How to Decide Between an OB/GYN or Midwife

If you have just learned you are pregnant or are trying to conceive, choosing the type of pregnancy care you will need is important. Both OB/GYN and midwives can provide healthcare during pregnancy and perform delivery, but there are factors to consider when deciding which is right for you. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help determine whether a midwife or OB/GYN would be best for your pre-natal care and delivery.

Do you have any pregnancy risk factors? If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, are pregnant with multiples, are older or have miscarried in the past, you may have a high-risk pregnancy. Often high-risk pregnancies are best monitored by a OB/GYN versus a midwife. If a cesarean is needed, as can be the case with high-risk pregnancies, you will need an experienced OB/GYN to perform the surgery.

Is holistic care important to you? Women who prefer a natural, holistic approach to their healthcare may prefer the services of a midwife. In most cases, a midwife focuses on natural options for a healthy pregnancy, without medical interventions.

Are you planning a natural childbirth? Both OB/GYN and midwife practitioners can perform natural births. However, if you want to have your child at home or in a more natural setting, a midwife is more likely to be willing to come to you, versus you going to a hospital for your delivery.

Even if you prefer a midwife, it is a good idea to have a OB/GYN that works with your midwife in case of complications. Many OB/GYNs will be happy to be a part of your healthcare team and step in if there are complications during your pregnancy or delivery.

Posted on behalf of
Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.
699 Church Street #220
Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 422-8505

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