Meet the Physician: Dr. Jeannie Loncar

Dr. Jeannie Loncar attended Medical School at George Washington University, but has been practicing as an Ob/Gyn in Northern Alabama for 10 years. In July of 2008, she joined the staff of Clinic for Women. Dr. Loncar is married with 2 children. Recently Valley Babies was able to visit with Dr. Loncar in her office on Hughes Rd.

VB: Why did you specialize in Ob/Gyn?
Dr. Loncar: I can always remember having a strong interest in OB since I was a young girl. When I went into Med school, that’s what felt right. I always say it’s a calling, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. This is what God blessed me with.

VB: What are the advantages of being part of a large practice like Clinic for Women?
Dr. Loncar: Having the flexibility in scheduling when you have a family is nice. Also, you always have experienced resources around if you need a colleague to help you with anything professionally. A solo practice would be difficult to balance with a family life.

VB: What is your basic philosophy about birth?
Dr. Loncar: Birth is a gift from God. It’s a miracle, and it’s something that I never tire of doing or seeing. It’s hope for the future.

VB: How does being a mother yourself impact your practice?
Dr. Loncar:It helps as far as having the ability to empathize and understand what your patients are going through and feeling, whether it’s the physical or emotional part. I think they find comfort when I can say “Oh, I had that.” My experience with my own miscarriage has helped me to empathize with my patients who unfortunately, have experienced one themselves.

VB: Recently a mom who had a natural birth with you told me how amazing you were.
Dr. Loncar: I try to accommodate the patient’s birth plan. If something comes up with the safety of the baby, I will override it, but I try to accommodate. I always tell my patients, “You  have to look at the big picture.  If you and your baby leave the hospital healthy, you have had a good experience.”

VB: How do you feel about breastfeeding?
Dr. Loncar: I encourage patients to breastfeed; I think it’s the healthiest way to go. However, if they have issues where they can’t, I try to encourage them so they don’t feel like a failure.

VB: What suggestions would you give a woman who is having difficulty conceiving?
Dr. Loncar: Barring dealing with the physical issues, I always try to tell them to relax and try not to get worried about it. We find that when they stop worrying about it, they conceive. Many times a couple who has had infertility treatment for their first child often conceives within a year without any treatment for the second child. Relax and leave it in God’s hands.