What is a Direct-Entry Midwife?
The term midwife generally implies one of three things, either a woman has chosen to become a DEM, CPM, or CNM. Certified Professional Midwives and Direct Entry Midwives practice in the homebirth or sometimes the birth-center setting depending on the state in which they practice. In Ohio, CPM’s and DEM’s practice only in the homebirth setting while Certified Nurse Midwives practice in a hospital setting and maintain a collaborative relationship with doctors. The path through which a midwife has chosen her education varies from woman to woman and includes an academic program of study, an apprenticeship or both. There is no “more correct” method of education. Rather, there are different paths that lead to the same goal of serving birthing couples in the homebirth or hospital setting. Interview your midwife as you would any other care provider. Ask a lot of questions and make sure you are comfortable with the answers. As your DEM I will provide prenatal care for the mother as well as labo
