Coalition for Illinois Midwifery

Welcome and thank you for visiting the Coalition for Illinois Midwifery!

Formed in 2000, the Coalition for Illinois Midwifery (the Coalition) seeks to ensure the availability of safe, licensed direct-entry midwifery services for families who chose to give birth at home in the state of Illinois.

The Coalition unites organizations and individuals that endorse the Illinois Midwifery Initiative to work toward change in Illinois. Our ultimate goal is to pass licensure which will enable direct-entry midwives, who carry the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential to practice legally and in harmony with other Illinois maternity care providers.

The need for enabling legislation for Certified Professional Midwives has never been greater. A recent judicial decision has rendered direct-entry midwifery illegal in Illinois. In 27 other states, like Wisconsin, Minnesota, California, Florida, Virginia, Texas and Vermont, Certified Professional Midwives are licensed professionals, providing evidence-based maternity care in a collaborative environment. Though all women and their families deserve equal access to this kind of care, in Illinois, access is rapidly shrinking and quickly approaching zero.

Please browse our website for information and resources about midwifery and maternity care challenges in Illinois.

Important News and Announcements

URGENT ACTION ALERT – House Bill 226 - HOMEBIRTH SAFETY ACT – ACT NOW!!!!!