Talking to your doctor or midwife can be frightening, here's how to make sure you get the info you need.

Difficulty Level: average      Time Required: 20 minutes

1. Make a list of questions before your visit.
2. Consider taking someone with you so you can remember the answers, or for support.
3. Be positive, never attack.
4. Word your questions carefully to ensure you get the information you need.
5. Remember why you picked your practitioner in the first place. Was it the great bedside manner? Or how well they explained things?
6. Don't be defensive. Be willing to listen.
7. Give the practitioner time to answer, even if that means that the answer will be next visit.
8. Don't be afraid to ask for specifics. The hows, whys, etc.
9. If you have a disagreement on an issue, ask for additional information or offer to bring in supporting information.
10. Be sure to ask additional questions that come up during the course of the conversation.
11. If you need more time ask if you can come back and schedule a longer visit just to talk.
    

1. Be aware of their time just as you wish them to be aware of yours.
2. Remember that you do have a choice in your health care and that includes which practitioner you use.
3. If you are unable to resolve a conflict or disagreement seek the advice of another practitioner.
   

Related Features:

• Choosing a Careprovider
• Anatomy of a Prenatal Visit