Get the Most From Your Prenatal Doctor Visits

Having a solid doctor-patient relationship is an important step in getting the medical care you need. During pregnancy, it's especially crucial to be partnered with a doctor you feel is competent and compassionate. "Trust is one of the most important factors in a good doctor-patient relationship," says Mary Jane Minkin, MD, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University School of Medicine. "You should be able to trust your doctor, and your doctor should be able to trust you." If you feel uncomfortable in the doctor's office or find that he talks down to you and doesn't seem to respect you, it's time to consider finding a new doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider. Once you find someone you click with, you'll want to build a strong relationship. Unfortunately, because of current legal issues, a lot of doctors are retiring from obstetrics, limiting their practices to gynecology or moving to less restrictive states, explains Dr. Minkin. That means there are fewer OBs to go around and your time with your doctor is even more precious. To make the most of it, use the following advice.