My Prenatal Care Experience at 41: The Good, the Bad, and the Docs
Hello there!
I've been a patient at 41 for both of my pregnancies, and I've got some mixed feelings to share.
The main reason I chose this place is its proximity to my home. The second reason is my health - both pregnancies went smoothly, so I mostly went for check-ups out of habit. If there were any complications, I'd have gone to a private doctor, not just because I'm registered here.
So, my impression of the place as a 'free' patient...
Registration:
The registration desk is run by two ladies. One is super calm, clear, and helpful, explaining everything and telling you how to proceed. The other one is always in a rush, like she's already running late for work. Every word counts with her, and you'd better know what you're asking about, or she'll get impatient.
There are queues in the registration area, especially in the morning. But if you go after 9, it's a lot easier. I managed to get a number in the afternoon, but it was at a pretty inconvenient time, since there weren't many options left.
Doctors:
I saw two different doctors during my pregnancies. I won't mention their names, as per the site's rules.
Seven years ago, I had a son, and each time I went for a check-up, I tried to tune out. Unfortunately, my gynecologist's bedside manner left a lot to be desired. She'd raise her voice, explain things like I was a student, and even scolded me for gaining weight. I had to bite my tongue to keep from responding.
At one point, I asked her why she never asked about my complaints. Her response was: 'If you had a problem, you'd tell me.' Luckily, I didn't have any issues, so I just got out of there as fast as I could.
Fast forward to last year, when I had a daughter. My doctor was the complete opposite - she'd explain everything, ask questions, and even offered advice. If there were any deviations in my test results, she'd call me to schedule a follow-up appointment. She even left her number in case of emergencies.
So, it really depends on who you see...
One thing I really liked... Both doctors would schedule my next appointment themselves, so I didn't have to stand in line at the registration desk. They'd also choose a convenient time for me.
The lab results were always ready on time, and I didn't have to go back multiple times for testing.
Procedure Room:
I've got to give it to the nurses - they're absolute pros! I have really fragile veins, and I'm always a mess after getting blood drawn. But these ladies are quick and painless. We even developed a little joke - 'Machik, left arm!' - so they'd know to take blood from my left arm. It's a small thing, but it made a big difference.
Be prepared for a queue in the procedure room. Try to go either at 7:45 (when they open at 8) or closer to the end of the appointment.
Ultrasound:
Ultrasounds are done in the hospital's ultrasound room. One time, I didn't get a number at my scheduled time, but the nice lady at the registration desk wrote down my phone number and called me a few days later to schedule a new appointment.
The doctors are very thorough, explaining everything and answering my questions. They don't print out the ultrasound images, but you can take a photo of the baby on the screen with your phone.
Each time, there was a medical student observing, which was a bit nerve-wracking. They'd ask questions in medical jargon, and I'd worry if everything was okay with the baby.
It was a bit of an uncomfortable experience...
The Atmosphere:
The consultation area is clean, bright, and well-maintained. The only thing that's always missing is toilet paper, and sometimes there's no soap in the bathroom.
It's a decent place, but I think the most important thing is who you see as your doctor. The facilities are secondary.
I'd give it 4 stars, but I'm deducting one for the temperament of a few of the doctors I mentioned.
In the end, my experience at 41 was a mixed bag. While the nurses were fantastic, and the lab results were always ready on time, the doctors I saw were a letdown. If you're looking for a place to go for prenatal care, I'd say it's worth considering. Just be prepared for some ups and downs.
One thing to keep in mind is that the registration desk can be a bit of a challenge, especially in the morning. But if you go after 9, it's a lot easier. And if you're lucky, you'll get a doctor who's as great as mine was.
So, if you're looking for a place to go for prenatal care, I'd say 41 is worth considering. Just be prepared for some mixed feelings, and don't be afraid to speak up if you have any complaints.
xa0
Read more:
Roddom #18, pr. Solidarnosti 6
Vsevolozhsky Roddom
Vacuum Aspiration Method