Midwifery in Washington State
Licensed Midwife (LM)
In the US, midwifery is regulated at the state level and many states provide midwives with a license to practice midwifery. Washington State requirements include rigorous education, clinical experience and passing an exam. In Washington State, Licensed Midwives are regulated by the Department of Health.
At SHM, we emphasize care that has been proven to be beneficial: client-centered prenatal visits, individualized education and options, informed choice and one-to-one support during labor.
As needed, we consult with other healthcare professionals: obstetricians, pediatricians, lactation specialists and a variety of complementary practitioners. Even if issues arise in labor, necessitating a move to the hospital, midwives at SHM are well- connected, always accompanying clients to the appropriate destination, ensuring continuity and a smooth transition.
Midwifery in Washington State
Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)
A Certified Professional Midwife is a knowledgeable, skilled and professional midwifery practitioner who has met the certification standards set by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) and is qualified to provide the Midwifery Model of Care (https://www.citizensformidwifery.org/mmoc).
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs)
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are educated in both nursing and midwifery. After attending an educational program accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives Certification Council (ACC), they must pass the ACC examination and can be licensed in the individual states in which they practice. CNMs practice most often in hospitals and birth centers but some also attend home births.