After a health care professional has confirmed your pregnancy, you should schedule your first visit with an obstetrician or certified nurse-midwife. These providers specialize in prenatal, labor and delivery care.
Obstetricians are board certified doctors who provide pregnancy care.
Certified nurse-midwives are nurses with additional training in all aspects of managing and delivering normal pregnancies. Certified nurse-midwives usually work in close consultation with obstetricians, who are available if complications arise. You and your health care provider are the two most important people who will care for you and your unborn baby in the months ahead. Choose the provider or group that you're most comfortable with and that best meets your needs. It's important to feel comfortable with the provider you choose and to maintain open communication with that person throughout your pregnancy.