Pregnancy should be a time of excitement, anticipation, and dreaming about the future. Unfortunately for some moms, sometimes this time is strewn with more stress than anyone should have to handle while growing a human. Although the vast majority of OB-GYNs are accepting and ready to care for each patient who comes their way, it doesn't always work out that way. Many moms report being turned away by doctors during their pregnancy for a variety of reasons. Knowing what to do if an OB rejects you is a call that no pregnant woman should have to make, but in some cases, being prepared is a good call.
If you think this is uncommon, think again. One of Romper's writers recently shared the story of how she was rejected by six different OBs while pregnant And hers isn't the only story like this out there. In fact, a quick search through the Baby Center forum proves that many moms have experienced the humiliation of being turned down by an OB who they thought was going to help them prepare for the birth of their child.
Although it definitely doesn't happen in the majority of cases, being prepared with both a back up plan and the confidence to know that you and your baby will still be A-OK are tools that every pregnant mom should have. These steps can give you some practical "next steps" if your first (or second, or third) choice turns you down.
1
Check With Your Insurance
One of the more common reasons for being turned down is because the practice doesn't accept your health insurance. Although not specific to pregnancy, one piece from The Huffington Post noted that it's fairly common for doctors to turn away patients who don't have insurance.
If you do have insurance, be sure to check for a list of providers who accept your coverage. If you don't have insurance or aren't finding a provider who will accept the insurance you have, you can look for low-cost health care centers in your area that are designed to help families and children without insurance receive quality care.
2
Move On To The Next
If the first option turns you down, don't get discouraged. Chances are there are multiple healthcare providers in your area. Ask around, check in on social media, or post in local moms groups to get recommendations from real moms who have been in your shoes.
3
Check Into Alternative Options
Opting for a more non-traditional option ups your chances for being accepted. It's not as uncommon as you think either — one piece from TIME noted that more women are choosing midwives than ever before in US history.
Most midwives and natural birth centers focus on accepting all mothers, and since they're likely to be a relatively small organization, will be more willing to work with your unique situation, and insurance (or lack thereof,) regardless of why OBs turned you down.
