Finding an OBGYN Was Not Easy Being a Paraplegic

Once It was verified that I was pregnant I needed a doctor. I didn't want just any doctor. I wanted a doctor who was experienced at delivering babies for disabled women. The search had now begun for that perfect obgyn doctor, right in my neighborhood, who had already delivered a baby for disabled mother. I reached out to a few advocacy contacts that I had made while reigning as MS. Wheelchair Ga (That's another story for another blog). I made a few connections with women who had given birth since becoming paralyzed. Everyone was really great and helpful, but unfortunately they lived too far away. My husband and I prayed and set out on our search once again to find the perfect doctor.  I found an obgyn who was part of a large practice in my area who specialized in high risk pregnancies. This was the best one I found, so I set an appointment to meet her. It turns out she had actually delivered a baby to a paraplegic mother and had the experience I wanted after all! I was so excited. Since the practice I chose was so large I had to see different doctors at each appointment. In my mind I was keeping the same doctor but I was going to see the other doctors just to make them happy. I did meet another doctor who was very outgoing and personable. I always said to myself "If I cant have the doctor I chose, then I want this other one". It turns out after all that research and planning, I got the other doctor for my delivery. It was both of our first times at a paraplegic delivery. Everything turned out great! I gave birth naturally with no meds or epidural. To all of those skeptics out there I have to say this: Yes, I pushed out a baby the old fashioned, natural way women have been having babies since Eve and there were no complications. My advice to you is to do your research and select a doctor or practice with experience in at least high risk pregnancies.  In my situation I never got to use the obgyn doctor that I chose, but she was part of an excellent practice. The practice I chose had great communication skills and were informed of my situation. Don't be discouraged if you cant find the "perfect" doctor at first. I didnt find the doctor I wanted at first either. It takes time, patience and most of all prayer. So go out there and find that "perfect" doctor for you and your baby!