Pregnancy is a wild ride, full of ups and downs, surprises and uncertainties. With 280-ish days to navigate, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, unsure of what’s happening, or even scared. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to go through it alone. In fact, having a healthcare team that actually listens and doesn’t judge is a total game-changer. That’s where the experts at Inova come in – a leading nonprofit healthcare provider for Northern Virginia and the D.C. area, dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about your body and your baby.
5 Totally Unspoken Things You Can Share With Your Doctor When Expecting
When it comes to pregnancy, there are a lot of things that are left unsaid, unspoken, and unaddressed. But it’s time to change that. Here are five things you can share with your doctor that will help you feel more comfortable, more informed, and more supported throughout your pregnancy journey.
1. “I’m Terrified of Giving Birth.”
Giving birth is technically natural, but that doesn’t make it any less scary. In fact, it’s normal to feel terrified, especially if you’re a first-time mom. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to face your fears alone. At Inova, you can work with a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) or an Advanced Practice Nurse who will be with you every step of the way. These midwives are part of the hospital-based care team, offering a more personalized, often lower-intervention approach while still providing immediate access to OB-GYNs and specialists if needed.
And if you’re considering a midwife-led birth, you can get connected early. Many patients are able to schedule a pregnancy confirmation appointment with a midwife within about 72 hours of reaching out – sometimes even as soon as the next day. This means your care plan can start taking shape right away, and you’ll have a dedicated team supporting you throughout your pregnancy and birth journey.
In addition to personalized prenatal care, Inova also welcomes doulas in the delivery room. Doulas have been shown to increase physical and emotional comfort for laboring mothers, making the birthing process feel less scary and more manageable. And with Inova’s reputation as a regional leader in childbirth care, you can trust that you’re in good hands.
2. “I Don’t Think I’m Bonding with This Pregnancy.”
Not feeling “the spark” with your unborn baby can be a real concern, especially if you’re worried about being a good mom. But here’s the thing: it’s okay to say it out loud. In fact, it’s essential to address these feelings with your healthcare provider. At Inova, you’ll have access to personalized prenatal care, mental health screenings, and counseling, so you don’t have to navigate these negative thoughts alone.
According to Jessica Hughes Day, MSN, APRN, CNM, a certified nurse midwife who delivers at Inova Fairfax Hospital, “There’s very little in pregnancy that we haven’t heard before.” This means you can trust that your healthcare provider is there to listen, support, and guide you through any challenges you may be facing.
3. “I Drank More Coffee Than I Should Have Last Week.”
The pregnancy rulebook can be exhausting, and it’s easy to get caught up in worries about what we’re doing “right” or “wrong.” But here’s the thing: honesty is the best policy when it comes to your healthcare provider. If you’ve slipped on a habit or worry you’ve harmed your baby, just be honest. Empathetic, compassionate doctors and nurses are a big reason why three Inova hospitals (Inova Alexandria, Inova Fair Oaks, and Inova Loudoun hospitals) were named as 2026 high performing hospitals for maternity care.
Day explains, “Even things that may feel small or embarrassing can be clinically important. Those details help us connect the dots early and tailor care in a way that’s safer and more personalized.” By being honest with your healthcare provider, you’ll build a stronger relationship, and that’s where the best care happens.
4. “What If I Change My Mind About My Choices?”
Pregnancy involves a lot of decision making, and it’s normal to change your mind about choices you made earlier in your pregnancy. But here’s the thing: it’s okay to change your mind. In fact, it’s essential to be honest with your healthcare provider about any changes you’re considering. At Inova, you’ll have access to a clinically skilled team that will listen, respect your values, and advocate for you.
Day emphasizes, “Honesty builds relationships, and that’s where the best care happens.” By being transparent about your choices and any changes you’re considering, you’ll be able to trust your healthcare provider to support you every step of the way.
5. “I’m Worried About Postpartum Depression.”
Pregnancy glow is a myth, and the reality is that many women experience anxiety, worry, and even postpartum depression during and after pregnancy. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to carry these feelings around alone. In fact, it’s essential to address them with your healthcare provider. At Inova, you’ll have access to mental health screenings and counseling, so you can get the support you need to navigate these challenges.
Day reassures, “We want to know what’s really going on so we can support you fully.” By being honest about your concerns and worries, you’ll be able to trust that your healthcare provider is there to support you every step of the way.
So there you have it – five totally unspoken things you can share with your doctor when expecting. Remember, honesty is the best policy, and by being open and honest with your healthcare provider, you’ll be able to build a stronger relationship, get the support you need, and trust that you’re in good hands. At Inova, you’ll have access to a team of experts who are dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about your body and your baby. So don’t be afraid to speak up – your healthcare provider is there to listen, support, and guide you through every step of your pregnancy journey.
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