Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? If so, you obviously want the best pregnancy care for yourself and your baby. That’s why you need these pro tips to find the best OB/GYN in College Park, Maryland.
What Is an OB/GYN?
If this is your first child, you might be unsure about the role of an OB/GYN. To put it simply, an OB/GYN (short for obstetrician/gynecologist) is a doctor who specializes in pregnancy care and childbirth. Your OB/GYN is also the doctor you’ll see after you give birth for your follow-up appointments.
How Do I Choose the Right OB/GYN for Me?
Begin with the basics. Contact your insurance provider to find out who is on their in-network list of OB/GYNS. You might want to rule out those who aren’t conveniently located to you.
It’s a good idea to create a list of potential OB/GYNs, so you don’t limit your options. Once you’ve done that, verify their credentials including education and board certification.
Choosing the best OB/GYN in College Park, Maryland is an incredibly personal choice. You should go with your instincts and choose one with whom you’re comfortable based on these factors to consider during your search.
- Existing medical conditions: Do you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or other conditions that require special medical attention? Do you have a history of miscarriages, preeclampsia, or pre-term labor? You might need an OB/GYN that specializes in high-risk pregnancies.
- The OB/GYN’s approach: What issues are important to you? Natural delivery? Holistic medicines and treatments? What is your birthing plan? Do things like genetic testing, pain medications or no pain medications, and fetal monitoring rank high on your list of priorities? Your priorities should fall in line with your OB/GYNs approach to pregnancy and childbirth.
- Compatibility: Having a baby is an exciting event, no doubt! So, it’s important you choose an OB/GYN with which you feel you are compatible. Think about your communication style, as well as your comfort in discussing personal health matters (this could mean physical, mental, and emotional) with the provider. Do you prefer a male or female OB/GYN? Are your questions answered to your satisfaction? Do you receive clear explanations? Will the OB/GYN respect your wishes when medically possible?
- Convenience: You should not only consider location but after-hours protocol. Will your OB/GYN be available? How should you contact them in the event of an emergency? What is their hospital affiliation? What about parking?
What Should I Expect During the First Appointment With My OB/GYN?
Your first OB/GYN appointment is an important one. It will help you make your final decision on who to choose, and it also serves several other purposes.
When you arrive, you will be expected to fill out paperwork. If you can download new patient forms from your OB/GYN’s website and fill them out at home, it’s much less stressful than feeling rushed to complete them in the waiting room. Be sure to take your insurance information, and be prepared to pay your copay.
During your appointment, you’ll discuss with your OB/GYN the details of your pregnancy. Your vitals will be checked, your weight recorded, and your medical history is taken.
You should expect a full exam during your initial visit. You’ll likely have blood and urine tests and may have an ultrasound. If you have a chronic illness, management of your illness during pregnancy will be discussed.
Have in hand any questions or concerns you have, so you can get all the answers you need. Now is the perfect time to ask about dietary guidelines, exercise recommendations, and other ways to help grow a healthy baby.
Is Every Visit the Same?
Typically, your first visit is the longest. You should expect to have your vitals and weight checked as well as a urine test at every appointment. Your OB/GYN will likely check your baby’s heartbeat with each visit once you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant, measure your abdomen, and review any results from previous tests.
How Often Do I Need to See My OB/GYN?
How often you visit your provider depends on your health and the health of your baby, as well as your gestational age. Generally, you will be scheduled based on the following:
| Weeks 4 to 28 | Weeks 29 to 36 | Weeks 37 to 40+ |
| One monthly checkup | Two monthly checkups | Weekly checkups |
There are a few reasons you may need more frequent visits to your OB/GYN, such as if you:
- Are considered high risk
- Are older than 35 or younger than 16
- Are pregnant with multiple babies
- Are significantly overweight or underweight
- Have a history of pregnancy complications
- Have an existing medical condition that requires close monitoring
Choose Women’s HealthCare Specialists If You Want the Best OB/GYN in College Park, Maryland!
It’s no secret that regular visits to your OB/GYN mean a better chance of a healthy pregnancy. So, take the first step in your successful pregnancy by calling 301-812-3400 to schedule your appointment today!
Board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Navi Modi and our team will be with you every step of the way from pregnancy to childbirth and beyond. We offer only the highest quality, holistic, personalized care so you stay comfortable and safe throughout your pregnancy.
We believe all women deserve the best care possible and look forward to partnering with you on this incredible journey!
