What Does ‘Midwife’ Really Mean? A Comprehensive Guide to Midwife Definitions

Midwife Definitions

Because midwifery and nurse-midwifery in the United States and globally represent different definitions and preparation, it is appropriate to begin by defining the terms internationally and within the US context. The common denominator for all midwives is providing care during pregnancy and birth. The word midwife comes from Old English and means “with woman” (Oxford University Press, n.d.).

Although midwifery includes certified midwives (CMs), certified professional midwives (CPMs), and licensed midwives (LMs), midwives and midwifery practice are distinct from the medical practice of obstetrics and gynecology. They emphasize person-centered care and strongly believe that pregnancy and birth, along with other normal life transitions, are physiologic events that require medical interventions only as needed, based on the individual’s health status.

International Definition

The International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) defines a midwife as a person who has successfully completed a midwifery education program based on the ICM Essential Competencies for Basic Midwifery Practice and the framework of the ICM Global Standards for Midwifery Education. This program should be recognized by the country where the midwife practices. Midwives should be registered or legally licensed and demonstrate competency in midwifery practice (ICM, 2017).

Midwife Bio Data and Professional Information

Distinctiveness of Midwifery

Midwifery is a unique profession distinct from both nursing and medicine. However, in some countries, midwifery education is combined with nursing. The focus is on normal physiologic events, with interventions only as medically necessary, creating a strong bond between midwives and the individuals they serve.

Midwifery in the United States

In the United States, midwives fall under various categories based on education and certification. Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are registered nurses who have completed an accredited midwifery education program. Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are certified by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) and are trained specifically in out-of-hospital settings. Licensed Midwives (LMs) are licensed by the state to practice midwifery, which may vary according to state regulations.

FAQs about Midwife Definitions

Q: What is the origin of the word “midwife”?
A: The word midwife comes from Old English and means “with woman,” highlighting the supportive and close relationship between midwives and the women they care for during pregnancy and childbirth.

Q: How does the International Confederation of Midwives define a midwife?
A: The International Confederation of Midwives defines a midwife as someone who has completed a midwifery education program based on ICM standards, is legally licensed, and demonstrates competency in practice.

Q: Are midwives different from nurses or doctors?
A: Yes, midwives are distinct from both nurses and doctors. While some countries combine midwifery and nursing education, midwifery remains a unique profession that focuses on normal physiologic processes, such as childbirth, with medical interventions used only when necessary.

Q: What are the different types of midwives in the United States?
A: In the United States, midwives can be Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs), or Licensed Midwives (LMs), each with distinct education and certification pathways.

Q: What does it mean to be a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)?
A: A Certified Nurse-Midwife is a registered nurse who has completed an accredited midwifery education program and provides care in both hospital and out-of-hospital settings.

Q: How long does it take to become a midwife internationally?
A: Internationally, it typically takes a minimum of 3 years for direct-entry midwives or at least 18 months if the midwifery program follows basic nursing education.

International Standards for Midwifery Education

The ICM recommends that midwifery education for direct-entry midwives should be a minimum of 3 years. For those who complete midwifery education after basic nursing education, the recommended program length is at least 18 months. These programs are designed to ensure that midwives are fully prepared to provide comprehensive care for individuals during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

U.S. vs. Global Midwifery Definitions

In the U.S., midwifery education and certification differ significantly from international standards. Certified Nurse-Midwives in the U.S. must complete an accredited midwifery program and pass a national certification exam, whereas other types of midwives may follow different certification processes. Globally, midwives are often trained in standalone programs not associated with nursing and may work more independently than in the U.S.

Importance of Person-Centered Care

Midwives emphasize person-centered care, focusing on the unique needs and preferences of each individual. This approach stands in contrast to more medicalized models of care, such as obstetrics, where interventions and technology play a more central role. Midwives see pregnancy and birth as natural processes that, in most cases, do not require intervention unless medically indicated.

Midwifery as a Holistic Approach

Midwifery offers a holistic approach to care, supporting individuals through every stage of pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. Midwives are trained to recognize normal physiological changes and to provide emotional, psychological, and physical support, promoting a sense of empowerment and active participation in the birth process.

Midwife Responsibilities

Midwives are responsible for providing comprehensive care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They monitor the health of both the pregnant individual and the fetus, guide individuals through labor, provide pain management techniques, and support breastfeeding. They also offer family planning and reproductive health services.

Conclusion of Definitions

As seen through these definitions and explanations, the role of the midwife is diverse and can vary greatly depending on the country and educational background. However, the common theme among all midwives is their commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to support individuals during some of the most transformative moments in life.