Unhappy With Care Provider
by Cynthia Flynn, CNM, Ph.D.

Q. I am 22 weeks along and I'm not very comfortable with my doctor. What can I do to ease that problem? Is it too late to find someone else?

A. It just amazes me that couples spend so little time "shopping" for a care provider. After all, you are trusting your health and maybe life and that of your baby to a stranger. Most people who come to me either do so because their friend did or because they got my name from the Yellow Pages or their insurance directory. I *really* appreciate those who interview several people before deciding to choose me, because then I know we are really a "fit." There have been times when the strong connection and good communication between me and the mother has literally made the difference in the outcome. You MUST be able to communicate openly with your care provider to be safe. Honestly, most women spend less time choosing someone to care for them and their babies than they do to choose a pair of shoes.

That said, it is not too late to do your homework. Visit other practices--several--in your area. Try to find someone you're more comfortable with. Your current provider will be paid for the work he has done, and your new provider will be paid for what s/he does. This happens all the time, and it is definitely not too late to change.