Because of the private nature of the body parts they treat, selecting an OBGYN can be a bit harder than selecting any other type of doctor. You of course want to choose someone who you feel comfortable around and who is understanding of your needs. However, you should not go about selecting your OBGYN based on these metrics alone. Here are some other very important questions to ask when selecting this type of doctor.

What hospitals do they have permissions at?

This question is really important if you plan on having children in the coming years. The OBGYN will, presumably, be the one delivering your baby. Most OBGYNs, even if they do their daily work in a private office, have permission to operate at certain hospitals in the area. You want to make sure that one or more of these hospitals are places where you feel comfortable giving birth. You would not want to find out, mid-way through pregnancy, that your OBGYN is not able to deliver your baby at the hospital you'd prefer to be at. Some OBGYNs also work with certain birthing centers. If there's any chance you'd want to give birth at a birthing center, then check what centers they work with, too.

What are their positions on birth control and abortions?

You might think all OBGYNS readily prescribe birth control and support a woman's right to choose, but there are exceptions. An OBGYN should not be offended if you ask about their stance on these issues since it does affect their practice directly. Make sure you choose someone whose values allow them to administer the services you feel you may need either now or in the future. Note that this does also vary by state, to some degree. If you just moved to a new state, it's worth researching your state's laws in this regard when selecting an OBGYN.

Do they offer primary care services?

Some OBGYNs are also primary care doctors. This means that you'll be able to see the OBGYN for your basic yearly physicals, vaccines, and other preventative services rather than seeing a separate doctor. This is certainly a convenient setup if you can manage to find one. However, it's a matter of preference. If you'd rather have a separate primary care doctor, then you can.

Ask the questions above, and you're more likely to arrive at an OBGYN whose services and disposition meet your needs well. Contact a local OBGYN office, such as Women's Health Specialist PC, to learn more.