Midwife means "with woman."

Midwifery care provides a wellness and holistic approach to pregnancy, birth and women's health care.

Today's Certified Nurse-Midwife is a registered nurse who has graduated from an accredited advanced education program. Nurse-Midwives must pass a national certification examination and meet strict requirements set by state health agencies.

Nurse-Midwives work in clinics, hospitals, or birthing centers. Numerous studies have demonstrated time and again that women who are cared for by a Nurse-Midwife can expect the same level of safety as they can from a physician.

Midwives listen to women!

• Nurse-Midwives take the time to listen to you and your needs.
• Nurse-Midwives provide routine gynecologic care from your first pap test through your menopause and beyond, and can write prescriptions for medications and vitamins.
• During pregnancy, Nurse-Midwives regularly monitor the health of you and your baby.
• During labor, Nurse-Midwives evaluate your progress, offer emotional support and involve you and your family to the fullest extent possible.
• Follow up care begins immediately after birth, as Nurse-Midwives examine your baby, provide advice on breastfeeding, infant care and ensure that you maintain your health after childbirth.
• Nurse-Midwives at FamilyCare will attend your birth at the hospital or at our Birth Center.
• Nurse-Midwives provide family-centered care.