A certified nurse midwife, or CNM, is a health health professional with training and licensing in both nursing and midwifery. These highly skilled women and men must have, at minimum, a bachelor's degree at an institution of higher education accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, one of two organizations that offers midwife certification. The National Institutes of Health indicates that most nurse midwives possess a master's degree from an ACNM-accredited institution. A certified nurse midwife must also have one to two years of nursing experience before taking the ACNM's National Certification Examination. To find a certified nurse midwife, first make sure that the health care professional who assists you throughout your pregnancy is approved by the ACNM.
Step 1
Find your certified nurse midwife over the Internet. Access the ACNM's website (See Resources). Simply type in your city, state or ZIP code. Next, set the distance of your search parameters to within 5, 15, 30, 60 or 100 miles. If you already know where you want your baby to be born, you can check on a birth site; however, this is optional. Hit the "Search" button to get your results.
Step 2
Contact the ACNM by phone at 240-485-1800. The ACNM phone lines are open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.
Step 3
Ask your treating OB/GYN to recommend a certified nurse midwife. The NIH points out that doctors and CNMs work together closely, consulting with each other and making appropriate referrals.
Tips and Warnings
- Certification is also offered by the North American Registry of Midwives for health care practitioners trained in midwifery that meet the organization's practice standards. These professionals are known as certified professional midwives, or CPMs.
- Not all people who practice midwifery are certified, licensed or even professionally trained; according to the American Pregnancy Association, "lay midwives" acquire their skills on their own or learn from other midwives.
Things You'll Need
- Computer and Internet access
- Cell phone or telephone
