Nurse Midwifery

The use of midwives dates back to the late 1700’s. Though the concept remains very much the same, the hands of time have allowed professionals to shape this medical practice into a highly respected, safe and effective means of obstetrical care.

Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are licensed health care practitioners educated in the two disciplines of nursing and midwifery. They provide primary care to women of childbearing age including: prenatal care, labor and delivery care, care after birth, gynecological exams, newborn care, assistance with family planning decisions, preconception care, menopausal management and counseling in health maintenance and disease prevention.

While CNMs are qualified to administer drugs, perform medical procedures and provide their patients with other technological interventions, they rely on technology only when it is medically necessary. As a result, women who are under the care of a CNM are less likely to have a cesarean section or an episiotomy and are more likely to experience a vaginal birth after a previous cesarean section.

For many women, midwifery is a practice that is both natural and satisfying. There is a high level of emotional support for the whole family throughout the pregnancy and delivery process. At Robert Wood Johnson OB/GYN Group Hamilton your certified nurse midwife serves as your educator, by providing you and your family important healthcare information. Additionally, she serves as an advocate for you, regarding your healthcare decisions.

Education and Training In the U.S., CNMs are required to pass a national examination for certification administered by the ACNM Certification Council (ACC). To be eligible for examination, a midwifery student must graduate from an educational program accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM). These requirements ensure that U.S. nurse-midwifery education is standardized, and that CNMs meet national requirements. In addition, some states have further requirements for the practice of nurse-midwifery.