OB/GYN or Midwife: Understanding the Differences

Having a baby comes with many decisions, from names and car seats to the medical professional who partners with you on your journey.

The good news is that with both obstetrician gynecologists (OB/GYNs) and midwives available, it almost guarantees the ability to find an expert who matches the type of pregnancy and birth experience that new parents-to-be envision.

Our expert team at The Healthy Woman provides top-notch OB/GYN care during pregnancy and throughout a woman's life in a peaceful, spa-like setting. In this month's blog, we compare OB/GYNs and midwives, both of which we have on staff at our greater Atlanta locations. 

Our aim is to help women and families make the most informed decision possible about what kind of care provider is best for them.

OB/GYNs explained

An obstetrician gynecologist has either an MD (doctor of medicine) or DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine) degree. This typically entails obtaining a college degree, graduating from medical school, and completing a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. They also have the option of getting further certified from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

OB/GYNs help women through all stages of having a baby, from preconception and pregnancy to labor, delivery, and the postpartum period.  

High-risk pregnancies that carry increased health concerns for the mother, baby, or both may be better handled by an OB/GYN. Only OB/GYNs can use a vacuum or forceps if needed during delivery, and doctors are also the only ones who can perform a cesarean section.

About midwives

Like doctors, midwives guide women through pregnancy, labor, delivery, and their postpartum recovery. They often care for women with low-risk pregnancies and can deliver babies vaginally. Midwives also tend to stay with you throughout the labor process. 

Certified nurse midwives are registered nurses and have a master's degree in nursing. They’re nationally certified and can work in hospitals, clinics, birth centers, and homes in all 50 states.

Similarities and partnerships between OB/GYNs and midwives

Differences in education and treatment scope exist between doctors and midwives but they also have many things in common. Both perform exams during pregnancy, order lab work and ultrasounds, and monitor the baby's growth and the mother-to-be's blood pressure and weight.

Collaborations between OB/GYNs and midwives may occur. This can happen in various ways — from a woman receiving care from both during pregnancy to an OB/GYN becoming involved during labor and delivery if a C-section is needed.

Personalized pregnancy care

If you're pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, our team is here for you. We provide prenatal care from OB/GYNs and midwives, which allows our patients the power to select their type of practitioner.

You can see our OB/GYN group in Snellville, Lawrenceville, or Conyers, Georgia; our midwives practice in Lawrenceville and Snellville. Call us at 770-809-1100 or request an appointment online today.