The 7 Important Questions You Should Ask Your New OBGYN
New beginnings can make you a bit nervous—especially when it comes to your health.
We want to assure you that there’s nothing to worry about. In short, you’re probably wondering about what questions you should ask your new OBGYN.
At Associates in Women’s Health, we have been women caring for women for decades. Our patients throughout the area are a testimony to our excellence as OBGYNs in Raleigh.
We want to get to know you better, and a part of that is by answering questions. We’re sure we will have a lot of questions for you as well—this is to help us get a picture of your overall health.
We also want to encourage you to ask us questions. Why? Because we believe open and honest communication is vital toward being partners in your care.
Not sure where to start? Following are some excellent questions to cover during your first visit.
What Questions Should I Ask My New OBGYN?
1. Is it safe to take these herbal remedies or over-the-counter medications?
We understand that there is value in natural remedies. However, in many cases these herbal supplements can interact with any prescription medication you are taking. Over-the-counter medication can present some of the same issues.
We urge you to not only read the labels, but to also provide us a list of every medication you are taking. This will help us serve you better.
2. What medical tests should I have?
We’re so glad you’ve asked that question! We believe that a part of good health is about being proactive and stopping any issues before they turn into serious health problems.
The medical tests you should take will also depend upon your family’s medical history.
We recommend a Pap smear—how often you need one will be determined by your history and if you have had an abnormal Pap in the past.
We also recommend a yearly mammogram. When you should start having mammograms depends upon your family history and other risk factors. However, we generally recommend that you start this screening when you turn 40. For your convenience, we offer 3D mammography in our office, so you can schedule your mammogram at the same time you schedule your yearly appointment.
Other tests we may suggest include:
- Fasting blood sugar and A1C
- Cholesterol
- Thyroid function
- Triglycerides
- And other tests as indicated by your health history
3. How many patient appointments do you schedule in a day and how much time do you spend with each patient?
These are excellent questions because they pinpoint our main focus: you.
While the number of patient appointments may vary, we are dedicated to taking time with you to address any issues you have or answer your questions. You will never feel “rushed” when you have an appointment with us.
4. What hospitals are you affiliated with?
If you’re planning to get pregnant, or if you need to have gynecological surgery, it’s important to understand which hospitals your providers work with. We provide services at Rex UNC Healthcare.
5. What procedures do you offer in your office?
Another excellent question! Having a procedure done in-office is not only more convenient, but it’s also more economical as well.
We offer the following procedures in-office:
- 3D Mammography
- Gynecologic and Obstetric 3D/4D Ultrasound
- IUD Insertion and Removal
- Colposcopy
- Sonohystogram
- Endometrial Ablation
- LEEP
- Hysteroscopy
6. How long does it take to schedule an appointment?
Typically, we can see you within two weeks.
This is where we have maximized your convenience. Through our Phreesia check-in system, you are able to schedule an appointment online 24/7. It also enables you to register and complete any forms before coming to our office to streamline the process.
Through this secure portal, you can send us messages, request help for appointments and even review your lab results.
7. I’m planning on getting pregnant—I have a lot of questions!
We’re sure you do, and we welcome them!
We also offer an important preconception checklist for you if you’re hoping to get pregnant. Remember, we want to work with you before you conceive to help ensure that both you and baby get the healthiest start possible.
We Welcome the Opportunity to Care for You
For decades, we have provided state-of-the-art and convenient healthcare for women in Raleigh and throughout the Triangle. If you’re interested in becoming a new patient, we would consider it a privilege to care for you. Scheduling an appointment is easy, just contact us.
