Midwife means "with woman". A midwife is a specialist in normal pregnancy and birth. She works with other caregivers to provide women and their babies the best possible care during the childbearing year. In Alberta and around the world, midwives have excellent safety records.
Since July 17, 1998, midwives have been registered and licensed to practice in Alberta. Currently, registration is issued under the authority of the Midwifery Health Disciplines Committee of Alberta Health and Wellness. Midwives must meet the requirements for registration annually.
Their scope of practice includes providing primary care to women and their newborns through pregnancy, birth and 6 weeks postpartum. Midwives have access to laboratories and diagnostic services, prescribe and carry select medications; and consult or refer to other specialists when needed. Hospital admitting privileges are available in most regions where midwives practice.