Midwifery
Many women choose a midwife because they feel comfort in building a strong relationship with their caregiver. Other women appreciate midwives' natural approach to prenatal care, labor and birth.
What is a certified nurse-midwife?
Midwives certified by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, or other regulatory agencies, are trained to provide care to women prior, during and after pregnancy. They can also assist in other areasof obstetrics including gynecological examinations, family planning and menopausal care. In developing countries where the number of qualified health worker are low, midwives play and essential role in providing primary care to the community.
Pregnancy Care and Delivery
Midwives tailor their care to the individual needs of each patient by providing the following services:
- Guidance on proper nutrition, exercise, sleep and travel precautions during pregnancy
- Encourage women to make labor and birthing choices unique to their personal needs
- Minimize technological interventions during labor and birth for women who prefer a more natural birthing process
- Stress education, counseling and continuous hands-on care during labor, birth and postpartum
- Support a variety of labor options, including the freedom to move around, massage, a rocking chair, a deep tub or shower, a birthing ball, moist heat, pain medication and water birth
- Are trained to administer medications, order labor epidurals and perform certain medical procedure