Positive Pregnancy Test! Now what?
Those two little lines appeared on your pregnancy test and now you’re embarking on the journey of growing a sweet baby. You may feel excited, anxious, nervous, maybe a little nauseous, happy, and more. But, now what? Where do you go from here?
It can feel overwhelming with all the decisions you may need to make: who your doctor will be, where will you birth your baby, what can you expect?
Choosing a provider can feel so daunting. There are a few different options you have when it comes to types of providers and their model of care.
In the United States, most often, women will see an OBGYN. They work within the hospital system and are trained in surgical procedures relating to women’s reproductive health. You see them in a clinic setting. Often times, appointments aren’t very long and are kept short because of the client load they may have. OBs also manage high risk pregnancies as well.
Midwives (of which there are a few different distinctions) are usually more focused on a holistic, client-led model of care.
There are a few different types of midwives. Specifically in Utah, we have CNMs (certified nurse midwives), DEM (direct entry midwives), LDEM (licensed direct entry midwives), and CPMs (certified professional midwives). CNMs usually work within the hospital system as well and are a great option if you’d like a more personal, holistic, and supportive approach to care but want to birth in the hospital. DEMs, LDEMs, and CPMs are out of hospital midwives that will do birth center and/or home births. We will go over the licensing differences of these midwives in another blog.
Most providers will schedule a first prenatal appointment to confirm pregnancy between 8 and 10 weeks of pregnancy. This often includes an in office pregnancy test and occasionally an ultrasound. Not all providers offer an early pregnancy ultrasound. This is a great time to ask questions about what care may look like, what you are concerned about, medical questions, and personal questions to help determine if this provider is right for you.
Even if you schedule with one provider, you can “shop” around and interview different providers to find the best fit for your pregnancy and birth. I highly recommend looking around to see who resonates with you and helps you feel supported, safe, and heard. This is a great list of questions to ask providers.
As you wait for that first appointment, you can reflect on what is important to you in a provider, what your hopes are for this pregnancy and birth experience, and where you’d like to give birth.
Stay hydrated, eat protein, and take that prenatal. You’re beginning one of the most beautiful and transformative times of life!
