Midwifery Care vs. OB/GYN Care

Midwifery and obstetrical care are both essential components of the healthcare system, providing healthcare to mothers and infants before, during, and immediately after birth. Both midwifery and obstetrical care are rooted in the same principles of providing safe, respectful, and compassionate care to ensure the best outcomes for mothers and babies.

 However, there are key differences between the two that set them apart. Midwives are healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of pregnant women and their babies. Midwives provide comprehensive primary healthcare to support a woman’s physical and mental health throughout her pregnancy and postpartum period. They focus on providing holistic, evidence-based care that is tailored to the individual needs of each mother. Midwives also provide guidance and support to help women make informed decisions about their care. Midwifery care is woman centered (or birthing person, if you prefer) and midwifery trusts the birthing process and the laboring person’s body.

Obstetrical care is provided by an obstetrician, a physician who specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, and immediate postpartum care (1 postpartum check-up at 6 weeks postpartum) Obstetricians provide medical care and interventions to manage pregnancy and delivery. They use advanced medical technology and medications to diagnose and treat any complications that may arise during the course of pregnancy or labor.

 Midwifery and obstetrical care differ in the type of care they provide and the way it is delivered. Midwives focus on providing personalized care, emphasizing the importance of preventive health, education, and support for women. In contrast, obstetricians focus on medical interventions, such as tests and procedures, to diagnose and treat any complications that may arise during pregnancy. Read that again…they’re not the same!

 Midwives and obstetricians both provide essential services to ensure the best outcomes for mothers and babies. However, the type of care they provide is distinct and different. Women and birthing people who are healthy and low risk fare much better, according to research (and what is done throughout the rest of the industrialized world) working with midwives vs. obstetricians. Obstetricians are trained surgeons, first and foremost. They are fantastic at what they do in the OR, and thank the powers that be for such talents. It’s wonderful that they’re available  

And also….women and birthing people need MORE options for prenatal, birth and postpartum care. Not less. @ascensionprovidence are you listening? Because it seems like you’re not. Or if you are, it’s clear you don’t care.