Doulas and midwives are often confused by many women, especially those who are first time mothers. Although both doulas and midwives offer similar services, the two are actually very different. The two roles have a lot in common. The fact is that mothers often hire doulas if they want to avoid drugs during childbirth. There are some differences between a midwife and a doula for home births.
You should consider that a doula acts more as a “coach” or guide, while a midwife has a medical background. Still confused? We’ll explain the differences and why you may want to select one over the other.
We have all the information you need, whether you are a soon to be mother, have a partner who will soon give birth, or you just want to know more about birthing services and options. These sections will tell you everything you need to know about the differences between a doula and a midwife. They also explain what each service offers expecting mothers.
Doulas: The Facts
Doulas are different from midwives because their role is not solely medical. They provide mothers with emotional, physical and even spiritual support throughout the entire pregnancy. Doulas usually create a birthing plan that is tailored to a mother’s needs, both emotional and physically. This is done to give the mother as much control as possible over her birthing experience, leading to a more satisfying experience.
Doulas aren’t medical professionals. This is an important point to note. They are not actually licensed to deliver babies. Doulas are more appropriately thought of as birthing coaches and/or guides.
Doulas offer coaching to mothers before, during and after their pregnancy. Doulas can provide physical support such as breathing exercises, massages and advice on the best positions to be in during labor. This could include advice on labor positions, providing physical support (e.g., breathing support or massages), etc.
The majority of doulas will be present at the time of birth or labor. There are two other types. Some doulas are experts in pre-labor guidance and coaching, while others are specialists in post-birth support. (There are also some who specialize in all phases.
What you need to know about midwives
Doulas are not medically trained professionals. Midwives are. Most midwives are medically trained (or have completed a similar training). The certifications a midwife needs to be able to practice in the United States depend on where she is located (for example, California may have different laws from New York).
Some midwives have certifications to do physical exams, prescribe medications, and monitor a fetus. The certifications a midwife holds depend on her level of education. Midwives have 100% medical qualifications to deliver babies, unlike doulas who are primarily birthing guides.
The majority of midwives choose to use natural methods for birthing (i.e. without intervention). They can determine when this is the best course of action. A large number of midwives have also attended nursing school. These midwives are some of the best qualified in the birthing profession.
Doulas and Midwives: What’s the difference?
Most women believe that they have to choose between the two. You can hire a doula as well as a midwife. The doula is there to serve as a guide/coach for the birth and can also be present at the birth itself.
You may be wondering how much these services cost. The cost of hiring a doula/midwife will depend on your location and the level of experience the midwife/doula has. The cost of living in large cities is almost always higher than in rural areas. The quality of care is typically better in rural areas.
You should choose your provider wisely, no matter what you decide. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, but keep your budget in consideration. You should choose a doula who is well-respected and experienced for the birthing process.