The Best of Both Worlds for Natural Childbirth

For women seeking natural, unmedicated childbirth, Midwifery Services at GW Hospital offer the best of both worlds — natural childbirth with a certified nurse midwife (CNM) in a hospital environment. 

More than 3,000 babies have been delivered through Midwifery Services at GW Hospital. Our collaborative model of care offers women a natural childbirth experience with the backup of medical staff and technology. With the benefits and expertise of an academic medical center, and a Level IIIB Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), expectant mothers and newborns have access to the full range of obstetrical and neonatal services.

Schedule an In-Person or Virtual Appointment

Please fill out our general appointment form below or call our referral service at 888-4GW-DOCS to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment. Virtual Health enables you to speak with providers using your phone, tablet or computer.

Request Appointment

Podcast: How to Choose the Best Birth Plan for You and Your Family

Nancy D. Gaba, MD, FACOG, and Whitney Pinger, CNM, FACNM, discuss the importance of preparing for childbirth with a solid birth plan in place.

Listen to the Podcast

What Certified Nurse Midwives Offer

Midwives assist women in having a natural, vaginal birth without pain medication. A CNM is a specially trained advanced-practice nurse who holds a master’s degree.

CNMs are qualified to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medication and manage patient care. Each midwife specializes in providing pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum care, as well as full-scope gynecological care. The comprehensive services women receive include nutrition and lifestyle counseling, blood work, sonograms and regular checkups throughout the pregnancy.

Our midwifery services are recommended for women who are in excellent health, committed to natural birth and are willing to embrace the program’s model of care that includes strict nutritional and exercise guidelines.

Hydrotherapy for Pain Management

GW Hospital has a collaborative care team that includes doctors and midwives. For low-risk labors, our midwifery team supports the use of hydrotherapy or water immersion for comfort and relaxation during labor and birth. Our midwifery team is proud to offer this safe alternative for pain management.