Your first trimester is a blur of excitement, well-wishes and happy anticipation. Then reality sets in. Questions begin swirling, “What will my delivery be like? Do I need an OB/Gyn and a midwife? What exactly is a doula, anyway?” Sound familiar? Our comprehensive guide to doctors, midwives and doulas can help you find the answers you need.

OB/Gyns, midwives and doulas are specialists who assist with pregnancy, labor and delivery. OB/Gyns and midwives are medical professionals. OB/Gyns (obstetricians and gynecologists) are doctors who deliver in hospitals. Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) are certified nurses often affiliated with hospitals. But some will also attend births in independent birthing centers or at home.

Doulas don’t deliver babies or give medical advice. Their role is to provide emotional support for the mother. Think of a doula as a trusted friend who has experience supporting women through pregnancy and labor.

Answers to Your Questions

Do I need an OB/Gyn?

Women should visit an OB/Gyn practice when they find out they’re expecting. OB/Gyns are doctors who’ve been trained to care for pregnant women and to deliver babies through cesarean sections (c-sections) and vaginal births. They typically practice in a group, which means you may see a few different doctors during your pregnancy. If this sounds concerning, don’t worry. The OB/Gyn who attends your delivery will likely be the doctor on call that day, so it’s important to become familiar with everyone in the practice.

It’s also becoming more common for OB/Gyn practices to include a team of certified nurse midwives and family medicine doctors. Some women with low-risk pregnancies may see a CNM or family medicine doctor with the support of an OB/Gyn for the entirety of their pregnancy.

Should I choose a midwife?

If you have a low-risk pregnancy, you may have the option to partner with a certified nurse-midwife. CNMs are nurses who are trained to care for pregnant women and attend low-risk births.

In some practices, OB/Gyns and midwives work together. In most cases, midwives care for low-risk pregnancies, while an OB/Gyn offers consultation or co-manages care if complications arise.

Midwives deliver babies and often have experience with low-intervention techniques and alternative labor options, such as a birthing ball or tub. If you’re interested in midwifery, choose a birth center or OB/Gyn practice that includes midwives as part of their care team.

Is a doula right for me?

Doulas aren’t medical professionals, but they’re trained to provide emotional support and to help women have a positive, empowering birth experience before and after delivery. A doula can work with your care team, speak for you when needed, and offer information, inspiration and comfort. They can also play an essential role in engaging and supporting your partner.

It’s important to know what is and isn’t covered by your insurance when choosing your birthing team. Before meeting with an OB/Gyn, midwife or doula, we recommend you reach out to your insurance company or provider to understand the coverage available to you.