What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

The distinction between a doula and a midwife is primarily based on their roles and responsibilities during the childbirth experience. A doula offers emotional and physical support to the birthing person before, during, and after labor, helping to create a reassuring environment and offering guidance on comfort measures. This support can include techniques for relaxation, pain management, and providing information about the birthing process.

On the other hand, a midwife is a trained healthcare professional who is responsible for delivering the baby and managing all aspects of the medical care associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Midwives have the medical training necessary to oversee both normal and complicated deliveries, and they provide clinical care throughout the pregnancy, labor, and postpartum period.

Thus, the correct answer highlights the complementary yet distinct roles that a doula and a midwife play in the birthing process, emphasizing the emotional support offered by the doula alongside the medical care provided by the midwife. This definition importantly clarifies the scope of practice for each professional, underlining how they collaborate to support the birthing person and their family.