In the beautiful journey of pregnancy and birth, having the right support team can make such difference to your experience. I often get asked what the difference is between a doula and a midwife - which is a very valid question! While both can provide incredible support during pregnancy, labour and birth, their roles, scope, and care provided differ. Let's explore these differences to help you make an informed choice about your birth support.
Our incredible support team moments before our baby was born - My partner, 2 x Registered Midwives and our Doula. Photo credit - Focussed on Love Birth Photography.
Registered Midwife:
In Australia, a Registered Midwife is a qualified healthcare professional recognized and regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). They provide holistic care to women throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum journey.
Here's what you need to know about their role:
Comprehensive Care: Registered Midwives offer clinical care, including antenatal check-ups, monitoring your baby's growth, checking your blood pressure, listening to your baby's heartbeat and watching for any signs that pregnancy or labour complications may be developing. While our philosophy is based on physiology and supporting normal birth (which most of the time is a straightforward process that doesn't require intervention), midwives are also able to provide emergency care and assist in managing complications alongside other care providers (like obstetricians). Midwives can also order ultrasounds and blood tests, prescribe medications*, suture tears, monitor wound healing after a caesarean, plus lots more. *Not all midwives in Australia are able to prescribe medication as there needs to be additional postgraduate study in order to do so. However, all of our Midwives at Hannah Willsmore are qualified and are able to prescribe medications (if required).
Continuity of Care: One of the strengths of midwifery care in Australia is the emphasis on continuity. Expectant mums often build a strong relationship with their midwives, receiving personalised care and support throughout their pregnancy journey. Often women can be allocated a primary midwife or small team of midwives who will do all of their antenatal appointments, be on call for and provide care during their labour and birth, as well as providing care for up to six weeks after baby is born. This care is often accesible through a caseload midwifery or MGP (midwifery group practice) model of care. Find out if your local hospital offers this program as it can provide loads of benefits.
Holistic Approach: Australian Registered Midwives prioritize a holistic approach to childbirth, addressing not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and social well-being of the mother. They provide education on nutrition, exercise, pelvic floor health, breastfeeding and birth preparation - empowering women to make informed choices along their journey.
Evidence-Based Practice: Registered Midwives in Australia follow to evidence-based guidelines and practices endorsed by professional bodies such as the Australian College of Midwives. They stay updated with the latest research to provide high-quality care to their clients which helps ensure optimal outcomes for mum and baby.
Doula:
Doulas in Australia are non-medical professionals who offer emotional, physical, and informational support to expectant mothers and their families. While they don't provide medical care, their role can be really beneficial in supporting your birth experience.
Here's what distinguishes them from Midwives:
Emotional Support: Doulas offer continuous emotional support, serving as a comforting presence throughout labor and childbirth. They provide reassurance, encouragement, and a listening ear, helping to alleviate anxiety and fear. They can provide you with positive encouragement every step of the way!
Physical Support: Doulas employ various comfort measures such as massage, breathing techniques, and positioning to help work with pain and discomfort during labor. Many doulas have also completed hypnobirthing training (which I find so helpful for my clients). Doulas work alongside midwives + obstetricians to ensure the mother's physical comfort and well-being.
Informational Support: Doulas provide evidence-based information about birth options, procedures, and interventions, empowering expectant mums to make informed decisions that are right for their values and circumstances. Doulas act as advocates, helping families navigate the healthcare system and communicate effectively with medical professionals.
Postpartum Support: Doulas extend their support into the postpartum period, assisting with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional adjustment. They offer practical guidance and emotional encouragement as families transition into parenthood.
Key Differences:
Understanding the differences between Midwives and Doulas is important so you can choose the best option for you!
Scope of Practice: Registered Midwives provide clinical care within their scope of practice, including medical assessments and interventions. Doulas offer non-medical support focused on emotional, physical, and informational assistance.
Regulation: Registered Midwives are regulated healthcare professionals under AHPRA, ensuring they meet specific standards of education and practice. Doulas are not formally regulated in Australia, although many undergo training through reputable organizations.
Accessibility: Access to Registered Midwives may vary depending on factors such as location and healthcare provider availability. Doulas typically operate independently and can be hired directly by expectant parents.
Cost: The cost of working with a Registered Midwife is often covered by our public health system, and private midwifery care also attracts Medicare rebates on antenatal + postnatal appointments. Doulas charge a fee for their services, which can vary depending on their experience and location.
Both Midwives and Doulas play vital roles in supporting women and families during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period in Australia. By understanding the differences between these roles, parents can make informed decisions about their birthing preferences and assemble a supportive birth team tailored to their needs and desires. Whether opting for clinical care with a Registered Midwife or seeking additional support from a Doula, the goal remains the same: a safe, empowering, and positive birth experience for every family.
P.S. Did you know I offer appointments to help you navigate your care provider options? These sessions are tailored to your unique needs, and also consider your location, local services available to you and what care your 'zoned' hospital can provide you with. I would love to support you to feel informed and empowered on your journey!
