Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some key terms for you to read up on, so if you don’t know what all the lingo means, now you know!

What is a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)?

A Certified Nurse Midwife is a board-licensed medical provider with a background in nursing. They are often called Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) because of the additional education sought after initial nursing licensure (master’s/doctorate). After completing nursing school and passing boards to become Registered nurses, this group of Midwives may or may not practice as Labor and Delivery Nurses prior to their training. Some practice in other fields before going on to graduate studies. The graduate program for a CNM is typically about 2.5 years (more if a doctorate is acquired) with theory and clinical components.

CNMs must pass a national certification exam after training. While in practice, CNMs provide low-risk care to people, families, and communities from puberty through menopause and beyond. In addition to offering preconception counseling, prenatal care, postpartum care, some CNMs provide other in-office procedures. These include pap smears, IUD placement, contraceptive counsel, Nexplanon (implant placement), abortions, endometrial biopsy, colposcopy, STD screening, and more. 

CNMs practice in various settings- the home, birth center, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. 

Depending on the state, in the US, APPs may practice independently or under the supervision of an MD. The fight continues for many of us to practice on our own as there is a high need for care and limited access to such care for many people in various locations. 

What is a Certified Midwife (CM), Certified Professional Midwife (CPM), OR Traditional Midwife?

A Certified Midwife (CM) is a midwife who has the same or similar skill set as that of a CNM. The only difference between the CM and CNM is that they are not licensed as nurses. The background of a CM consists of a bachelor’s degree and science prerequisites. The pathway of learning for a CM consists of the AMCB board-approved training (just like a CNM), competencies, and exams that CNMs complete. Their scope of practice is the same and they also have prescriptive privileges. CMs are able to work in the hospital system as well as in birth centers and at home. At this time, they are credentialed in 7 states.

A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is a midwife who gains education through an accredited program as well as an apprenticeship under the guidance of an experienced CPM.  Some CPMs have prior experience within the medical field but it is not required. Unlike a CNM, CPMs do not need a license as a registered nurse. A certified professional midwife is a CPM that receives licensure through the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). There is a specific model of care that CPMs follow once trained. CPMs must be knowledgeable about care outside of the hospital setting as this is their specialty.

A traditional midwife is another type of midwife that often gets overlooked. Traditional midwives are also known in their communities and elsewhere as healers. Traditional midwives receive training through apprenticeships and direct experience. Traditional midwives are more common in other countries outside of the U.S. They are well versed in herbal practices and healing. Their scope mainly includes the home and community setting and their work is extremely valuable and supportive to midwifery and the people they serve.

What is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)?

A Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner is an Advanced Practice Provider offering specialty service in the area of Women’s Health. They are registered nurses who have received additional training, usually a Master’s Degree, and are board-certified to practice. Many WHNPs practice in a clinic or hospital setting. Their role is similar to that of a CNM in that they provide low-risk care to patients across the lifespan. One major difference is that WHNPs do not help in intrapartum (labor) management but they can offer preconception, prenatal, and postnatal care. Also with further certification and training, they may perform more complex in-office procedures.

What is a Registered Nurse (RN)?

A Registered Nurse is an individual who has chosen to pursue an education to work within the healthcare field as a nurse (in a sub-specialty that they choose or are placed in). Typically an RN has either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The nursing program is about four years consisting of theoretical and clinical/hands-on education. RNs have specific requirements outlined by the state and governing board. This includes passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and bi-annual recertification with an emphasis in continuing education hours (these can be obtained through various conferences, training, meetings, and other board-approved experiences).

What is a Doula?

A doula is an individual who provides guidance and support to patients at various stages of life. Historically, they may be thought of as a ‘birth coach’ but the scope of the doula covers MUCH more. While doulas do not have formal obstetric/medical training, they may have obtained specific doula training as offered by various programs. They are not qualified to diagnose and treat but they are knowledgeable about pre-pregnancy topics, pregnancy, birth, abortion, postpartum, breastfeeding, and even end-of-life experiences. 

They offer educational, emotional, physical, and even spiritual support at whatever time a person needs them.

What is an Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN)?

An OB/GYN is a medical doctor who specializes in women’s/reproductive health. An Obstetrician focuses mainly on the health before, during, and after pregnancy. They deliver babies vaginally and by cesarean section. Gynecologists focus on the health of individuals with female reproductive organs; this is not limited to pregnancy and they often treat various medical conditions including cervical cancer, abnormal vaginal disorders, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and more.  It is important to note that most OB/GYNs practice in both realms, but some do not. Be sure to inquire before you book your appointment. 

An OB/GYN must go through their own training as well. This typically consists of a four-year bachelor’s program, medical school (four years as well), and a residency program (timing varies).  Some doctors choose to participate in fellowships after residency to further specialty training. This is applicable for high-risk specialists including Perinatologists and fertility specialists.

What is a POC?

A POC or Person of Color refers to a person(s) who is not considered White.

What is PPP?

PPE is the abbreviation for personal protective equipment. These are the tools, equipment, clothing that are used to protect healthcare professionals, and family members who may come into contact with various blood, bloodily fluids, droplets, and viruses or bacteria that can transmit infection. Think of it as gloves, goggles, gowns, masks, caps, and anything else that might add a level of ‘protection’.