There are many options when it comes to selecting prenatal care. It’s
important to understand the training and qualifications of each health
professional in order to find the one who is the best fit for you and
your pregnancy. The following are additional health care professionals
who can provide prenatal care throughout the course of pregnancy, labor
and delivery.
Family Practitioner
Family practitioners are medical doctors who are qualified to provide
health care to all members of a family, no matter the age. In addition,
they provide prenatal care for normal pregnancies. However, women who
are considered high-risk for pregnancy complications will be referred to
an OB/GYN or maternal-fetal medicine specialist.
Doula
Doulas are trained and experienced professionals who provide physical
and emotional support for a mother and her family throughout pregnancy,
labor and delivery and the postpartum period. Doulas are not medical
doctors and do not provide clinical care. They should be considered a
supplement to your regular obstetric health care provider, not a
replacement.
Most doulas will provide support in your home during the early labor
period. Once you are ready to go to the hospital, you may choose to have
your doula come along as well, to provide help and support during
delivery. It’s important to note that most insurance providers do not
cover the cost of a doula.