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NURSE-MIDWIVES
What is a nurse-midwife?
A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) is an registered nurse with extensive experience in obstetrics and
well-woman gynecology who has:
- received master-level training in midwifery
- passed a national certification exam
- credentials by the state in which she practices
The word "midwife" means "with woman" - and the commitment CNMs make to be truly with the women they
care for - whether during a prenatal visit, an annual exam, or the special time of labor and birth.
What is different about an office visit with a CNM?
You call the CNM by her first name. You will have all the time you need for questions, for teaching and for a
full assessment of your status. The CNMs have chosen to maintain an appointment schedule that allows for
this ample time. You will have complete privacy, since the only people in the exam room are you, the CNM,
and any family members who you choose to be there.
What is different about childbirth with a CNM?
The CNMs are committed to being "with woman" during the active phase of her labor. That means the CNM is
usually the only one who performs vaginal exams once active labor is established. The CNM is present to
help a woman make decisions about positioning for labor and birth, options for comfort and the enhancement of the birthing process, and appropriate medications and anesthesia. (Yes, you have the option of medication and/or anesthesia if you choose CNM care.)
What if I need a doctor?
The CNMs and physicians are a team of care providers who are always ready to respond to your needs.
The choice of a CNM means that you have a dedicated provider with whom you have established a comfortable
relationship. Because of the close attention you receive, the CNM can immediately recognize when a
physician
is needed. Rest assured that every day both a CNM and a doctor are "on call" for all patients.
Can we have our baby at home with a CNM?
There are CNMs who attend home births, and it is legal for them to offer that service. However, Carolinas Physician Network CNMs only offer services through local hospitals. These locations offer the security of 24-hour anesthesia and operating room services as well as neonatal intensive care nurseries.
How do I get to see an CNM?
Simply schedule an appointment with a CNM at the following Carolinas Physicians Network (CPN) practices:
It is always your right to schedule an appointment (either prenatal or annual GYN exam) with a CNM,
regardless of whom you have seen before. If your pregnancy or gynecological status is not within the CNM's
scope of the practice, she can easily consult with and/or transfer your care to a physician.
Does seeing a CNM cost more than a physician?
The fees for CNM care are the same as for MD care, and there is no additional cost for the extra time she spends with you or for any consultation she does with a physician. If your insurance covers care provided by a CPN practice's physician, it will cover CNM care as well.
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