Why should I become a CNM? What sets them apart from other nurses??

[knikki]

Hello!!

I am interested in becoming a CNM or a NP specializing in OB or neonatology because I would like to work in labor and delivery. I am new to this and I don't quite understand the difference in techniques and the "midwifery model" that every one keeps referring to? I think it is completely acceptable to do things like have an epidural during birth...I would just like to know if it's things like this that mainly set CNM's apart from other nurses working in labor and delivery?

I was under the impression that they were just more specialized in the ability to deliver babies.

This would really help me in deciding what I want to do.

I look forward to any comments!! :)

thanks,

kelsey

[rbytsdy]

Are you in the US? I think things can vary with country.

In the US, CNMs actually attend births as the primary attendant. L&D nurses do not. The midwifery model of care sees birth as a normal physiological process that is free of complications a majority of the time. A CNM is an RN who will go on for specialized training in delivering babies as well as how to care for newborn immediately after birth. A CNM will typically have her own clients that she does prenatal care and then plans to attend them during their births. She is typically "on call" rather than working a shift.

L&D nurses in the US work in the hospitals a support women during their and birth. They are not typically involved in prenatal care and meet women for the first time when they come in labor.

Most women seek midwifery care because they are interested in drug free births or a more personal experience throughout their pregnancy and delivery.

That's a very rough overview. Their are midwives that work in groups and do shiftwork in hospitals. Some do prenatal care, some don't. Some only do home deliveries! Some work independently; some work in midwife groups and some are part of doctor pratices. It sounds like you would be best suited toward being a hospital midwife, perhaps working in a doctor group. No midwife will prohibit an epidural but some are very natural minded and don't encourage them at all.

[rbytsdy]

One thing to add.... most US CNMs go into midwifery as a calling. It's not just a nurse "specialty"

[knikki]

Thanks for the response and the information :)

yes, I live in Indiana and yes I would like to work in the hospital setting rather than on my own.

I do see it as more than just a specialization and for some reason Ive always been drawn to the idea of being part of the birthing experience. I am planning to go to college to be a nurse and I know that I will probably want to work in this are in some way or the other. I am just trying to figure out which path I should take to get there..

I can see why a natural birth would be advantegous, but I myself would probably want an epidural so I hardly feel that I could suggest otherwise