What is a Midwife? What is the support she provides during your childbirth?

Are you expecting to become a mother? Then, along with happiness, you also have some questions and fears in your mind, right? "How will the birth be?", "Will I be able to bear the pain?", "Will everything be okay for the baby and me?" These thoughts are very normal. At a time like this, have you ever heard of someone who can give you medical advice, give you mental strength, and be by your side throughout your pregnancy and childbirth? That special person is called a Midwife. Today, let's talk about this Midwife, or as many people in our country know her, " Family Health Service Officer ."

Simply put, who is a midwife?

A midwife is a health professional who is specially trained to support women during pregnancy, labor, and after delivery. Think of her as your own friend, a sister, who will support you throughout this beautiful journey.

In our country, we often call these people "Family Health Service Officers." They receive government-approved training and help mothers and children throughout the village. In other parts of the world, these midwives are classified in different ways based on their training and certifications. For example, some are also trained as nurses. However, the main thing is that they are experts in pregnancy and natural childbirth.

How can a midwife help you?

A midwife's services are similar to those of an Obstetrician (OB/GYN), and they provide care before you get pregnant, throughout your pregnancy, and after you give birth. Let's take a look at what they do.

How do midwives and doctors work together?

This is a very important point. A midwife always works in conjunction with an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) because unexpected problems can arise during pregnancy or childbirth.

Imagine that you were hoping to have a baby naturally, without any medical intervention. But when you get to the hospital, you can't stand the pain and need an epidural (an injection of anesthesia into your spine). While a midwife can't give it to you, she can immediately notify the anesthesia team and arrange for it to be given to you.

Also, if you develop a risk condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes during pregnancy, the midwife will definitely work with a specialist to care for you.

Are Midwife and Doula the same?

Yes. The roles of these two are different.

• Midwife : She is a medically trained person who can monitor your health, perform tests, and provide medical care.
• Doula: She is not a medically trained person. Her role is to provide you with mental, physical, and emotional support before, during, and after childbirth. In other words, she is like a friend who comforts you, gives you strength, and holds your hand.

Why should you choose a Midwife?

Here are some situations when you should consider seeking the help of a midwife:

• If you want to have a natural birth as possible. That is, if you want to deliver your baby without unnecessary episiotomy or induction.
• If you need emotional, practical, and social support throughout your pregnancy. If you need someone to talk to when you have a problem, someone to ease your burden.
• If you expect treatment that respects your culture and beliefs .
• If you are expecting postpartum care , you will be able to come home to see you and your baby for two to six weeks after the baby is born, and you will be given the necessary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about a Midwife

Is a midwife a doctor?

No. Midwives are not medical doctors. They are people who have received special training in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Their training is completely different from that of a doctor.

What is the difference between an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) and a midwife?

The main difference is in their training and care.

• OB/GYN (doctor): Treats all pregnancies, including high-risk pregnancies. Can perform surgery (C-section) if necessary.
• Midwife: Usually cares for low-risk pregnancies . Her approach is more natural, focusing on both the mind and body.

So who is better? The midwife or the doctor?

There is no such thing as "better" than another. The best choice for you will depend on your health and your preferences. It is best to receive care from a team that includes a midwife and a doctor.

Are there any risks in seeking the help of a midwife?

Midwifery care is very safe for low-risk pregnancies. There can be some risks, especially if you are giving birth outside of a hospital. That's why it's important to always have a doctor or hospital you can contact in case of an emergency.

Can a midwife perform C-section surgeries?

No. Midwives are not allowed to perform C-sections. Only obstetricians and gynecologists can do that. However, some specially trained midwives can assist the doctor during the operation.

What questions should I ask before choosing a midwife?

If you are seeking the assistance of a midwife in person, it is very important to ask these questions:

• What certifications and training do you have?
• Where do you attend childbirth? (Hospital or home?)
• What is your opinion on pain management?
• Are there any specialist doctors (OB/GYNs) you work with in an emergency?
• What if I move out of a low-risk situation during pregnancy (e.g., if my blood pressure increases)?
• Can you provide postpartum support?

Midwife, Family Health Service Officer, Childbirth, Pregnancy, Natural Childbirth, OB/GYN, Women's Health