Certified Nurse Midwife and OB-GYN Care at AHN Forbes Hospital

Women’s health needs can change over time. Having access to the right care can help you stay on track, whether it’s for a routine visit, pregnancy, or a new concern.

At AHN Forbes Hospital, women now have more options with the addition of certified nurse midwife services. Midwives work alongside OB-GYN physicians to provide personalized care that focuses on your needs, your preferences, and your goals — while ensuring advanced support is always available.

What is a certified nurse midwife?

Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) are licensed health care professionals who have advanced training in women’s health care. Many have a master’s or doctoral degree and can perform exams, order lab and imaging tests, and prescribe medications.

They provide care for women at every stage of life, including:

• Annual well-woman exams and screenings
• Gynecologic care and treatment
• Family planning and birth control counseling
• Pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care
• Menopause support and symptom management

CNMs often lead care for patients with low to moderate risk, meaning those without serious or complex medical conditions. If surgery is needed or complications arise, CNMs partner with OB-GYN physicians to ensure you receive the right level of care.

This team-based approach allows patients to benefit from personalized midwifery care, while having access to advanced medical support when needed.

What makes midwifery care different?

Midwifery care focuses on strong relationships. CNMs take time to listen, answer questions, and explain options so you can make informed decisions.

Patients who see a CNM may benefit from:

• Longer visits and more one-on-one time
• Shared decision-making about care
• Clear education and guidance
• Support for a tailored birth experience

“Midwifery care is about building relationships and helping patients feel heard,” said Diana Shane, CNM, nurse midwife clinician at AHN. “It’s highly personalized but always grounded in evidence-based care.”

Routine women's health care matters

Regular visits with a CNM or OB-GYN physician can help to find health issues early and keep you well long-term. These visits may include:

• Routine wellness exams
• Birth control and sexual health counseling
• Pap smears to screen for cervical cancer
• HPV testing
• Breast exams
• Menopause and hormone support

These visits are also a good time to discuss symptoms such as:

• Pelvic pain
• Abnormal bleeding or discharge
• Breast changes
• Changes in your period

“Women’s health is lifelong care, not just at times of illness or pregnancy,” said Shane.

Supporting pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond

Just as CNMs support women through every phase of life, they also support you through every step of your pregnancy.

During prenatal visits, CNMs answer questions and explain what to expect. As your due date gets closer, they will work with you to create a birth plan based on your preferences. This may include choices about pain relief, movement during labor, and welcoming your baby.

During childbirth, CNMs stay focused on your comfort, safety, and goals. They guide you through each stage with clear communication and steady support.

After delivery, CNMs continue to help with care. Postpartum care may include healing checks, breastfeeding support, mood screening, birth control planning, and recovery guidance.

Take the next step in your care

You don’t have to manage your health alone. Having the right care team can help you feel more confident and supported.

At AHN Forbes Hospital, CNMs and OB-GYN physicians work together to deliver personalized care, designed around you, for all stages of your life.

Call 412-362-8677 or request an appointment with a specialist today.