CNM's and Your GYN Health
Throughout her life, some of the most important choices a woman makes are those which affect her health. When you seek sensitive, confidential, personal and professional gynecological (GYN) care -- like reaching out for support from a best friend -- you will experience the high quality of care that is offered by the certified nurse-midwife (CNM).
Highly Skilled Care Today's CNM's are specially trained and highly skilled health care professionals who provide obstetrical and gynecological care to women of all ages. They are registered nurses who have had advanced post-graduate education in obstetrics, gynecology, and midwifery, obtained through accredited programs, most of which are affiliated with universities or medical schools across the United States. The average nurse-midwife has 20 years of clinical experience. Most CNM's hold advanced graduate degrees in health-related fields.
To meet national standards, CNM's must successfully pass a comprehensive board certification examination from the ACNM Certification Council. They must meet stringent requirements fro licensure by the individual state in which they practice.
A Wide Range of Services Providing primary health care to all women, the care that CNM's render includes evaluation, assessment, treatment, and referral to a specialist if required. They emphasize health promotion, education, and disease prevention.
Care given by CNM's includes:
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Preconception counseling |
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Care during pregnancy and childbirth |
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Normal gynecological services from adolescence through menopause including Pap smears, annual exams, and breast exams |
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Referral for additional studies including mammography, bone density, colposcopy, and ultrasound |
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General wellness counseling |
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Screening and treatment of gynecological problems including vaginal, urinary tract, and sexually transmitted infections |
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Contraception and family planning care |
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Peri and postmenopausal care |
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Available physician collaboration/consultation, if needed |
Focus on Health Maintenance With health education as a primary focus, CNM's place a great importance on the provision of preventative care. CNM's assess a woman's entire spectrum of health needs. In doing so, they can assist each woman in the development of good health habits and in the reduction of lifelong health risks.
A Lifetime of Care After birthing her baby, many women are delighted in knowing that they can return to their midwife for their ongoing GYN care. CNM's highly recommend that all women be actively involved in their gynecological health needs throughout all phases of their life.
