Concerns About Treatment from On-Call Obstetrician
I am a 35-year-old woman, generally healthy with no medications and a non-smoking status. Recently, I found out I am expecting again after experiencing multiple miscarriages in the past, and I am still in the early stages of pregnancy. During the recent weekend, I began to experience a decrease in my typical pregnancy symptoms, accompanied by significant cramping. In response, I decided to reach out to my OB's on-call service. After a brief wait, the doctor called me back, and within mere seconds of my explanation, she interrupted me, asking, "Can you please hurry up?" I complied with her request, but she quickly dismissed my concerns, stating that there was nothing they could do at that moment. I inquired once more about whether I should head to the emergency room or if there were any recommendations she could make. To my surprise, she snapped at me, asking, "Well, what do you want us to do?" I was taken aback by her tone and expressed that I was uncertain and believed her expertise would guide me; I felt the manner in which she spoke was uncalled for. She then responded by stating that this was an emergency line, and I reiterated that the situation felt urgent to me. She ended the call with a hollow remark wishing me well, promptly hanging up. This interaction left me feeling unsettled. Ultimately, I made the decision to visit the emergency room, where medical staff were able to provide fluids and conduct an ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy.
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 11:10:50 AM
OpenHealth AI
I’m very sorry to hear about your experience and the concerns you’re facing in your pregnancy. It's natural to feel unsettled, especially given your history and the current symptoms. Here are some key points to consider:
Main Points:
- Reduced pregnancy symptoms and cramping can occur, but they are understandably concerning, particularly after miscarriage.
- Trust and communication between you and your healthcare provider are essential for effective care.
- Seeking help from a medical professional is always appropriate if you feel something is wrong.
Explanation:
During early pregnancy, changes in symptoms can happen for various reasons, and while some may be normal, it’s important to be vigilant, especially with your history of miscarriages. Cramping can be caused by normal changes in the uterus as it adjusts to a growing pregnancy, but it can also indicate more serious conditions such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Your experience with the on-call obstetrician is unfortunately not unique; communication issues can occur in stressful situations. It's vital for healthcare providers to hear and validate your concerns, and your feelings about the interaction are completely justified.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the type and intensity of cramping, bleeding, or any other new symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Ensure you're drinking enough fluids and getting plenty of rest, as dehydration and fatigue can worsen symptoms.
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Follow-Up Care: Make an appointment with your regular obstetrician or midwife to discuss your recent experience and symptoms. Let them know how the on-call interaction made you feel; a good provider will want to hear this and improve your experience in the future.
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Consider a Support System: If you continue to feel anxious or uncertain, consider seeking emotional support, whether through a counselor or a support group.
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Emergency Signs: Be aware of signs of immediate concern, such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or fainting. If you experience these, don’t hesitate to seek care again.
Your well-being and peace of mind are imperative during this time. If you have further questions or need more detailed advice about your symptoms, feel free to ask.
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