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Calla
Student
Woodbine, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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Is becoming a CPM (Certified Professional Midwife) a viable career path?
Hi everyone, I'm a high school student who is exploring different options right now. I have always been interested in midwifery but I don't want to go into nursing and it seems like CNMs are the only type of midwife I see talked about. Because I have no interest in getting a nursing degree, being a part of the modern healthcare system, or working in hospitals, I don't want to be a CNM. However, it seems like there's a lot of negativity about CPMs, specifically that they don't have enough education or credentials, or that they're not in high demand or have high pay.
Does anyone with experience being a CPM (or CM, L/DEM, doula, etc) want to chime in with your thoughts about taking this career path? What was the process like, is it worth it, does it pay well, is it looked down upon in comparison to CNMs...? Thanks in advance!
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2 answers
Jeannette Cook
Writer, Communications Manager, Yoga Teacher
18
Answers
Belgium
Updated
Jeannette’s Answer
Hi Calla,
You ask - is being a Certified Professional Midwife a viable career path.
I would say it absolutely is.
It sounds to me like you know where you want to go — you’re interested in midwifing, and you know where you want to do it - outside of nursing, outside of hospitals. To me, this says it all. This is what makes it a viable career for you.
You express concern that your choice might be perceived in certain negative ways by certain people. That is really understandable, yet I encourage you to not let this deter you. Some people are always going to make a hierarchy and position themselves and others in it. This is totally arbitrary and you do not have to buy into that! That’s their circus. It need not be yours.
As a CPM, you’re going to find other people who want your expertise, strength, and care, who also do not want to be in hospitals, especially not to have their babies. I am supremely grateful to the midwives who were with me at the births of both of my daughters, one in a birthing center and the other at home, neither of whom were nurses. They were awesome. They were also happy with their careers and had thriving practices.
I would say their choice was worth it, and I think they would, too.
Good luck with your explorations and the rest of your time in high school.
Jeannette
You ask - is being a Certified Professional Midwife a viable career path.
I would say it absolutely is.
It sounds to me like you know where you want to go — you’re interested in midwifing, and you know where you want to do it - outside of nursing, outside of hospitals. To me, this says it all. This is what makes it a viable career for you.
You express concern that your choice might be perceived in certain negative ways by certain people. That is really understandable, yet I encourage you to not let this deter you. Some people are always going to make a hierarchy and position themselves and others in it. This is totally arbitrary and you do not have to buy into that! That’s their circus. It need not be yours.
As a CPM, you’re going to find other people who want your expertise, strength, and care, who also do not want to be in hospitals, especially not to have their babies. I am supremely grateful to the midwives who were with me at the births of both of my daughters, one in a birthing center and the other at home, neither of whom were nurses. They were awesome. They were also happy with their careers and had thriving practices.
I would say their choice was worth it, and I think they would, too.
Good luck with your explorations and the rest of your time in high school.
Jeannette
Thanks so much for the encouragement! I am definitely going to continue looking into this path. The CPM who delivered my little brother (while I watched!) actually lives close by, so I'm thinking of asking my mom if we can get in touch with her to ask about her experience. I also really needed to hear what you said about not holding myself back because of criticism, so thank you very much.
Calla
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
113
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Becoming a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) can be a viable career path for individuals interested in providing maternity care and supporting women during childbirth. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the viability of this career path:
1. Accreditation and recognition: The CPM credential is recognized and accredited by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). This accreditation validates the competency of CPMs and allows them to legally practice in certain jurisdictions. It's important to research the specific regulations and requirements in your location to ensure that becoming a CPM is a viable career option.
2. Demand for midwifery services: The demand for midwifery services varies by region and culture. In some areas, there may be a growing interest in alternative birthing options and a desire for personalized, holistic care. Research the local healthcare landscape and explore the demand for midwifery services in your target area.
3. Career opportunities: CPMs can work in various settings, including birthing centers, home births, or as part of a hospital or healthcare system. Consider the availability of job opportunities in your desired practice setting and the potential for building a clientele base.
4. Entrepreneurial opportunities: Some CPMs choose to establish their own private practices or join existing midwifery practices. This entrepreneurial aspect can provide flexibility and autonomy in managing your career.
5. Professional development and ongoing education: As a CPM, continuing education and staying updated on best practices is crucial. Consider the availability and accessibility of professional development opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and certifications that can enhance your skills and knowledge.
6. Financial considerations: It's important to evaluate the financial aspects of becoming a CPM. While midwifery can be a rewarding career, it may not offer the same earning potential as some other healthcare professions. Research the average income range for CPMs in your area and consider factors like insurance reimbursement and the costs associated with establishing and maintaining a practice.
7. Personal fulfillment: Midwifery is a unique and rewarding profession that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of women and families. Consider your passion for supporting women during childbirth and providing personalized, holistic care as a crucial factor in determining the viability of this career path for you.
It's recommended to connect with practicing CPMs, midwifery organizations, and regulatory bodies in your area to gain more insights into the specific requirements and considerations for becoming a CPM in your desired location.
1. Accreditation and recognition: The CPM credential is recognized and accredited by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). This accreditation validates the competency of CPMs and allows them to legally practice in certain jurisdictions. It's important to research the specific regulations and requirements in your location to ensure that becoming a CPM is a viable career option.
2. Demand for midwifery services: The demand for midwifery services varies by region and culture. In some areas, there may be a growing interest in alternative birthing options and a desire for personalized, holistic care. Research the local healthcare landscape and explore the demand for midwifery services in your target area.
3. Career opportunities: CPMs can work in various settings, including birthing centers, home births, or as part of a hospital or healthcare system. Consider the availability of job opportunities in your desired practice setting and the potential for building a clientele base.
4. Entrepreneurial opportunities: Some CPMs choose to establish their own private practices or join existing midwifery practices. This entrepreneurial aspect can provide flexibility and autonomy in managing your career.
5. Professional development and ongoing education: As a CPM, continuing education and staying updated on best practices is crucial. Consider the availability and accessibility of professional development opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and certifications that can enhance your skills and knowledge.
6. Financial considerations: It's important to evaluate the financial aspects of becoming a CPM. While midwifery can be a rewarding career, it may not offer the same earning potential as some other healthcare professions. Research the average income range for CPMs in your area and consider factors like insurance reimbursement and the costs associated with establishing and maintaining a practice.
7. Personal fulfillment: Midwifery is a unique and rewarding profession that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of women and families. Consider your passion for supporting women during childbirth and providing personalized, holistic care as a crucial factor in determining the viability of this career path for you.
It's recommended to connect with practicing CPMs, midwifery organizations, and regulatory bodies in your area to gain more insights into the specific requirements and considerations for becoming a CPM in your desired location.
Thank you, the details were really helpful to wrap my head around some of the specifics and requirements. I will definitely take the advice to talk to other CPMs to heart! As I said in reply to the other commenter, the CPM who delivered my little brother and was a large part of my inspiration lives close by, so I'm going to see if I can get in touch with her. Thanks again!
Calla