Seeking Advice on OB Anxiety and Concerns During First Pregnancy
Hello everyone! I'm currently experiencing my first pregnancy at the age of 33, soon to be 34 by the time my baby arrives. I am a woman taking prenatal vitamins and have been advised by both my psychiatrist and obstetrician to discontinue my use of Adderall and Xanax. I'm now 12.5 weeks along and had an appointment with my obstetrician today; however, I am seeing a substitute doctor while my chosen OB is on maternity leave. I'm becoming increasingly apprehensive regarding the care I'm receiving from this temporary doctor. This might stem from typical first-time pregnancy nerves, but it also feels like a warning to seek out a new physician urgently. For my last appointment and ultrasound, I brought my mom and sister along for support. During that visit, a full set of bloodwork and urine tests were conducted. When I returned for a follow-up with the substitute physician, who had also attended the previous visit, I was handed a urine cup by the nurse and instructed to provide a sample because of a suspected urinary tract infection (UTI). Confused, I mentioned that I didn’t have a UTI. The nurse informed me that my last urine test indicated a UTI and that my doctor had already called in a prescription for an antibiotic to treat it. This caught me off guard as I had not been informed of any such condition or the need for medication. Despite this, I complied and provided the urine sample. The doctor later entered and reiterated that I still had bacteria present and that I needed to take the antibiotic she supposedly prescribed. I insisted that no one had informed me of these issues, prompting visible frustration from her. She then presented the bacterial levels detected in my urine and warned me about the potential dangers of untreated UTIs during pregnancy, including serious implications for both my health and that of my baby. Naturally, this news caused me great distress. Curiously, she advised against taking the antibiotic, although she did not provide a clear rationale for this change. Before concluding the visit, she offered a prayer for my wellbeing and sent in a midwife to conduct a mobile ultrasound to check on the baby. During this process, the midwife noticed on my chart that I was running a low-grade fever. I left the appointment feeling bewildered, anxious, and fearful about my situation. I promptly contacted the pharmacy where the antibiotic was prescribed and explained everything. The pharmacist, expressing concern, reviewed my file and informed me that the doctor had canceled the antibiotic before I departed the office, which prevented me from picking it up. She strongly suggested seeking a second opinion. I would really appreciate any guidance from fellow moms or medical professionals here. I plan to persuade another OB to see me tomorrow at a reputable hospital in my area. To clarify, during my last appointment, my mom and sister were present and confirmed that there was no discussion of a UTI, the need for antibiotics, or any other medications. If you have any insights or advice, I would greatly value it. As this is my first pregnancy, I feel overwhelmed and uncertain, concerned that this doctor might not be providing the essential care I need for both myself and my baby.
Answers (1)
3/19/2025, 4:21:08 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and anxious during your first pregnancy, especially given the mixed messages you received from your healthcare provider. It’s crucial to ensure that you feel supported and informed about your care. Here’s a structured approach to help you navigate this situation:
Main Points:
- It's important to have confidence in your healthcare provider during pregnancy for both your health and your baby’s.
- Seeking a second opinion is a wise decision, especially given your concerns about communication and care.
- Monitor your symptoms closely and document everything for your next appointments.
Explanation:
Pregnancy can be a time of intense worry, especially if communication with your healthcare provider is unclear. The recent experience you had—where you weren't informed about the UTI diagnosis or the need for antibiotics—can understandably lead to anxiety about receiving appropriate care. UTIs are common in pregnancy, and untreated infections can pose risks; however, it's crucial that you feel comfortable with the treatment prescribed.
The conflicting care and advice you received during your appointment, along with your rising concerns, strongly suggest that obtaining a second opinion from a trusted obstetrician will provide more clarity and peace of mind.
Actionable Next Steps:
-
Schedule an Appointment for a Second Opinion: As you planned, seek out another OB at a reputable hospital. Prepare a list of questions that are important to you regarding your health and your baby’s health. Make sure to discuss everything openly, including your prior experience.
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Keep a Detailed Symptom Diary: Document any symptoms you experience (e.g., fever, discomfort) along with any changes in your health. This can be invaluable when discussing your health with a new healthcare provider.
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Focus on Self-Care: Make sure to prioritize your mental health during this time. Consider reaching out to supportive friends or family, or even speaking to your psychiatrist about your anxiety during this transitional period. Stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises or prenatal yoga, may also help with anxiety.
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Inquire about the UTI Concern: During your next appointment, be clear in asking your new doctor about the UTI diagnosis, the current bacterial levels, and the best steps to take to ensure both your and your baby's health.
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Trust Your Instincts: If at any point you feel uncertain about your care, don’t hesitate to seek clarification or a different provider. Your comfort and understanding of your healthcare are paramount.
Final Thoughts:
Navigating pregnancy can be challenging, especially when you feel uncertain about your care team. Trust your instincts and remember that it is perfectly okay to advocate for yourself. You deserve clear communication and supportive care for both you and your baby. Please feel free to reach out if you need further information or support.
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