Finding the right obstetric practitioner to help care for you during your pregnancy, labor and delivery is an important decision. While an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) is the most common caregiver, choosing a midwife for care is growing in popularity. Norton Healthcare has a midwifery practice as part of our commitment to meet the unique needs of all moms-to-be.

Planning ahead and knowing what options are available is key to making an informed decision. Learn more about OB/GYNs and midwives to determine what choice is right for you.

OB/GYN

An OB/GYN is a medical doctor who specializes in pregnancy, birth and postpartum care. Norton Healthcare OB/GYNs deliver more babies in Louisville and Southern Indiana than any other provider. Our expertise and personalized care are just two reasons so many parents choose to deliver at Norton Healthcare.

Women who choose an OB/GYN typically have an appointment every four weeks in the first trimester, and as the pregnancy advances, weekly visits begin until delivery day.

These specialists are trained to deal with the entire range of pregnancies, from uncomplicated, low-risk deliveries to many kinds of high-risk deliveries.

Midwife

Norton Healthcare’s midwifery practice includes certified nurse midwives (CNM) who provide comprehensive, family-centered maternity care from the first prenatal visit through labor and delivery, and after the birth of your baby.

Midwives are a good fit for low-risk pregnancies, though they also can assist or refer patients to OB/GYNs for high-risk care.

Despite the holistic approach of midwives, it’s a common misconception that they only oversee natural births. Patients of midwives can choose pain-management options including epidural or nitrous oxide.