If you're new to pregnancy, the roles of doulas, midwives, and OB-GYNs can blur together. Here's how they differ.
OB-GYN
An obstetrician is a physician who provides medical care throughout pregnancy and delivers your baby. They manage clinical decisions and can perform surgery, including cesareans.
Midwife
A midwife is a licensed medical provider who delivers babies and manages care, often for lower-risk pregnancies, with a focus on physiologic birth.
Doula
A doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides continuous physical and emotional support and information. A doula does not deliver babies or make clinical decisions — she complements your medical team.
Why many families choose both
Your OB or midwife manages the medical side; your doula provides the continuous, personal support that busy clinical staff often can't. Learn more in our FAQ or explore birth doula support. Questions? Contact us.
