Doula vs. Midwife
What's the Difference Between a Doula and a Midwife?
You’ve heard about midwives; maybe you’ve even decided to use midwifery care for your pregnancy and birth! Now you’re trying to figure out what a doula is or what the role of a doula is if you have midwifery care.
Do you need them both?! Midwives and doulas would agree that the answer here is YES!
Let’s break it down for you!
Midwives Are Medical Providers
Midwives are trained healthcare professionals who specialize in providing clinical and medical care during pregnancy, labour, and childbirth. They play a vital role in overseeing the physical well-being of both the mother and the baby. Midwives are especially well-suited for families looking to have low-intervention births, as they often emphasize personalized care and empowerment, allowing parents to be actively involved in the birthing process. By focusing on individual needs, midwives help create a more comfortable and supportive environment during this transformative time.
Midwives are the only healthcare providers trained and skilled in supporting births in and out of hospital settings (homebirths, birth centres &. hospitals), providing a choice of birthplace. If you would like to learn more about midwives, check out my blog - How to Find a Midwife.
Doulas Are Non-Medical Support Providers
As a doula, I offer invaluable non-clinical support throughout pregnancy, labour, and postpartum periods. Unlike midwives, I do not provide medical treatments such as cervical checks, blood pressure monitoring, or catching your baby (or at least not intentionally!). My primary focus is emotional and physical support, which can significantly enhance the birthing experience. As a doula, I use a variety of techniques, including massage, counterpressure, and movement, to help provide comfort during labour. I can also guide birthers through breathing exercises, recommend beneficial labour positions, and provide encouragement to foster a positive mindset during childbirth. I do advocate for clients’ preferences in several ways, but not all doulas will vocally advocate for you.
Moreover, I provide information and education, helping families understand what to expect at each stage of pregnancy and labour. This guidance can empower families to make informed choices about their birthing experience and enhance their confidence.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!
Ruth (left) and a healthcare provider (right) provide physical support and warm compresses for a client during the second stage of labour in a hospital setting.
The most powerful aspect of the doula-midwife dynamic is the collaboration between these two roles. While their functions are distinct, they complement each other beautifully, creating a holistic support system for families. A doula provides continuous emotional and physical support, while a midwife handles the medical aspects of care. This teamwork is essential, as it ensures that families receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.
The partnership between doulas and midwives is rooted in a shared commitment to the well-being of the family, allowing each to focus on their unique strengths. As they work together, families benefit from a seamless experience that combines medical expertise with compassionate support.
If you have questions about what doulas do or how I can enrich your birthing experence, feel free to ask! The collaboration between doulas and midwives or hospital staff can truly make a difference in bringing your birth preferences to life. Be in touch!
