You're pregnant and you're unique.

That's why at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and its affiliates, we offer an unmatched array of providers dedicated to your well-being and that of your baby.

In choosing a care provider, you may select from a variety of providers, including:

• Obstetricians
• Certified nurse-midwives
• Family medicine physicians
• Maternal and fetal medicine specialists (high risk pregnancies)

These providers are located at UI Hospitals and Clinics or community locations, including UI Family Care Center, Iowa City and UI Family Care, North Liberty.

Your care team may also specialists, including neonatologists and obstetric anesthesiologists. An experienced, caring nursing staff round out the team.

The nature of your pregnancy may dictate the type of health care provider is best for you. To help you decide, here are some details about each type of provider:

Obstetrician-gynecologist
These are specialists in:

• Management and care of women during all phases of pregnancy, from preconception planning to postpartum recovery
• Prevention and treatment of other conditions affecting a woman's health, such as diseases and disorders of the female genital tract and female endocrinology and reproductive physiology

They may also serve as a primary care source for women.

Certified Nurse-midwife
These specialists have completed advanced training in obstetrics and gynecology and are certified by the American College of Nurse-midwives (ACNM). Nurse-midwives provide:

• Preconception, maternity, and postpartum care for women at low risk of complications during pregnancy
• Services such as annual examinations, family planning, consultation and referrals, and screening for sexually transmitted diseases

Family physician
These physicians provide care for the whole family through all stages of life, including pregnancy and birth. Training and experience qualify family physicians to manage most pregnancies, including minor surgical procedures for vaginal delivery.

Maternal-fetal medicine specialist
These specialists, also called perinatologists or high-risk obstetricians, are trained to care for women with high risk pregnancies. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists should be consulted if you have a serious medical condition or you have a history of pregnancy complications or losses.

In the end, it's most important to find a healthcare provider you are comfortable with and who you can trust to safely guide you and your baby through pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Providers