Though all opinions are my own, this blog post is sponsored by SSM Health. For more information about the amenities and childbirth options available at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Madison, click here.
Giving birth is a personal experience. Choosing where and how to give birth is a big decision expectant mothers have to make.
I’ve always chosen to birth at an SSM Health hospital and let the tell you… the amenities are amazing.
The maternity staff at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Madison look was great about following my birth wishes. They listened to me, offered me choices and followed up with my decisions along the way. I love that labor and delivery happen in one room and recovery in another. I feel like that makes the whole experience so much more personal and family oriented.
The labor and delivery rooms at St. Mary’s are huge and filled with everything you could need to aid in your labor and delivery. This time around I didn’t use any of the amenities as I was already dilated to 6 when I walked (waddled) through the hospital doors. By the time I got into the labor and delivery room, I ordered my epidural right away. I didn’t have one with Boston and let me tell you… I was NEVER going to let that happen again!
After my epidural, my labor had really slowed down. I was actually ok with that. It gave me a chance to rest a little. I actually snuck two solid naps in. Once I felt rested, I knew I was ready to commence the active labor, it just so happened that I was 10 cm at that point too. The nurse broke my water and it was go time.
Mentally, I was prepared for a quick birth. Well of course that’s NOT what happened. After a few pushes and nothing really happening, the doctor realized that baby was sunny side up (head facing up). Apparently, that makes it harder to push and deliver the baby. Not apparently- it’s true!
I worked hard for what seemed like an eternity. In reality, it was just over 30 minutes. And with two final full body give-it-all-you-got pushes, Sophie entered the world.
As the nurse laid her on my chest, my heart grew a million times bigger. She was here. She was healthy. Our family was complete.
The next two hours were a whirlwind of measurements, breastfeeding, and trying to get mama a snack! Then as things calmed down, we headed up to the recovery suite.
The recovery suite is what makes St. Mary’s Hospital the place to give birth. It’s more of a family suite because it is fully centered around family recovering together. I love that.
The room is smaller, more like a hotel room. It has a double, yes double bed. Perfect for both Nick and I to rest in while we bond with baby Sophie. There is a small seating area, a tv and a full bathroom with a no ledge, walk-in shower. After giving birth, the no ledge to step over is a BIG DEAL! Trust me!
Nick, Sophie and I spent 3 days enjoying the peace and quiet of our suite. We were able to focus on each other and really bonding with Sophie. I also appreciate that the nurses respected our wishes to have personal space and time as a family.
Birthing at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital- Madison has been such a fulfilling experience. It checks all the boxes on my must have list. The staff and facilities made our experience personal and relaxing. Everything we needed as parents of a newborn baby.
