National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health
Women's health nurse practitioners (WHNPs) are at the forefront of advancing comprehensive, patient-centered care for women across all life stages. With over 325,000 licensed nurse practitioners in the U.S., the demand for specialized women’s health services is growing rapidly. This trend reflects broader shifts in healthcare: a heightened awareness of women's unique health needs, increasing maternal mortality concerns, and a renewed focus on reproductive justice.
To meet these challenges, WHNPs need more than clinical expertise. They require access to current research, continuing education, peer networks, and a strong voice in public policy. That's where the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health (NPWH) comes in. As a leading national organization, NPWH equips nurse practitioners with the tools, resources, and community they need to lead the way in women's health.
What is the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health?
The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health (NPWH) was founded in 1980 and has since evolved into the premier professional association for WHNPs and advanced practice providers focused on women's health. The organization stands out for its commitment to excellence in clinical practice, education, policy, and leadership development.
Mission and Vision
At its core, NPWH seeks to advance best practices in women's health through leadership and evidence-based care. Its mission encompasses:
- Promoting quality healthcare for women across the lifespan
- Supporting the professional and clinical development of NPs
- Advocating for women's health issues at the national level
By aligning clinical knowledge with public health priorities, NPWH continues to influence both practice and policy in meaningful ways.
Why Join NPWH? Benefits of Membership
Membership in NPWH unlocks a comprehensive support system for nurse practitioners at every career stage. Whether you’re a student, a new graduate, or an experienced WHNP, joining NPWH can dramatically enhance your practice, boost your confidence, and expand your career options.
Continuing Education Opportunities
Staying up to date is essential in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. NPWH provides high-quality, accredited continuing education tailored specifically to women's health topics.
- Online Courses and Webinars: Convenient access to CEUs on topics like reproductive health, perinatal care, and breast health.
- Annual Conference: Attend the Premier Women's Healthcare Conference for in-person workshops, keynotes, and breakout sessions.
- WHNP Certification Prep: Prepare effectively for certification exams with curated study materials.
Policy and Advocacy
Healthcare policy directly shapes how WHNPs can practice and what services patients receive. NPWH empowers its members to become informed advocates for change.
- Full Practice Authority: Advocating for NPs to practice independently in all states, as supported by AANP full practice authority map.
- Reproductive Rights: Protecting access to contraception, abortion, and fertility services in line with CDC reproductive health initiatives.
- Maternal Health Equity: Addressing racial disparities in maternal outcomes, informed by CDC maternal mortality data.
Through position statements, legislative alerts, and policy briefs, members can engage meaningfully in shaping the future of women's health.
Networking and Professional Support
Community and collaboration are key to a successful nursing career. NPWH fosters connection and mentorship through events and digital platforms.
- Online Forums: Exchange knowledge and resources with fellow WHNPs nationwide.
- Live Events: Attend regional meetups and national conferences.
- Leadership Programs: Grow into roles like clinical educator, policy advocate, or organization leader.
Clinical Resources and Publications
NPWH offers tools and insights to support your clinical decision-making, ensuring your care remains evidence-based and patient-focused.
- Clinical Journal: Women's Healthcare: A Clinical Journal for NPs delivers peer-reviewed, practice-focused research.
- Toolkits and Guidelines: Access user-friendly resources on HPV screening, hormone therapy, and contraceptive counseling.
- Position Statements: Stay aligned with national standards on key women’s health issues.
Career Advancement Tools
NPWH provides actionable resources to help you grow professionally, whether you’re job hunting or aiming for leadership.
| Resource | Description |
| WHNP Job Board | Browse positions nationwide with women's health focus |
| Resume and Interview Tips | Resources tailored for NPs entering or advancing their careers |
| Scholarships and Awards | Recognizing excellence and supporting education |
| Preceptor Directory | Find or become a clinical preceptor |
NPWH and WHNP Certification
Certification is a major milestone in every WHNP’s career. While NPWH does not issue credentials, it collaborates with certifying bodies like the National Certification Corporation (NCC) to support exam readiness.
Members gain access to study materials, exam blueprints, and peer support groups—creating an ideal environment to succeed in certification and stay certified through ongoing CE.
Educational and Student Resources
Students represent the future of women's healthcare, and NPWH invests in their success from the very beginning. If you're pursuing a WHNP or related APRN program, student membership delivers targeted resources to build your foundation.
- Discounted Membership Fees: Affordable access to all member benefits
- Student Leadership Program: Grow your voice through national leadership opportunities
- Preceptor Connections: Secure clinical placement with experienced WHNPs
- Foundational CE Courses: Build early competence in key women's health areas
Conferences and Events
Live events provide unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and renewal. NPWH's annual conference is a must-attend event for anyone serious about advancing their role in women's healthcare.
- Clinical Workshops: Hands-on training in IUD insertion, pelvic exams, and more
- Expert Panels: Insight from public health leaders and industry innovators
- Poster Sessions: Showcase and discover cutting-edge research
- CE Credits: Earn credits in a focused, immersive environment
Attendees consistently report renewed confidence, improved clinical skills, and lasting professional connections.
How NPWH Influences Healthcare Policy
From the clinic to Capitol Hill, NPWH plays a pivotal role in shaping the policies that govern women's healthcare. By participating in legislative efforts, coalition partnerships, and policy research, NPWH amplifies the voices of WHNPs.
Advocacy Focus Areas
| Policy Area | NPWH Advocacy Efforts |
| Reproductive Health Access | Support for contraceptive coverage and abortion rights |
| Maternal Mortality Reduction | Legislation to improve maternal outcomes |
| Full Practice Authority | Removing barriers to NP scope of practice |
| Women’s Health Research | Advocating for increased NIH funding |
By joining NPWH, you add strength to collective efforts aimed at creating systemic change.
Becoming a Member: How to Join NPWH
Joining NPWH is easy and accessible through the organization's website. Membership is open to nurse practitioners, students, and allied professionals committed to women's health.
| Membership Type | Who It’s For | Key Benefits |
| Student | Currently enrolled NP students | Discounts, early access to resources |
| Individual | Licensed NPs and APRNs | Full access to CE, events, networking |
| Associate | Allied professionals in women's health | Select access to events and publications |
Annual dues are modest, and the benefits significantly outweigh the cost, making it a smart investment in your career.
Empower Your Career with NPWH
In today's rapidly changing healthcare environment, being connected to a professional community is more important than ever. The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health offers more than just membership—it offers mentorship, credibility, and a voice in shaping the future of women's health.
Whether you’re preparing for certification, seeking continuing education, or advocating for your patients at the policy level, NPWH provides the structure and support to help you thrive as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics – Nurse Practitioners
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners – State Practice Environment
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Reproductive Health
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Maternal Mortality
- National Certification Corporation
- National Institutes of Health
- 11 Highest Paid Nurse Practitioner (NP) Specialties - April 24, 2025
- Dual Role (Family NP/Emergency NP) - March 7, 2025
- National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health - February 4, 2025
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