Expecting a baby? Here's how to choose a hospital, obstetrician or midwife

As the associate dean of practice and professional graduate programs at University of Michigan's School of Nursing, she says there's a balanced way to use that kind of information to better public policy without paralyzing parents with fear. 

“I literally stopped posting on my Facebook page when my family members were pregnant because they were more and more frightened,” Low said.

But the former president of the American College of Nurse-Midwives says there are things expectant parents can do to make informed choices about their deliveries.

“Asking the questions and not making assumptions and being clear about your goals and desires that you need to feel good about your care is all very possible,” Low said.

What are my goals for pregnancy and delivery?

Armed with information about what to expect, parents should think about their vision for care and delivery.

“What are your goals around your birth experience?” Low said. “What kinds of supports and services do you expect to have and or want to have?”

That includes whether you’re looking for a more natural experience or feel most comfortable in a hospital setting, and the level of interaction you’re hoping to have with care providers.

Then, she said, use that vision to determine what available providers are the best match for you.