Obstetrician vs Midwife: Similarities and Differences

Are you pregnant, or planning on getting pregnant in the future? If so, you may be wondering about the different skills and qualities that an obstetrician vs midwife will bring to your pregnancy. This is an important choice that can have profound impacts on your experience of pregnancy and giving birth. At our Coral Springs practice, Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology, we have three top rated, caring obstetricians on staff, who can guide you through your pregnancy journey — from planning and conception to postpartum and beyond. Our ob-gyns also provide patient centered gynecologic care for every stage of a woman’s life. Keep reading to learn the differences and similarities between an obstetrician vs midwife. Learn about the doctors at our practice, and book your first appointment today!

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Obstetrician vs Midwife: Training and Qualifications

There are important differences in the training of an obstetrician vs midwife. Learning about these differences can help you choose what type of medical professional you would like by your side throughout your pregnancy, and entrust with the delivery of your baby.

Obstetrician

An obstetrician is a specially trained medical doctor who is qualified to provide both medical and surgical care. After medical school, an OB/GYN (obstetrician/gynecologist) will go on to spend a further four years studying pregnancy, medicine and surgery as they pertain to women’s health. OB/GYNs are certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Some OB/GYNs provide mainly pregnancy care, and others mainly provide care for women’s reproductive systems. Some do both.

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Midwife

Certified Nurse Midwives are trained and licensed to provide comprehensive obstetric and newborn care. They will have earned a master’s degree in nursing with an emphasis on clinical midwifery. Midwives typically work with obstetricians who will step in to provide care if complications arise during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Source: Cleveland Clinic

Obstetrician vs Midwife: How to Choose?

Women can have wonderful pregnancy and birth experiences with both obstetricians and midwives. One important reason to consider choosing an obstetrician instead of a midwife for your pregnancy, is if you have a high-risk pregnancy. People at risk for high-risk pregnancies include those with HIV, high blood pressure, and diabetes; those who are carrying twins and higher-order multiples; teens and women age 35 and older. So if you fall into any of these categories, it is recommended that you seek an obstetrician for your pregnancy journey.

You can consult with an ob-gyn to discuss your options and receive guidance around the choice of an obstetrician vs midwife. If you are in Broward County, you can book an appointment to discuss these questions and more at our practice: Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology. We look forward to serving you!

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Sources for This Article:

Obstetric Health Care Providers: Choosing the Right One for You – Cleveland Clinic
What is a High-Risk Pregnancy? – NICHD

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