How to find a midwife in the US
The US midwifery system is genuinely confusing. Two types of midwife, 50 different sets of state rules, and insurance that may or may not help. Here is what you actually need to know.
Two main types of midwife in the US
Before you search, you need to understand the two primary credential types, because they operate differently and have different legal scopes depending on where you live.
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)
CNMs are registered nurses who completed advanced midwifery education. They are licensed in all 50 states, can prescribe medications, and typically practice in hospital or birth centre settings. Many also attend home births. CNMs are most commonly covered by insurance.
Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)
CPMs specialize in out-of-hospital births (home births and birth centres). They are not nurses, and their legal status varies by state. CPMs are legal in about 35 states. If you want a home birth, you will most likely work with a CPM. Insurance coverage for CPMs is more variable.
Insurance and cost
CNM services are generally covered by most insurance plans, including Medicaid in most states. CPM services are more variable. Some states mandate coverage for licensed midwives at birth centres and home births. Others do not. Ask your insurance company directly and ask potential midwives which plans they accept before committing.
Out-of-pocket home birth fees typically run $3,000 to $8,000 depending on location, experience, and what is included. Birth centre packages vary widely.
State highlights
California
California has strong legal protections for midwives and a large birth centre network. CNMs and CPMs can practice legally. Major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have accessible options. Insurance coverage varies by plan.
Browse midwives in CaliforniaNew York
New York City has some of the most midwife-forward hospitals in the country. CNMs are well integrated into hospital systems. If you want an out-of-hospital birth, licensed midwives attend home births and birth centres in many areas.
Browse midwives in New YorkTexas
Texas licenses CPMs for out-of-hospital births. CNMs work in hospital and birth centre settings. The state has a mix of progressive birth communities in Austin and Dallas, and more conservative medical cultures in other areas.
Browse midwives in TexasFlorida
Florida licenses midwives (LMs) for out-of-hospital births and has a growing birth centre community. CNMs practice across hospital and community settings. Check specific insurance plan coverage before booking.
Browse midwives in FloridaOregon
Oregon has a long history of progressive birth policy. Both CNMs and CPMs are licensed and well integrated. Birth centres are common and Medicaid covers midwifery care in many circumstances.
Browse midwives in OregonWashington
Washington state licenses both CNMs and LMs (licensed midwives, similar to CPMs). Midwifery care is available in birth centres and at home. Seattle and the surrounding region have particularly strong options.
Browse midwives in WashingtonHow to start your search
- Use the Cradld US midwifery directory to search by state and city.
- Contact the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) for a CNM search tool. NACPM lists CPMs.
- Reach out early. In many cities, good midwifery practices fill months in advance.
- Ask about backup protocols. Every responsible midwife should have a clear plan for hospital transfer if needed.