Options For Birth Professionals

When you are preparing for the birth of a baby, you will probably want to seek the advice of a birth professional. While most people think that only obstetricians can deliver babies, many mothers have turned to midwives or doulas for labor support. You can choose what form of labor expert you think will be the most beneficial for you and the type of birth that you want.

First, the most common birth professional is an OB/GYN, or obstetrician/gynecologist. An obstetrician is a physician that specializes in caring for pregnant women and with the delivery process. Obstetricians are in charge of recognizing fetal abnormalities and diagnosing them. They also advise pregnant women on healthy lifestyle choices during their terms. An obstetrician often delivers babies in his or her affiliated hospital with the help of a staff of nurses.

Next, many women turn to midwives to have a more natural experience while giving birth. In Europe, an estimated 70% of women turn to midwives for normal, vaginal births, and in America the numbers are rising steadily as well. This type of health care provider is best for people who are expecting a low-risk birth. Most midwives are actually certified nurse-midwives, or CNMs.

CNMs actually have at least a bachelor's degree and have undergone specific training to direct a birth.  They often work in hospitals, although they do allow a woman to eat and drink during birth and sometimes physical movement to help with the birthing process. Keep in mind that there are other levels of midwifery experience as well that do not such extensive certification.

Lastly, a doula isn't exactly a medical professional, but is rather like a birth coach. A doula is a woman that acts as a labor assistant for the woman rather than the medical staff. She encourages and supports the pregnant woman during the labor process in addition to the support of the partner. Doulas are there throughout the entire delivery process, and work to give physical, emotional, and informational help during labor. They sometimes give massages and offer breathing help, and can act as a liaison between the medical staff and the parents.

Studies have shown that having a doula during birth leads to fewer Caesarean sections, shorter labors, and less complications in general. Although many doulas must be privately contracted, hospitals are now recognizing the benefits of having doulas and have several on call in case a woman in labor requests her services.

When you enter into a contract with a birth professional, you should be able to expect certain levels of competence from your

Obstetrician Eastern Suburbs Melbourne midwife, or doula. Should a healthcare professional fail in his or her duty to you, this can result in a birth injury to your baby. If you or someone you know has had a baby that suffered from birth injuries, you may be entitled to financial compensation.