A doctor for Sesame
A few months ago – in an effort to get really organized about things – I chose a pediatrician for Sesame. The doctor (another UCSF one) came highly recommended and seemed okay when we spoke, but I wasn’t quite as excited about her as I thought I should be. I wound up getting a few other names from my OB and today met with another pediatrician. I’m so glad I did, because I feel like it’s a much better fit for us. I felt a connection with this doctor right away, and I loved her thoughts on general baby issues. (Another plus: her office is literally three minutes from our house.) I was also pleased to hear her thoughts about breastfeeding: she’s all for it (naturally), but she’s not so militant as to scold or pressure a mom if it doesn’t work out or the mom doesn’t want to do it for the recommended 6-12 months. She made a comment that a lot of doctors/medical centers put too much pressure on new moms and make them feel guilty over this issue – which is something I find unfortunate. Although the baby’s health is her first concern, this doctor obviously also cares about the parents and their needs/wishes – and I think that’s important!
On an interesting note – at one point during our 30-minute conversation, Dr. Fernandez laughed at me and said something like, “You’re so funny.” I can’t remember what I was saying, exactly, but she explained that I was just so laid-back compared to some moms, who come in and start reading off from their very detailed list of questions. She wasn’t being insulting at all – or implying I wasn’t taking this seriously; I got the impression she welcomed my more informal approach. But I found it amusing that she called me “funny,” and I told her that’s a word my mom has used for me many, many times during this pregnancy!
-M