Which Birth Professional Is Right for You?

The Family Physician

At the other end of the spectrum from the maternal-fetal specialist is the family practitioner, a general physician who has gained experience after medical school in areas such as pediatrics, obstetrics, internal medicine, and surgery.

He or she works with your entire family, from infancy through old age, and can provide a welcome sense of continuity to the pregnant patient. A family doctor may be a good choice in the case of a low-risk pregnancy, and will generally refer you to specialists as needed in the event of complications.