Kootenai Obstretrics & Gynecology

Our Services : Certified Nurse Midwifery Care

• Board Certified OB/GYN Care :
• Certified Nurse Midwifery Care :
• Holistic Health

The Certified Nurse-Midwives at Kootenai OB/GYN offer full service obstetrical and gynecological care throughout a woman's life span. These include teen counseling, pregnancy, childbirth, well woman care, family planning, treatment for menopause and other gynecological concerns. Our midwives provide individualized care and education for any of the services they provide.

Midwifery Services:

• Pre-conception care
• Prenatal care
• 3-D Ultrasounds
• Labor and Delivery
• Post partum care
• Breastfeeding support
• Family planning and birth control

Gynecology:

• Teen counseling
• Physical exams
• Breast exams
• Vaginal and bladder infection treatment
• Menopausal care
• Saliva hormone testing
• Bio-identical hormone replacement

Is a midwife right for me?
When choosing a healthcare provider, women often have many questions. We are here to guide you to the decision that best suits your needs. Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about midwifery. You may also call our office to learn more about the services we offer.

What is a certified nurse midwife (CNM)?
A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is a licensed health care practitioner who is educated in two disciplines, advanced practice nursing and nurse-midwifery. Each CNM is required to pass strict educational guidelines in order to be certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives and licensed to practice in their state. Over 70 percent of CNMs hold a master’s degree in nursing as well as a specialized education in midwifery.

What is the philosophy of a CNM?
Throughout history, the word midwife has been used to describe women who are “with women” at birth. CNMs focus on the physical, emotional and social needs of both the mother and family. They view birth as a natural process that often requires no intervention. However, in some situations the use of technology may be necessary to ensure a safe outcome for mother and baby. Our CMNs are comfortable utilizing these technologies when appropriate and maintain an excellent working relationship with physicians should their expertise be required.

What should I expect from the CNMs at Kootenai OBGYN?
One of our CNMs is always on call, so you can usually be sure of having a known and trusted CNM at your birth. Your prenatal care will be balanced between CNMs, giving you an opportunity to establish a relationship with each of them. All deliveries are performed at Kootenai Medical Center and the CNMs are supportive of various pain management options, including epidural. CNM care is not just for pregnancy; once your childbirth needs are met you may continue to see your provider for all of your women’s health concerns.