Decoding Birth Support: Doulas vs. Midwifes

Pregnant women are increasingly using the services of a doula, but it is important to know where doulas are different from certified midwives. 

Birth is a transformative event that requires support in a variety of ways. Both midwives and doulas play a central role and offer different types of support during the birth process. In order to understand which one might be most beneficial to you, it is important to understand the key differences and similarities between these professions.

Midwives are healthcare professionals with a range of duties, including making comprehensive health assessments, prescribing medications, interpreting diagnostic tests, and delivering babies. Their responsibilities vary by geography and their specific type: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), Certified Midwives (CMs), and Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs).

Each type of midwife has different training requirements. CNMs and CMs require a college degree, while CPMs require a high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrated competency in specific areas. Certifications are provided by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) for CNMs and CMs and by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) for CPMs. Similar to doulas, midwives must recertify every three to five years.

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A doula is a birth-experienced woman who provides physical, emotional, and educational support to a pregnant person through the stages of pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The primary role of a doula is to provide comfort, support, and relevant information to the expectant parents and their partners.

Doulas can specialize in two main areas: birthing and postpartum. Birthing doulas guide pregnant individuals about various birthing procedures and assist them in making informed decisions regarding their healthcare. However, different from a midwife, they do not have the authority to prescribe treatments, urging clients to consult healthcare providers for any medical guidance.

Postpartum doulas help new parents transition smoothly into parenthood by offering support in the first few weeks after birth. They assist with newborn care, household management, and even help combat postpartum depression.

Doulas acquire their certification from DONA International, fulfilling specific criteria including training, reading, writing assignments, client support, and business training. To keep abreast of the ever-changing medical practices, they must renew their certification every three years.

Both doulas and midwives can positively impact the birth experience. Evidence suggests that doulas' continuous support during labor can lead to improved outcomes like fewer C-sections, reduced need for pain medication, and a lower likelihood of postpartum depression or anxiety.

On the other hand, midwives provide both medical and emotional support to the mother and newborn. Their contribution has been linked to reduced rates of maternal and neonatal mortality and stillbirths globally, especially in low- to middle-income countries. In addition to pregnancy and delivery assistance, midwives offer various other services, like contraceptive care and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Because midwives have medical training, they can perform clinical tasks such as vaginal examinations, taking blood pressure, and prescribing medications. In contrast, doulas provide emotional and physical support but do not undertake clinical or medical duties.  

Source: Very well health