Your journey to childbirth is a unique experience that requires preparation and planning.
Part of this preparation includes choosing your birth team, which can include providers such as an OB-GYN or a midwife. You may also consider using a doula alongside your provider.
Each plays an important role in supporting you through your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey, but what’s the difference? Understanding the expertise of OB-GYNs and midwives can help you decide who you want on your birth team.
An OB-GYN is a medical doctor with specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology. Training for this path includes four years of medical school and a residency in obstetrics and gynecology.
As physicians, your OB-GYN provides comprehensive medical care for you and your baby, which includes surgical procedures when needed, such as a cesarean section.
Outside of the delivery, OB-GYNs offer a wide range of women’s health care services, including:
An OB-GYN is educated and equipped to care for both average-risk and high-risk pregnancies and perform evidence-based medical interventions when necessary.
There are times when care from an OB‑GYN may be the better or safer option. OB‑GYNs are medical doctors who specialize in managing high‑risk pregnancies and complex medical conditions. You may be referred to or cared for by an OB‑GYN if you have certain health conditions, pregnancy complications, or if unexpected concerns arise during pregnancy or labor.
Benefits include:
In many health care settings, midwives and OB‑GYNs work together as a team, allowing you to benefit from midwifery care while still having access to physician expertise if needed. This collaboration ensures you get the right level of care at every stage.
Certified nurse midwives are trained and educated to care for women in all stages of life, from adolescence through menopause, by providing gynecological care through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
In Texas, a certified nurse midwife must complete a bachelor's in nursing, an advanced practice registered nurse program and licensure, a graduate program in midwifery, clinical training, and a national certification exam.
Certified nurse midwives often take a holistic approach to care, and they are equipped to care for many types of pregnancies and deliveries.
They typically provide care for low- or average-risk pregnancies, assist with deliveries in hospitals, home settings, or birth centers, prescribe most medications, and assist with C-sections performed by OB-GYNs. Many midwives work alongside OB-GYNs, especially when patients are considered high-risk, including those in need of maternal-fetal medicine care.
Midwives are trained to support pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care through a relationship‑based, education‑forward approach that empowers you and your family. Their philosophy is rooted in informed decision‑making, making sure you understand your options so you can choose what feels right for you, your baby, and your birth experience.
Research shows that midwife‑led care is associated with positive outcomes for both mothers and babies, particularly in low‑risk pregnancies. Midwife care has been associated with fewer medical interventions, including lower rates of cesarean birth and a reduced risk of severe third‑ and fourth‑degree perineal tears, while still maintaining strong safety outcomes for both parent and baby.
Beyond clinical outcomes, midwives emphasize education, communication, and whole‑person wellness. This holistic approach helps create a supportive environment where you feel heard, informed, and confident in your care.
Doulas are not medical professionals like OB-GYNs and midwives, but they can play an important role in the birthing process for expecting parents.
A doula’s main role is to offer continuous, personalized comfort and support during labor and delivery, including breathing and laboring techniques, as well as emotional reassurance.
They collaborate with the clinical care provided by midwives or OB-GYNs and focus on the mother’s expectations and well-being.
At many hospitals, doulas are seen as a beneficial addition to your birth team. While they provide services that patients must find and provide independently, their role is highly valued.
Your childbirth journey is unique to you, and choosing the right support team is an important decision.
By understanding the types of providers available to you, you can be empowered to make an informed decision for a safe and fulfilling birth experience that aligns with your personal health needs and preferences.
