Midwife or obstetrician or Doula? What's the difference?

WHAT KIND OF PREGNANCY CARE IS AVAILABLE IN THE U.S.?

For many American women, navigating pregnancy care can feel overwhelming. The system can be complex. Government support is limited, and education about available options isn’t always clear.

In fact, a 2016 study found that 24% of American women began prenatal care late or received fewer than the recommended visits during pregnancy. Early and consistent care, ideally beginning around eight weeks, is vital to monitor both your health and your baby’s development.

Before deciding what’s right for you, it helps to understand the different types of care available, so you can make informed decisions and confidently advocate for yourself.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN TYPES OF PREGNANCY CARE PROVIDERS?

In the U.S., most women choose from four main types of pregnancy care providers:
OB/GYNs, Family Physicians, Midwives, and Doulas. Each offers different levels of expertise and support.

1. OB/GYNs: Medical Specialists for Pregnancy and Birth

What they do: Obstetrician-Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) specialize in both pregnancy and overall reproductive health. They can manage routine and high-risk pregnancies, perform cesarean sections, and provide advanced medical interventions when needed.

Why women choose OB/GYNs: If you want a hospital birth, access to surgical options, or have a high-risk pregnancy, an OB/GYN provides comprehensive care backed by medical expertise.

Expert Tip: Pairing your OB/GYN care with nurturing at-home support, such as PURE MAMA’s Magnesium Body Rub for sleep and stress relief — can help balance the clinical with the calming.

2. Family Physicians: Continuity from Pregnancy to Parenthood

What they do: Family doctors treat patients of all ages and often provide prenatal, birth, and postnatal care. They offer continuity, caring for both mother and baby before and after birth.

Why women choose Family Physicians: Many mothers appreciate having one trusted provider throughout their entire parenting journey. Just confirm your doctor offers prenatal and delivery services, as not all do.

3. Midwives: A Holistic, Natural Approach to Birth

What they do: Midwives focus on personalized, low-intervention care for women with low-risk pregnancies. They support natural births and help women feel empowered through education and involvement in every decision.

Why women choose Midwives: Midwives are known for creating calm, nurturing environments — whether in hospitals, birth centers, or home births.

Expert Tip: For mothers planning natural births, midwives often recommend establishing gentle skincare rituals early. For example, daily belly massage using Pure Mama’s Belly Oil (“liquid gold”) to support skin elasticity and connection with your growing bump.

4. Doulas: Emotional and Physical Support During Birth

What they do: Doulas are not medical professionals but provide emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth. They work alongside OB/GYNs or midwives to ensure your birth experience aligns with your preferences.

Why women choose Doulas: Many mothers find comfort in a doula’s continuous presence and advocacy. Doulas also offer postpartum guidance, helping with recovery and newborn adjustment.

Expert Tip: During the postpartum phase, pair your doula’s support with gentle body care. PURE MAMA's Nipple Butter (lanolin-free and clinically proven to boost hydration) is a favourite among new moms.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE BEST PREGNANCY CARE OPTION FOR ME?

Every woman’s needs are unique, but here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Risk Level

+ Low-risk pregnancy: Midwife or doula for holistic, natural care.

+ High-risk pregnancy: OB/GYN for medical expertise and hospital access.

2. Birth Philosophy

+ Prefer natural birth or home-like setting? Choose a midwife or doula.

+ Prefer pain relief or hospital resources? Choose an OB/GYN.

3. Support & Relationship

+ Want consistent emotional support? A doula can complement any care model.

+ Prefer full medical oversight? An OB/GYN is your best fit.

4. Location & Accessibility

+ Ensure your provider’s location aligns with your birth plan (especially for home births).

+ Book early — many midwives and OB/GYNs have limited availability.

5. Postpartum Care

+ Family physicians and midwives often provide continued care for both mother and baby.

+ OB/GYNs usually handle medical follow-ups, while doulas or lactation consultants assist with recovery and feeding.

WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK MY POTENTIAL CARE PROVIDER?

To feel confident in your decision, ask:

+ Will you be my primary caregiver throughout my pregnancy?

+ How often will I see you, and what happens if you’re unavailable?

+ How many ultrasounds will I receive?

+ What postpartum care do you offer?

+ How do you handle emergency situations or changes in my birth plan?

+ Are there additional costs or services I should plan for?

+ Can I bring a doula or birth partner to appointments and delivery?

HOW DOES HEALTH INSURANCE AFFECT PREGNANCY CARE?

Your insurance coverage can greatly impact your options, so understanding your plan is key.

Employer-Sponsored Insurance:
Typically covers prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum care under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Marketplace Plans (ACA):
Available through Healthcare.gov. All plans must include maternity and newborn care.

Medicaid:
Free or low-cost care for eligible individuals, often covering midwives and birth centers in some states.

Private Insurance:
Covers standard maternity care but varies in out-of-pocket costs. Check whether midwife or birth center services are included.

Expert Tip: Always confirm with your insurer if your chosen care provider — especially midwives or birth centers — is covered.

WHAT'S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER?

There’s no single “right” choice — only the one that feels right for you.
Whether you work with an OB/GYN, midwife, doula, or family doctor, the goal is the same: ensuring you and your baby are supported, healthy, and cared for every step of the way.

Your pregnancy journey deserves to feel calm, informed, and empowering — from your first prenatal visit to the moment you hold your baby in your arms.

Helpful Resources

+ American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – Learn more about OB/GYN care and high-risk pregnancy.

+ Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA) – Explore midwifery care and find certified midwives.

+ DoulaMatch.net – Locate qualified doulas in your area.

+ American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) – Understand how family physicians support pregnancy care.