Deciding Between a Midwife or an OB-GYN: Choices for Expectant Mothers to Weigh

By Jackelyn Cornejo , Parent Herald Apr 30, 01:20 pm

Photo: (Photo : Diana Bagnoli/Getty Images )

Although obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs) commonly manage the most of births in the United States, there has been a constant rise in the engagement of nurse midwives.

In 2021, midwives supervised 12% of births in the U.S. These certified, independent healthcare providers regularly utilize "low tech, high touch" methods when handling gestation, labor, and delivery.

Deciding Between a Midwife or an OB-GYN

Deciding the healthcare professional who will deliver your baby is an intensely personal choice affected by circumstances such as medical history, any gestation difficulties, and personal choice.

When contemplating whether to select a midwife or an OB-GYN, it's essential to recognize their differences and similarities. Both certified midwives and OB-GYNs are skilled in before-birth care, labor, and delivery, and are acknowledged and regulated by healthcare providers.

While most insurance plans cover their benefits for hospital deliveries, coverage for birthing centers is often included, while home births may not be.

Despite their mutual accountability, midwives and OB-GYNs often have unique certifications, philosophies, and capabilities.

For example, OB-GYNs are skilled in executing medical procedures like C-sections, whereas midwives center on handling low-danger gestations and do not execute surgical practice.

Midwives

Midwives, specifically certified nurse midwives (CNMs), are skilled in handling natural gestations. They commonly contain bachelor's degrees in nursing, followed by graduate-level education in midwifery.

Midwives emphasize clinical experience and may use interventions like fetal monitoring but prioritize natural approaches to childbirth.

Other types of midwives, such as certified professional midwives (CPMs) and lay midwives, have different qualifications and may not be recognized in all states.

OB-GYNs

In contrast, OB-GYNs are medical doctors trained in gestation, childbirth, and reproductive health. They undergo comprehensive education and training, including medical school and residency programs, and are trained to handle high-risk gestations and execute surgical interferences like C-sections.

While OB-GYNs may be seen as more possibly to intercede during childbirth, the study recommends similar results for both OB-GYN and midwife-assisted births in low-risk gestations.

Expectant Mom to Decide Whom She Feels Comfortable

Both midwives and OBGYNs undergo comprehensive training and certification, guaranteeing they possess the required expertise for safe gestation and delivery aid. The security of both the mother and baby is predominant for both midwives and OBGYNs.

The choice between them depends on the desired education level and involvement. Both prioritize respecting birth plans while emphasizing safety for mother and baby.

In high-risk gestations, care may transition from a midwife to an OBGYN for extensive management potentiality, such as emergency C-sections.

The decision between a midwife and an OB-GYN depends on a person's necessity and preferences. Recognize circumstances such as preference for vaginal childbirth, the level of help during delivery, pain management options, and the method of postpartum care.

High-risk gestations may need the skill of an OB-GYN, while low-risk gestations may be appropriate for midwifery supervision. Trust instincts and take the time to discover choices before making a choice.