If you’re exploring your options for pregnancy and delivery, you might wonder if a midwife is right for you. The midwifery model of care offers a unique, personalized approach that focuses on the whole person — your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

We spoke with Whitney Bryner, a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) on the medical staff at Texas Health Allen, to share her insights on what makes midwifery special, the types of midwives available in Texas, and why so many families choose this path for their pregnancy journey.

What is the Midwifery Model of Care?

The word “midwife” means “with woman,” and that philosophy is at the heart of the care midwives provide. Bryner explains, “The midwifery model views the woman as a whole, not just her pregnancy. We focus on all her needs — physical, mental, and emotional.”

A key part of this model is shared decision-making.

“We want you to be in the driver’s seat, involved in your care every step of the way,” Bryner says. “Our goal is to give you all the information you need to make the best decisions for yourself.”

Midwives emphasize evidence-based care while also exploring alternatives that align with your goals. They provide a guiding hand, ensuring you feel heard, respected, and supported throughout your pregnancy journey.

Types of Midwives in Texas

Choosing the right midwife begins with understanding the different types and their qualifications:

• Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs): A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives. To become a certified nurse midwife, you must graduate from a master’s or higher-level nurse-midwifery education program, pass a national certification exam and hold licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing.

CNMs have extensive training in providing comprehensive care to women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and beyond. They work collaboratively with physicians and other health care professionals, offering a holistic approach that supports individuals emotionally, physically and spiritually.

They provide care in hospitals, birthing centers, and homes. CNMs also offer well-woman care, family planning, contraception counseling and and menopausal careCertified Professional Midwives (CPMs): Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are trained and credentialed professionals who specialize in out-of-hospital births, such as those occurring in birthing centers or at home. Their training emphasizes hands-on experience and apprenticeship, focusing on managing low-risk pregnancies and providing holistic, personalized care.

Unlike CNMs, CPMs are not required to have a nursing or health science degree. Instead, they gain their certification through specialized midwifery education programs and must pass a rigorous examination administered by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM).

Bryner advises researching your options and asking questions about qualifications, birthing locations, and services.

“A consultation with different providers can help you decide which path feels right for you,” she adds.

Midwife vs. Doula: What’s the Difference?

While both midwives and doulas play vital roles in supporting pregnant individuals, their responsibilities differ.

Midwives provide medical care, monitor the health of the mother and baby, and manage labor and delivery. They are qualified to handle clinical tasks, such as fetal heart rate monitoring, labor progress assessments, and medical interventions when necessary.

Doulas offer non-medical support, focusing on emotional and physical comfort during labor. They assist with breathing techniques, massage, and childbirth education, and provide continuous encouragement throughout the birthing process.

“Many moms planning an unmedicated birth will choose to have a doula present, but even if planning an epidural, a doula can be beneficial for ongoing support, such as encouragement, repositioning, and help with breastfeeding after delivery,” Bryner explains.

Together, midwives and doulas form a comprehensive support system, ensuring both medical care and emotional well-being during labor and delivery.

“Both midwives and doulas are great patient advocates and wonderful with encouragement and support for the patient and her family,” Bryner adds.

Why Choose a Midwife?

Many people are drawn to midwifery for its personalized and hands-on approach.

“Midwives often spend more time with their patients, both during appointments and labor,” Bryner notes. “Closer communication and individualized care based on their specific needs and preferences is usually the biggest factor for why many choose midwifery care.”

This continuity of care fosters trust and ensures your needs are met.

Research supports the benefits of midwifery care. Researchers in a study published in the medical journal BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth found that women receiving midwifery-led care had 51% lower odds of undergoing an emergency cesarean section compared to those receiving other models of care. The study also revealed that midwifery-led care resulted in decreased use of episiotomy and reduced average neonatal admission time in neonatal intensive care units.

“Midwives encourage natural labor progression and use evidence-based practices like upright positioning and intermittent fetal monitoring in low-risk situations,” Bryner explains. “This approach promotes safety and effective outcomes.”

Bryner adds that midwifery care also helps bridge gaps in health care access, especially in underserved areas.

“Increasing access to care in the United States is an important issue that

midwifery care helps to address,” she explains. “There is a known shortage of OB providers, especially in rural areas, and midwives can help bridge this gap. More midwives available provide more sites and appointment availability for more patients to be cared for.

“Increasing access to care makes it possible to improve outcomes by early identification of risk factors and early intervention when necessary,” Bryner adds.

Is a Midwife Right for You?

If you value a collaborative, holistic approach to pregnancy and delivery, a midwife might be a perfect fit. Start by considering your preferences, health needs, and birthing goals.

“Ask questions about care options, birthing facilities, and how your midwife supports your unique plan,” Bryner advises.

Choosing a midwife means choosing a partner in your care — one who respects your choices and empowers you every step of the way.

Ready to learn more? Find a Texas Health midwife who aligns with your needs and vision for your pregnancy journey.