What is a Midwife?
Midwives are licensed and educated to care for women throughout their lives, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. If you’re pregnant, a midwife can provide ongoing medical care, help you create a birth plan, and be present for the birth.
Many cultures have used midwives as part of a woman’s healthcare team for years. Some people rely on midwives to bring aspects of their religious beliefs or cultural background into a birth plan or healthcare appointments. You can also discuss these desires with the rest of your healthcare team. Your entire team will help communicate your wishes, and your autonomy will be respected during pregnancy and childbirth.
Do Midwives Have Credentials?
Florida Woman Care health centers only employ certified nurse-midwives who have credentials as a midwife and as a healthcare provider.
A Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) has a solid educational background with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Their education includes a graduate-level midwifery program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. CNMs have also completed a midwifery program and earned a registered nurse license during or prior to their entry into the midwifery program. NCMs will also have completed clinical experience to the standards of the American College of Nurse-Midwives.
Do Obstetricians and Midwives Work Together?
Midwives and obstetricians frequently collaborate to provide excellent healthcare to women during and after pregnancy. Your team will help ensure that your wishes regarding your healthcare are respected, including your autonomy.
If your pregnancy is lower-risk, your midwife may lead your healthcare appointments and procedures. They can guide the conversation; your other healthcare providers will follow their lead. Pregnancies with a moderate risk may require your obstetrician and midwife to work more collaboratively. High-risk pregnancies often require an obstetrician to take the lead with the help of a maternal-fetal specialist. Your midwife will be present to provide additional support.
Our Commitment to Quality Reproductive Healthcare
Our providers strive to keep you safe, healthy, and do our best to ensure you have a successful pregnancy. We will help you find a midwife who provides high-quality healthcare and respects your background and pregnancy needs.
We have relationships with many hospitals and delivery rooms across Florida, so your team can be with you throughout every step of your pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Your entire care team is available to answer questions and prepare you for the growth of your family.
Build Your Obstetric Healthcare Team Today
If you would like your obstetric and gynecological healthcare team to include providers from Florida Woman Care and a midwife, let us know. We can help you find a midwife that you feel comfortable with and heard during your pregnancy.