What is a Midwife
Midwives are health professionals who provide care for women and their families during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. They can see normal routine newborns up to 6 weeks of age. They can also provide women services outside of pregnancy.
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who provides health care to women, newborns, and families. CNMs graduate from an accredited midwifery education program and pass a nation certification exam with American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). CNMs confirm and date pregnancies; provide comprehensive care throughout childbirth, including prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care while counseling and educating parents on the process; perform preventive health screenings and test; diagnosis and treat gynecological disorders; conduct annual exams; write prescriptions; offer basic nutrition counseling.
Research shows that working with a CNM can improve the chances of a positive, natural childbirth and the health and safety of the mother and baby.
Prenatal
Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant It includes your checkups and prenatal testing. Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby healthy.
Birth
A home birth is a planned birth that takes place in a residence, rather than in a hospital or birthing center.
Postpartum
The time that begins right after a woman gives birth and lasts about 6 weeks.
Gynecological Services
Reproductive and sexual health services that includes pelvic exams, pap tests, cancer screenings, testing for vaginal infections and other women concerns.
