Midwifery Care 

Midwifery as practiced by certified nurse-midwives (CNMs®) encompasses a full range of primary health care services for women from adolescence beyond menopause. These services include the independent provision of primary care, gynecologic and family planning services, preconception care, care during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, care of the normal newborn during the first 28 days of life, and treatment of male partners for sexually transmitted infections. Midwives provide initial and ongoing comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and treatment. They conduct physical examinations; prescribe medications including controlled substances and contraceptive methods; admit, manage and discharge patients; order and interpret laboratory and diagnostic tests and order the use of medical devices. Midwifery care also includes health promotion, disease prevention, and individualized wellness education and counseling. These services are provided in partnership with women and families in diverse settings such as ambulatory care clinics, private offices, community and public health systems, hospitals and birth centers.

CNMs are educated in two disciplines: midwifery and nursing. They are registered nurses that earn graduate degrees and complete a midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), and pass a national certification examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) to receive the professional designation of CNM.

The Bottom Line: Nurse-midwives are great care providers for women throughout their lifespan and can be an invaluable partner when it comes to pregnancy and birth.  Make sure you understand all a nurse-midwife can offer, and let go of the myths!