So, I’m starting to really worry about myself. Once a month when I go to my OB check appointments I never have any questions for the doctor. Am I absolutely crazy? I’m 30 weeks and I really haven’t had any problems other than some aches and pains. When I have a question I just look it up online. Are there things I’m forgetting to ask about? It feels awkward when he keeps asking if I have any questions and I say no.”
Congratulations on having such an easy pregnancy so far! Please do not worry about not being worried. You can always ask, “are there any things that I ought to be asking about? What are most of your patients at my week asking about?” But it could be that after being pregnant for 30 weeks you’ve simply researched, learned all you care to know, and now have a total grip on this pregnancy thing. Enjoy it!
But since you asked, here are some things you might want to ask about:
Birth classes and hospital tours. These can both be hugely helpful and informative and are sure to give you and your doctor more to talk about.
The inside scoop on the hospital. What’s good in the cafeteria? What’s the best carryout nearby? Where’s the best deal on parking for visitors? Does your doctor have any suggestions for making your stay smoother or more pleasant?
Labor assistants. Some hospitals provide one by request, and if not may let you hire and bring your own.
Who will deliver? If your doctor doesn’t personally attend to all of the deliveries in their practice, ask who might be on call during the weeks that you’re due. It’s a good idea to schedule a monthly checkup with as many of the members of the practice as you can before labor so the doctor you deliver with isn’t a stranger.
Hospital forms. At some point before the end of your pregnancy ask your doctor if you can get hospital forms to fill out before you go into labor to speed up your check-in.
Birth plan? Writing up a birth plan can be a good conversation opener to talking to your doctor about what will happen in the hospital, and to help you think ahead about choices you might have during labor.
Pain management during labor. If you want an epidural, ask about how and when to contact the anesthesiologist in the hospital.
Circumcision. If you’re having this procedure performed on your baby, ask who will perform it, when, how and with what kind of pain relief for baby.
Birth control. It’s sometimes impossible to imagine not being pregnant again, but it will happen.
General questions about sex, pregnancy and babies you’ve never had the opportunity to ask before. How is it possible that some women don’t know they’re pregnant until they give birth by surprise? Is it true some women have periods even though they’re pregnant? Is it possible for a woman to have twins with two different fathers? What are the odds my baby will be born with a tail, or covered in hair? Your health care provider will probably be glad for a break from the same questions everyone always asks.
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