Overview of Midwifery?
How does it differ from other birth workers?
Midwife:
Midwives are professionals with expertise and skills in supporting people to maintain healthy pregnancies and have optimal births and recoveries during the postpartum period. Midwives provide people* with individualized care uniquely suited to their physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs. Midwifery is a person*-centered empowering model of reproductive care that is practiced in all of the countries of the world with the best maternal and infant outcomes such as The Netherlands, United Kingdom and Canada.
In addition, midwives provide care throughout the lifecycle, from the beginning of menstruation through menopause and beyond for all reproductive health needs.
To learn more, visit the Midwives Alliance of North America website.
Doula:
A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.
To learn more, visit the DONA International website.
Obstetrician-Gynecologist:
Obstetrician-gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in sexual and reproductive health, including pregnancy care and attending births. They are skilled surgeons and can perform Cesarean deliveries when necessary.
To learn more, visit the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website.