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Midwifery

Pregnancy and childbirth are some of life’s most personal experiences, and the care you receive should reflect that. Just like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), UWH of Pennsylvania recognizes the importance of options and preferences of individuals in their health care.*

Midwifery offers a safe alternative approach to women’s healthcare, pregnancy, and birth, centered on your values, preferences, and goals for your growing family.

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What Is a Midwife?

A Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) is a highly trained healthcare professional who provides expert care through every stage of pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. CNMs hold advanced nursing degrees and national certification, equipping them to deliver safe, evidence-based care that supports your physical and emotional well-being.

Midwives also provide a wide range of routine women’s health services, including annual exams, contraception counseling, and menopause support—offering continuity of care long after pregnancy.

Our Midwifery Care Approach

Midwives within the UWH of Pennsylvania network work hand in hand with obstetricians, gynecologists, and primary care providers to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. Midwifery services may include:

  • Routine gynecologic exams and annual visits
  • Family planning and birth control counseling
  • Prenatal care and personalized birth planning
  • Labor and delivery support, including low-intervention and unmedicated births
  • Postpartum follow-up, lactation guidance, and newborn care

While midwives often care for patients with low-risk pregnancies, they collaborate closely with physicians for higher-risk cases, ensuring a seamless transition if additional medical support is ever needed.

Pregnancy Care

Why Choose Midwifery Care

Many people find midwifery care empowering, supportive, and deeply personal. Benefits include:

  • Holistic Support – Midwives address your physical, emotional, and mental health needs through every stage of care.
  • Empowered Birth Choices – If you desire a natural or low-intervention birth, midwives are trained to guide you safely while respecting your preferences.
  • Continuity of Care – From your first prenatal visit to postpartum care and beyond, midwives often remain your ongoing women’s health provider, building a lasting relationship of trust.

Learn More About Midwifery

Your pregnancy journey is unique to you and your family. To learn more about how midwifery can support your pregnancy and birth experience, contact a UWH of Pennsylvania provider to request an appointment.

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FAQs

Can I still see a doctor if I have a midwife?

Yes. Midwives collaborate closely with obstetricians and other healthcare providers, so you can receive additional medical care or consultations if needed.

Who can receive care from a midwife?

Midwives typically care for patients with low-risk pregnancies, though they can also provide gynecologic and primary women’s healthcare for patients at all stages of life.

Can I get pain relief during a midwife-assisted birth?

Absolutely. Midwives support all birth preferences, including epidural anesthesia or natural pain management techniques. Your midwife will discuss your options and help you create a birth plan that feels right for you.

*Source: ACOG