Certified Nurse Midwives
What is a certified nurse-midwife?
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) provide a full range of primary healthcare services to women in the United States, including routine gynecological checkups, family planning services, preconception care, prenatal and postpartum care, and, of course, delivering babies. They attend births mostly in hospitals, but also in birth centers and private homes.
Certified nurse-midwives are trained in both nursing and midwifery and are certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). To be certified, a CNM must be formally educated in midwifery through an accredited program affiliated with an institution of higher learning, demonstrate clinical competence, and pass a rigorous national certifying exam. CNMs are licensed to practice in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
What is the difference between a Certified Nurse Midwife and OB/GYN physician care?
Midwives are an appealing option for women who want a more individualized, less routine approach to childbirth than many traditional obstetricians provide. They focus on helping you learn about the physical and emotional changes you go through during pregnancy, teach you how to maintain good health habits, and consider you an active participant in all aspects of your care. They see every pregnancy as a unique event and encourage you to consider your options for labor and delivery and to personalize your own birth plan.
Whatever kind of birth you choose, a CNM will support you in your decision. That said, a CNM won't hesitate to use an intervention if it's necessary for your well-being or your baby's. For example, a midwife will guide you through a nonmedicated labor if that's what you choose, but you'll still have the option of having an epidural during labor (as long as you're giving birth in a hospital). CNMs have obstetricians available for consultation and backup if needed.
Will my health insurance cover a midwife's services?
Many U.S. insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover certified nurse-midwife services. In fact, Medicaid reimbursement for CNM care is mandatory in all 50 states, and more than half the states require other insurance plans (including HMOs) that provide coverage for pregnancy to allow women to choose a nurse-midwife as their pregnancy care provider.
How do I find a certified nurse-midwife?
Visit the American College of Nurse Midwives Website for an online practice locator and other information about CNMs. Or call the ACNM at its toll-free number, (888) 643-9433.
www.midwife.org
www.midwivesofillinois.org
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