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

There are many questions that come with pregnancy. One common question expecting parents ask themselves is whether a midwife is right for them and their birth plan. Midwives, similarly, to OB/GYNs, are licensed, highly trained healthcare professionals who provide healthcare to women during pregnancy, birth and after birth (postpartum). Midwives can also provide support and services long after your child is born, from teenage years through adulthood and beyond.

Is a midwife right for you? Or should you plan to deliver with your OB/GYN without midwife support?

What is the difference between a midwife and an OB/GYN?

A midwife and an OB/GYN are both highly skilled and licensed professionals who provide support to women during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. But there are some differences.

Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) earn a master’s or doctorate degree, graduate from an accredited nurse-midwifery education program and must pass a national exam. CNMs are also licensed by the state as advanced practice registered nurses.

An OB/GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist) is a physician specializing in female reproductive health, pregnancy and childbirth combining obstetrics (pregnancy care and childbirth) and gynecology (health of the female reproductive system).

Midwives believe in forming a relationship with their patients, providing individualized, evidence-based care that empowers women throughout their maternity care and extensively educates them on the childbirth process. Midwives specialize in low-risk pregnancies and birth, while OB/GYNs can address complications in higher-risk pregnancies. OB/GYNs can also perform surgeries and other medical procedures when medical concerns in pregnancy arise, while midwives do not. Midwives often work collaboratively with physicians to ensure that patients are given the unique care they need and deserve. Both midwives and OB/GYNs are covered by health insurance.

What exactly does a midwife do? And how do they support women in labor?

Nurse-midwives advocate for patient choice when it comes to labor and birth and use evidence-based research to guide clinical recommendations and always prioritize patient safety and the safety of the baby. Pain control options can vary based on the facility, but nurse-midwives are supportive of patients choosing epidural and using nitrous or other pain medications when appropriate. Nurse-midwives have special training to support women through unmedicated birth and feel comfortable using alternative measures for people that desire to give birth without pain medications or epidural. Some examples of these alternative options include:

• Guided relaxation
• Movement and positioning during labor
• Hydrotherapy and water births
• Breathing techniques
• Supportive messages and mantras
• Massage
• Use of a birthing stool, birth ball and peanut balls

They support ways to make the hospital your home away from home, including using battery powered candles, lights, scents, diffusing essential oils and your favorite music playlist.

What conditions can nurse-midwives treat?

As defined by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, CNMs provide care during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period; sexual and reproductive health; gynecologic health; and family planning services, including preconception care. Midwives also provide primary care for people from adolescence throughout their lifespan. Nurse-midwives work closely with other medical professionals to provide the safest and most comprehensive care and always have the option of referral when necessary.

Why would someone use a midwife?

A midwife may be right for you if:

• You have a low-risk pregnancy
• Are interested in a more holistic, family-centered care
• Are interested in alternative birthing options such as a water birth
• Want your childbirth experience to be as “low-tech, high-caring” as possible
• Want more labor and emotional support throughout the childbearing cycle and beyond

Can midwives prescribe medications?

Yes, midwives can prescribe medicine and even order diagnostic testing, but the extent of their authority depends heavily on their specific credential and the state where they practice.

How are nurse-midwives trained to handle emergencies?

Nurse-midwives are competent practitioners trained to recognize signs of emergency or abnormal findings, and they can act in an emergency. If necessary, midwives based in a hospital will quickly call in the support of OB/GYNs, surgeons, anesthesiologists and a neonatal intensive care team. They strive to support each patient to have the best possible birthing experience and prioritize patient health and safety, leading to a good outcome for mom and baby.

How to get a midwife?

If you live in the Gulf Coast region, schedule an appointment with a midwife at Ochsner’s Alternative Birthing Center or call 504-894-2881. To find a certified midwife in your area, search the American College of Nurse-Midwives database.

The birth of a child is a milestone moment for mothers, fathers and families. Studies have shown that a women’s choice and control over her birth plan can affect her birthing experience, which impacts the way she will look back at her pregnancy and delivery. Your midwife can offer valuable professional expertise while also ensuring that your individual needs are being accounted for. We provide continuity of care throughout your pregnancy, birth and beyond while sharing information and resources to empower you to make informed decisions.

Learn more about midwifery and alternative birthing options at Ochsner Baptist and Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge or call 504-894-2880 or 225-236-5893.