what are midwives

Midwives are healthcare providers who specialize in the normal processes of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. They are trained to manage many common obstetric complications and work in collaboration with obstetricians to handle any complications that may arise. Midwives provide personalized, respectful care for each client, and believe in collaborative care with each woman and her family, tailoring her health care to her needs and helping her make the best decision for her and her family. There are two types of midwives: certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and professional midwives (also called lay midwives). CNMs are nurses who have received a master's degree in midwifery and have been trained in many aspects of comprehensive women's health care, while professional midwives are trained in childbirth and are required to pass an exam to be licensed but are not required to have any medical training and cannot administer medication. Midwives can provide prenatal care, childbirth, newborn care, and postpartum health. They tend to be more holistic and supportive of natural approaches to pregnancy and birth. Women who choose midwives usually want very little medical intervention and have had no complications. Midwives can deliver babies at birthing centers, at home, or at a hospital.