While complications can occur, pregnancy and birth are not diseases. CNMs are trained to focus on these healthy processes while keeping guard against possible medical problems. Another value is family and woman centered care. Appointments are longer than average in order to facilitate personal rapport and communication. There is no short cut to getting to know who you are, how you feel about your pregnancy, and what you want for your birth.
Midwives generally remain with women in labor rather than staying in touch with staff by phone.
This allows close monitoring for problems while actively supporting the natural course of birth. That doesn't mean you can't have pain medication, just that you will have other kinds of support as well. This additional support can be lacking in busy, emergency oriented hospitals. There is ample research indicating that this kind of close, personal attention from care givers is more than a pleasant luxury. Since differences exist in the style and scope of midwifery practices, they should be discussed before selecting one.