How to Choose the Right OB-GYN, Midwife, or Doula for Your Journey
Choosing the Right Provider Can Save Your Life
Your choice of OB-GYN, midwife, or doula isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, respect, and ensuring your voice is heard throughout your pregnancy and birth journey.
Why does this matter?
The U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations.
Black women are 3x more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes due to implicit bias and systemic racism in healthcare.
Having a culturally competent provider who listens and respects your wishes can dramatically improve birth outcomes.
This guide will walk you through how to pick the right provider, red flags to watch for, and what culturally competent care really looks like.
Step 1: Understand Your Provider Options
💡 OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist)
A doctor specializing in pregnancy, labor, and reproductive health.
Best for high-risk pregnancies or if you need medical interventions.
💡 Midwife
A trained healthcare professional who supports pregnancy and birth.
Best for low-risk pregnancies and those seeking a more natural birth experience.
💡 Doula
Not a medical provider but offers emotional and physical support.
Best for advocacy, continuous support, and improving birth outcomes.
Step 2: What to Look for in a Provider
✅ They Listen to You – Your concerns should never be dismissed.
✅ They Support Your Birth Plan – Whether you want a medicated or unmedicated birth, your choices should be honored.
✅ They Respect Your Cultural & Personal Needs – Providers should acknowledge religious, racial, and personal preferences in care.
✅ They Make You Feel Comfortable – Trust your gut! If something feels off, it probably is.
🚩 RED FLAGS TO WATCH OUT FOR 🚩
❌ They rush appointments & dismiss your concerns.
❌ They pressure you into interventions you don’t want.
❌ They don’t explain procedures or your options.
❌ They ignore cultural preferences & pain concerns.
Step 3: How to Find the Right Match
🔎 Research Their Background – Look up their experience, patient reviews, and hospital policies.
👩🏾⚕️ Ask About Their Approach – Do they believe in shared decision-making?
📋 Trust Patient Reviews & Testimonials – Other women’s experiences can tell you a lot.
👂 Interview Multiple Providers – You’re hiring them, not the other way around.
Step 4: Culturally Competent Care – What It Looks Like
Culturally competent providers:
✔ Recognize & address racial disparities in healthcare.
✔ Acknowledge pain bias and advocate for equitable treatment.
✔ Honor traditions, dietary restrictions, and religious beliefs.
✔ Encourage informed consent and shared decision-making.
Your care should feel safe, empowering, and RESPECTFUL.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve the Best Care
Don’t settle for a provider who doesn’t listen, respect your choices, or support your needs. Advocate for yourself—or bring a doula or support person to help.