What is a licensed CDM midwife?
Literally speaking, midwife means, “with woman.” A midwife is a person who views pregnancy and birth as healthy, normal processes, albeit ones that call for supervision and care. In the midwifery model, the childbearing woman has the central role. Midwifery care addresses the psychological and emotion health as well as the physical health of the mother. The midwife seeks to empower the woman by helping her master the challenges of pregnancy and birth. Certified Direct-Entry Midwives (CDMs) are licensed experts in natural childbirth who monitor the physical, psychological, and social well-being of the mother throughout the childbearing cycle. CDMs are licensed by an Alaska State regulatory board that sets standards for their education, apprenticeship, examination, and ongoing review. The Board of Direct-Entry Midwives consists of two CDMs, one Nurse Midwife, one MD with an obstetric practice and one public member.
