How to Choose the Right OBGYN for Your Birth Journey
Choosing your OBGYN is like picking the co-pilot for one of life’s most profound journeys. They’ll be right there in the thick of it, navigating the unexpected and cheering you on as you bring new life into the world. In Singapore, where all births are overseen by OBGYNs due to the absence of midwifery-led care, it’s crucial to find a doctor who aligns with your preferences – particularly if you’re hoping for a low-intervention birth. This decision isn’t just about credentials – it’s about trust, shared values, and someone who truly sees you. Let’s make this choice one that feels as aligned as it does empowering.
What makes a great OBGYN?
The best OBGYNs are more than just skilled clinicians; they’re partners in your journey. A great fit will feel like someone who champions your vision, aligns with your values, and makes you feel truly heard. Think about the qualities that matter most to you. Do you want someone who fully supports your birth plan? A provider who integrates the latest evidence into their practice? Or maybe someone who values collaboration with doulas and other professionals?
When you find the right OBGYN, you’ll feel it – that mix of calm, confidence, and trust that lets you know you’re in good hands.
Beginning your search …
Start by gathering stories. Recommendations from friends, family, or local birth professionals can be invaluable. Doulas, in particular, often have unique insight into which providers support patient-led care and work well in collaborative settings.
Once you have a list, dig deeper. Research credentials, reviews, and even hospital affiliations. Pay attention to patterns in what people say – do they feel respected and supported? Did they have the kind of birth you want? Do they mention positive communication and adaptability?
Then, book consultations. These aren’t just about logistics; they’re about chemistry. Use this time to talk openly about your priorities and gauge how the OBGYN responds. Are they curious about what matters to you? Do they respect your autonomy and decisions? Do they include your birth partner in the process? The consultation is your chance to “vibe check” your potential partner in care.
“Dewi transformed our birth experience... She also understands the different healthcare providers in Singapore well, so she saved us a lot of time from trying out different obstetricians, lactation consultants etc as she can recommend choices based on her understanding of you as a couple.”
Questions worth asking
A few key questions can help you get to the heart of whether an OBGYN is right for you:
How do you support individualized birth plans?
What is your approach to minimizing interventions?
How do you handle unexpected complications?
Are you open to working alongside a doula?
Pay attention not just to their answers, but how they answer. Do they seem rushed or dismissive? Or are they thoughtful, engaged, and willing to discuss your concerns?
Signs that it’s time to keep looking
Sometimes, the fit just isn’t there. If you notice any of the following, at any time during your pregnancy, it may be time to move on:
Dismissiveness: Your ideas and concerns aren’t taken seriously, or they want to postpone the discussion because it is “too early” in pregnancy.
Rigid practices: They insist on a one-size-fits-all approach, and don’t seem to pay much mind to your desires or unique pregnancy.
Disconnection: You leave appointments feeling unheard or uneasy.
Remember, it’s your right to seek care that feels right. Even if you’re already well into your pregnancy, switching providers is always an option.
Own your power
At the heart of it, choosing an OBGYN is about trusting your instincts. You know what feels right for your body, your baby, and your journey. It’s okay to change providers if things don’t feel right – we’ve had clients change providers at 37 weeks when they realised things didn’t feel right! A great OBGYN will honor your instincts, adapt to your needs, and help create a birth experience that feels true to you.
If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, book a free discovery call with a MAIA House doula here! We’ll take the time to hear about your goals and guide you toward the best providers for your unique needs.
Take your time. Ask questions. Trust your gut. The perfect partner for this journey is out there, ready to help you bring your baby into the world with care, compassion, and respect.
“I had strict deadlines for dilation which would take us on the c-sect route if labour didn’t progress, and I didn’t have any plans aside from following Gem’s guidance. Her step-by-step instructions allowed us to focus on one exercise at a time, one contraction at a time. Her factual, non-judgmental information on each pain relief option I considered during painful contractions (believe me I went through each one), made me feel supported whichever way I chose — which helped me to persist on the mental game.”
