When it comes to women’s health, we rely heavily on the expertise of obstetricians (OBGYNs) to provide us with the best possible care. However, it is important to remember that these medical professionals are not infallible, may follow outdated practices, experience a conflict of interest of managing a practice, and sometimes make mistakes.
For these reasons, it is perfectly okay to question your OBGYN and advocate for your own health and preferences, especially in the face of systemic issues, outdated practice patterns, liability concerns, and financial motivators.
Systemic issues in healthcare, such as institutionalized racism and sexism, can lead to unequal access to quality care for marginalized groups. This means some women may be at a higher risk of misdiagnosis, mistreatment, or neglect. In this context, it is crucial for women to be empowered to ask questions and seek second opinions if they feel their OBGYN is not taking their concerns seriously or providing them with adequate care.
Additionally, outdated practice patterns can also be a concern regarding women’s health. Medical research and best practices are constantly evolving, and it is possible for OBGYNs to fall behind in their knowledge and techniques. For example, some OBGYNs may still rely on routine episiotomies during childbirth, despite evidence that this practice is unnecessary and can cause harm to both the mother and baby. In such cases, it is important for patients to speak up and ask their OBGYN about the latest evidence-based practices.
Liability concerns may also influence the decisions made by OBGYNs. In some cases, they may order unnecessary tests or procedures to protect themselves from potential lawsuits. Patients should be aware of these factors and not be afraid to question the necessity of a certain test or procedure, especially if they feel uncomfortable or unsure about it.
Financial motivators can also play a role in the care provided by OBGYNs. For example, some doctors may be more likely to recommend a induction or cesarean section over a vaginal birth in order to manage their business, not because there is an actual medical indication. Patients should be aware of these potential conflicts of interest and should not hesitate to ask their OBGYN about the medical reasoning behind their recommendations.
What many don’t know is that the studies have shown that the number one determining factor for a C-section is the hospital a woman walks into. This means that where a woman gives birth can significantly impact on her likelihood of having a C-section, regardless of her individual health status or preferences. This fact alone indicates that all OBGYNs practice differently and asking the right questions can improve your own experience.
It is perfectly acceptable to question your OBGYN and advocate for your own health. Patients should be empowered to ask questions, seek second opinions, and be informed about the latest evidence-based practices. By doing so, women can ensure that they receive the best possible care and that their health needs are prioritized over other factors such as liability or financial concerns.