Becoming a midwife after pediatrics icu.

[PEDSVA]

I have been a nurse in pediatric ( med/ surg, PICU,ER,CICU) for about 8 years. I am interested in a transition to midwifery. I am currently pregnant with my fourth child and really wish that having a midwife was an option for me. Thus the inspiration to become one. I thought about becoming a birth assistant to gain experience before applying to a program. With an rn could I apprentice for a year or is it better just to apply for a program considering my experience. How hard would it be to find someone willing to hire me as an birthing assisstant?

[klone, MSN, RN]

Being a birth assistant is not necessary in order to enter a master's program to become a nurse midwife (by 'birth assistant' do you mean doula?). I would just apply to a program and focus your energies in that direction.

[PEDSVA]

Yes, I guess a doula. I figured that would give me alittle insight into midwifery. I think your right it doesn't make sense to wait because I would have to train to become a doula. Once becoming a midwife is it possible to limit your clients so that it's part- time? I am thinking about my family. I have no desire to work in a hospital setting. I'd like to do homebirths or work in a birthing center.

[klone, MSN, RN]

You might want to check on the legalities of CNMs and homebirth in your state (as well as the homebirth-friendliness). In many/most states, you need to have physician collaboration in order to attend homebirths, and that can be very challenging. Are there freestanding birth centers in your area?

[PEDSVA]

Yes, just a handful. I live in the MD/DC/VA area. There are quite a few independent homebirth midwives but I don't know what the laws are. I have to do some research. Thanks for all your info. If you can think of anything else I should look into please let me know.

[klone, MSN, RN]

I would find out if any of the independent homebirth midwives are actual CNMs. Most homebirth midwives are not (because of the restrictions requiring physician collaboration).