What is a primary role of a certified nurse midwife (CNM)?

The primary role of a certified nurse midwife (CNM) centers on providing comprehensive care during and after childbirth. This includes monitoring the health of the mother and fetus throughout pregnancy, facilitating the labor and delivery process, and offering postpartum support. CNMs are trained to handle a range of situations that arise during childbirth, ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and baby. They also focus on promoting natural childbirth and educating families on prenatal and postnatal care.

While they are knowledgeable about medical conditions and may indeed work with complex cases, their core expertise lies in normal, low-risk pregnancies and deliveries. This distinguishes them from other medical professionals who may handle more surgical or high-risk medical interventions. Their holistic approach emphasizes the physical, emotional, and educational needs of women and their families, aligning with the broader mission of midwifery care.