You are your doctor's most important patient. He will direct all his skills toward making your pregnancy comfortable and safe. However, he needs your cooperation. He welcomes your questions in the office or over the phone whenever you are upset or uncomfortable.

When you do call your doctor, keep these points in mind:

1) Try to call him during his regular office hours.

2) If you cannot speak with him, his nurse will take down all the information. If the question is a routine one, she will give you an authoritative answer. If she cannot give you the answer she may connect you with the doctor. If he is with a patient at the time, he will call you as soon as he is finished with the patient.

3) When you ask questions, be specific; give complete details. Is food causing you discomfort? What have you been eating? If you are bleeding, is the flow heavy or light? What is the color of the blood? Is your nausea severe, continuous? How often does your vision blur or spots appear before your eyes? When? Where is your swelling? How long has it lasted? What is the color of your urine? When did you last urinate? How much? A cupful? A teaspoonful? Was there a burning sensation? Be ready with the details.

4) Make the call yourself. The doctor cannot get direct, complete answers from anyone but yourself.

5) Have a pencil and paper handy when you make the call. Write down whatever he tells you. Don't trust your memory—especially if you are upset.

6) Know the name of your pharmacy. Your doctor may want to call the pharmacy to prescribe a medicine. Don't keep him waiting while you look it up in the phone book.

Cooperate with your doctor. Help him to help you.

Marcus Siegel

Copyrighted material; do not reprint without permission.

 

View all articles by Marcus Siegel