Pregnancy is life-changing and requires you to make several very important decisions in a timely manner. One of the first things to do when you find out that you are pregnant is to find a medical provider. This is important for a number of reasons, but especially to ensure the health of you and the baby. Mothers who receive prenatal care have healthier pregnancies. Mothers that do not receive prenatal care are three times more likely to have a baby of low birth weight and five times more likely to have a baby that dies at birth. When looking for a provider that is right for you, there are several things to consider.

Do you have insurance?

If you have private insurance, ask them for a list of in-network providers in your area. This will allow you to know what providers are available to you. If you do not have insurance, applying for Medicaid can help cover your medical care costs while pregnant and during delivery. To apply for Medicaid, your first step will be to apply for presumptive Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women, or “PEPW.” You can do this here. This will allow you to get pregnancy care immediately while you wait for your Medicaid application to process.

What is the best location?

It may be important to consider the location of each provider you are considering. If you do not have reliable transportation, then you’ll need to consider finding a provider close to home or one that is located on or close to bus routes/public transportation.

Do you feel comfortable?

Pregnancy and childbirth can be big experiences and having a provider that you are comfortable with makes a big difference! Do you want a male or female provider? Do you want to receive a tubal after delivery? Are they familiar with adoption and supportive of your choices? Are you in need of medication for an opioid/drug addiction? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is your experience!

What’s important to you?

You and your doctor should be on the same page. Whether you are having a vaginal birth or a c-section, want an epidural or unmedicated birth, having these conversations with your provider is important. It will ensure that you feel as comfortable and as safe as possible while you progress through your pregnancy and childbirth experience. This is your pregnancy and you deserve a doctor that supports you and your decisions.

Pregnancy is hard, no matter the circumstances. The staff at the Law Office of Madonna Finney is here to help you with a non-judgmental, compassionate approach. We provide adoption services with care and compassion, at no cost to you. We can help connect you to resources and provide you with options counseling. If you decide to make an adoption plan for your child, we can also help you obtain Medicaid in Florida.

If you would Iike to explore your unplanned pregnancy options or would like information about giving up your child for adoption in Florida, call or text (850) 308-1836