Ask yourself a personal question: Why did you select your Ob-Gyn doctor? Was she your mother's Ob-Gyn? Maybe his or her office was around the corner. Perhaps your insurance carrier assigned you. Whatever motivated your selection, you should ask yourself this question: Are you happy with your choice?

The fact is, an Ob-Gyn physician plays a vital role in every woman's overall health and well-being, and the selection process deserves careful thought and consideration. If you're interested in evaluating your existing doctor, or are contemplating making a change, here are some important factors worth taking into account.

Screen test

Some women have an Ob-Gyn physician in addition to a primary care and/or internal medicine physician; others put their total health care in the hands of their Ob-Gyn. The first step in to determine how involved in your health care you want your doctor to be.

According to a study conducted by the Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network (CARN) between 1995 and 2000, Ob-Gyn physicians are increasingly providing primary care services for their patients. From guidance in nutrition, family planning and hormone replacement therapy to psychosocial issues, genetic testing and general health concerns – osteoporosis, hypertension, heart disease, even the flu – more Ob-Gyns are becoming well-versed in the variety of health issues and concerns that affect women.

Once you've determined the role you'd like your Ob-Gyn to occupy, you should consider your other special needs and interests. For many women, the gender of their physician tops the list because they feel more comfortable with one over the other. Race, age and culture may be other issues to take into account. Also consider if you're in need of an Ob-Gyn who specializes in areas such as fertility, high-risk pregnancy or menopausal issues. Or perhaps your priorities are finding someone who is located near your home or office, has extended day or weekend hours, or accepts your insurance.

Research for two?

If you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should also determine if your Ob-Gyn is in a group practice or has other physicians who provide coverage for his or her patients. Some groups, like encourage all of their obstetrical patients to see the other physicians within the group during the course of their pregnancy. If your physician is in solo practice, there is usually a cross-coverage arrangement they have with other area Ob-Gyns who you may or may not have the opportunity to meet prior to your delivery.

You should also find out which hospital(s) your Ob-Gyn physician is affiliated with to determine if the hospital's facilities and policies are right for you. Most hospitals offer family tours of their labor and delivery facilities to help you get a good sense of what your birthing experience will be and if it meets your expectations. For many women, having a high-risk nursery at the hospital is a very important factor in their decision-making process. If you're a traditional person, a more traditional hospital may suit you best; if you're looking for innovation, you might want to explore hospitals or birthing centers with more diverse options and approaches.

Finding a fit

Finding a physician and hospital that suit your preferences is not always an easy task. One of the most reliable and successful ways that women find their Ob-Gyns is by word of mouth. Don't hesitate to ask your close friends, relatives and/or another area physician for their recommendations. Many areas groups and hospitals also now offer informative websites to assist women in finding an Ob-Gyn who suits their needs.

Once you find an Ob-Gyn who seems to fit the bill, make your first appointment to meet with the physician and find out if you're truly comfortable with that person, the surroundings, and the entire experience. Your health is your most important asset so make it a priority to find an Ob-Gyn who will provide the best experience it can be.

Dr. Lara Hanlon is a physician at Bedford Commons OB-GYN. She is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. For more information call 603-668-8400 or visit our website www.bcog.com.

For more articles by this author or articles on different topics visit the Applaud Women Library.