Doctor or midwife?

Many women with low-risk pregnancies may be attended by a qualified midwife or a general practitioner (GP). A number of expectant mothers want to be delivered by a specialist (obstetrician/gynaecologist) of their choice. A midwife or GP can refer a woman to an obstetrician if the previous medical or obstetric history reveals a possible complication to develop during the confinement or when a high risk situation occurs during the course of the pregnancy.

Here are a few points to consider:

• Do you feel comfortable with your attendant?
• Do you feel you can ask the attendant any questions without feeling embarrassed?
• Does the attendant practise close by?
• Are you happy with the hospital at which the attendant does deliveries? (See “Choosing your hospital”)
• Does the attendant practise alone or in a group practice?
• Are you happy with the other doctor/midwife who will stand in if the attendant is not available?
• Are the practice hours convenient for you?
• Are the staff members and nursing sisters friendly?
• What is the attitude of the attendant and approach to different birth options (e.g. home birth, water birth) you have chosen?
• Are you comfortable with the attendant’s preference for natural birth or assisted modes of deliveries?
• Does the attendant have access to ultrasound facilities at the practice?