My pregnancy was uncomplicated, that is until my thirty eighth week checkup. My obstetrician, during a routine examination tried to strip the membranes of my cervix. His method was extremely painful for me and he never asked my permission before or during this procedure. This was May 9, 2000, 8 days before my due date. This doctor was going on vacation the week my baby was due, and was trying to induce my labor to suit his schedule.

After two days of worry, grief and anger, my sister and I began looking for another doctor to deliver my baby. Thank God we found the Family Nurse Midwife Associates, and the beautiful Jeannette District Memorial Hospital! How wonderful that sandy and Gretchen were willing to accept me at such a late time in my pregnancy. From the moment I arrived I knew I was at the right place. My personal wishes and birth plan were discussed (something my O.B. never brought up once in 8 1/2 months.) I went into labor about 5PM on May 19, 2000. My contractions were 5-6 minutes apart for the first few hours and by 11PM they had become 2 minutes apart and stronger. Gretchen suggested we come in because of the forty minute drive from Leechburg to Jeannette. Upon arrival I was only 1cm. We walked around the atrium for the first 2 -3 hours. By then I was really uncomfortable, and the baby's low station out serious pressure on my bottom. I was 1 1/2 cm now and the pain was increasing greatly. The shower was a lifesaver. I don't even know how may hours my husband Michael and my sister Lori spent massaging my belly, back and talking me through each contraction. About 8am Gretchen ordered some IV medication so I could rest some. At 9am, Sandy's shift began and we tried the rocking chair, and the birthing ball, these didn't work for me so back in the shower I went. By 11AM I was exhausted and discouraged to only be 4cm. Sandy's words were always calming and positive. She told me I was almost fully effaced and at 1 station, these things were just as important as dilation. I wanted an epidural by 12Noon, but Sandy, Michael, and Lori talked me into IV medication instead. The medicine helped me sleep through contractions and when I began moaning Sandy directed me in the most effective way of doing this an boy did it work! At 4PM I was finally able to push, what a relief. once I got started there was no stopping me. This part came very natural to me and without the numbing effect of an epidural I was able to push effectively. My son Shane Michael was born at 4:26PM. I am eternally grateful to the midwives at the family birthplace, and the nurses who helped me through labor, delivery and recovery.

God Bless you all!

Mary E. Walters