Doula vs. Midwife: What is the difference?

Doulas and midwives are both instrumental in supporting women’s journey through pregnancy. They are both essential in keeping mothers in their best health, may it be physically, emotionally, or mentally. Women’s wellbeing during pregnancy is in their best interest, and they both have expertise in their respective fields. The main difference between the two is the focus of their support and the kind of training they have. To learn more about what they specialise in and which professional you need, read further. 

Determining whether a doula or a midwife is better depends on your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Both doulas and midwives offer valuable support, but their roles and areas of expertise differ.

A doula's primary focus is on providing emotional, physical, and informational support. They offer continuous assistance, help with pain management techniques, provide comfort measures, and advocate for your preferences during labour and childbirth. Doulas can also provide postpartum support and guidance. The benefits that doulas can provide expectant mothers like you are shown in different ways.

Meanwhile, a midwife will provide medical care throughout your pregnancy. A midwife is the medical professional you need who can support labour and delivery, and will offer you the appropriate postpartum care. They have the necessary expertise to monitor your health, manage the labour process, and address any medical complications that may arise. The benefits of consulting and engaging with a midwife can help in various aspects of your health, which are explored in detail below:

So, which is better between a doula and a midwife? 

In terms of determining which kind of support is better, ask yourself the following questions to help make a decision.

When it comes to the actual process of giving birth, the primary responsibility and authority lie with the midwife. They have the medical expertise to assess the progress of labour, monitor the health of both the birthing person and the baby, and make decisions regarding medical interventions if necessary.

The role of a doula remains to be an emotional and informational support to the birthing person and their partner or family. Doulas do not have medical training or the authority to make medical decisions. Instead, they focus on providing comfort measures, helping with relaxation techniques, offering guidance and information, and advocating for the birthing person's preferences and desires.

In most cases, the midwife will be the one leading the birth process and making medical decisions when needed. They will monitor vital signs, assess the progress of labour, provide guidance on pushing and positioning, and ensure the safety and well-being of both the birthing person and the baby. The midwife may collaborate with the doula, as they both work together to support the birthing person, but the midwife has the ultimate responsibility for the medical aspects of the birth.

The simple answer is yes. It is possible to have both a doula and a midwife involved in your pregnancy and childbirth experience. In fact, many individuals choose to have both professionals as part of their support team. 

Emotional support from a doula can help you navigate the many aspects of childbirth, such as providing comfort measures during labour and offering guidance on caring for your newborn. As soon as labour begins, they can be available by phone or in person and remain with you throughout the entire process, providing consistent presence and reassurance. Doulas also help create a soothing atmosphere in the birthing space and utilise techniques such as dimming lights, playing calming music, or using aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This kind of support can significantly enhance your experience by reducing anxiety, promoting a sense of control, and fostering a positive emotional state throughout the childbirth journey.

On the other hand, a midwife will have the necessary medical training to monitor your health, manage the labour process, and address any complications that may arise. The expertise of a midwife will provide you with comprehensive prenatal care. They conduct regular check-ups, monitor the health of the pregnant individual and the developing foetus, and order and interpret relevant medical tests and screenings. Midwives assess the progress of the pregnancy, address any concerns or complications, and provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and overall well-being. Midwives also provide gynaecological and reproductive health services beyond pregnancy and childbirth. They offer family planning counselling, perform routine gynaecological exams, and provide preventive care, such as Pap smears and STI screenings. They also work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals when necessary, and can refer individuals to obstetricians or specialists if higher levels of medical intervention or expertise are required.Their expertise, complemented with the support from a doula, can increase the chances of an easy pregnancy journey for women.

Effective communication and collaboration between doulas, midwives, and medical professionals are crucial for providing comprehensive care to individuals during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Doulas, midwives, and medical professionals should have open lines of communication to share relevant information about the birthing person's medical history, preferences, and any specific needs or concerns. This includes sharing details about prenatal care, birth plans, and any ongoing health conditions. By sharing information, all parties involved can have a comprehensive understanding of the individual's unique circumstances.

Collaboration should also continue in the postpartum period. Doulas can provide breastfeeding assistance and practical guidance. Midwives, on the other hand, can offer medical check-ups, address any postpartum concerns, and ensure proper healing. Ongoing communication between the doula, midwife, and medical professionals can help address any issues that arise and provide comprehensive care for the birthing person's overall well-being.

It is essential for all professionals involved to respect each other's roles and boundaries. Understanding and appreciating each other's contributions can foster a collaborative environment where everyone can work together in the best interest of the birthing person. By fostering effective communication and collaboration, doulas, midwives, and medical professionals can create a team approach to care that ensures you receive comprehensive support and cultivates a positive childbirth experience. In the end, meeting your needs should always be the priority.

When it comes to choosing between a doula and a midwife, it is imperative to emphasise that the answer should always align with the individual's birth preferences and goals. As both doulas and midwives offer valuable support during pregnancy, labour, and childbirth, it can be helpful to seek your unique needs and desires, so you can make an informed decision that best suits your pregnancy. The choice between a doula and a midwife is a personal one, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Consider discussing your options with healthcare providers, interviewing potential doulas or midwives, and seeking recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends and fellow pregnant women to make an informed choice that supports your needs.

The service fee of a doula in Australia varies according to location and the kind of services they offer. Some doulas offer their services starting at AUD 100, but it can cost more depending on the coverage of care and support that the client would want to receive. It is helpful to inform doulas about specific preferences and needs, so they can accommodate them to complement their service fee.

To learn more about fertility and birth, you can visit Bodhi Holistic Hub’s learning hub and read through the various articles that tackle all sorts of women’s health topics. You may also want to browse through our list of doulas who are certified practitioners, and can give more personalised information on what support they can offer during your pregnancy.