Midwives and nurses are clinical care providers. In many countries, midwives may be the only caregiver a woman sees throughout her pregnancy and birth – an obstetrician would only be called in if there were a serious problem. In Singapore, however, midwives provide care during labour and birth alongside doctors; they are not independent caregivers. Midwives carry out monitoring of the mother and baby, perform vaginal examinations, assess the progress of labour, assist the doctor, and generally support the mother through labour and birth. Midwives may be in the labour room very frequently or only for a few minutes of every hour, depending on the circumstances with each couple.

Doulas, on the other hand, give you non-clinical support, and information. A doula does not monitor your baby's heartbeat or examine you. She is there to focus on you, your partner, and your experience, not on your health care. She may offer comfort measures, strategies for getting rest, and can ensure you understand what is happening in your body at different phases of labour. She explains medical terms and procedures and can help you explore your whole range of options in any circumstance in a clear, straightforward way, so you don't feel confused or overwhelmed. When you have a decision to make, she can help you get the background you want and communicate most effectively with your doctor and nurses.

Doulas, midwives, and doctors ideally work as a team, each providing a different form of care that together offers you the most complete support possible.