Preparing for the birth of your baby is a very exciting and busy time. It is also a time where you are likely to hear a lot of advice and opinions on various birthing methods and processes and who should be on your birthing team. As a first-time expectant mother, one of the first things you need to do to prepare for your big day is to assemble your birthing team well in advance. You should also be aware of who does what and why you should include an OB/GYN, an RN and a Midwife on your team, but also be aware of their differences when it comes to care.
Educational Background
The biggest difference between these three professionals is their level of education.
Levels of Care from Each Professional
An RN can assist either an OB/GYN or Midwife in providing prenatal or during the delivery process. They can answer any questions that you might have throughout your pregnancy and alert you when further attention might be needed from your doctor or midwife. OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse Midwives can both deliver babies within a hospital setting. Both can prescribe medications and contraception medications and are able to focus on:
These professionals’ approach to the birthing processes do differ slightly. A midwife takes a more holistic approach to the pregnancy with more focus on the physiological processes that occur. This generally includes:
An OB/GYN with the mother’s permission may opt to move the labor process along with by inducing labor or other interventions. In the case of a high-risk pregnancy, a midwife will request that an OB/GYN be actively involved with the mother’s prenatal care. Unlike a midwife, this doctor will be able to provide any needed:
Having all three, an OB/GYN, an RN and a Certified Midwife on your birthing team can give you a balanced level of care throughout your pregnancy and baby’s birth. They will work together as a team to help keep you and your baby healthy.