Erica

Leyritz

CNM, C-PNP

Personal Interests:

Growing up in Alaska instilled in me a life-long love of nature, the outdoors, gardening, and earth conservation. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, reading non-fiction, and spending time with family and friends.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in OB/GYN?

I was working as a nurse in the pediatric intensive care unit and I began to wonder if some of the conditions children were born with were preventable. I looked into different graduate degree tracks in nursing and midwifery captured my attention. The role of a CNM, not only during the prenatal period but the entire lifespan of women, strongly focusing on exceptional preventive care, ultimately reducing a variety of suboptimal outcomes.

The relationship-based model of care that is the center of midwifery philosophy, speaks to the importance of education, advocacy and the strength in encouraged self-efficacy resulting in a new level of empowerment for many women. This philosophy enhanced the valuable family-centered care approach that I had established as a nurse. I have grown into the profession of midwifery and am thankful that my path crossed this profession - it has provided me with a career I am passionate about and proud of.

What do you like about working at UW Medicine?

As a new faculty member at UW, I can say without reserve that I am so excited to join a team that exudes positive energy! The enthusiasm to embrace midwifery within a collaborative model is inspiring.

I am also grateful to once again be working at an institute that can excel in low-risk to the highest risk obstetrical care utilizing a dynamic team of specialists. The level of resources is remarkable.

What are your favorite things about living in the Seattle area?

Seattle has all the amenities and benefits of a large city but still has several areas that encourage a small-town feeling. I love that I will periodically cross paths with families that I have worked with and get to see their little ones growing up. I enjoy supporting the many small businesses and restaurants in the area, and the diverse outdoor activities that are within a short drive. 

What inspires you?

Listening to the wisdom of others, learning and helping others learn.

Clinical Interests: 

Adolescent health, contraception, preventative care, pregnancy and childbirth, collaboration with alternative medicine professionals to optimize outcomes.

Board Certification: 
American Midwifery Certification Board, 2012
Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, 2013

Licensure: 
Registered Nurse, 2006
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, 2012

Education & Training: 
Master of Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 2013

Memberships: 
American College of Nurse-Midwives
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Date Joined UW Medicine: 2020

Languages: English