Though we have no hard figures, we know that income is largely dependent on the type of practice. Many midwives choose to practice in rural communities or among the poorer neighborhoods. However, Midwifery is becoming a more popular childbirth option among many people in the country. A Licensed Midwife attends an independent midwifery school and is only accepted for practice in about 11 states. The licensed midwife generally works in an independent practice.
Some LMs deliver babies in the home or in birthing centers.
Many have established independent practices, but they also can be found working in HMOs, hospitals, private clinics and birth centers. Midwifery in the United States is regulated by state law and largely influenced by national certification. Anyone interested in becoming a midwife should become knowledgeable about the laws affecting midwives in any state in which she expects to practice. This certification is recognized across the United States. Those who pass the exam become LMs and are eligible to complete the NARM certification process to become registered nationally as a CPM without sitting for an additional exam.