Difference between certified nurse midwives and certified professional midwives

Homebirth is an option that many expectant parents consider as they prepare for the arrival of their little ones. When it comes to choosing a midwife, there are two main types of midwives to consider – Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs). While both CNMs and CPMs provide homebirth services, they have different training and certification requirements.

Firstly, CNMs are licensed healthcare professionals who have completed a degree in nursing and have also received specialized training in midwifery. They are certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and are authorized to provide care in all 50 states.

Homebirth CNMs are qualified to provide a range of services, including prenatal care, childbirth support, and postpartum care. They are also able to provide gynecological care and family planning services.

On the other hand, CPMs are trained and licensed specifically in the practice of midwifery. They typically undergo both a rigorous clinical apprenticeship and formal training program and then must pass the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) exam to become certified. While they are not licensed in all states, CPMs are authorized to provide homebirth services in many states across the country. They are also trained to provide a range of services, including prenatal care, childbirth support, and postpartum care. In California, CPMs must also obtain an additional midwifery license granted by the Medical Board of California
One of the main differences between CNMs and CPMs is their educational background. CNMs are required to have a degree in nursing and must complete a master’s degree program in midwifery. This means they have medical knowledge and training that is based in the hospital setting.

CPMs, on the other hand, are trained specifically in homebirth and birth center settings and focus the majority of their training on supporting low-risk, low-intervention births.

Another difference between CNMs and CPMs is the scope of practice. CNMs are authorized to practice in a hospital, birth center, or home setting, while CPMs primarily practice in a homebirth and birth center setting. CNMs are also authorized to provide a broader range of services than CPMs, such as prescribing medications.