Today midwives must have a certification to offer services legally. A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is a person who has successfully completed a midwifery education program that is duly recognized and regulated in the state of Tennessee.
The midwife is recognized as a responsible and accountable professional who works in partnership with women to give the necessary support, care and advice during pregnancy, labor and the postpartum period, and to provide care for the newborn. This care includes preventative measures, the promotion of normal birth, the detection of complications in mother and child, the accessing of medical care or other appropriate assistance and the carrying out of emergency measures.