As soon as you learn you are pregnant, you'll also find you have many choices and decisions to make. Choosing your healthcare provider is one of your most important choices. This is the professional who will guide you through your pregnancy and who will often be the person to deliver your baby. You have many options, as various medical professionals, including the following, can provide prenatal care:

Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN) - a physician who has specialized training in the care of women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Family Physician (FP) - a physician who has specialized training in primary care, including obstetrics.

Nurse Practitioner - a nurse with specialized training who can provide women's health care.

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) - a nurse who has additional training to care for women with low-risk pregnancies.

Perinatologist - an obstetrician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

There are several ways to find a healthcare provider, including recommendations from other healthcare professionals, friends, and family. Your insurance carrier can provide a listing of qualified healthcare providers. Information is available to learn more about a physician's training, background, and specialty. You can request a brief interview or a telephone call with your one or two top choices. In addition to the physician's medical qualifications, look for someone you feel comfortable talking with, who is interested in your concerns and needs.

Here are some questions you might want to ask a prospective healthcare provider:

What are your credentials and training?

How many babies do you deliver each month?

What is your philosophy or beliefs about labor and birth?

Who should I contact if I have a concern or a problem after regular office hours?

At what hospitals do you have privileges for delivering babies?

What other healthcare providers work with you?

Will I have a choice in who delivers my baby?