Midwifery
Midwifery Care at Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology
At Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology, our Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) offer compassionate, evidence-based care for women at every stage of life. Midwifery care at Grace blends a holistic, patient-centered approach with the safety, resources, and collaboration of a full OB/GYN practice.
Whether you are planning a pregnancy, currently expecting, or seeking routine gynecologic care, our midwives work closely with our physicians and care team to support your health, preferences, and goals.
What Is a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)?
A Certified Nurse-Midwife is an advanced practice registered nurse with specialized graduate-level education in midwifery. CNMs are nationally board-certified and licensed to provide comprehensive women’s health care.
In Texas, CNMs are recognized as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and maintain rigorous education, certification, and continuing education requirements to practice.
Common Questions About Midwifery Care
Do midwives only deliver babies at home?
No. Fewer than 2% of CNMs in the United States attend home births. The majority of home births are attended by non-nurse, direct-entry midwives.
At Grace, our CNMs practice in collaboration with our OB/GYN physicians and provide care within a medical setting, with access to hospital resources and specialists when needed.
Do CNMs only deliver babies?
Not at all. CNMs provide a full spectrum of women’s health services, from adolescence through menopause.
Can I still get an epidural if I choose midwifery care?
Yes. Midwifery care does not limit your pain management options. CNMs work alongside anesthesia teams, and patients may choose epidural or other pain relief options during labor.
What happens if complications arise?
CNMs are experts in normal, healthy pregnancies and are extensively trained to recognize when conditions fall outside of normal. When concerns arise, they collaborate closely with OB/GYN physicians and other specialists to ensure seamless, safe care.
Services Provided by Our Certified Nurse-Midwives
Our CNMs provide comprehensive care, including:
- Well-woman and preventive care
- Primary care related to women’s health
- Gynecologic care and family planning
- Preconception counseling
- Prenatal care
- Labor and childbirth support
- Postpartum care
- Perimenopause and menopause care
Education, Training & Certification
Certified Nurse-Midwives complete extensive education and training, including:
- A minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Graduate-level education (master’s or doctoral degree) in nurse-midwifery
- National board certification
- Ongoing education to maintain licensure and certification
This advanced training allows CNMs to practice independently while collaborating closely with physicians and healthcare teams.
Roles & Responsibilities of Our Midwives
At Grace, CNMs function as integral members of the healthcare team. Their responsibilities include:
- Assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients
- Performing initial and ongoing physical exams
- Ordering and interpreting laboratory and diagnostic tests
- Prescribing medications, including contraception and pain management
- Coordinating anesthesia services for patients who desire an epidural
- Admitting, managing, and discharging patients
Is Midwifery Care Right for You?
Midwifery care may be a great fit if you value:
- A personalized, relationship-based approach to care
- Shared decision-making
- Evidence-based care with a holistic perspective
- Collaboration between midwives and physicians
Our team is happy to help you decide which care model best fits your needs.
Schedule an appointment or contact Grace Obstetrics & Gynecology to learn more about midwifery care and meet our team.