I'm clueless with first pregnancy

Okay, my husband and I are planning on trying to get pregnant the first of the year.  We were pregnant in 2006, but ended in a m/c.  I am so nervous and paranoid with everything.  I've spoken to my ob/gyn and was told what to do, etc. as far as trying and when I do become pregnant.  Where does the pediatrician fit in?  Do I need to inquire now and check around?  I am clueless when it comes to this.  I need a pediatrician before my baby is born, right?  Don't they come to the hospital and check the baby out or what?  Please anybody that has patience to explain is greatly appreciated!!!!

[Waiting4myprincess]

I actually asked my OB about this exact thing today. I am 38 weeks pregnant and she told me that I do not need to make an appointment with a pediatrician before the baby comes. There will be a pediatrician that comes to the hospital and checks over your baby after he/she is born, you can use them as your doctor or you can find someone else. Its up to you. But you do not need to do anything about a pediatrician before the baby is born.

Hope that helps.

[krushing]

Thank you so much.  That helps a lot.  One less thing for me to worry over.

[Me2mommy2b]

I found my pediatrician before DD was born.  HATED HIM!  Changed him to another one just a few months ago and I'm glad I did.  It's whatever you feel comfortable with.  I'm the one who has to have everything planned out (not that everything WILL go according to the plan).  Good luck.

[peekawho]

Its a good idea to start interviewing and asking friends/coworkers/neighbors for pedi referrals in advance of the baby's birth.  That's a good way to get to know who people you respect have chosen, and to get feedback on what they like or dislike about their ped.  While the hospital will assign a random pediatrician to care for your baby in the hospital, its nice to have at least met one prior to then.

Your baby will often be seen at a pediatricians office within 48-72 hours after birth.  If you haven't chosen a ped ahead of time, its hard to do so in that time period.  You're stuck seeing the one who was assigned in the hospital until you find one of your own.  

[CYW]

ds pediatrician came and che cked him in the hospital because i did not have a family doctor however my ob also came and  checked on us that was really sweet...but ds ped is awesome i love him... except for one thing i think he is a little iffy about me because i look way younger like maybe 17 lol...but im reallygoing to be 22 in like 3 months...and my bf is younger than i am but looks like 25 lol pretty funny huh? lol

[krushing]

I am the exact same way.  I just didn't know what to do about a pediatrician.  I knew a pediatrician overlooks your baby at the hospital and I didn't know if it was one that the hospital had or if it was the one you pick.  I don't even know where to begin to look.  So, hopefully, someone at the hospital or someone will be able to help.

[krushing]

My husband and I only have one couple that we are friends with that have a child.  She's 2, so I could ask them.  I'm 27 and my husband is 31, and it seems all of our friends are waiting like we did to have kids.  My co-workers are in their 50s, so they really aren't much help.  We only have one little one in our extended family and they live out of town.  I guess I will call my ob/gyn and see if she has anyone she can refer and I'll check with my family doctor and see.

[peekawho]

Lots of OBs will give you a name, and sometimes the nurses will recommend someone they like, too.

Don't sweat it.  You can always continue to see the random one they assign you in the hospital.  You might like him/her, anyway.

[Van73]

Like peek said, ask around.  Maybe your OB can help.  Talk to other mothers in the waiting room?  Also see who your insurance covers to get an idea