Midwife or Doula: What's the Difference?
Both offer similar services but differ in their roles
Both offer similar services but differ in their roles
Expectant patients have many options regarding their birthing experience, particularly when it comes to selecting their labor support. Midwives and doulas are two of the most popular support options.
While both can be a valuable part of the childbirth process, they play different roles. Understanding the differences between a midwife and a doula can help you and your partner better plan your birthing experience.
What is a midwife?
A midwife is a trained health care professional who is licensed to assist with medical care before, during and after childbirth.
Certified Midwives (CMs) complete graduate-level midwifery programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) and pass a national certification examination.
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) also have an active RN at the time of their certification exam. Depending on their certification and legal regulations in their area, midwives may practice in hospitals, birthing centers or at home.
Midwives can provide comprehensive medical care during pregnancy, labor and delivery and postpartum.
“In addition to performing deliveries, they may provide prenatal care and exams, prescribe medication, order lab tests and monitor the health of both mother and baby,” says Allison Canavan, MD, an OB-GYN at Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo. “They’re also trained to recognize potential concerns or complications and take steps to manage them, bringing in obstetricians or other specialists if needed.”
Once labor begins, midwives help with the birthing process, often assisting with pain management and offering emotional and physical support. Midwives often bring additional expertise to labor and delivery support, including guidance on positional changes and pain management techniques to optimize the chances of a successful vaginal birth.
After the baby is born, midwives may continue to provide care to both mother and baby, including postpartum hospital care, breastfeeding support and postpartum check-ups.
What is a doula?
Unlike midwives, doulas are not medical professionals; they do not have medical training and do not provide medical care. Instead, doulas provide emotional and physical support to women throughout pregnancy and childbirth and focus on their emotional and mental well-being. Certified doulas complete a certification or training program, but certification is not always required and may vary by location.
Doulas can help patients understand their options during labor and delivery and provide guidance and education. They can help provide comfort and non-medical pain relief during labor and delivery, such as massage and breathing exercises, but they cannot deliver a baby.
After the baby’s birth, doulas help new parents adjust to life with a newborn. This may include caring for the infant and providing breastfeeding support.
Who is right for you?
Who you choose to assist during pregnancy and childbirth really depends on what type of support you want and your desired birth experience. You may even choose both — a midwife for health care and a doula for the added support during labor and delivery.
In most cases, health insurance covers midwife services. Doulas generally are not covered, but this varies by company, so check with your health insurance provider.
How do you find a good match? Many hospitals have midwives on staff or can refer you to one, including at Scripps. You also can ask friends or family members who have used midwives or doulas for their recommendations.
“One of the most important factors is choosing someone who can help guide you through such an important and often transformative time in your life. It is most helpful to find someone who respects your preferences for the birthing process and makes you feel comfortable,” says Dr. Canavan. “Also consider their training, experience and approach to pregnancy and birth. And don’t hesitate to ask for referrals from past clients.”