Maternity nurse chose Ascension Sacred Heart midwives for her own delivery

Christina and her husband, Jake, envisioned welcoming their firstborn into a warm, serene environment. As a labor and delivery nurse in Pensacola, Florida, with eight years of experience, Christina knew the importance of feeling comfortable and supported by her care team. She also knew that trust was a key part of her journey. She sought a midwife experience but never imagined just how powerful and transformative the journey would become.

From the moment Christina began her journey, she knew she was in the right place. She chose Ascension Sacred Heart because of its specialized advanced facilities, including midwifery care, birthing suites, a 24/7 OB-GYN, and a Level III NICU. These services offered natural, personalized support of midwifery care combined with the safety of specialists and advanced hospital resources, should they be needed. Knowing the hospital was fully equipped with all the resources gave Christina peace of mind and confidence throughout her journey.

When Christina was 36 weeks pregnant, she worked closely with Donna Wisdom, a birth designer at Ascension Sacred Heart Monogram Maternity. Together, they discussed her birth plan. Donna reminded Christina, “A birth plan is a guide, but sometimes things can change.” 

Christina knew that things might not go exactly as planned, and she trusted that the midwives and nurses would be there to take care of her no matter what happened. Working with Monogram Maternity was particularly reassuring because many of the positive interventions Christina wanted were already incorporated into the care provided at Ascension Sacred Heart.

Christina’s labor didn’t go exactly as she had planned. Her water broke, but labor didn’t begin on its own, so she needed interventions to get things moving. Christina was comfortable with this decision because she trusted the midwives and knew they were doing everything they could to keep her and her baby safe. Before labor, Christina had already discussed her options with Nicole, the midwife who would eventually deliver her baby. She was open to getting an epidural if needed, and after seven contractions, she chose to proceed with it. Nicole explained all her options, making sure Christina felt comfortable with her decision. Once the epidural was administered, Christina’s labor progressed quickly.

Choosing the midwifery team at Ascension Sacred Heart Midwives was a decision rooted in Christina’s belief in their approach to pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care. They specialize in the pregnancy journey and ensure both mother and baby remain healthy for a natural birth. The midwives at Ascension Sacred Heart specialize in a holistic, natural approach to childbirth in a serene environment. They supported Christina throughout her pregnancy and labor, ensuring her safety while allowing her to have the natural birth she envisioned. They encouraged her to listen to her body, offering gentle guidance when needed and empowering her to navigate the experience with trust and confidence.

Withstanding the challenges, Christina cherished every moment of her delivery because she understood that the pain had a purpose. “I enjoyed every second of my delivery, even the pain and discomfort I felt was pain with a purpose,” she said.“I felt immense joy and strength while pushing with Nicole, my husband, right by my side, along with my fabulous delivery team. When Tucker was born, I never knew so much love and gratitude.” 

Christina made the plan, made the choices, and put in the effort, while the midwifery team was there every step of the way to guide her. The experience was everything she had hoped for and more. Christina is confident in recommending midwifery services to other expectant mothers. “The midwives, nurses, and staff at Ascension Sacred Heart are all on your side and want you to have your ideal birth experience,” she said. 

Even when things don’t go exactly as planned, Christina encourages other moms to trust their labor team. “Mamas, you were made for this! Trust yourself, trust your body, and trust the wonderful midwives and nurses at Sacred Heart,”she said.

With the support of the midwifery team at Ascension Sacred Heart, she experienced the safe, healthy pregnancy and birth she had always hoped for—creating an amazing birth story she will cherish forever. Christina's entire journey exceeded her expectations.

Learn more about Ascension Sacred Heart Midwives to assist you with birthing care.