There’ll be quite a few visits to the pediatrician during your baby’s first year. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends well-child checkups every month or two starting just days after their birth. That’s a lot of trips—and a lot of trust ♥️

Here are a few tips to help you find a pediatrician who will be a good fit for your family:

1. Ask around 

Your obstetrician or midwife will likely have knowledge of the pediatricians in your area. They’ll have heard feedback—both good and bad—from other families and may even have a list of options. Check with your friends and family, too, for personal recommendations.

2. Confirm logistics and credentials 

Once you have a couple of doctors in mind, call their office to make sure that they are taking new patients and accept your insurance.

You’ll also want to check if they’re board certified. You can ask when you call or look online. Board certification means they have extra training and have passed a rigorous examination in pediatrics. 

3. Trust your instincts

Pay attention to how the pediatrician and their staff make you feel during your interactions. Are they kind, clear, and willing to answer questions? Or do you feel rushed, confused, and uncomfortable? 

A final note: Choosing a pediatrician now can make things easier after your baby is born. If you give birth in a hospital and haven’t already selected a doctor, your baby will be seen by the pediatrician on call. But the hospital-assigned doctor may not provide continuing care. Since most babies have their first checkup 48 to 72 hours after leaving the hospital, it’s a good idea to establish care with a pediatrician before giving birth.