Here is a short listing of information to learn more about who midwives are and what midwives do. I hope to keep it updated and accurate. There is a lot of information out there, and the best way to learn is to begin researching for yourself. Here is a good place to start.
I’d like to add my own insight to this list as well:
A Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) is a medical professional with an advanced degree in women’s health and family nursing. They treat women as primary care providers from puberty on through the life span. Most deliver their maternity patients in hospitals (yes, nearly 90%) and have a holistic philosophy to women’s health. As of right now, the education of a midwife is switching from masters degrees to DPN degrees, and in the near future, only DPN level programs will be accepted for certification.
www.midwife.org This is the site of ACNM, American College of Nurse Midwives. Fantastic resource.
www.midwiferytoday.com This site has more information from a more natural and “Lay Midwife” view. Having information from a diverse base is important.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midwifery See what Wikipedia has to say about it. We all know this is not a perfect source, but it has some interesting views.
I will put up some terms and definitions in the future. For now, I hope I have sparked your curiosity and opened your mind about women’s health care options.
Adventures of a Mom in Nursing School 