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14 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • October 2026 When it comes to pregnancy and childbirth, families have more options than ever. Whether you are con- sidering a traditional hospital birth or are interested in a home birth, doing your research can help you choose a provider who best fits the needs of you and your baby. But understanding your options can sometimes feel overwhelming. What is the difference between an OB/GYN and a midwife? What role does a doula play? And what other specialists might be helpful along the way? Knowing who does what, and the type of care and support each provider offers, can help you build a birth team that fits your pregnancy, preferences and plans. WRITTEN BY BRANDY CENTOLANZA Choosing Your Birth Team Understanding Your Pregnancy Care Options in Fredericksburg An OB-GYN offers a range of services throughout pregnancy, from routine pre- natal visits and monitoring fetal development to providing guidance on nutrition and lifestyle and managing high-risk pregnancies. These physicians work out of a clinic or hospital setting and also assist with labor and delivery, perform cesarean sections if needed and offer postpartum care. "When it comes to pregnancy, it is a personal decision, and you want the right fit," said Dr. TreChelle Carson, an OB-GYN with Mary Washington Healthcare in Stafford. "You want someone who you feel comfortable talking to and asking the embarrassing questions, the hard questions." Some points to consider when choosing an OB-GYN may be what the doctor's stance is on anesthesia, as well as what interventions are available should compli- cations arise. "You also want to think about whether you want an OB-GYN that is a part of a practice, or if seeing a sole doctor the whole time is important to you," Carson said. "Pregnancies vary and you want to know how you'll be specifically moni- tored. We are happy to provide you with the accommodations you desire, as long as those accommodations are available." Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB-GYN) ...doing your research can help you choose a provider who best fits the needs of you and your baby...