Doula or midwife: what is the difference? Everything you need to know
When you are expecting a baby, you often hear about midwives and doulas. But what exactly is the difference between the two? Do you need both? And how do you choose the right support for your birth? If you are asking yourself these questions, you are in the right place. As a certified doula based in Aix-en-Provence, I hear these questions on almost every first discovery call. Here is everything you need to know.
The midwife: an essential medical role
A midwife is a state-registered healthcare professional. Her role is medical and clinical. She monitors your pregnancy, provides prenatal care, leads the birth and checks the health of both mother and baby after delivery.
In France, midwifery care is covered by the national health insurance and is an integral part of the healthcare system. A midwife is indispensable and you will have one at your birth, whether it takes place in a hospital, a birth centre or at home.
What a midwife cannot always offer, due to her medical responsibilities and the number of patients she cares for, is continuous presence exclusively dedicated to your emotional wellbeing. That is precisely where a doula comes in.
The doula: human, emotional and continuous support
A doula has no medical role. She does not monitor your blood pressure, does not carry out examinations and does not make medical decisions. What she does is be there for you, entirely, continuously and without judgment.
A certified doula supports you throughout pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. She helps you feel calm, confident and heard at every stage. She also supports your partner so they feel present and truly useful during labour.
As a doula based in Aix-en-Provence, I offer support in French, English and German, in person or online, so you can always express yourself in the language closest to your heart. If you would like to find out more about my doula services, I invite you to explore my support packages.
Can they work together?
Absolutely, and it is actually ideal! The midwife takes care of your health and your baby's health. The doula takes care of your experience, your emotional wellbeing and your overall journey. The two roles are deeply complementary, not competitive.
Many midwives appreciate having a doula present because it allows them to focus fully on the medical care, knowing that you are supported on a human and emotional level.
What the research says
Many international studies have shown that the presence of a doula during birth is associated with significantly positive outcomes, including:
- Shorter labours on average
- Fewer medical interventions
- Reduced use of epidurals
- Fewer caesarean sections
- Greater maternal satisfaction with the birth experience
- A better start to breastfeeding
- Reduced symptoms of postpartum depression
These results have a simple explanation: when a woman feels safe, supported and respected, her body can work more freely and more effectively.
Do I need a doula if I already have a midwife?
This is the question almost every expectant mother asks me. The honest answer is: it depends on what you need.
If you want to feel emotionally supported throughout your pregnancy, have someone available around the clock from week 37, be supported physically and emotionally throughout your entire labour, and be accompanied in the first weeks after birth, then yes, a doula can make a profound difference to your experience.
If you are based in Aix-en-Provence or the surrounding area, or if you are looking for online support in French, English or German, I would be happy to talk it through with you during a free, no-obligation first call.
Frequently asked questions
Does a doula replace a midwife?
No, never. A doula and a midwife have entirely different and complementary roles. The midwife remains essential for medical care throughout pregnancy and birth.
Are doula services covered by French health insurance?
Most public health insurance does not cover doula services. However, some private supplementary insurance plans may reimburse part of the costs. I always provide a detailed invoice that you can submit to your insurance provider.
Is it too late to hire a doula if I am already in my third trimester?
It is never too late! While earlier is always better, I work with families at every stage of pregnancy.
Do you offer online support?
Yes, absolutely. I offer fully online support, which is ideal if you are not based in the Aix-en-Provence area or simply prefer the comfort of your own home.
Do you have questions about what a doula can bring to your experience? I invite you to book your free, no-obligation discovery call. Let us talk about your journey together, in your language, at your own pace.