Naturopathic Obstetrics/Midwifery The obstetrics/midwifery program at NCNM is a synthesis of the philosophies of natural medicine and traditional midwifery. Although NCNM’s program for credit is didactic only, and does not include the experiential aspects of training, it prepares students to seek further education through clinical field observations, should they so choose. Naturopathic midwives strive to “be with” (midwife) each woman as her pregnancy progresses and “to stand before” (obstetrics) her reverently, acknowledging her strength and the indisputable wisdom of childbirth. Naturopathic physicians honor the body’s wisdom in the birthing process. With dual training as naturopathic physicians and midwives, naturopathic midwives are uniquely qualified to provide comprehensive health care for the woman and her family throughout their lives. NCNM offers a specialty certificate in naturopathic obstetrics/midwifery, recognizing the completion of a series of didactic courses. The program combines the principles and practice of midwifery with naturopathic philosophy, but does not include credit for practical experience in assisting at childbirth. Students receive instruction in the natural process of pregnancy, labor and birth, while also being trained in detection and management of unusual and emergency situations. After successful completion of the program, certificate holders are uniquely prepared to continue their education by obtaining practical experience under the mentorship of qualified naturopathic physicians. Students intending to include natural childbirth in their practices must complete the entire didactic sequence of obstetric coursework to familiarize themselves with the management of pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and neonatal periods. 40
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Program coursework meets Oregon licensure requirements for the Certificate of Natural Childbirth, and is recognized by Washington state midwifery requirements. Both states also require practical clinical experience, which is not included in this certificate program. Individuals interested in practicing naturopathic midwifery in other areas should contact local governing agencies to inquire about requirements. Students must be in good academic standing and apply for the program in their second or third year in the naturopathic program. Qualified applicants will be interviewed by the Obstetrics Selection Committee for entry into the obstetrics/midwifery certificate program. Annual selection is limited and not all applicants are accepted.
NCB 610 – Natural Childbirth I: For the General Practitioner
(3 lecture credits) This course is required in the naturopathic curriculum, and prepares the student to provide health care appropriate to the special circumstances of pregnancy. Topics include diagnosis of pregnancy, initiating prenatal care, therapeutics for early pregnancy, management of miscarriage, infertility, referrals, overviews of normal labor and birth, and the postpartum care of mothers and infants. The student is prepared to screen for risks and to offer clients informed choices related to hospital or out of hospital birthing options. Prerequisites: CLS 510/520/530, CLS 510L/520L/530L, CLS 512/522/532/542, CLS 513/523/533