Questions about midwifery for CNM's

[barryme]

Hi all,

I have a few questions for all the CNM's in the forum, and though some of the answers may be posted separately in another thread, I (and other future CNM's!) would definitely appreciate any answers and insights you can offer. Thanks a ton!

First, why did you decide to choose this particular area of nursing practice?

Second, what kind of educational/professional background did you have prior to being a CNM?

Third, what is your role as a CNM in your workplace? What responsibilities do you have?

Fourth, what do you think is in the future for the field of midwifery? Do you like the role of CNM's in healthcare right now, or would you like to see change?

Fifth, what do you love most about it?!

Thanks so much, I am looking forward to reading your replies!

[CNM2B]

I'm not a CNM yet, but I can answer a few of your questions.

1.) For many people, I think midwifery is a calling. I have been going to a CNM for 8 years for my primary gyn healthcare--even before I was married or had kids. I loved my CNM and always thought I would pursue that someday. I knew that I wanted to be an advanced practice nurse, and then when I had my daughter with a CNM, I was sure. I am going to do a dual certification to be both a CNM and a WHNP.

2.) I have a BA in political science and then went back to school to earn a BSN. I worked as a patient care tech in nursing school, and now work on a neuro tele unit. Some people say that you should have L&D experience before becoming a CNM, and some people say you shouldn't. I think it is very personal, but obviously I don't think it's mandatory. I know that my learning curve is slightly steeper than some of my classmates who have L&D experience, but I'm willing to do the work. I do think (just my opinion, though) that it is important to have some type of nursing experience. Being a bedside nurse gives you intuition, skills and the confidence to handle a crisis. Again, just my humble opinion.

3.) I don't work as a CNM yet, but here where I live, they work in practices either on their own or with other CNM's or OB's. Here where I live, they all deliver in hospitals (by choice, not by statute). Hopefully, we will get a birth center and more choices in the near future....

4.) The thing that I can't wait to do as a CNM is to catch a beautiful new baby and hand him or her to their Mother for the very first time. What an amazing job that is!

Good luck with your career choice!!

[Belinda-wales, RN]

I feel into midwifery - I was a nurse for 13 years and one day just wanted to be midwife- I soon I started school i new it was the profession for me.

I am a RN and Registered Nurse Midwife from UK with graduate level education.

Midwives work along side MD in the hospital setting I believe some CNM do work in the home setting.

I believe that as health care needs to become more affordable and assessable that midwifery popularity will rise

What I love is being a partner in care with a family going through one of the most life changing times and to be able to empower them.