A certified nurse-midwife is educated in the two disciplines of nursing and midwifery and cares for women and their infants during normal pregnancy, labor and childbirth. In addition to providing comprehensive maternity care, nurse-midwives provide a wide range of gynecological services. To become certified, nurse-midwives must complete a course study in an accredited educational program and pass a rigorous examination administered by the American College of Nurse-Midwives. State requirements for nurse-midwifery must also be kept.
Whether or not they are pregnant, patients may choose to seek their regular gynecological services, such as physical exams, Pap tests and breast exams, from a nurse-midwife. All birth control options are available.
Nurse midwives provide care throughout pregnancy, labor and delivery. Your initial prenatal exam will take place in the first eight to twelve weeks of your pregnancy. During this visit, your nurse midwife will obtain a detailed history, perform a physical exam and conduct lab tests. She will also offer nutritional advice and pregnancy counseling. A physician is always available if a problem should occur.
The nurse-midwife is there to support you during labor and to manage your care. She will make every effort to facilitate the natural process of labor. During this time, she carefully will assess your individual needs. Pain relief measures that have been discussed during pregnancy will be used as needed. Medications may also be used. The involvement of supportive friends and family members is supported if you so choose. If a problem arises requiring medical intervention beyond the scope of midwifery practice, a physician will become more actively involved in your care.
Postpartum visits are usually two weeks and six weeks, depending on your individual needs. During this time the nurse-midwife evaluates your emotional and physical well being. She also provides counseling on matters such as feeding, maternal diet, parenting and family planning.
Call our Nurse-Midwives at 781-246-3500
Care by certified nurse-midwives is covered under most HMO’s and health insurances.
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