How do I find a midwife or doula on Sana Network? You can find pregnancy and birth support by selecting “Midwifery” or “Doula Services” from the provider type menu. Search by your city or zip code to see local providers. Our detailed profiles allow you to filter by specific areas of expertise, such as home birth, hospital-based midwifery, postpartum support, or high-risk pregnancy advocacy.

What is the difference between a Midwife and a Doula? While both support the birthing process, their roles are distinct in clinical responsibility:

• Midwives: Are trained medical professionals who provide clinical healthcare. They perform physical exams, order lab tests, prescribe certain medications, and catch the baby. They are responsible for the health and safety of both the birthing person and the infant.

• Doulas: Are non-medical professionals who provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support. They do not perform clinical tasks or medical exams. Instead, they focus on comfort measures, advocacy, and supporting the family during and after the transition into parenthood.

Are midwives and doulas licensed?

• Midwives: Sana Network includes Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNM), who are advanced practice registered nurses, and Certified Professional Midwives (CPM) or Licensed Midwives (LM). CNMs are licensed in all 50 states, while licensing for CPMs/LMs varies by state.

• Doulas: Doulas are not currently licensed by state medical boards, but many hold certifications from reputable organizations like DONA International or CAPPA. 

Can a midwife prescribe medication or order tests? Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) have prescriptive authority in all 50 states and can order ultrasounds, blood work, and other diagnostic tests, much like an OB/GYN. Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) have varying levels of authority depending on the state in which they practice. Doulas cannot prescribe medication or perform medical procedures.

Does Sana Network include student midwives or doulas-in-training? Yes. To support the growth of the birth-work community, we include student midwives and doulas who are currently finishing their clinical requirements. Student midwives practice under the strict supervision of a licensed midwife. Doulas-in-training often offer their services at a significantly reduced or “pro bono” rate to gain the required experience for their certification.

Do I need a referral to see a midwife or hire a doula? Generally, no. Most families reach out to midwives or doulas directly. However, if you plan to use insurance for midwifery care, some plans (especially HMOs) may require a referral from your primary care physician. Doula services are increasingly being covered by some insurance plans and state Medicaid programs, though many remain private-pay.

How much do these services cost and is insurance accepted?

• Midwifery: Often covered by insurance as part of standard maternity care. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your specific plan.

• Doulas: Often a flat-fee service ranging from $800 to $2,500+ depending on the package (birth support vs. postpartum hours). Many providers on Sana Network offer sliding scale fees or payment plans to ensure that support is accessible to all families regardless of income.

Can I have a midwife and a doula if I am giving birth in a hospital? Absolutely. Many midwives practice within hospital systems, and most doulas are trained to support births in any setting, home, birth center, or hospital. Having both ensures you have a medical provider focused on your safety and a support person focused entirely on your physical comfort and emotional well-being.