Iv’e heard the question asked in many different ways time and time again….
“I have a midwife, do I need a doula”
I have a doula, do I need a midwife?”
“what is the difference between a midwife and a doula”
The difference is sizable, midwives and doulas have entirely different training and roles in your birth. As I explain the differences I want to be clear that both midwives and doula have many, many more examples of what they do than I will provide right now. Im hoping to make this blog post clear and simple so you the reader will know the difference.
Your Midwives will…
- Run prenatal tests
- Advise you on health during pregnancy, birth and postpartum
- Monitor you and baby during prenatally, during labour and birth and for 6 weeks postpartum
- Perform physical examinations prenatally, during labour and postpartum
**Please note- Midwifes in Canada are all licensed medical Professionals.**
Your Birth Doula will:
- Meet you before the birth and establish a realationship with the mom and dad
- Help you articulate your vision for your birth (birth plan)
- Refer you to resources in the community (for prenatal and postpartum)
- Do their best to keep you and your partner relaxed and calm in labour
- Use a variation of massage and grounding tequniques during labour
- Suggest postitions for you in labour and during birth
- Reminding hospital staff about the mothers birth plan
- Provide postpartum emotional support and help with breastfeeding initiation.
Some Doulas (ME! ME!) are also trained as a postpartum doula. Read more about Doulas https://ridgemeadowsdoulaservices.com/?page_id=125
Your Postpartum Doula will:
A Postpartum Doula
- Offer education, companionship and nonjudgmental support after the baby is born
- Assists with newborn care and family adjustment
- Offers evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and makes appropriate referrals when necessary
- Assist with basic household chores and meal preparation
- Assists with breastfeeding
If you have any questions or concerns, contact me. I can share about what I do personally, my experience, training etc. More importantly I can see if I am the right doula for you.
