Midwifery Services

At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we're proud to offer certified nurse midwives (CNM) as part of our obstetrics service. Midwives have always been an important part of the birth experience, and not only during pregnancy and delivery, but for routine gynecological care.

The designation of CNM signifies an advanced registered nurse practitioner who is trained in both the nursing and midwifery care model and certified through the American Midwifery Certification Board. A license to practice as a CNM is given after successfully completing the program and passing an American Midwifery Certification Board certification exam. This training equips midwives with the necessary tools to provide the full spectrum of care to women of all ages.

The services covered by CNMs don’t begin and end with pregnancy and childbirth. Our CNMs also:

• Offer gynecological and primary care, including performing routine physicals along with pelvic and breast exams
• Provide in-depth health care education and counseling
• Order lab tests and diagnostic screenings such as mammograms
• Family planning

Whether you’re a first-time mom or expecting another child, you want an expert team for your maternity and childbirth care. Whether you choose an OB/GYN or certified nurse midwives (CNM) as part of that plan, this is a highly personal decision based on your individual needs and desires. If you have a normal, low-risk pregnancy and an interest in natural, low-intervention birth utilizing both alternative and traditional pain management techniques, a certified nurse midwife may be a perfect fit for you. You can deliver with a CNM and choose to use an epidural when delivering in the hospital.

Choosing a midwife to deliver your baby is an empowering choice that gives you the freedom to shape the experience you want. Our services are built on evidence, and delivered with love, on your terms. Our certified midwife nurse team is dedicated to giving you the birth story you desire.

Get started on your maternity journey at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Find a midwife who’s right for you.