Midwifery
Midwives are professionals who aid in the processes of labor, delivery and postpartum care. Midwifery minimizes the level of medical intervention during pregnancy and delivery, though midwives can still be present during a hospital delivery.
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNMs) in Dulles, Virginia
Our midwives put your comfort first, so you can have a more personal care experience.
For parents going through a routine pregnancy and seeking a low-intervention birth, our CNMs at StoneSprings Hospital Center can care for you and your baby throughout your pregnancy and delivery.
Related specialties
Learn more about our related specialties.
Midwifery services we offer
From helping you design your birth plan to supporting you during labor and providing lactation guidance, our CNMs are devoted caretakers of you and your baby's health.
Full-spectrum midwifery care
Midwifery encompasses a full range of women’s services, from well-woman gynecological care to illness treatment and menopause management. This includes care during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.
Midwives perform a range of services, such as:
- Admitting, managing and discharging
- Assessing, diagnosing and treating
- Conducting physical exams
- Ordering and interpreting lab and diagnostic tests
- Prescribing medications
Midwives are educated in both advanced nursing and graduate-level midwifery, and have been given prescriptive authority.
Midwifery at StoneSprings Hospital
The midwife mindset views pregnancy and delivery as a natural process and allows that perspective to inform your support. In addition to evidence-based care, CNMs provide education and collaborative care.
Midwifery delivery care is sometimes referred to as low-intervention or alternative care. Our maternity midwifery program includes:
- Aromatherapy
- Delayed cord clamping
- Family-centered care with postpartum rooming-in
- Freedom of movement for optimal positioning
- Hydrotherapy with labor tubs
- Immediate skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby
- Lactation support
Midwifery frequently asked questions
Many people are curious about what a midwife does and how they differ from other providers. Check out our FAQ to learn more.
What is the difference between a midwife and an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN)?
Both midwives and OB/GYNs focus on maintaining and nurturing the health of you and your baby. Midwives and obstetricians are equally capable of providing a quality experience and outcome.
OB/GYNs have completed an advanced graduate-level degree in medicine and a four-year residency program. Many elect to partake in a specialized fellowship program for additional training. Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) have earned their registered nursing degrees or bachelor’s degree in addition to master’s degrees in midwifery.
Who can use a midwife?
The CNMs at StoneSpring Hospital Center are available for most expectant mothers. If you have a high-risk condition, CNMs can work with your other healthcare providers to co-manage your care.
What if I need to be induced or decide I want pain medication
CNMs are able to provide induction services or augmentation of labor if necessary. Our CNMs know that every labor experience is unique, and they support you regardless of your pain management choices.
What happens if I am using a midwife but have a complication during my birth?
Working with a CNM will not preclude you from other forms of healthcare. If you experience an unexpected complication, your CNM will work with an OB/GYN to ensure the safe delivery of your baby. Our midwives remain with you even if there is a need for medical intervention.
Are there any times when a midwife is not available?
No. Our midwifery services are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.