Choosing a Maternity Care Provider

There are many different options when choosing what type of maternity care provider is best for you, including how providers differ, the cost, and what kind of birthing experience you want to have. This Childbirth Connection resource will walk you through questions to consider when deciding on a provider.

Note: Although this resource refers to women throughout, the information applies to all pregnant and birthing people.

Related: Questions for Your Birthing Provider

“Maternity care providers have a broad range of practice styles. Some variation occurs from individual to individual. However, systematic reviews have identified overall differences between different types of maternity care providers — obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs), family physicians and midwives.”