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The word "midwife" means "with woman." She is a health care professional who provides health services to women, most often during pregnancy, labor, and childbirth.
At Dignity Health Medical Group in Santa Cruz, our midwives are certified nurse midwives (CNM), registered nurses who have completed a midwifery program and passed a national certification exam.
Midwives provide care for uncomplicated pregnancies and births. They consider pregnancy and childbirth normal, natural events that don't require routine medical intervention. Many women choose midwives because they prefer a highly personalized approach to pregnancy, birth, and women's health care.
A pregnancy visit with a midwife often lasts longer than many routine health appointments. And midwives offer a highly individualized approach — they get to know your desires and specific needs. Midwives don't focus on just your pregnancy or health condition as isolated events. Instead midwives consider them in the context of your life.
Midwives also educate and empower their patients by teaching them more about their bodies and explaining treatment options. When women are pregnant, midwives teach them how to work with their bodies during labor and birth to help ensure a smooth process.
According to research, women who use midwives for pregnancy care are less likely to need pain medication (such as an epidural), more likely to move around during labor, and less likely to have a C-section.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, one valuable resource is the relationship you have with your primary care physicians. That’s why Dignity Health Medical Group makes it easier to access comprehensive care right here in Santa Cruz. Our local team, including our certified nurse midwives, are passionate about your health care and meeting your unique needs.
Get to know one by scheduling an appointment today. Call (831) 465-5440
