Pregnancy is an exciting time that comes with many decisions — from choosing your baby’s name to choosing the right OBGYN. Your OBGYN will guide you through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, so it’s important to find someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
If you’re searching for expert and compassionate care on the Upper West Side of New York City, here are seven tips to consider when selecting your OBGYN, courtesy of our team at OBGYN Westside, PLLC.
First-time moms often have many questions, so you’ll want to choose an OBGYN with experience in prenatal care and deliveries. If you have specific concerns, such as a high-risk pregnancy, find an OBGYN with expertise in that area.
All six of our physicians here at OBGYN Westside, PLLC, are medical doctors (MDs) and Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG), which means we’re board-certified OBGYNs who have completed medical school, rigorous training, and certification by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Every provider has a different philosophy on prenatal care and labor. Some take a more natural approach, while others focus on medical interventions when needed. Our team prioritizes vaginal births when possible, and because of that, we have a low C-section rate.
If you have preferences, such as an unmedicated birth, a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), or specific pain management options, talk to your OBGYN about your birth plan.
Convenience matters when you’re making frequent visits throughout your pregnancy. Choosing an OBGYN close to home can make appointments easier to manage. Also, ask about appointment availability and typical wait times.
You can take the B, C, 1, 2, and 3 trains or the 86th or 96th Street crosstown bus lines to get to our office.
Even before you’re pregnant, you may want to talk with an OBGYN about your fertility concerns. Make sure your preferred office offers fertility counseling for women planning on growing their families.
Even if you don’t have concerns about fertility, pre-pregnancy counseling can confirm that you’re taking the right prenatal vitamin and meeting the daily requirements of vitamins A, B, and D.
Your OBGYN’s hospital affiliation determines where you’ll deliver your baby. If you’re considering a specific hospital in New York City, check that your OBGYN has privileges there.
Pregnancy can come with unexpected concerns, from unusual symptoms to questions about fetal movement, and knowing you have access to guidance outside regular office hours can provide peace of mind.
Some practices offer on-call physicians and after-hours hotlines for emergency issues. Be sure to ask what support options are available so you feel confident and cared for throughout your pregnancy.
Almost all patients — 94% to be exact — use reviews to evaluate provider options. Online reviews and recommendations from other moms can give you insight into a provider’s bedside manner, office environment, and overall patient experience through each step of your pregnancy and postpartum period.
While every patient’s experience is unique, consistent positive feedback can be a good sign. To date, our team has a 4.96 out of 5-star rating.
Choosing an OBGYN is a personal decision, and the best way to ensure the right fit is to schedule an initial visit. If you’re looking for expert, compassionate care on the Upper West Side of New York City, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today to set up an appointment by calling or booking an appointment online anytime.
