The modern version of yesterday's GP or general practitioner, they are the physicians who will provide primary care for the entire family. Some doctors have moved beyond the traditional hospital delivery room, and can be found in birth centers, hospital birthing rooms and even more surprisingly, in the home. But he points out that most women are healthy, and that problems are really a small part of birth. With all of the high tech equipment we have now, I can, for example, talk to my surgical team over my cell phone while we're en route to the hospital, and by the time we arrive, everything is completely set up for the patient. Five of Eisenstein's six children were delivered at home, as well as all of his grandchildren, and he finds that he doesn't get very many negative comments from his fellow doctors because he chooses to assist at home deliveries.
People have respect for that.
Eisenstein's practice has delivered over 14,000 babies, and just the sheer number alone has helped solidify that credibility. Fewer than 50 physicians in this country currently deliver babies at home, but Eisenstein believes that is changing. Five doctors have joined his staff in the last three years, and three more will be joining in the next year. Midwives Today's midwives are well-trained professionals, although the differentiation within the profession can be confusing. Certified nurse midwives or CNMs are registered nurses who have completed advanced study in obstetrics, usually in a master's degree program, and they may practice in all 50 states.