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Same Day Appointments Available
Whether you have just taken a positive pregnancy test or you’re looking for a new women’s health care provider, choosing your OB/GYN (Obstetrician/Gynecologist) is one of the most important health care decisions you will ever make. Finding the right fit is essential.
At Alcove Health Women’s Clinic, we help women take that first step with free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, pregnancy options consultations, free STI testing, parenting education, and referrals to trusted OB/GYNs and prenatal care providers in Hampton Roads.
An OB/GYN is more than the physician who delivers your baby. Think of them as your essential collaborator for everything from pregnancy to childbirth, recovery, and general women’s wellness.
When you have the right provider, you can feel:
Selecting a provider you trust can greatly impact your experience. If you’re asking yourself, “How do I go about choosing an OB/GYN?” consider these questions to help you find the right provider.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends the first wellness visit should be between the age of 13-15. Cervical cancer screening is suggested starting at age 21.
If you have just recently discovered that you are pregnant, you should start searching for your OB/GYN now. While you don’t have to see a provider right away, it’s wise to start your search as soon as you know you’re pregnant.
Most OB/GYNs will schedule your first prenatal visit at 8-10 weeks pregnant. Some women may need to be seen earlier, especially if they have medical problems or pregnancy complications.
If you are not sure how far along you are, most doctors can perform what is called a limited obstetric ultrasound to determine your approximate gestational age before starting prenatal care.
Not all OB/GYN offices are created equal. Questions to ask when shopping around for providers include:
Experience is important, but you’ll also want someone who has a philosophy of care that you are comfortable with.
In addition to certifications and bedside manner, there are also some logistics to keep in mind that can greatly affect your pregnancy experience. Read on.
Some OB/GYN offices operate with more than one physician, nurse practitioner, or certified nurse-midwife. These offices typically split up the patient load, meaning you may see a different provider at each prenatal visit. You may want to ask:
Some women prefer getting to know one physician throughout their entire prenatal care experience. Others prefer getting to know each provider who could deliver their baby.
Here are some questions to consider:
Many providers offer group practices that include both midwives and physicians. This way, women can receive prenatal care from the midwives in the practice and seamlessly switch to a physician’s care if complications occur.
In addition to the questions above, you may also want to consider:
Online reviews can be useful in understanding a practice’s communication skills, office staff, wait times and patient experience. One negative review doesn’t mean you should discount a provider but take note if you see the same theme repeated through dozens of reviews.
Be sure to ask friends, family members and your primary care provider if they can recommend someone.
We offer limited medical services for women in the early stages of pregnancy, not ongoing prenatal care. However, we do offer free pregnancy confirmations, limited ultrasounds, pregnancy options consultations, and referrals to trusted prenatal care providers all over Hampton Roads.
💡Reminder: Finding the right OB/GYN is more than just credentials. For some of your happiest moments, your OB/GYN will be there by your side. You want a provider who listens to your concerns, answers your questions and empowers you to feel your best throughout your pregnancy.
If you are looking for pregnancy verification or need assistance finding an OB/GYN near you in Hampton Roads, Alcove Health Women’s Clinic is here to help.
We can help you take the next step with compassionate, confidential care. We can also link you with trusted providers who specialize in prenatal care and will support you throughout your journey.
Call us or click the button below to schedule your free and confidential appointment with Alcove Health!
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