Care during labor and birth is based upon understanding the woman s birth plan. Certainly, the CNM sees safe care for mother and baby as the primary goal while supporting the woman and her family to have a satisfying experience. The CNM will be an active participant during the labor-sharing care of the laboring woman with the nursing staff and family. CNMs work closely with physicians during the prenatal period, labor and birth. Identified and potential complications can be evaluated and the consulting physician will manage care as necessary.
Many women seek care from CNMs with the goal of an unmedicated birth.
Nevertheless, all options and choices for medication are available to women having CNM birth attendants. As epidural anesthesia is more widely available, and women birthing with CNMs are choosing epidurals more often. The supportive presence of the CNM often helps a woman meet her goals of unmedicated labor and birth. After birth, the CNM will provide postpartum care at the hospital and for the first six weeks after birth. CNM scope of practice usually includes well-woman care for annual exams, pap testing, breast exams, contraception, and teaching and counseling for health supervision and maintenance.