Digital Book Discontinued Birth Choices v1.1 | Page 15

Care Provider Options
Your care provider is an important member of your birth team. They look after the health and well-
being of both you and your baby and can significantly influence your birth experience. It is wise to
carefully consider the type of provider as well as the characteristics of the individual or group that you
choose. Keep in mind that some care providers only attend births in one location, which can limit or
alter your choices. For steps and questions to help you choose, see pages 15–18.
Physicians
• An obstetrician/gynecologist (or OB/
GYN) is a medical doctor specializing in the
reproductive health of women.
• A family physician is a medical doctor
trained to care for the whole family who
may provide prenatal care and attend births.
They can also serve as the baby’s health care
provider after birth.
• A perinatologist specializes in the care of
expectant women with special health needs.
Midwives
• A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) or certified
midwife (CM) has completed a masters
degree or higher and is licensed through the
state. CNMs often attend births in hospitals,
but may also serve at birth centers or home.
• Other midwives may include certified
professional midwives (CPMs), lay midwives
or direct entry midwives (DEMs), sometimes
called licensed or registered midwives (LMs
or RMs). Their education may include self-
study, apprenticeship, training programs
and/or a college degree. These midwives
exclusively attend out-of-hospital births.
The CNM/CM credential is nationally recognized
and regulated, and their services are often
covered by health insurance plans. Licensing,
coverage, and legal regulations for other
types of midwives vary by state. If you are
considering hiring a midwife who is not a CNM
or CM, check into the laws and regulations of
your state and thoroughly research the midwife’s
experience and safety protocols.
There are two basic models of care or perspectives
about birth. The midwifery model of care is based
on the belief that birth is a normal life process
and for most women is best left alone with
watchful patience, unless a complication
arises. In general, this philosophy aligns well
with physiologic (low intervention) birth.
The medical model of care is based on
the belief that medical and technological
management is necessary to prevent
complications. This philosophy is more in line with
a medically managed approach.
A provider’s credentials (doctor or midwife) may
not necessarily define the model of care with
which they are more aligned. Ask questions and
get to know your provider’s philosophy to ensure
that you share the same goals and beliefs. It is
critical to hire a care provider that you trust.
Step 2: Know Your Options and Preferences
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