OB GYN, Midwife, Doula Difference

Many women are shocked to find how many prenatal care options are available. While there is the frequently presumed standard of an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), some prefer to utilize other resources. Midwives are experienced in prenatal care and birth, and operate in a variety of settings. In addition to these healthcare providers, doulas serve to offer support to the mother during labor and delivery. A women can choose one or more of these professionals to assist during a birth, depending on her wants and needs.

OB/GYN

OB/GYNs are medical doctors that specialize in meeting the needs of pregnant women. As medical doctors, most OB/GYNs approach childbirth from a very clinical point of view. Patients will undergo a number of standard tests, including blood-draws, urine measurements, sonograms, and blood sugar testing. OB/GYNs typically only deliver in hospital settings. In a hospital setting, women are more likely to undergo interventions, such as increased monitoring.

While some women prefer fewer interventions, there are advantages to using an OB/GYN. These medical doctors have the ability to conduct a cesarean section in case of emergency and have more experience with pregnancy complications. For this reason, most experts suggest that women with pregnancy difficulties, such as twins, certain medical conditions, or any other complications, use an OB/GYN.

Midwives

Midwives have many of the same skills as OB/GYNs. Midwives are trained to conduct most of the same tests as OB/GYNs, including blood sugar testing, sonograms, and urine monitoring. However, they are not capable of conducting surgery when needed.

Midwives typically work with lower-risk patients. For this reason, they are less likely to use interventions, such as labor induction, which many women would prefer to avoid. Midwives can work in hospital settings, birth centers, and some even assist in home births. Midwives are a great option for low-risk pregnant mothers seeking a more personalized and natural birthing experience.

Doulas

While OB/GYNs and midwives provide medical care, doulas are more important in their supporting role. A doula meets with the family prior to labor to come up with a list of birthing preferences that she helps encourage during labor. Doulas can also offer suggestions for pain management techniques, such as breathing or changing position. Many doulas are also trained lactation consultants and can help the mother with any early breastfeeding difficulties.

While some women like the comfort and reassurance of a medical doctor, others prefer the more natural experience offered by a midwife. No matter what medical assistance is chosen, a doula is a great option for any woman that would like additional labor support.