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Choosing the Right OBGYN: A Guide for First-Time Moms

Choosing the Right OBGYN: A Guide for First-Time Moms

Pregnancy is an exciting time that comes with many decisions — from choosing your baby’s name to choosing the right OBGYN. Your OBGYN will guide you through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care, so it’s important to find someone you trust and feel comfortable with. 

If you’re searching for expert and compassionate care on the Upper West Side of New York City, here are seven tips to consider when selecting your OBGYN, courtesy of our team at OBGYN Westside, PLLC.

1. Look for expertise and experience

First-time moms often have many questions, so you’ll want to choose an OBGYN with experience in prenatal care and deliveries. If you have specific concerns, such as a high-risk pregnancy, find an OBGYN with expertise in that area.

All six of our female physicians here at OBGYN Westside, PLLC, are medical doctors (MDs) and Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG), which means we’re board-certified OBGYNs who have completed medical school, rigorous training, and certification by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

2. Consider their approach to pregnancy and birth

Every provider has a different philosophy on prenatal care and labor. We truly believe pregnancy is a process that is meant to happen correctly and while healthy mom and baby are the ultimate priority, we will also prioritize vaginal birth when possible. Because of that, we have a low C-section rate. 

If you have preferences, such as an unmedicated birth, a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), or specific pain management options, we have years of experience to help guide you through these common choices. 

3. Evaluate office locations and availability

We prioritize appointment availability for our pregnant patients and typically have short wait times. In addition to all the required testing and checkups, our prenatal appointment schedule is designed so that we can really get to know you and answer all the questions and issues that can come up throughout your pregnancy so that everyone is as comfortable as possible when it comes time for delivery.

We are conveniently located on the Upper West Side at Columbus/90th. You can take the B, C, 1, 2, and 3 trains or the 86th or 96th Street crosstown bus lines to get to our office.

4. Check for fertility counseling

Even before you’re pregnant, you may want to talk with an OBGYN about your fertility concerns. We offer preconception and  fertility counseling for women planning on growing their families. 

Even if you don’t have concerns about fertility, pre-pregnancy counseling can confirm that you’re taking the right prenatal vitamin and other daily nutritional requirements, that you’re updated with all your vaccinations,  as well as perform genetic carrier screening. 

5. Ask about hospital affiliation

We are proud to be affiliated with Mount Sinai Hospital and have delivered our patients there for over 25 years. Both we and our patients have had the privilege of working with the most expert & caring nurses, dedicated OB anesthesia, as well as maternal-fetal medicine support. 

6. Ask about after-hours support

Pregnancy can come with unexpected concerns, from unusual symptoms to questions about fetal movement, and knowing you have access to guidance outside regular office hours can provide peace of mind. 

One of our six doctors is always available for urgent issues, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  For urgent issues you can call hour office number anytime of day or night and reach one of us. Be sure to ask what support options are available so you feel confident and cared for throughout your pregnancy.

7. Read patient reviews

Almost all patients — 94% to be exact — use reviews to evaluate provider options. Online reviews and recommendations from other moms can give you insight into a provider’s bedside manner, office environment, and overall patient experience through each step of your pregnancy and postpartum period. 

While every patient’s experience is unique, consistent positive feedback can be a good sign. To date, our team has a 4.96 out of 5-star rating.

Schedule your first appointment!

Choosing an OBGYN is a personal decision, and the best way to ensure the right fit is to schedule an initial visit. If you’re looking for expert, compassionate care on the Upper West Side of New York City, our team is here to support you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to set up an appointment by calling or booking an appointment online anytime.

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