What is the difference between a CNM and other midwives in Utah?
Throughout history, the ancient word, midwife, has been used to describe women who are “with women” at birth. Contemporary usage associates this word with a philosophy of care that focuses on the needs of the woman, offers a variety of options and minimizes unnecessary intervention. CNMs blend the supportive care women have come to expect with the scientific knowledge needed for safe practice, which includes close collaboration with the medical community and has grown to encompass well woman care. Today, the majority of midwives are CNMs. Still, a variety of titles are used to label midwifery practice so it can be confusing for patients. In our practice, all the CNMs have a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and a master’s degree in Midwifery. After successfully passing a national certification exam supervised by the ACNM, we are licensed by the state of Utah. We are also required to maintain continued competency by attending educational presentations annually.
