how I wanted my labor and delivery to go. Have a birth plan. Talk to your doctor. Tour the hospital where you'll be delivering and chat with the nurses if you can. And be prepared to advocate for yourself and your baby! You should be able to have the birth experience you want, no matter where you go! Good luck! 

Ladybentspoon

I agree with being a self advocate! I had a midwife for all pregnancy checkups, but at the hospital I deliver at, it's whichever doctor is on staff, which was fine for me. I just made my preferences very clear as things processed (delayed cord clamp, skin to skin time, walking around during labor, etc). I think (hope) that doctors are getting on board with a lot of baby-centric practices, and more than likely your birth choices will not shock them-you just need to let them know what you need. Good luck!

ariasbabyblog

I agree entirely with letting your new OB know your expectations up front. If the maternity section offers a tour, definitely take it and ask all the questions. My hospital has an online PDF birth plan that is super easy to fill out, but also lets you know what they are prepared to handle. Naturally, all birth plans should be a guideline, but it is as important for you to fill out as it is for them to receive. I actually printed out several copies and made sure anyone who dealt with me got a copy. 

KeHill08

I didn't see a midwife last time, but I had a different OB than this time because we live somewhere else. When I met with this one, I told her what I would like to happen and she was very open to what I would like and discussed it with me, as well as other options that are available to me. Remember that just because you start seeing one doesn't mean you have to continue with that same one. If it doesn't feel right or he or she isn't willing to work with you, you are free to be seen by another OB. You are your advocate. Do what is best for you and feels right.