PJ McGuire, MD

PJ McGuire, MD, is an obstetric anesthesiologist who says she finds it rewarding to help women through what can be a difficult time.

“Childbirth can feel like a very vulnerable moment for women. We put so much preparation into having children and nowadays, women are thinking of birth plans and what they want out of the experience,” Dr. McGuire says. “I am honored to be able to participate in that and attenuate the pain of childbirth.”

In a typical shift at the hospital, Dr. McGuire meets with women who are in labor or who have a scheduled C-section. “For women who are in labor, I get her medical history and talk to her about a labor epidural, if she is interested in one. I answer her questions and explain any misconceptions,” she says. “For women who are having C-sections, we offer anesthesia to take away their surgical pain during the procedure and to help them through the first 24 to 48 hours of post-surgical pain.”

An important part of her consultation with women includes managing expectations, Dr. McGuire says. “I tell them that I am here for them and to help. That’s my job. We do it until we get it right, until their pain is controlled,” she says. “If it’s not controlled with the first epidural, we do it again so that they can rest. And when they are ready, they will have the energy to have the baby.”

The best aspect of her job, Dr. McGuire says, is making women feel better. “I feel like it’s magic. A woman is in labor, I go behind her back, I do a couple of things, and then five minutes later, she has no pain,” she says. “I love that instant gratification of being able to take away a woman's pain.”

Dr. McGuire says she wants her patients to know that taking care of them is her priority. “I’m approachable and no question is a dumb one. I’m here to dispel myths and allay their fears,” she says.