| Frequently Asked Questions |
| What is a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) and what is the educational background of the CNM? |
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| When does the physician participate in my care? |
| Our collaborating physicians are available to assist our clients at all times. They are often called upon for consultation related to a variety of health care issues. Surgical procedures, treatment of abnormal pap smears, or cesarean birth are examples of situations when the physician will participate in your care. The CNM will remain closely involved with you, providing support and explanations of necessary procedures. |
| Is home birth an option? |
| All births attended by the midwives will be in a hospital setting. We believe that we are able to provide you with "the best of both worlds" and will support non-interventive care in a home-like setting. Since one of the CNM's will be with you during your labor and birth, we will advocate for you throughout this process. Women desiring early labor support at home are encouraged to consider utilizing a certified perinatal support specialist, or doula. We can assist you in contacting one of these professionals if desired. |
| Is natural childbirth my only option? |
 Many
women seek midwifery care because they are interested in an unmedicated
birth. Midwifery care offers women support and alternatives to traditional
pain relief, including massage, warm water immersion, and a constant
presence. Since it is hard to predict how a woman's labor will progress,
we feel that it is important to have the ability to provide pain medication
and epidural anesthesia when needed or desired. |
Certified
Nurse Midwives are registered nurses with advanced education and
training in caring for women across the life span. Their scope of
practice includes well woman health care, comprehensive prenatal,
birth, and postpartum care of healthy women, family planning services,
and urgent care of many gynecologic problems. CNM's are licensed
health care professionals who are able to prescribe medications
and perform many procedures related to women's health care.
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