Choosing the Right Pediatrician: Questions to Ask

Question
I hope that you can help me. I am pregnant with my first child and am beginning my search for a pediatrician. I would like to know what questions and/or types of questions I should ask when interviewing prospective doctors. Do you have any suggestions or know of any other resources that could help me? I would appreciate any and all help that you could give me on this subject.

Thank You,
Jennifer

Answer
Hello Jennifer. I suggest you seek the services of a midwife or family physician for well baby care. Pediatricians are specialists best used for when infants and children are seriouslly ill. The most important thing to know about a dr. is what percentage of his/her clients breastfeed. I recommend that you start attending La Leche League meetings in your area. There you will learn how to provide your baby with your breastmilk and you will meet dozens of other mothers who can tell you about their own experiences with the local doctors. You might also find good info on a site called BirthLove. You need to read these books- Natual Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon; The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League; The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth by Sheila Kitzinger. Hope that helps- Cheri.