In the United States, both certified nurse midwives (CNMs) and midwives are options for individuals interested in pursuing a career in midwifery. However, there are some key differences between the two paths.
CNMs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed a nursing program and then gone on to complete additional graduate-level education in midwifery. They must pass a national certification exam to become licensed and practice in all states. CNMs have a wider scope of practice than midwives, as they can provide primary care services in addition to midwifery care. CNMs can also work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, birth centers, and home settings.
Midwives, on the other hand, can come from a variety of educational backgrounds and may have different levels of certification or licensure depending on the state in which they practice. Some midwives complete formal midwifery education programs and become certified through organizations such as the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). Others may become licensed through their state's department of health or board of nursing. Midwives may work in hospitals, birth centers, or home settings, and their scope of practice may be limited compared to that of a CNM.
When it comes to career choice, individuals interested in midwifery may choose to become a CNM if they are interested in the broader scope of practice and the ability to provide primary care services. CNMs also typically earn higher salaries than midwives. However, individuals who are passionate about midwifery specifically and want to focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care may choose to become a midwife.
Ultimately, the choice between becoming a CNM or a midwife will depend on an individual's personal goals, interests, and educational background, as well as the laws and regulations in their state of practice.
