What are my options for care providers during pregnancy?

In both Canada and the United States, you have the option of using an Obstetrician, Midwife or Family Doctor. Canadian providers are covered under provincial health care plans.

Obstetricians are highly skilled and trained in pre-conception, labour, birth and postpartum care. They handle both low risk and high risk pregnancies. Obstetricians work with midwives or family doctors if transfer of care or consultation is needed due to complications in either pregnancy or labour.

Midwives are skilled and trained for low risk pregnancies. They offer care throughout pregnancy and for six weeks postpartum. Midwives can support births in hospitals, birth centres and at home.

Family doctors are skilled in pregnancy and labour and can offer care for low risk pregnancies. They can support births in hospitals and can continue to care for the mother and baby postpartum.

Canadian Resources: https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/before-you-conceive/your-health-prior-to-pregnancy/choosing-a-healthcare-provider/

https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-topics/tn7415

American Resource: http://www.childbirthconnection.org/healthy-pregnancy/choosing-a-care-provider/types-of-care-providers/