WomenCare (Midwives)

Midwives: Providing whole-woman care

Midwife literally means "with woman."  Since ancient times, women have been helping other women bring new life into the world, and that practice continues today.  But, did you know that today's midwives are Masters Degree or higher educated nurses who also provide routine gynecological services? 

Pregnancy

University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center's WomenCare consists of six certified nurse midwives with offices in Elyria and Amherst.  They average approximately 300 deliveries per year, and have assisted with the births of more than 10,000 children throughout their careers.  These deliveries are all performed in hospitals - which is a common misconception with midwives. 

Women who choose a midwife receive:

• comprehensive prenatal care and care throughout the pregnancy
• health education enabling women to make the best care decisions for themselves and their babies

Many also appreciate the time their providers spend with them, both answering and asking questions that help discover problems early, which minimizes the chance of complications during pregnancy and birth. 

During labor and delivery, midwives practice judicial use of medical interventions only when necessary.  Although they are independent care providers, midwives collaborate with physicians to offer their patients the full spectrum of care when needed. 

Well women care

A large misconception about midwives is that they only deliver babies. For years, women of all ages have been coming to the midwives of UH Elyria Medical Center's WomenCare for services such as:

• annual GYN exams
• PAP smears
• Colposcopy
• Biopsies
• menopause-related issues
• birth control

Midwifery services are covered by most insurance plans. For more information about UH Elyria Medical Center's WomenCare, or to make an appointment, please call 440-989-5111.