Midwives making more deliveries in Iowa

Midwifery is making a comeback in Iowa with modern additions to thetraditional approach. Certified Nurse Midwife Dana Ericson says today’s Iowawomen like the idea of natural childbirth and the personal attentionmidwives offer expecting mothers, versus a quick visit with an obstetrician.Modern midwives are registered nurses that go on to a masters program andpass a national board exam to be certified. They can utilize localantesthetics and hospitals or natural methods and deliver at home.There are about fifty midwives practicing in Iowa. Interested parents canattend a three-day midwifery workshop in Des Moines Thursday, Friday, andSaturday. Pam England, nurse-midwife and author will facilitate. Call515-270-8377 or visit www-dot-birthpower-dot-com for more information.