certified nurse midwife
CERTIFIED NURSE MIDWIFE or CNM is defined as an Advanced Practice Nurse who has specialized education and training in both Nursing and Midwifery. A CNM starts out as an RN in labor & delivery in a hospital for several years & then goes back to school. Through a formal education process she gains certification & earns the title Certified Nurse Midwife. CNM'S are highly trained to support the "NORMAL" pregnancy, labor, & delivery. More importantly she is taught to recognize when the pregnancy labor or delivery is no longer with in "normal" limits. When a complication develops that is outside of the CNM'S "scope of practice" the patient is then moved into the high risk category & a qualified Obstetrician manages the remainder of her pregnancy. Sometimes the Midwife & the MD will manage your care together. It is very important to keep you & your baby safe through out your prenatal and childbirth experience. CNM's empower women by helping to provide a serene individualized birthing environment while supporting the normal process of labor. This can include complete pain management depending on the laboring woman's preference. The Midwife will assist you in creating an individualized plan that is designed to embrace all your needs and desires, while keeping you safe during your ideal pregnancy and birth.
Studies show that CNM/ physician teams have substantial advantages over practices where midwives are not available, from maintaining higher birth weights to lower infant mortality rates & reduced Cesarean sections. There is also a decreased need for anesthesia and episiotomy with the practice of Midwifery. At Athena Medical, it is our belief that whether you see a Midwife during a "normal" birth experience or Physician who is qualified to manage high risk complications…It is your body & your baby. It is your decision! You have a RESPONSIBILITY & a RITE 2 choose!
CNM's provide a full range of primary healthcare services to women at Athena Medical, including (but not limited to):
· Family planning services
· Preconception care
· Individualized prenatal care, counseling, & education
· Delivery of babies
· Postpartum care including; breast feeding education & support