So you just found out you’re expecting! Now the next step is to figure out what provider will be with you for the next eight months. There are two options and both are better than crisco oil and hot water and the neighbor next door! Just kidding but seriously, you could choose an OB/GYN or a Midwife and which one you choose is probably going to depend on what type of birth and care you are looking to have.
OB/GYN's tend to be the choice of mothers who want a hospital birth with an epidural. Because there are many patients to see, OB/GYN's tend to have a shorter visit with their patients (10-15 min per appointment.) OB/GYN's are also trained surgical doctors, so those requiring or requesting a cesarean (c-section) birth, would need to consult this type of provider.
Midwives tend to be the choice of mothers who want a home birth, birthing center birth, or non-medicated hospital birth. There is usually a lighter patient load for midwives so tend to have longer visits with their patients (30-45 min per appointment.) Midwives are trained and are fully equipped to manage the care of women. Essentially they do everything an OB/GYN does minus c-sections and maybe a few other exceptions. If cost is a deciding factor for you, Midwives are a more cost efficient choice and you are not compromising on the quality of care. Lastly, all midwives have an OB/GYN that they consult with in cases were a consult is needed.
Ultimately both options are great choices and offer different experiences. The most important thing is that you do you research on which path you are leaning towards and ask around. Many times referrals are a great way to get a snippet of that practice or provider. Do your research! It is perfectly okay to set up a consultation to interview and shop around for your provider. There is a provider for every woman but not every prover is for every woman. Atlanta Parent Magazine's September 2019 issue has compiled a list of Mom-Approved Doctor's. This list has OB/GYN's, Midwives and Fertility Specialist in Atlanta.
