OB frustration (repost from 2nd tri)

phq2011

Okay, so I have a very group oriented insurance (Kaiser for those in the Rocky Mtn region) and I am very confused as to who the crap is delivering my baby?!?!? I see many different doctors, dependent on availability, and though they are all well trained, I don't really have a comfortable relationship with any of them. Today, I asked if any of them were trained in the Bradley Method (I have already started the class), and my nurse practitioner simply said that they will do whatever we want. Seriously? I thought birthing methods had an individuality to them. What does that mean??? Can someone explain that or has anyone gone through Kaiser or other group care? What should I do? 

tngrl3

I go to a large OB group. I think there are a total of 8 OBs. Through out my pregnancy I will see all the different doctors as well as the NPs. Whoever happens to be on call when I go in to labor will delivery my little peanut. I am very ok with this as I know most of them already and there is only 1 that I'm not the biggest fan of. The way I understand it is that they all have experience with various types of birthing methods and plans, and will go with what my preference is. As a whole the group has a low C-section rate and the hospital where I will delivery is supportive of natural birth, immediate skin to skin, and breast feeding. In my area there aren't any birthing centers and only a couple of midwives, so this is the option that works best for me. 

stahlop

Make sure you have a birth plan available so whichever doctor you get knows what you want.  That's the only way you are going to get what you want since you don't know who you're going to get.

tokenhoser

Hire a doula and you'll know who one person in the room will be.

Write a birth plan and start discussing it every visit until you rotate through most of the doctors. Make sure your DH knows what you want and can run interference for you in the hospital (and/or hire a doula to help with that).

I don't know any doctor that's going to say "I do Bradley" or "I do Lamaze" or "I do Hypnobabies". That's really just not most doctor's style.

EMOmamma

I've had friends deliver w/ Kaiser and it does kind of stink in that respect.  But really any hospital birth you will see the nurses far more than your OB.  A doula is a great suggestion for your situation.

MommyMelRN

Most doctors, anywhere you go, will not be "trained in" any kind of natural birthing method.  As one pp, you will barely even see them when you are laboring, just for a few checks and then when it's time to deliver.  A better question would be if they have any experience with couples who chose the Bradly Method and if they are comfortable with it.  What might be more important is to contact the hospital where you will be delivering and ask the labor and delivery nurses those same questions, and if they would be willing to support you in your choices.  

 Have a birthing plan and make sure hubby is on board and ready to be assertive.  Hire a oils if you can afford one, or find a doula in training who will help you for free!