Bria's story begins with the birth of her first son, Braxton. Bria is prone to blood clots due to a condition called, Factor V Leiden—a genetic mutation that increases the risk of abnormal blood clotting. Aware of the potential complications during pregnancy, Bria wanted a strong, supportive provider by her side, so she turned to Certified Nurse Midwife Denise Castellanos. Her first pregnancy did present some challenges, but Denise provided steady guidance and unwavering support every step of the way.
The Supportive Power of a Midwife
When Bria became pregnant with her second child, she knew she needed the support of Denise again. Eager to ensure the continuation of her exceptional care, Bria decisively sought out Denise for her second pregnancy journey. Denise had transferred her practice to Laguna Hills, which meant that she would deliver Bria’s second child at The Women’s Hospital at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center.
"As Bria's midwife, I ensured that throughout her second pregnancy, she had weekly check-ins,” said Denise. “When I wasn’t available, Bria saw Julie Vivalda, another trusted midwife at the Women’s Health Pavilion. Given Bria’s Factor V condition, it was crucial for us to conduct frequent monitoring and scans to mitigate any risks associated with blood clots."
A Helping Hand For all the Twists and Turns
Denise’s patient care went beyond the routine. When Bria experienced a health scare, thinking she had a blood clot in her calf, she took herself to a local hospital’s emergency department (ED). As Denise was reviewing Bria’s chart before their next appointment, she saw that Bria had gone to the ED. The next day, Denise personally called Bria to ensure she was well cared for and had all that she needed, including the appropriate medication.
"Denise’s motherly nature and personal touch created a bond that felt almost familial. She guided me with the care of a mother, promising that my second delivery would be even smoother. Her reassurance and careful planning filled me with confidence, allowing me to approach my second delivery with positivity and calm.”
- Bria
Denise's thoughtful plan for Bria included scheduling an induction to coordinate with her working hours, ensuring that she could personally attend Bria's delivery. This level of dedication and personalized care resulted in a truly wonderful experience for Bria. Her delivery at The Women’s Hospital was remarkably smooth, with minimal discomfort and a swift recovery.
Bria also appreciated the midwives' passion and the nurses’ dedication at Saddleback Medical Center. The midwives' motherly nature and their efforts to get to know Bria were evident, making Bria feel like she had her own mother in the room. The nurses treated her as if she were their only patient, providing personalized care that never felt rushed or impersonal.
The Power of Choosing a Supportive Midwife and Hospital
Saddleback Medical Center has been at the forefront of maternity care for more than 35 years, since opening the first Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum (LDRP) suites in Orange County in 1988. The care team’s commitment to best practices driven by research and outcomes, makes them understand the importance of creating a safe and comforting space for moms to deliver their babies.
Each LDRP suite has large windows for soft natural lighting, Bluetooth speakers, and comforting amenities, such as lavender scented towels, fresh baked cookies, and a celebratory brunch. Six of the LDRP suites offer soaking tubs for those wanting a more natural laboring experience. Other birthing resources include peanut balls, a therapy ball in the shape of a peanut to help shorten labor and increase the chances of vaginal delivery and rocking chairs to encourage mobility during labor.
"The use of the peanut ball during my delivery—a tool that wasn't available during my first delivery—made a significant difference,” said Bria. “Trusting Denise’s advice regarding medications and delivery techniques brought about a sense of ease and ultimately led to a quicker recovery and an exceptionally positive experience."
Bria cherished the support she received from the nurses, including Brandi, who helped Bria rotate on the bed and hold her hair, making Bria feel like she was among friends. This level of personal care and attention was integral to Bria’s positive experience, reinforcing her appreciation and love for the nurses' hard work and passion.
Maybe a Third?
This remarkable experience opened Bria to the possibility of having a third child, a decision she hadn’t considered before. Denise and the exceptional team at The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Medical Center had transformed her outlook, providing her with the confidence and reassurance needed to consider expanding her family further.
Denise and the exceptional team at Saddleback Medical Center had not only transformed her outlook but also provided her with the confidence and reassurance to joyfully consider expanding her family further.
Bria’s story is a testament to the profound impact one person can have on someone’s entire healthcare journey – a culture only found at places like Saddleback Medical Center. Her journey from one local hospital to Saddleback Medical Center, following a trusted midwife, highlights the importance of personalized care and the strong bonds that can form between patients and their healthcare providers. Bria’s journey is one of trust, resilience, and the transformative power of compassionate care.
