A doula is different than a midwife in various ways. Let’s break it down.
Midwives are experts in normal birth. They have a degree in midwifery and are healthcare providers for pregnancy, birth and postpartum
Doulas have childbirth knowledge and experience in birth. They offer ways to support you with this knowledge
Midwives perform exams and provide clinical care for women and their babes
Doulas offer early labour support and assist in the planning of your labour and birth plans. They can support non-medical and also holistic options with information and options and choices to consider
Midwives offer informed consent and support
Doulas offer emotional support both during your pregnancy, labour and birth and postpartum
Midwives work in various birth settings that usually include home and hospital
Doulas provide continuous support and provide physical support during labour. They support all birth place settings and provide support in your home
Midwives provide postpartum clinical care for you and your baby. They provide breastfeeding support
Doulas provide postpartum emotional support and resources. They provide breastfeeding support
In Canada, midwifery care is covered with MSP, just like any other care provider
Some insurance plans will cover doula support
