Planning Ahead:
Choosing Your Birthing Team
Compiled by The Cradle Staff
 | | Obstetricians... | | • | Are trained to handle complications during pregnancy and birth. | | | | | • | Can perform a Cesarean section. | | | | | • | Deliver in hospitals. | | | | | Midwives... | | • | Can deliver at home or at a birthing center - or can assist your OB. | | | | | • | Are sometimes certified nurse-midwives (CMNs). | | | | | Doulas... | | • | Assist with the non-medical needs of the mother. | | | |
For the full article, read more...
ou're ready to expand your family. You've figured out the what. We're going to assume that you're familiar with the how. What you need to do now is decide on who will help bring your bundle of joy into the world.
WHO CAN HELP
OBSTETRICIAN
MIDWIFE
DOULA
OBSTETRICIAN
These physicians specialize in taking care of pregnant women, from conception through postpartum. They are there to monitor the health of the mom and the baby, to actively manage labor and to address any health issues that may arise. (See also Selecting an Obstetrician.)
Why choose an OB:
- They are trained to handle complications during pregnancy and birth such as preeclampsia or placenta previa.
- They can perform a Cesarean section, if needed, during labor.
Why not to choose an OB:
- If you do not want to deliver at a hospital.
- There might be a higher possibility of induction or episiotomy. (You should always know your OB’s position on these procedures; some doctors will do their best to avoid them unless medically necessary.)
Notes:
- Choose someone you really like and feel comfortable with because you will see a lot of her/him during those nine months.
MIDWIFE
Midwives (women or men) are trained professionals who can provide prenatal care to expecting mothers, assist in the birth, and offer postpartum care as well. Their role is to assist in the entire birthing process but not to intervene unless necessary.
Why choose a midwife:
- If you are at low risk and want more of a natural birth.
- If you want to give birth at home or in a birth center.
- If you want to minimize technological interventions.
