Women have a variety of choices for health care before, during, and after pregnancy. Although many women have babies under the care of a traditional obstetrician, midwives are also becoming popular among those who desire as few medical interventions as possible. Midwives offer many of the same services as OB-GYNs, including prenatal care, but typically take a different approach. If you’re considering partnering with one, here’s all you need to know about their role.

What a Midwife Does

Midwives are similar to prenatal doctors in that they provide care at all stages of pregnancy. However, they operate under the Midwife Model of Care, which is based on the concept that pregnancy and childbirth are normal life processes that don't necessarily require medical interventions. Often, women who desire natural childbirth choose midwives over obstetrician. Although they may be part of the labor and delivery team in a hospital, in many cases they work with patients in birthing centers, or help women who opt for home births. 

Because the focus of a midwife is on reducing interventions and achieving natural childbirth, they typically work with mothers who do not have any pregnancy complications and are not carrying multiple children. They provide prenatal care and advice throughout the term, and offer education and support after the baby is born. 

The Benefits of Getting One

Working with a midwife allows many women to have the natural childbirth experience they desire, with support at all stages. The American College of Nurse-Midwives reports several other benefits, including:

• Reduced chance of cesarean birth;
• Reduced interventions, including labor induction and anesthesia;
• Reduced preterm births and infant mortality rates;
• Reduced chance of complications, including perineal tears; 
• Improved satisfaction with the birth experience

In the event that there are complications, midwives work closely with OB-GYNs and hospitals to ensure the best possible outcomes for women and babies.

If you’re pregnant and looking for exceptional prenatal care and delivery support, Thameside ObGyn Centre in Groton, CT, is ready to help. This women’s health center offers a range of services, including family planning and pregnancy care. Learn more about their midwife option on their website or call (860) 445-5107 to schedule an appointment.