Many women are choosing so-called alternative methods when it comes to how they have their babies. If you are contemplating going that route you are most likely interested in whether or not you should have a doula or a midwife. Many mothers are not quite sure, exactly what the difference is between the two and which option is best for them. It’s crucial for you to know not only what is the difference but why this is or is not the best option for you. After you finish reading this post you will know all about the doula vs midwife responsibilities and which one will help you move forward with your decision.
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DOULA VS MIDWIFE
What is a doula?
Doulas are non-medical professionals who provide support and resources to improve the mother’s birth experience. Doulas provide support during and after the pregnancy focusing on the educational and emotional aspects of your motherhood journey.
One great thing about having a doula is they can work with you at home and the hospital. They are great for having during a hospital birth because they advocate for the mother. Nurses typically change shifts throughout your time during your delivery and after. But your doula will be a constant help there for you along the way.
First-time mothers
Doulas provide you with education about the birthing experience that will not only better inform you for peace of mind but also help you make important decisions about how you want things to move forward. They are there to provide you with answers to you have questions before during and after your pregnancy and birthing journey.
Doulas are great if you are a single mother and may not have a support system there to cheer you on along the way. They are also beneficial if your partner is present because they offer support and guidance to the partners as well. Many partners are unsure about what their role is during the birthing experience. A doula can be a great reference and guide during the time for the mother’s partner.
Non first-time mothers
Non-first-time mothers tend to choose to work with a doula because they may have had a traumatic experience while giving birth. Especially BIPOC women who have a higher mortality rate than white women. The mortality crisis amongst black women has caused moms to be on high alert and want someone in the room with them who not only they trust but is knowledgable and can act as an advocate on their behalf.
What is a Mid-Wife?
Midwives are trained professionals who help women with obstetric and gynecological care who typically deliver babies at home or birthing centers. Midwives are experts with skills who care for women throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Midwives are great if you want a provider who supports you in wanting to have control over your birthing experience.
Benefits of Choosing a Midwife
According to a recent study, researchers found that births of first-time mothers handled by midwives had a 30% reduced chance of having a cesarean birth compared to when women labored under the care of an OBGYN.
Midwives are more than likely to be concerned with the mother’s physical health as well as their mental health. They also tend to focus on or encourage healthy eating
Cost of Doula vs Midwife
- Midwife: $3,500-$6,000 (this could cover all prenatal care when you have the baby and after)
- Doula: $700-$1200. (this could include prenatal visits, overall birth support, along with postpartum visits). The cost for your journey could vary and range differently according to who you choose to work with.
There are a few ways to pay for a doula or a midwife such as flex plans, utilizing credit cards and having your insurances reimburse you. Some organizations pay for your entire home birth experience and payment plans.
It seems that reimbursement options are a great way to go however there can be somewhat of a lengthy process to getting reimbursement and not all insurances have a reimbursement program for using alternative methods of giving birth. Insurance companies that don’t cover home birth such as Tri-Care and Kaiser Permanente.
Some states are now considering offering doulas services for Medicaid patients to help fight against the BIPOC maternal mortality crisis.
