Do you know what a midwife does—and why more women are choosing midwifery care?
While many people associate midwives solely with delivering babies, they actually provide comprehensive healthcare for women at every stage of life, from puberty through menopause. At Open Door Family Medical Center, midwives have been supporting Westchester families for over three decades, offering expert care during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. With over 10,000 babies delivered and counting, their midwifery team is making a lasting impact on maternal health in our community.
“I think most people understand that midwives deliver babies,” said Judy Dalton, who has worked as a midwife for nearly 30 years, the last 18 at Open Door. “But not everyone realizes that we’re full-service healthcare providers. We guide women through pregnancy and birth, but we also offer care throughout their lives, including cancer screenings, family planning, and menopause support.”
The Benefits of a Midwife
Midwifery care is associated with better outcomes for both mothers and babies. Studies show that with midwives, there is a decrease in Cesarean births, a lower risk of preterm labor, reduced need for anesthesia, and higher breastfeeding success rates. Midwives take a personalized approach, listening to patients’ needs and helping them create birth plans that align with their goals.
“They really get to know you,” said Michelle Uzhca, whose son Noah was Open Door’s 10,000th birth. “I didn’t know much about midwives before, but it’s really worked out well each time.”
While some assume midwives only deliver at home, they actually practice in various settings, including hospitals. Open Door midwives are hospital-based and on call 24/7 at Phelps Hospital, ensuring access to both midwifery care and medical interventions if needed.
Midwives vs. Doulas
Many people confuse midwives and doulas or use the terms interchangeably. While both provide support during pregnancy and childbirth, midwives are licensed healthcare providers with advanced clinical training, whereas doulas focus on emotional and physical support.
In New York, midwives must complete graduate-level education and obtain certification. Dalton, for example, was a labor and delivery nurse before earning a Master’s degree and post-graduate certification in midwifery.
A Growing Profession with Deep Roots
Midwifery has seen a resurgence since the 1970s, and today, there are approximately 12,000 certified nurse-midwives in the U.S. The profession continues to grow, offering women more choices in their reproductive healthcare.
For Dalton, midwifery is more than a career—it’s a calling. “It’s a privilege to be there when families welcome their babies into the world,” she said. “To witness the miracle of life every day is something truly special.”
To learn more about midwifery care and how it can support you through pregnancy, birth, and beyond, visit reputable health organizations like the American College of Nurse-Midwives or speak with a healthcare provider about your options. Whether you're expecting a baby or seeking holistic women’s healthcare, midwives offer compassionate, personalized care at every stage of life.
While many people associate midwives solely with delivering babies, they actually provide comprehensive healthcare for women at every stage of life, from puberty through menopause. At Open Door Family Medical Center, midwives have been supporting Westchester families for over three decades, offering expert care during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. With over 10,000 babies delivered and counting, their midwifery team is making a lasting impact on maternal health in our community.
“I think most people understand that midwives deliver babies,” said Judy Dalton, who has worked as a midwife for nearly 30 years, the last 18 at Open Door. “But not everyone realizes that we’re full-service healthcare providers. We guide women through pregnancy and birth, but we also offer care throughout their lives, including cancer screenings, family planning, and menopause support.”
The Benefits of a Midwife
Midwifery care is associated with better outcomes for both mothers and babies. Studies show that with midwives, there is a decrease in Cesarean births, a lower risk of preterm labor, reduced need for anesthesia, and higher breastfeeding success rates. Midwives take a personalized approach, listening to patients’ needs and helping them create birth plans that align with their goals.
“They really get to know you,” said Michelle Uzhca, whose son Noah was Open Door’s 10,000th birth. “I didn’t know much about midwives before, but it’s really worked out well each time.”
While some assume midwives only deliver at home, they actually practice in various settings, including hospitals. Open Door midwives are hospital-based and on call 24/7 at Phelps Hospital, ensuring access to both midwifery care and medical interventions if needed.
Midwives vs. Doulas
Many people confuse midwives and doulas or use the terms interchangeably. While both provide support during pregnancy and childbirth, midwives are licensed healthcare providers with advanced clinical training, whereas doulas focus on emotional and physical support.
In New York, midwives must complete graduate-level education and obtain certification. Dalton, for example, was a labor and delivery nurse before earning a Master’s degree and post-graduate certification in midwifery.
A Growing Profession with Deep Roots
Midwifery has seen a resurgence since the 1970s, and today, there are approximately 12,000 certified nurse-midwives in the U.S. The profession continues to grow, offering women more choices in their reproductive healthcare.
For Dalton, midwifery is more than a career—it’s a calling. “It’s a privilege to be there when families welcome their babies into the world,” she said. “To witness the miracle of life every day is something truly special.”
To learn more about midwifery care and how it can support you through pregnancy, birth, and beyond, visit reputable health organizations like the American College of Nurse-Midwives or speak with a healthcare provider about your options. Whether you're expecting a baby or seeking holistic women’s healthcare, midwives offer compassionate, personalized care at every stage of life.
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