Is a midwife like a doula?

I started my journey in birth work as a doula in 2012. Whenever I told people that I was a doula they asked “is that like a midwife?” And funny enough now as a midwife I am being asked the reverse “is a midwife like a doula?” Doula’s and midwives provide support for the pregnancy and birth process in very different ways. It’s super important to know the difference. Let’s get into it!

What is a Doula?

A doula is a trained professional who provides non-clinical support during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.

• Primary Role: Emotional, physical, and informational support.
• Training: Certification programs focused on comfort measures, advocacy, and continuous presence.
• Examples of Doula Support:
• Suggesting positions and breathing techniques during labor.
• Providing hands-on comfort measures such as massage or counter-pressure.
• Supporting partners and family members.
• Helping families navigate hospital or birth center policies.
• Offering postpartum guidance on feeding and postpartum recovery.

Evidence: Families who receive doula support often experience shorter labors, lower cesarean rates, and greater satisfaction (Bohren et al., Cochrane Review, 2017).

In Contra Costa County, there are lots of doulas available in Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and beyond. We recommend checking out The Mt Diablo Birth Collective for doulas in your area.

What is a Licensed Midwife?

A midwife is a licensed healthcare provider who offers clinical care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum—usually in home or freestanding birth center settings.

• Primary Role: Medical and holistic care for low-risk pregnancies.
• Training: Midwives providing home birth in Contra Costa County may be Certified Professional Midwives (CPM) like us! Or less commonly a Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNM). Both CPM’s and CNM’s  training includes prenatal care, newborn assessment, and emergency response.
• Examples of Midwifery Care:
• Regular 1 hour prenatal visits to check in on you and baby, regular lab work and ordering of ultrasounds.
• Assessing fetal health and labor progress.
• Attending and catching babies in home or freestanding birth center settings.
• Immediate newborn care and postpartum follow-up visits.

Evidence: Research shows that planned homebirths with a licensed midwife is safe for low-risk pregnancies and are associated with fewer interventions and higher satisfaction (Cheyney et al., 2014; Sandall et al., Cochrane Review, 2016).

We serve families in Contra Costa County, our clients often live in Walnut Creek, Concord, Lafayette, Marinez and father east into Brentwood and Oakley. Our midwifery practice, Aquarius Midwifery specializes in serving families choosing community-based care in our office in Pleasant Hill. 

Key Differences at a Glance

How Midwives and Doulas Work Together 

Families don’t need to choose between a doula and a midwife, many benefit from having both on their team! A midwife focuses on clinical care and safety, while a doula provides emotional and physical support. Together, we create a comprehensive circle of care that is evidence-based, compassionate, and community-centered.

Takeaway:
If you’re searching for a midwife or doula remember that these roles are different but complementary. A midwife ensures safe, clinical care, while a doula offers continuous support and advocacy. Choosing one (or both!) can help you feel informed, supported, and confident during your pregnancy and birth journey. Aquarius Midwifery would love to usher you through this journey-please contact us today for a free consultation in our office in Pleasant Hill.