What's the difference between a doula and a midwife in Australia?

In Australia, a doula and a midwife are distinct roles within the realm of pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care, each with its own set of responsibilities and qualifications. Here are the main differences between the two:

• A doula is a non-medical birth professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to women and their partners before, during, and after childbirth.
• Doulas do not perform medical tasks or clinical procedures. Instead, they offer continuous support, advocacy, comfort measures, and guidance throughout the childbirth experience.
• Doulas typically help women create birth plans, provide comfort techniques during labor (such as breathing exercises, massage, and positioning), offer encouragement, and facilitate communication with healthcare providers.
• Doulas do not replace the role of healthcare professionals like midwives or doctors but work alongside them to support the mother's emotional and physical well-being.

• A midwife is a trained healthcare professional who provides comprehensive care to women throughout the childbirth process, including prenatal care, labor and delivery support, and postnatal care for both the mother and newborn.
• Midwives are qualified to provide medical assessments, perform clinical examinations, order tests, monitor the progress of labor, administer medications (if authorized), and provide hands-on assistance during childbirth.
• In Australia, midwives may work in various settings, including hospitals, birth centers, and home births. They can provide primary care to low-risk pregnant women and collaborate with obstetricians or other specialists in cases of high-risk pregnancies or complications.
• Midwives emphasize a holistic approach to pregnancy and childbirth, focusing on the physiological and emotional needs of women while promoting informed decision-making and active participation in the birthing process.

In summary, while both doulas and midwives play crucial roles in supporting women during childbirth, doulas primarily offer emotional and physical support, while midwives provide medical care and assistance throughout the entire childbirth journey. Together they can work together as a team for your birth alongside obstetricians, paediatricians and other allied healthcare practitioners.