You do not have to have a baby to see a Nurse Midwife. Most people think of maternity care, even home birth, when they hear the word "Nurse-Midwife". They are often surprised to find that nurse midwives provide regular gynecological care to women, from puberty through menopause, and beyond. If you are seeking safe, thorough and sensitive gyne care, consider a certified nurse midwife.

CNMs offer quality healthcare, including complete history and gentle physical examinations with breast exam and PAP smear, and plenty of time to discuss you concerns and questions. Most CNMs also diagnose and treat vaginitis, yeast, urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases. A CNM is an excellent choice for a young women having a first pelvic exam. For women nearing menopause, hormone replacement therapy or its alternatives may be recommended, and referrals for additional screenings such as mammogram and bone mineral density evaluations may be given. Your CNM will teach you self-care practices for disease prevention and discuss and encourage good health habits, perhaps suggesting diet or exercise changes. She may advise vitamin, calcium or other supplements for your particular needs. Weight control and smoking cessation information is also available.

For those desiring pregnancy, a yearly gyne visit is an excellent way to begin a relationship with your nurse midwife. Preconception information is available, and questions and concerns about pregnancy and delivery can be discussed. Women with health conditions that require ongoing medical care such as high blood pressure can see their CNM for their yearly PAP smear, while seeing their primary care physician for their regular medical care. CNMs work closely with a consulting physician and referral is available for more invasive testing, hospitalization, or surgery.

The nurse midwives at Family Nurse Midwife Associates have been providing gynecological care to women of all ages for close to ten years. Many women feel that their yearly visit is like a visit with an old and trusted friend. They often bring their daughters who have puberty questions or who are ready for their first gyne exam. Nurse midwives are there for you--WOMAN TO WOMAN.

Written by Nancy Ritenour CNM with references from an ACNM Publication entitled "Certified Nurse-Midwives and your Gyne Care, 03/97"