The word “midwife” comes from Old English and means “with woman.” Midwives have helped women give birth since the beginning of history. A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) is a registered nurse with specialized training in caring for pregnant women and their families. CNMs must complete an accredited program of study and clinical experience in obstetrical and routine gynecological care and they must pass national and state licensing exams to become certified. The services they provide include gynecological and breast examinations for women of all ages, advising women about reproductive health and personal care, and obstetrical care before, during, and after delivery.

“Nurse-midwifery is a special and very personal field as nurse-midwives:

• Pride themselves on listening to women and helping them make informed and educated decisions about their healthcare,
• Respect intimacy, privacy, and family diversity, and
• Draw on their own patience and understanding to provide specialized care during pregnancy and birth.”

says Biddy Fein, CNM, Director of Nurse-Midwifery at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates.

Myths of Nurse-Midwifery
Over the years, several myths about nurse-midwifery have surfaced and have created some preconceived notions about what utilizing a nurse-midwife involves. The myths and their truths below illustrate some common misconceptions of nurse-midwifery.

Myth #1:
All midwives are the same.

Truth:
In the United States, midwives are not all the same. There are “Lay” or “Empirical” midwives, who have training to deliver babies, however, their background and education varies greatly and they do not deliver babies in hospitals. “Certified” nurse midwives, on the other hand, are educated in both the science and the art of nursing and midwifery. Additionally, CNMs are certified by The American College of Nurse Midwives and licensed by their state of practice.

Myth #2:
Midwives only deliver babies at home.

Truth:
The majority of deliveries by certified nurse-midwives actually occur in a hospital. Midwives believe that childbirth is a natural event, requiring medical intervention only in special circumstances. In a hospital environment, medical intervention is available in situations where it is requested or needed. In addition, many nurse-midwives have hospital affiliations and admitting privileges, and some may work in birthing centers.

Myth #3:
Patients of a midwife cannot receive pain medication in labor.

Truth:
When it comes to using pain medication during labor, the choice is that of the delivering mother, not the nurse-midwife. While midwives do support a drug-free approach to birth whenever possible, they also respect the right of the mother to choose the pain relief method she wants. Both IV pain medication and epidural anesthesia are available during delivery. Nurse-midwives do offer other options, however to manage pain. Techniques like walking around, using the hydrotherapy tub or shower, sitting in a rocker, using massage, sitting on a birthing ball, can also be utilized to help with the delivery and pain management.

Myth #4:
Nurse-midwives only provide prenatal care and perform deliveries.

Truth:
CNMs are licensed to perform deliveries and can also provide gynecological care, such as routine pelvic exams, PAP tests, contraception and birth control counseling, and referrals for mammography. One of the biggest advantages of nurse-midwifery care is that they provide preventive healthcare for women of all ages. They are excellent health counselors that use alternative and complimentary medicine, as well. Teaching women how to prevent disease and maintain good health throughout their lives are hallmarks of nurse-midwifery care. Nurse-midwives work in collaboration with physicians who can provide the care you may need if you have a medical complication or need surgery.

Myth #5:
Health insurance plans only pay for physician care.

Truth:
Most midwives provide prenatal care and delivery, as well as routine gynecological care. They accept many health insurance plans. When comparing and selecting health insurance plans, ask if nurse-midwives are included as providers.

Why might I consider a certified nurse-midwife for my obstetrical or gynecological care?
Midwives can be an appealing option for women who want a more individualized approach to their care. They are focused on providing care to women throughout their lives while acknowledging and respecting their unique needs.

Midwives can help you learn about the physical and emotional changes you go through during pregnancy and teach you how to maintain good health habits. They see every pregnancy as a unique and normal event and encourage you to consider your options for labor and delivery to personalize your own birth experience.

Nurse-Midwifery involves the total care of the pregnant mother, including nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, and prenatal care, with close attention to the development of the mother, baby, and family. Nurse-Midwives are skilled in education, counseling, and health advocacy for women and children.

Typically, women who choose the care of a certified nurse-midwife because they are seeking an intimate and individualized approach to childbirth can be confident that they are in safe hands.