Wyoming Midwifery: Addressing Healthcare Access in the Equality State
As Wyoming faces challenges in providing adequate healthcare access, particularly for pregnant women, the role of midwives is gaining attention. Currently, the state has a limited number of licensed midwives, sparking discussion about their potential to help fill gaps in care. This article examines the current state of midwifery in Wyoming, its historical context, and future possibilities.
Limited Midwifery Presence in Wyoming
According to the Wyoming Board of Midwifery, as of February 28, 2026, there are only 26 certified professional midwives currently licensed to practice in the state. Wyoming Board of Midwifery A significant portion of these licenses, 20, are held by midwives residing outside of Wyoming, while only six are held by Wyoming residents. The distribution of these resident licenses is concentrated in specific counties: one each in Platte, Park, and Washakie Counties, and three in Uinta County. Wyoming Board of Midwifery
Types of Midwives in Wyoming
The licenses held by these professionals may include nurse-midwives, who are registered nurses with advanced practice training and are as well registered with the State Board of Nursing. Wyoming Board of Midwifery
A Growing Profession Nationally
Nationwide, the demand for midwives is increasing as more women seek holistic or natural approaches to childbirth, including home births. In 1980, midwives attended only 1.1 percent of births in the U.S. By 2020, that number had risen to 12 percent.
Historical Context and Regulation
The path to regulating midwifery in Wyoming was not straightforward. Years ago, the Wyoming Legislature initially opposed licensing midwives, citing concerns about liability if complications arose during childbirth and required hospital intervention. But, midwives and their supporters persisted, and in 2010, the Legislature passed a law allowing for the registration and regulation of midwives through the Wyoming Board of Midwifery. Wyoming Board of Midwifery The Board was created to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of Wyoming citizens by ensuring qualified midwifery practitioners. Wyoming Board of Midwifery
The Wyoming Board of Midwifery
The Wyoming Board of Midwifery, staffed through the Professional Licensing Boards Office, a division of A&I, is responsible for the licensure and regulation of midwives practicing in the state. Wyoming Board of Midwifery The Board consists of seven members and meets at least three times a year. Wyoming Board of Midwifery
Contacting the Wyoming Board of Midwifery
For questions regarding applications and renewals, contact Beth Kimbrough at elizabeth.kimbrough@wyo.gov or (307) 777-3628. For complaints and Board meetings, contact Carlos Gomez at carlos.gomez@wyo.gov or (307) 777-7788. Wyoming Board of Midwifery Contact Information Please note that walk-in office hours are no longer available. The Wyoming Board of Midwifery is located at 2001 Capitol Ave, Room 127, Cheyenne, WY 82002. Wyoming Board of Midwifery Contact Information
Looking Ahead
As Wyoming continues to address healthcare shortages, the role of midwives may evolve. Increased acceptance from medical professionals and growing interest from expectant mothers could lead to a greater demand for midwifery services in the state.