Finding an OB/GYN you are comfortable with is key. Keep in mind that your regular OB/GYN may not be a 'high risk' OB/GYN Doctor. Don't be surprised if he or she refers you to a high risk Doctor. A high risk OB/GYN has extensive experience; additional training in trauma, and multiple birth deliveries.
A woman needs to be extremely comfortable with her Professional of choice to make informative decisions about her pregnancy, delivery, and well being.
"My general OB/GYN (a woman) referred me to two other (Male) Doctors that were specialized in high risk. One Doctor was older (50's 60's) the other very young looking (30's 40's). Deciding between the two would not be easy. I asked the receptionist to have two parents of multiples call me. I asked other parents of multiple birth children who they went to. Then, I would schedule an appointment and ask a lot of questions. After all, this Doctor would be part of my team.
I viewed my choice as though I was a football quarterback --the Hospital staff was the Team. In order for me to carry and deliver the ball (baby) I had to trust them to make the right plays (decisions). Trusting them would allow me to carry out plays called by the experienced Coach (Doctor). This Coach needed to be there every step of the way. I could not have a Coach (Doctor) that intimidated the team or rendered them useless on the field (in delivery room) because they were afraid they would get benched (or fired).
Then there is the Quarterback Coach (husband). He would oversee the field and make sure that if the quarterback is not able to make decisions; he would be in a position to make them for me. To be there to encourage the overall team (hospital and Coach). Quarterback Coach is with you no matter the circumstances, there to hold your hand until the ball (baby) is out of play. Once the ball is out of play it is then placed in the other teams hands (NICU).
During regular Doctor visits I would always carry a play book - a small book of blank pages to right down all my questions and right down Doc's strategies and answers for a smooth pregnancy. This way, I would remember all my questions and not forget his answers.
The Doctor I ultimately chose was the extremely young looking Doctor. I asked the nurse to bring in 3 other nurses for a quick question. I asked them..."If you had to go into surgery right now, knowing the risks were high with the operation - which Doctor would you choose?" A or B? Without hesitation they each simultaneously named the young looking Doctor. I asked why and was astounded by the answer. First nurse replied; "Because I served internship with him at the ER for a long time period. He is decisive, knowledgeable, and works well under extreme trauma circumstances." Second Nurse, "Because he has delivered more high risk multiple birth pregnancies than the other Doctor." The third, "Because he motivates the staff to be the best they can be no matter the level of trauma - he is consistent." What a response! When I met with this Doctor I asked him which hospital he preferred to work with and why. You may be surprised by your Doctors answers. Not all hospitals have the right equipment, staff, and specialized training. It's your team - choose it wisely!" - Mother of four
The Doctor you choose must be someone you genuinely like. He or She must be supportive, experienced, and above all a 'high risk' Doctor - able to deal in trauma or high risk situations with decisiveness, deliberate communication and ease. You do not want a Doctor that may fold under pressure due to lack of experience delivering multiple birth pregnancies.
