If you’ve recently become pregnant or are planning to start a family, you may be exploring your options for prenatal care. Two common types of providers are OB-GYNs, or obstetricians/gynecologists, and midwives. To ensure you’re making an informed decision and choosing the best option for yourself and your developing baby, here’s a closer look at the difference between these two professionals.

What Is a Midwife?

A midwife offers many gynecological and obstetrical services, including pre-conceptual care and family planning, prenatal care, delivery services, and postpartum care. These professionals first become nurses then complete a graduate program designed for midwives. To practice, they must also pass an exam. Because they can’t provide the full scope of services a physician can, midwives exclusively cater to low-risk pregnancies.

What Is an OB-GYN?

OB-GYNs are doctors who complete their bachelor’s degree and four years of medical school. They receive graduate-level education as a resident, engaging in hands-on experience in obstetrics and gynecology. These professionals offer not only routine care before, during, and after pregnancy but can also provide specialty maternal-fetal medicine services, including treatment for gestational diabetes, premature labor, or other complications.

While some pregnant women receive care from a midwife throughout the duration of their pregnancy, they may need to be put under the care of an OB-GYN if any complications arise. For instance, if your circumstances call for a cesarean delivery, a physician will need to perform the surgery.

Due to the broad scope of care doctors offer, many women choose to work with these professionals from the beginning of their pregnancy. That way, they can get to know the practitioner who will most likely be delivering their baby well in advance.

If you’re seeking an OB-GYN to provide exceptional care during and after your pregnancy, turn to South Baldwin Obstetrics & Gynecology, PC. Having served Baldwin County, AL, for more than 30 years, this team of doctors offers both normal and high-risk obstetric services. Find out more about their maternal care online or call (251) 943-2141 to schedule an appointment.