The short answer: Start with the directories: ACNM's Find a Midwife for certified nurse-midwives, NARM to check a certified professional midwife's credential, and AABC for birth centers. Ask friends and local moms' groups too. Then book a free consultation with one or two midwives and notice how you feel with each one.
By Sybille Mom of two · first birth in a hospital, second at home · Education only, not medical advice
Finding my midwives changed everything for me. They felt a little like superheroes. They paid attention to everything: what I was eating, how I was sleeping, how I was really feeling. Often they seemed to understand what I needed just by looking at me, before I said a word.
So if you're searching for a midwife right now, I'm so excited for you. Here's how I'd start.
Step 1: Search the directories
- Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs): the ACNM Find a Midwife search.
- Certified professional midwives (CPMs): NARM's credential check lets you confirm a midwife's certification.
- Birth centers: the AABC Find a Birth Center map. Many birth center midwives also know the home birth midwives nearby.
Step 2: Ask around
Some of the kindest midwives aren't easy to find online. Ask friends who've had a home birth, local moms' groups, doulas, childbirth educators and birth centers. When the same name comes up again and again, that tells you something.
Step 3: Understand your state's rules
Each state has its own rules for midwives, so it's worth a quick look. Depending on your state:
- Licensing for direct-entry midwives (midwives who don't train as nurses first) may be required or voluntary. A licensed direct-entry midwife may need to hold the CPM credential, current CPR and newborn resuscitation certifications, and other training.
- Some states also allow unlicensed midwives to practice, with rules such as telling you about their training and experience, telling you they're not licensed, and giving you a written plan that includes transfer to a hospital or provider if needed.
- You can usually look up a license through your state's licensing board.
None of this has to feel complicated. Just ask every midwife: Which credential do you hold, and are you licensed in this state?
Step 4: Book a consultation or two
Most midwives offer a free consultation. Bring your partner and your questions. Here's my list of questions to ask a home birth midwife.
Step 5: Notice how you feel
This part is easy to skip and so important. After you talk, sit quietly for a minute. Do you feel calm? Heard? A little bit loved? As my midwife always said, pregnant women need to feel loved. When I was pregnant, just a message from one of my midwives could calm me down and make my whole day feel lighter.
Whatever you choose, talk it through with an experienced midwife and your care provider. They know you and your pregnancy, and they can help you decide.
Questions moms ask
When should I start looking for a midwife?
Early in pregnancy is a good time, because popular midwives can book up for certain months. But it's rarely too late to ask. Some midwives welcome moms who switch later in pregnancy.
How far away can my midwife live?
Ask her. Many midwives only serve certain counties or areas, and she'll talk with you about her travel time to your home.
What's the difference between a CNM and a CPM?
A CNM is a nurse with graduate midwifery education, licensed in every state. A CPM specializes in birth at home and in birth centers and is certified by NARM. Licensing for CPMs depends on your state.
Can I switch midwives during pregnancy?
Yes. If something doesn't feel right, you can look for someone else, even later in pregnancy. Just ask the new midwife what's possible.
How many midwives should I interview?
One or two is plenty for most women. Compare how each one answers your questions and how you feel with her.
