As Birth Doulas, we get asked A LOT about the difference between what we do, what a gynecological doctor does, and what a midwife does. Here is the breakdown...
An OBGYN - an obstetric and gynecologist, is a physician who cares for women and babies, and treats female reproductive issues. They are doctors who serve females from puberty through menopause, and beyond. They perform exams, screen for cancers, deliver babies, and perform major surgeries.
A Midwife is a healthcare provider that is trained in both obstetric and gynecological services, and deals with the same things that an OBGYN does, but they are usually more holistic and supportive of the natural approaches to both pregnancy and births. Certified Nurse Midwives are able to practice at hospitals, birth centers, clinics, and homes. There are also Certified Midwives, Certified Professional Midwives, and Unlicensed/Lay Midwives, and each has its place and ability to help women and support pregnancy, labor, and delivery in their own way.
A Birth Doula is a personal support person for women and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. They provide Love as well as emotional and physical support before, during, and after the birthing process. They do not deliver babies or perform exams or surgeries. Birth Doulas give the mother the support she needs in her birthing process, and offer the entire family an outlet for questions and experience needed when preparing for the birth experience. Birth Doulas are pure Loving support for both mothers and families.
All of these health care providers have been and continue to be crucial in the experience of becoming a healthy and thriving woman and a mother through all of the different stages of life. Each has their place in the process, and each is vital and important in both physical and energetic longevity. We are blessed to have such amazing people help to keep our sisters, daughters, mothers, aunties, and grandmothers healthy and happy.