National Fellowship of Direct Entry Midwives
Excellence in Certification, Tradition in Practice
What is a Midwife
Midwives are clinical care providers who specialize in the care of women throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
They are trained to provide comprehensive, individualized care based on the midwifery model of care, which emphasizes the physical, emotional, and social well-being of women and families. This model of care is rooted in a philosophy that views pregnancy and birth as a normal physiologic process rather than a medical condition.
Types of Midwives
Certified Nurse Midwife CNM
The CNM is a registered nurse with a master's degree in midwifery who provides care in hospitals and birth centers, specializing in low-risk pregnancies and births.
Direct Entry Midwife
DEM, CDEM, CPM
The DEM is trained in midwifery care through direct pathways in midwifery education and apprenticeship. She provides care in homebirth and in birth centers.
Certified Midwife CM
The CM, similar to the CNM, is medically trained before entering into the midwifery specialty. The CM typically provides care in birth centers and homebirth.
Traditional Midwife
The TM, also known as Lay midwives, have limited formal training. Instead, she learns the practice of midwifery under the supervision of a senior midwife serving homebirth.