A pioneering effort in the mid-1980s to welcome midwives onto the South Jersey Healthcare (SJH) medical staff has blossomed into a successful partnership, which benefits thousands of local women.

In 1983, the first certified nurse midwife was welcomed to the SJH medical staff. Since that time, SJH has become a leader in hospital-based midwifery services, serving as a clinical rotation site for several respected university midwifery programs.

Midwives are trained to provide prenatal care, education and emotional support; and to attend uncomplicated births. Midwives also prescribe medication; provide routine gynecologic care, including Pap tests, breast and pelvic exams; and offer preconception counseling for women contemplating pregnancy.

In New Jersey, physicians and midwives have written collaborative agreements that ensure the best possible care for women during pregnancies. A certified nurse midwife must be affiliated with a physician who can provide consultation and emergency backup.

If a situation is deemed serious enough, physicians will provide the necessary medical care while the midwife continues providing patient education and emotional support.