Questions for Men to Ask an OBGYN About Labor and Delivery

Many generations of men went through the pregnancy process as zombies, doing what they were told and handling the mood swings while acting very uninterested in the process. This is not true of modern men and is part of the reason that it is important for men to educate themselves about the process of pregnancy and birth. One of the most important things you can do for your partner is to go to as many, if not all, of the doctor's appointments as you go through the process. You shouldn't just show up for these appointments, this is where you need to be involved and ask pertinent questions.

This is not an idea that is foreign or out of the question for many men, but it is one that is hard to do as reasonable questions may not be obvious. When you are meeting with your partner's doctor you should have a few questions ready to go and really listen to the answers. Here are two that are very important in relation to labor and delivery.

What is your philosophy on natural childbirth? This is a question that many women may have answered for their men before the appointment takes place, but it is very important. Even if your partner is adamant about giving birth in one way it will be the doctor who makes the final call at the hospital as to how the birth will happen. If they feel that natural childbirth isn't moving fast enough they can speed up the process and papers you sign before delivery will explain this. If your partner is adamant about natural childbirth you need to speak to the doctor to find out what goes in to this decision making.

What is your philosophy on C-Sections? Once your partner's doctor has answered a few more questions it is time for you to get the answer to another burning question, what is your philosophy on C-Sections? This is important to know for anyone, but especially the couple that is hoping to have a natural child birth. The question is in reference to how they ultimately make the call for an unplanned C-section. These can be crushing to the mom and it is best that you are prepared for the possibility ahead of time.

There are many more questions that a man can/should ask at doctor's appointments, but these two are as pressing as any others. Make sure you are aware so you can remind your doctor of promises made when delivery occurs.