Difference between midwife and OB Doctor?

[ChrisHealy]

Should I get a midwife?  I'm just now looking into it.  What's the difference?  Also, has anyone gotten a birthing contract that specifies your decisions for meds and/or procedures done?  I've had two "regular" vaginal births, but one was 21 yrs ago and the other 16.  They were very different.  One didn't want to give me any meds and it hurt like hell, hence, I asked for meds and an epidural the second time and they gave me so much, I fell asleep for 3 hours and woke up just in time to deliver.  The nurse, that time pushed on my stomach to get the baby out.  I didn't like that at all.  Do you think she did that because the epidural prevented me from pushing?  I'm not sure whether or not to get an epidural this time.  I'm also wondering the benefits of having a midwife, but I don't want to upset my doctor.  What are you ladies thinking?

[ChrisHealy]

Thanks.  I think I'm going to stick to my OB.  

[Jane41]

The older you are and the more babies you've had the increased chance of excessive bleeding after birth.  Also, if you decide to have pain medicine, midwives are limited in what they can prescribe.  I've had both and prefer an OBGYN.  They tend to be more efficient and if there is a problem they can react quicker (i.e., if you need an emergency C-section).  If you have a mid-wife they have to call in an OBGYN if there is a problem.  That can be time wasted if the situation is life-threatening.

[babyprayers]

I am not really sure., I have asked the same question and was told, with my advanced age :( 40... ( really dont think that is all that advanced) a Dr is better. BUT... sometimes I think a mid-wife is just as knowledgable, and they are more sympathetic with better bed side manner.. I thought about a mid wife with this baby., but because I am having twins opted to go with a full fledged MD.. good luck and hope things work out for you.