I viewed having an OB as a bit of insurance. Whilst I was aiming for a low risk, no complications pregnancy in life there are never any guarantees. IF there turned out to be a problem I wanted an OB that knew me and my case history rather than whoever was on duty that night. The attraction of a private room and staying in hospital a bit longer if I needed were also strong given it was my first baby and I had no idea what to expect.

As it turned out, I did have complications at the end of my pregnancy (pre-eclampsia) and I did need an OB. Things were quite hairy for a while yet because my OB knew me and my birth plan I still got the vaginal birth I wanted. Therefore in hindsight I'm glad I went with an OB and therefore in the private hospital system despite the cost.

I'd second the recommendation of the book "Better Birth". I had made a conscious effort to find an OB that was more in tune with the 'midwifery view' of birth as opposed to the 'obstetric view' and that was the difference for me having a good OB experience.

I'll definitely be going back to my OB for future babies.