They attend most of the births in the world today.
Midwives focus on wellness and consumer choice.
They encourage women to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. Midwives prefer to promote natural therapies such as nutrition, exercise, herbs and Complementary Therapies that often solve common complaints of pregnancy. Childbirth education and support during labor result in fewer expensive interventions during childbirth. Women attended by midwives have fewer cesarean sections, epidurals and episiotomies without sacrificing the safety of mother or baby. CNMs are educated in university programs and must pass a national certifying exam given by the American College of Nurse Midwives.