Today's midwife is a skilled healthcare professional who provides high quality primary health care to women.
While midwives are probably best known for their care of women during pregnancy and childbirth, they serve women throughout life.
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are registered nurse (RNs) who have successfully completed an accredited graduate education program and passed a national certification exam. They are licensed to practice in all states.
Certified Midwives (CMs) also complete an accredited graduate program and pass a certification exam. Standards for education and certification in midwifery are identical for CNMs and CMs.
Your midwife will give you individualized care guided by evidence-based practices that have been tested and proven successful.
Pregnancy and birth
Prenatal visits with your midwife include monitoring your health and the health of your baby using current technology and laboratory tests as indicated. Midwives are experts in normal pregnancy and health education, a combination that is the perfect match for most pregnant women.
Midwives provide family-centered care that focuses on maintaining health and helping women make informed decisions about their health. Midwives take the time to listen to your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Your midwife will welcome your questions.
During your pregnancy, your midwife will consult with a physician or specialist as needed.
During labor, your midwife evaluates your progress, helps you give birth, and offers emotional support.
Your midwife will help you make choices that are best for you, including options for pain management.
98% of births attended by midwives are in hospitals; some midwives assist women who give birth at home or at a freestanding birth center
Postpartum care begins immediately after birth as your midwife examines the newborn, provides advice on breastfeeding and infant care, and helps you adjust to your new role as a mother.
Primary Care
Annual examination with a midwife include a complete health history, physical examination, and through assessment that is shared with you.
Screening and prevention services include annual exams, vaccinations, and referrals for mammography, laboratory testing, or specialist consultants as needed.
Midwives manage common health problems and prescribe medications as needed. Your midwife can provide you with current information about immunizations and the control of communicable diseases such as the flu, hepatitis, or HPV.
Your midwife will help you prevent health problems and assist you in developing and maintaining healthy habits throughout life.
If your treatment plan calls for a prescription, your midwife can write it.
