Women’s health professionals convene at VCU Health for midwives conference

By Leha Byrd

VCU Health is hosting this year’s American College of Nurse-Midwives Virginia conference Nov. 5. The annual event is a forum where best practices in midwifery are examined and discussed by health care professionals throughout the state. This year’s topics include managing hematologic abnormalities, lactation update and milk banking, herbal therapies in pregnancy and becoming a midwife. 

Representatives from Virginia branches of American College of Nurse-Midwives and the Virginia Midwives Alliance are participating in the event. Additionally, VCU Health physicians and clinical staff are presenting, including Joshua Morales, M.D., chief hematology fellow; Frances Casey, M.D., director of Family Planning Services; and Valerie Coleman, coordinator of Family Life Education, Women’s Health Community Outreach and Lactation Services.

Information and best practices gathered at the event will be used by nurse-midwives and advanced practice nurses as they work with women in their respective organizations, event planners said. 

“We have a strong midwifery presence in town and we work to support and promote continuing education,” said Leslie Fehan, lead certified nurse-midwife at VCU Health.

The VCU Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology has had a midwifery program for 18 years and currently has six midwives on staff. Melanie Hartman, Stephanie Sherrell, Ashley Mirmak, Elizabeth Markey and Holly McGroary work alongside Fehan as certified nurse-midwives at VCU Health. During labor, VCU Health midwives offer emotional support, relaxation techniques, position changes and water therapy to facilitate labor and birth. Moreover, they provide education and guidance to women throughout their pregnancy and post-partum period to assist in maintaining health and wellness. Nurse-midwives may also order labs, imaging and/or medication as needed for women to assess or treat problems.  

During National Midwifery Week, Oct. 2-8, Fehan participated in a Facebook Live event that explained the structure of the VCU Health midwifery program, and aimed to dispel myths associated with the delivery practice. 

“This conference is an opportunity to continue to validate the work of midwives,” Fehan said. “It is an opportunity to share our common goal of healthy mothers and healthy babies and to explore best practices to attain that goal. We are excited to host the event and share our midwifery service’s excellent outcomes and to promote evidence to others around the state. VCU Health is glad to host the event and stimulate growth and change.”

“The chance to discuss midwifery with clinicians from around the state, and get their expertise and input about the practice as a modern birthing option is ideal,” Fehan said. “VCU Health is glad to host the event and be part of the conversation.”