[midwives]
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Unlike a Doula, a Midwife is the care-provider during the post and pre delivery process. Midwives provide continuous care to women with uncomplicated pregnancies during pregnancy and labor and call on physicians if complications develop.
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Midwives focus on working with woman to reduce the risk for complications during childbirth. Safety is of outmost priority in midwifery and studies show that outcomes are the same as physician-attended births. As part of their commitment to nonintervention, midwives do not advocate the use of pain medication or invasive procedures during the normal birthing process.
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Midwives focus on the needs of the family, and encourage family participation in the birth. They pay special attention to the cultural values and personal preferences of the women in their care. They provide health care education, emotional and social support. Although not a requirement, many midwives are accredited nurses. Today’s midwives can be found in selective hospitals and birthing centers.
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The American College of Nurse-Midwives
18 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 728-9860
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Citizens for Midwifery
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North American Registry of Midwives
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American Association of Birth Centers

The information provided should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical or professional advise from a qualified health care provider. The information provided should be considered as opinion only.