The word “midwife” is ancient and is derived from an old English word that literally translates to “with women.” If you get images of a medieval wise-woman giving herbs to a heavily pregnant woman, you’re only half-right. Yes, midwives are widely recognized as delivery-women in at-home births, but the truth is that the roles of a midwife tampa have evolved over the years.

Women’s Health Specialist

Midwives are certified professionals that are required to have licenses in the state in which they practice. Though bringing babies into the world is a huge part of a midwife’s job, did you know that they also specialize in overall women’s health? You don’t have to be pregnant to see a midwife; they are available if you need a pelvic exam or even a simple checkup. 

• Education varies in the field, though all midwives are required to have a certification as a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). Midwives who are certified as a nurse-midwife have a dual degree in nursing as well as midwifery. 
• Women are able to visit midwives from their teenage years through menopause. Midwives are more likely to spend extra time with their patients than doctors answering questions and discussing concerns. They can help you through the entire process, from helping you to get pregnant to doing your well-woman exam in the years to come.
• Though nurse-midwives are able to prescribe medications, more holistic approaches are typically taken when you visit a midwife. For example, they might focus on nutrition and exercise before prescribing a medication.

Whether you’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant or are simply looking for a more natural approach to medicine, consider looking into a midwife in your area. The practice of midwifery is as old as women themselves; there’s a reason that the profession has lasted this long.