When I first started looking for pregnancy support in Switzerland, I kept hearing about midwives and doulas — but I wasn’t sure what the difference was, or whether I needed one, both, or neither.
If you’re a mom-to-be (especially if you’re new to Switzerland), understanding the roles of midwives and doulas can make your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey feel much less overwhelming. In this post, I’ll explain what each does, their pros and cons, and how to find English-speaking support in Switzerland.
What Is a Midwife in Switzerland?
A midwife (Hebamme) is a licensed healthcare professional who:
- Monitors your pregnancy through check-ups.
- Supports you during labor and delivery.
- Provides postpartum care at home after birth.
- Offers breastfeeding support and newborn care guidance.
✅ Covered by basic health insurance in Switzerland.
✅ Every new mom is entitled to home visits after birth by a midwife.
What Is a Doula?
A doula is not a medical professional but rather a trained companion who:
- Provides emotional and physical support during pregnancy and birth.
- Helps you with relaxation techniques, breathing, and comfort.
- Advocates for your wishes during labor.
- Offers postpartum support (sometimes).
❌ Not usually covered by insurance.
❌ You pay out of pocket (costs vary, around CHF 600–1,500 depending on package).
Midwife vs Doula: Key Differences
| Aspect | Midwife | Doula |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Medical care (check-ups, birth, postpartum) | Emotional & physical support |
| Insurance | Covered by basic insurance | Usually not covered |
| Training | Medical education | Non-medical, supportive training |
| Focus | Health & safety | Comfort & emotional well-being |
| Postpartum | Home visits, newborn checks | Guidance & support (optional) |
Pros & Cons of Each
Midwife – Pros
- Covered by insurance.
- Essential for postpartum care.
- Medical expertise.
Midwife – Cons
- Limited time (they often manage many patients).
- May feel more clinical.
Doula – Pros
- Personalized, continuous support.
- Helps with emotional well-being.
- Great for first-time moms or expats without family nearby.
Doula – Cons
- Not covered by insurance.
- Finding English-speaking doulas may take time.
How to Find a Midwife or Doula in Switzerland
Finding a Midwife
- Start early — many book up fast!
- Website: hebammensuche.ch → Search by canton (Zurich, Aargau).
- Hospitals often assign or recommend midwives.
Finding a Doula
- Website: doula.ch → Swiss doula network.
- Ask in local expat/mom Facebook groups.
- English-speaking doulas in Zurich & Aargau are available (many list languages spoken).
- I simply googled a number of Doulas and click on their individual websites, read each one of their profiles and emailed them directly. I had a coffee session with mine in Zurich to see if we would be a good match and how I feel about going through this journey with her.
My Suggested Process for Choosing
- Decide what you value most: medical support, emotional support, or both.
- Book a midwife as early as possible (insurance-covered, essential postpartum).
- If you want extra emotional support, interview 1–2 doulas to see if you “click.”
- Ask clear questions: What’s included in your services? How available will you be? Do you speak English?
- Trust your gut — the right support person will make you feel safe and understood.
Final Thoughts
Every pregnancy journey is unique. Some moms rely only on midwives, others love the extra care a doula brings, and some choose both. There’s no “right” answer — just what feels right for you.
If you’re in Zurich or Aargau, start your search early so you have time to find the perfect match for your needs.
👉 Download my free “Questions to Ask a Midwife or Doula Before Hiring” checklist to help you choose with confidence. Head over to the TOOLS page for more downloadable resources to help you with your pregnancy journey.
