Questions for a Doctor in Child Delivery

When welcoming the first baby, or the fifth, expect the experience to differ from all others. Doctors cannot tell you exactly what will happen, but they can certainly enlighten you on the basics of the delivery process. There are plenty of books on childbirth and delivery, however, nothing compares to information received directly from the doctor. Make the most of each appointment with him by preparing a list of questions or concerns. Doctors understand that spousal participation extends beyond the delivery process and may begin with the first appointment. If your spouse cannot attend the appointments, have your him jot down a few questions to present to the doctor.

Sex

• Discuss safe-sex during pregnancy.

  Many first-time couples become concerned about sexual intercourse as they near the delivery date. Ask your doctor specific questions about intercourse during pregnancy, your spouse may want to sit in on this discussion as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, "As long as your pregnancy proceeds normally, you can have sex as often as you like." Get clarification on positions, oral and anal sex, as well as the danger signs that suggest you should discontinue certain or all sexual activity.

Overdue

• Check-ups give you information about the due date.

  Early or late, most babies arrive on their own timetables. Typically doctors suggest letting nature take its course as long as it does not adversely affect the mother or baby. However, doctors become concerned when the delivery date goes beyond two weeks past due---known as post-term pregnancy. Ask the doctor what steps would be taken if post-term pregnancy occurs. Find out if your doctor will induce labor and the methods typically used in these cases.

Onset of Labor

• Know the signs of true labor.

  Your doctor will provide you with your due date, but it is not 100 percent accurate. You may experience more than one or two false alarms during pregnancy. Typically, labor pains, the cervix dilating and the water breaking announce the onset of labor. You may or may not experience the typical signs of labor. Ask your doctor for specific signs of labor, or specific signs of false labor. You do not want to miss an important labor sign.

Length of Labor

• Varying labor times are common.

  Ask your doctor how long labor lasts. He may ask you about your medical history and previous births, if any, and complications you experienced to determine an estimated length of time. The Mayo Clinic says "There are three distinct parts to labor, early labor, active labor and the final stage is delivery." Ask your physician to explain each part and what you may experience during them.

Pain Management

• Ask about the many options for pain management.

  Most women know that childbirth pain can range from uncomfortable to indescribable. Ask your doctor what you can expect, as well as the pain management options available and their lasting effects, including possible side effects for you and the baby. Discuss utilizing natural pain management or relaxation procedures during labor and delivery. You will want to know the specifics of the medications offered during the various stages of labor and delivery and the specific window of opportunity to use them.

Complicaitons

• Some complications are avoidable.

  Numerous factors come into play during the pregnancy and childbirth process, which account for the health of the mother and baby. According to a 2005 health report by the World Health Organization, "Every minute, at least one woman dies from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth---that means 529,000 women a year. In addition, for every woman who dies in childbirth, around 20 more suffer injury, infection or disease---approximately 10 million women each year." Minimize complications by keeping appointments with your doctor and apprising her of any symptoms or pain you experience that seems out of the ordinary. Ask for specific details regarding common childbirth complications and the method he typically uses to eliminate them.