Midwifery

What is midwifery?

Midwifery refers to having a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) deliver your baby. CNM’s complete extensive training in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. They support women and their families through every step of their pregnancy and birthing journey.

CNM’s are also fully qualified to provide gynecologic care, including well-woman exams, birth control, pelvic exams, and write prescriptions. They serve as primary healthcare providers in hospitals, medical offices, and homes.

What sets certified nurse-midwives apart?

Beyond their medical expertise, CNM’s specialize in holistic women’s healthcare and promote natural alternatives to traditional medicine. Your CNM focuses on your physical health, as well as your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.  

CNM’s devote time to educating expectant parents about pregnancy, labor, and their birthing choices. Your CNM helps you make informed decisions and supports an individualized care plan. This model of care leads to an empowering experience for the mom-to-be and her support system.

What services do I receive if I choose midwifery?

Certified nurse-midwives provide comprehensive care throughout your pregnancy and delivery, including services such as:

• Prenatal care
• Natural birth
• Epidural birth
• Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)
• Postpartum care
• Help with breastfeeding
• Nutritional counseling

Your CNM supports all aspects of your healthcare and every type of delivery.

Does midwifery include high-risk pregnancies?

Providence Women’s Healthcare and your CNM do everything in their power to ensure you have a healthy, worry-free pregnancy and delivery. However, your CNM recognizes when you may need additional medical care beyond what midwifery provides.

CNMs work closely with the physicians at Providence Women’s Healthcare to manage high-risk pregnancies. They also collaborate with high-risk professionals in the area.

A high-risk pregnancy occurs when you have a medical condition that could affect the health of you and/or your baby, your ability to carry a full-term pregnancy, or lead to complications during delivery. 

For example, Providence Women’s Healthcare manages high-risk pregnancies associated with blood disorders, obesity, high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and a potential preterm labor.

When needed, Providence Women’s Healthcare makes referrals for specialized healthcare, whether for a high-risk pregnancy or other healthcare needs. They may refer you to perinatal specialists, childbirth educators, lactation specialists, massage therapists, chiropractors, doulas, and acupuncturists, to name a few.

If you’re interested in midwifery for your pregnancy, call Providence Women’s Healthcare or request an appointment online today.