• We believe that childbearing is a natural process that demands respect.
• We believe that a good childbearing experience has the potential to strengthen family bonds and promote responsible parenting.  These elements represent a unifying force that gives strength and stability to our society.
• We believe in the uniqueness of the individual: biologically, sociologically, spiritually, and culturally.
• We believe that, given support, each individual has the potential to grow from every situation.
• We believe women deserve comprehensive gynecological and maternity health care from professionals who include them in all aspects of their care and provide health care with respect for individual physical, emotional, socioeconomic and spiritual needs.
• We believe in the team concept, which utilizes the strengths of each team member: the client, the family, the professional, and auxiliary personnel, in order to provide a safe, satisfying, family centered birth.
• We believe we have the responsibility to act dynamically to put our beliefs into action

What is a CNM?

A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) is a registered nurse who has received advanced practice education in women’s health, pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and newborn care.  We are nationally certified by the American College of Nurse Midwives (www.midwife.org) and licensed by the State of California.  Nurse-Midwives believe birth is a natural process which works best with support, trust and encouragement.  We also recognize the need for, and are trained to use, the medical technology that is sometimes necessary for the health and safety of you and/or your baby.

How does a Nurse-Midwife practice?

Nurse-midwives provide care for the essentially healthy woman, either pregnant or not.  We work under the supervision of a local board certified Ob/Gyn MD.  We practice under accepted midwifery guidelines agreed upon by the physicians and ourselves. Because of this supervisory relationship, the MD is considered to be the medical authority and you are considered to be his patient with services provided to you by the Nurse-Midwife.  If you have a condition needing treatment beyond our scope of practice, you will be referred to one of the MD’s and they will provide the service and care you need at that time.  They are always available to us for consultation or referral if the need arises.