What’s more awkward for a woman than going in for a yearly exam? Not much. That’s why you need to make sure you find a gynecologist or OB/GYN that makes you feel comfortable.
A good doctor help you deal with very intimate issues like pregnancy, family planning, cancer screenings and any issues “down there.” So, it’s really important to find someone whom you trust.
Three Things to Consider
If you’re not sure where to start, here are three things to consider when you’re looking for the best OB/GYN for you:
1. Decide what you need
If you’re just looking for someone to help with pregnancy and delivery, a simple (yet well-reviewed) OB/GYN doctor will probably be fine. But if you’re dealing with more specialized issues like infertility or urinary incontinence, or possible cancer (cervical, breast, or otherwise), you may want to seek out a specialized gynecologist or OB/GYN with a lot of experience in that particular area.
2. Compare core values
If you don’t agree with a doctor on values you hold relating to terminating pregnancies or different types of birth control for example, you may want to consider trying a different doctor who does.
3. Evaluate overall bedside manner
When you visit the doctor, ask yourself some basic questions:
- Does this doctor make me feel comfortable?
- Is this person a good listener?
- Do they treat me like a valuable person and respect my opinions?
It’s important to have a strong relationship with your OB/GYN, so make sure the answers to all of these questions are an emphatic “yes.” Otherwise, keep searching until you find the right one.