Anyone else feel like they drive their own OB appointments?

Maybe it’s just NYC where it’s always go go go and people (especially doctors) are not talkative, but I feel like I’m driving everything. If it wasn’t for my questions, the appointment would be over in 10 seconds. I thought I’d be guided more, and told what to do proactively. Instead, I feel like I’m always guiding the discussion. How do women who don’t ask many questions ever learn anything from their OB? Does everyone ask a ton of questions too? For context, I did a lot of research and my OB is very experienced and smart.
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Every doctor is different, I think it depends on how they have been trained, their doctor/patient relationship view, and also their motives. Unfortunately some OBs view birth as a medical procedure that they are in charge of, so they don't have the mindset to provide guidance. Some OBs want to have control over their patients and do things their way, so if you don't know your options you don't have any. Based on reviews, my last OB was experienced and smart as well. However, I would have ended up having an unnecessary c-section if it wasn't for the fact that I had two previous pregnancies and knew what to expect, and also I set out to educate myself. I never stopped asking questions and didn't let the OB cut the appointments short. In the end thank God I had the birth I desired, but the process felt like a stressful power struggle. If you can, find another OB that aligns with your values.

This was why I kept going to different doctors until I found the right one bc that’s crazy. I decided on Dr. Vanessa Peña with Weill Cornell she’s great. Experienced and smart is important but also - good bedside matter! Compassion for clients during such a sensitive time. I can’t work with anyone who isn’t thorough and giving me info on their own

Many doctors are like that and many women don’t ask question either and just trust their OBs. Not every OB is like that, mine wasn’t and he’s in NYC. The office I went to wasn’t like that at all. But unfortunately this is common and part of the reason why many moms end up with terrible experiences and birth trauma

My OB was great for my now second. He listened, guided and allowed me to successfully VBAC. Not a lot of OBs will even think about it. My first was lazy and he guilted me into an unnecessary section. I had several complications afterward and so did my son. I hate to say it, it’s not just OBs. There are a lot of doctors out there like this. You have to stay informed, do your own research and unfortunately stay on top of your own health. I know people that have gotten infections, had allergic reactions and some that could have died if they didn’t ask questions do their research and keep notes. That is healthcare now. This is a lesson I had to learn and Everyone should learn.

Yep. I have chronic health issues and I’ve seen a TON of drs. Just recently a new specialist this week and it was an awful experience. Most of them are a-holes IMO. My last practice seemed nice, but pulled a bait and switch on me in week 39. This time I’m seeing a midwife at a hospital and it’s the best experience I’ve ever had with any medical professional regardless of their field.

OB appointments are notorious for this. Everywhere. My visits with my nyc homebirth midwives were long and lovely. They were angels full of love and education

Your OB doesn’t want you to learn. They want you to take orders and be a good little patient. It’s important you understand this.

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