Three Myths Surrounding Certified Nurse Midwives

When thinking about delivery options, expectant mothers have a lot of choices to choose from. If you're considering working with a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), read on to learn about the myths associated with them, and the truths behind them.

Myth #1: If I Work With a Midwife, I Cannot Deliver In A Hospital

When working with a CNM to deliver your child, you have many options available to you. The majority of CNM deliveries occur in a medical setting (hospital or birth center).

If you're sure that you'd like to deliver in a hospital or birthing center, working with a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) is the way to go. The majority of states requires they work in collaboration with a physician, so you can have peace of mind that if something goes wrong, you have a whole medical team backing you.

Myth #2: If I'm Considered High Risk, There's No Way a Midwife Can Deliver My Child

As mentioned above, the majority of states in the US requires midwives to practice under the supervision of an OB/GYN. This is good news for those patients who may be considered high risk, but who'd also like the chance to deliver with a CNM.

Depending on the circumstances, an OB and CNM can work together throughout the pregnancy to provide the patient with care. When it comes time to deliver, depending on the circumstances and risk factors, you may be able to deliver with the CNM. Working with both an OB and CNM throughout your pregnancy ensures the greatest outcome for both you and baby, so if you're a high risk patient with an interest in delivering with a CNM, locate a practice that employs both, and see if they'll work together on your behalf.

Myth #3: Midwives Will Not Administer Pain Medications During Labor and Delivery

When working with a CNM, you may feel as if pain medications are off-limits. While the majority of CNMs encourage the natural birthing process, CNMs in a hospital setting are more than able to provide you with pain medications, such as an epidural.

The important thing is to work with a CNM who will respect your wishes. While you may hope to remain free of pain medications throughout the delivery process, you also have a right to change your mind. A CNM may try to encourage you, but in the end, your wishes are the only ones that matter.

The myths above are not an exhaustive list. To learn more about working with a Certified Nurse Midwife, find one near you. They can explain the process of working with them, and why some expectant mothers might want their services over that of an OB. Contact a professional such as George L Stankevych MD for more information.