Midwife or Obstetrician, what is the difference?

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Are you not sure who you should choose as your care provider during the pregnancy and delivery? Find out the differences between ob-gyn and midwife!

Midwife or OBGYN, What is the Difference?

When it comes to selecting someone to accompany you during the happiest period of your life, it's essential to be aware that you have multiple options! When figuring out whether to go with an obstetrician-gynecologist or nurse midwife for your experience, it's important to make a decision with the final result in mind. Do you prefer giving birth at home, a healthcare facility, or a birthing centre? Is waterbirth something that you are considering, using a birthing ball or on the bed? No matter what your preference is, it is essential to pick someone who will back you up during the birth of your child as the process revolves around you and your little one!

What is the Difference Between an OB/GYN and a Midwife?

An OB/GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist) is a physician who specializes in the medical care of women, specifically in pregnancy, childbirth, and female reproductive health. They are trained and licensed to perform surgeries and can offer a wide range of medical interventions.

A midwife is a trained professional who provides care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Midwives focus on low-intervention, holistic, and patient-centred care and they collaborate with obstetricians when necessary. Midwifery care can take place in a hospital, birth centre, or in home setting.

In summary, OB/GYNs offer a wider range of medical interventions and surgeries, while midwives provide a more natural and personalized approach to pregnancy and childbirth care.

What Type of Education Does a Midwife and OB/GYN Have?

An OB/GYN is a medical doctor who has completed a four-year undergraduate degree, four years of medical school, and four years of residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. They are licensed physicians who are authorized to practice medicine and perform surgeries. Midwives, on the other hand, typically have either a nursing (RN) or a master's degree in midwifery. They are trained in the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as in normal newborn care. They may be certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) or the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). OB/GYNs have a longer and more extensive education and training in medicine, while midwives have specialized education and training in midwifery care.
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Type of care in the hospital by Obstetrician

Aids in Childbirth within a hospital environment
Skilled to deal with difficult pregnancies
Can perform medical procedures like C-section
Can offer external cephalic versions to aid in turning babies that are positioned feet first.

Type of care in the hospital by Midwife or Nurse Midwife

Aids in Childbirth in hospitals, home birth, and birthing centre,..
Depends heavily on professional experience to deliver knowledgeable treatment in typical pregnancies.
Generally, there is more opportunity to be with the patient during labor.
More open to utilizing natural methods such as showering, kneading, breathing exercises, acupressure, and different birthing positions to help with your childbirth experience.

fmily with the newborn on the bed

What things to consider when choosing an ob-gyn or midwife for your pregnancy and delivery?

Education and experience: Make sure your provider has proper training and experience in the field.
Availability and location: Consider their schedule and office location in relation to your own.
Birthing preferences: If you have specific birthing preferences, such as a natural birth or pain management options, make sure your provider supports and is equipped to handle those.
Communication style: Ensure that your provider has a communication style that is open, supportive, and respectful and that they take the time to listen to your concerns and questions.
Reputation: Read reviews and ask for referrals from friends and family to get an idea of the provider's reputation.
Patient load: If you have concerns about the provider's patient load, ask about their typical workload and whether they have enough time to spend with their patients.

Remember, the choice of an OB/GYN or midwife is a personal one and you should choose someone you feel comfortable and confident with.

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