Whether you ask these questions purely out of curiosity or are asking them to see if they fit a Holistic model, these questions are a good place to start to gauge the potential Pediatricians value system when it comes to care. ***** One of the things which impact the early days, months, and years of parenthood is your child's primary doctor. Whether you choose a pediatrician or family doctor, their approach to care, availability, etc., can all influence how you navigate early feeding, baby's first illness, and baby's overall development. Here are some questions to ask when choosing your baby's doctor: 1. Are you board certified? Are you a member of any professional organizations like American Academy of Pediatrics or American Academy of Family Physicians? 2. Are you affiliated with any hopsitals? 3. How do you and your staff stay up-to-date with current recommendations/guidelines? 4. What does baby's first year of care typically look like at your practice? 5. Could you share any breastfeeding experience you have, even outside your role as a physician? (This might give you an idea of their thoughts around breastfeeding) 6. Do you have experience with intact infants? 7. What, if any, paperwork or discussion occurs before immunizations? 8. Is this a group practice? If so, do you and the other providers share similar philosophies around care? Lactation? 9. When my child gets sick, what is the process to be seen during and also after office hours? 10. How do you manage calls for questions about health? Do you use a patient portal? 11. Do you typically experience long waits? Is your waiting room split for sick vs well visits? 12. After birth, what is the process for initiating care? 13. How do you feel about breastfeeding? 14. Do you generally provide suggestions for feeding on demand or scheduled feeds? 15. When do you typically suggest introducing solids? 16. What percentage of your patients breastfeed? For how long? 17. When do you recommend weaning?

A GOOD birth team aims to have a collaborative approach to care. You're on the same team with the goal of a healthy baby, healthy mom, AND a positive experience. How do we have a positive experience? ✨️ Active participant in the decision making process ✨️ Autonomy ✨️ Support throughout pregnancy and birth ✨️ Education ✨️ Respectful communication about the benefits and risks of varying options in birth ✨️ Evidence-based discussions, not fear mongering Outside of emergencies, you should not hear, "you MUST do x." or similar phrases. You should hear something like, "I recommend X because of Y. Current evidence shows this is recommended for situations where we see Z. What questions do you have?" It isn't about declining what's offered or second guessing what a medical expert recommends. It's about respectful care rooted in mutual respect and not a hierarchy or infantilization. Choosing a provider who your can trust is so important. Did you feel respected and heard during your care?

What are some habits or routines you have that fit into a holistic, healthy lifestyle? As a mom sometimes it can be hard to prioritize ourselves! When it comes to self care and/or household task, one way I’ve found to be so helpful in keeping up à healthy routine/household, switching to safe, nontoxic, clean ingredient products has been super important. What’s your TOP priority as a Mom when it comes to your own health & wellness?

If you, or someone you know is in need of a Birth Doula or Post Partum doula, you can go to doulamatch.net to search Doulas in your area! Share with your friends!