The word midwife is Greek for “with woman” which means that a midwife works with women in order to deliver the best possible individualized health care.

A certified nurse-midwife is an individual educated in the two areas of nursing and midwifery, who possess evidence of certification according to the requirements of the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

Certified nurse-midwives believe that every individual has the right to safe, satisfying health care with respect for human dignity and cultural variations. Nurse-midwives uphold the belief that childbearing and maturation are normal life processes. When intervention is indicated, it is integrated into care in a way that preserves the dignity of the woman and her family. Nurse-midwives share professional information with their clients that leads to informed participation and consent. This sharing is done without coercion or deception. Nurse-midwives promote community, state, and national efforts such as public education and legislation to ensure access to quality care and to meet the health needs of women and their families.