CHOOSING THE RIGHT DOCTOR: PART 2- Key Questions to ask when Choosing Your OBGYN

Choosing the right OBGYN is a deeply personal decision, and in Phnom Penh, you have many options—local and international hospitals, different medical approaches, and doctors with varying philosophies on birth.

Your birth experience will be deeply influenced by the people around you. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking. The right doctor will make you feel safe, supported, and confident.

Choosing the right OBGYN is about finding someone who understands and respects your birth preferences and provides the support you need. To feel confident in your choice, here are some key factors to consider:

1- Their Approach to Birth

While we’ve already covered the difference between expectant and active management on my previous blog post here it’s important to ask specific questions to understand where your doctor stands. Some doctors are more supportive of natural labor, while others lean toward medical interventions.

Key Questions to Ask:

• How do you typically support labor?

• What options do you offer for pain management?

• If I want to try natural coping techniques first, will I be supported?

• In what situations do you recommend interventions such as induction?

2- Hospital Affiliation & Birth Environment

Where your doctor practices will shape your birth experience. Some hospitals have more flexible policies regarding movement during labor, pain relief options, and newborn care, while others follow stricter protocols.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Does the hospital allow freedom of movement in labor?

• What are the hospital’s policies on different position during birth?

• What is you view about eating and drinking during labor?

• What pain relief options are available?

• What is the hospital’s cesarean rate?

• Can my partner or doula stay with me throughout labor?

• What are the hospital’s standard newborn care practices (skin-to-skin, delayed cord clamping, rooming-in)?

3- Communication & Respect for Your Preferences

Feeling heard and respected during pregnancy and birth makes all the difference. Some doctors take time to discuss your options, while others may prefer a more directive approach. Look for a doctor who values open communication and respects your choices.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Do you support birth plans? How do you typically approach them?

• How do you involve partners in the process?

  
  

Other Factors to Observe:

• Does the doctor take the time to listen and answer your questions thoroughly?

• Do they explain medical terms clearly and without rushing?

• Are they open to discussing different preferences and concerns?

• Do you feel comfortable voicing your thoughts and asking questions?

4- Experience with International Patients

If you are an expat in Cambodia, you might have different expectations for care. Some doctors are used to working with international families and may offer a different level of communication and support.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Have you worked with many international patients before?

• Are you familiar with birth practices or preferences common in my home country?

5- Cesarean & Intervention Rates

Since the cesarean rate in Cambodia is high, it’s important to understand your doctor’s philosophy on interventions and how they balance medical necessity with patient preference.

Key Questions to Ask:

• Under what circumstances do you recommend inducing labor?

• What is your approach to fetal monitoring? Do you allow intermittent monitoring, or is continuous monitoring standard?

• How often do you perform episiotomies?

• What is your cesarean rate?

• What is your VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) policy?

• If I have a cesarean, what is your approach to gentle cesarean birth? (e.g., skin-to-skin in the OR, delayed cord clamping, immediate breastfeeding)

6- Your Gut Feeling

Beyond statistics and hospital policies, one of the most important factors is how your doctor makes you feel.

Do you trust them?

Do they reassure you?

Do they take the time to understand your concerns?

Your instincts matter—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to look for another provider.

Trusting your gut will guide you toward the right doctor.

Other factors are more personal but equally important when choosing your OBGYN. Consider the following:

• Gender Preference: Do you feel more comfortable with a male or female doctor? Your comfort with your healthcare provider can play a significant role in how you feel during your pregnancy and birth.

• Insurance & Costs: Does your medical insurance cover your birth and hospital stay? Understanding your coverage ahead of time can help avoid any surprises.

• Proximity: Is the location of the hospital or your doctor’s office important to you? Proximity can make a difference when it comes to convenience, especially in the final weeks of pregnancy.

• Community Recommendations: Seeking recommendations from friends, family, or local community groups can provide valuable insights.