Midwife team created a family-centered birth experience for a young family of 5

Denise, a Pensacola mother, reflected on her birthing journey as she celebrated her daughter’s first birthday. She turned to midwifery care at Ascension Sacred Heart for a personal, family-centered experience where she felt supported and cared for. The U.S. News & World Report named Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola one of “America’s Best Hospitals for Maternity Care,” recognized for excellence in care for uncomplicated pregnancies. 

The support of certified nurse-midwives Amber, Nicole, and Savanna, guided her through pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care. 

From her first prenatal visit, she felt reassured. The midwifery office offered a welcoming environment, especially meaningful for a young family living far from relatives. Each midwife brought unique strengths, but all shared the same commitment to personalized, whole-person care.

When it came time to deliver, she chose a birthing suite designed for a natural, family-centered birth. The birthing suite offered peace and comfort for her family. 

“The room was so accommodating. My boys were able to nap, have snacks, and watch a movie until it was time for their sister’s arrival.”

She said their presence gave her peace and joy: “I will be forever grateful to Ascension Sacred Heart for allowing families to be together.”

She also felt reassured knowing the suite was close to the Perinatal Support Unit and the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Studer Family Children’s Hospital, ensuring access to advanced newborn care if needed. Her labor progressed quickly and intensely, but midwife Amber guided her with calm coaching and steady encouragement. “My sweet husband was with me whenever he could, but knowing Amber and the midwives were right there for me, literally and figuratively, was such a comfort. I was never alone,” Denise said.

Her midwife team stayed close, offering reassurance at every step. Comfort tools, such as the peanut ball, birthing ball, and warm tub, helped ease her pain and supported her movement through contractions. “Our goal is to honor each mother’s wishes while providing safe, evidence-based care. It is a privilege to walk with families through such a meaningful moment,” said Amber, CNM.

Surrounded by her midwife team and her family, she safely welcomed baby Mary into the world. 

After Mary’s birth, the care continued. Each of the midwives visited her in the hospital, not just as providers but as familiar and caring faces. The team supported her recovery and continued her postpartum care, offering encouragement and guidance. “Being a patient of the midwives made Pensacola feel like home. I miss you all. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Women’s health care is personal, and choosing the right care matters. Ascension Sacred Heart OB-GYNs and midwifery teams are here for you in every season of life, with compassionate, family-centered maternity care in Pensacola, supporting mothers, babies, and families. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit ascension.org/GulfCoastWomens.