When you first find out you’re pregnant, it’s such an exciting time—but that excitement can quickly turn into overwhelm. For many mamas, especially first-time mamas, once it really sinks in that you have a baby on the way, the questions start flooding in.

One of the first big decisions you’ll face is: Who will be my provider? Should I choose a midwife or an OBGYN?

​Let’s talk about what that decision really means, what makes each provider unique, and how your personal birth goals—and your faith—can help guide your choice.

A lot of moms don’t realize there’s more than one type of provider who can care for you during pregnancy and birth.

An OBGYN (or obstetrician-gynecologist) is a medical doctor who specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, and women’s reproductive health. They are trained to handle all types of pregnancies, including high-risk ones, and can perform surgeries such as C-sections.

A midwife, on the other hand, focuses on the natural, low-risk side of pregnancy and birth. Their approach is usually more personal and relationship-based. They see birth as a normal, God-designed process—not an illness to be treated.

Both midwives and OBGYNs are highly trained, but their focus and style of care are very different.

OBGYNs are trained within the medical model of care, which often emphasizes procedures, testing, and intervention. Their goal is safety, but that can sometimes mean more technology and less time spent on emotional or spiritual preparation.

​Midwives are trained in the midwifery model of care, which sees pregnancy and birth as natural life events. They tend to spend more time with you at each appointment, talking about your goals, emotions, nutrition, and how to prepare mentally, physically, and spiritually.

As Christian women, it’s important to remember that God designed our bodies beautifully and purposefully for childbirth.

Choosing a provider who respects that design—and your faith—can make a huge difference in your birth experience. A midwife may naturally align more with this view, offering prayer, encouragement, and holistic support. But that doesn’t mean an OBGYN can’t share your faith or respect your wishes.
What matters most is finding someone who listens, supports, and partners with you to create a joyful, faith-filled birth journey.

Here’s the truth: there isn’t one right answer for everyone.

If you have a high-risk pregnancy, or if you feel more comfortable in a hospital setting, an OBGYN might be the right fit.
If you want a more personal, natural, and spiritually connected experience, a midwife might be your best choice—especially if you’re planning a home birth or birth center experience.

​Take time to pray over your decision. Ask God to lead you to the right provider who will not only care for your physical needs but also nurture your heart and faith through the process.

Choosing between a midwife and an OBGYN is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make on your pregnancy journey. It’s about more than credentials or birth settings—it’s about your values, your vision, and your connection with God’s plan for you and your baby.

Whichever path you choose, remember this: you were made for this. Trust your body, trust your instincts, and most importantly, trust the One who designed it all.