After three previous deliveries with another practice, Sabrina wanted a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) for her fourth delivery and, if possible, to do it unmedicated. She had felt disempowered after her history of childbirth experiences and longed for a different approach.
The Beginning: Emergency C-Section and Limited Choices
“My first pregnancy ended in an emergency C-section. My daughter was a week overdue, and the practice I was with wouldn’t let me go past that. They induced me, gave me Cervidil, and things progressed too quickly. Her heart rate was dropping with my contractions, so they gave me an epidural, and it ended in surgery. I didn’t know to ask certain questions; I thought it was unique to me or just how things were supposed to be.”
Sabrina stayed with the same practice for her next two pregnancies and attempted VBACs. However, she found their policies restrictive. “I didn’t realize at the time that it wasn’t hospital policy but their practice’s policy. They said I could have a VBAC, but I had to get an epidural because I was considered high-risk. I just went along with it because I didn’t know I could have a choice.”
A New Chapter: Finding Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists
Her fourth pregnancy was a turning point. “This one was a surprise. My youngest was almost four, and I was older, with more time to reflect. I started asking questions, and that’s what led me to Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. From my very first visit, the experience was completely different. Truly night and day compared to any other practice I’d been to.”
Sabrina explained how the midwives at Cherokee Women’s Health stood out.
“The midwives were my cheerleaders. They didn’t just give me their opinions; they gave me resources that were truly helpful. Every appointment left me feeling supported, encouraged, and excited about my delivery. They were passionate, knowledgeable, and honestly listened to me. The other practices I went to had midwives as well, but at Cherokee Women’s Health, the midwives genuinely stand out. They are truly passionate about the care and support you would hope for from a midwife.”
A Beautiful VBAC Experience
Her delivery was everything she had hoped for. “For the first time, I was able to deliver unmedicated. All my requests and everything on my birth plan were honored. It was such a beautiful and empowering experience.”
Her labor process reflected the calm and supportive environment she had been seeking. “I labored at home until I was six centimeters, then went to the hospital. As they were drawing me a bath, my body finally relaxed, and my water broke. Two and a half hours later, my baby was born healthy, without complications, and everything had gone smoothly.”
Laboring Naturally
Sabrina described the difference in laboring naturally. “The pain of an unmedicated childbirth is real, but it felt much more bearable knowing it was natural, the way God designed it. I meditated on scripture and trusted the Lord through the process. That made the experience so much more meaningful and beautiful. After having an emergency C-section, medicated VBACs, and now an unmedicated VBAC, I can confidently say that if it’s at all possible, I’d encourage everyone to try for a VBAC. Ten times out of ten, I’d choose unmedicated. It was life changing.”
A Special Connection with Susan Fischels and the Midwives
Sabrina’s connection with the midwives was especially meaningful.
“Susan was amazing. She’s real, she’ll tell you what you need to hear without sugarcoating it, but she makes you feel like you’re talking to a friend. When I told Becca, CNM, I wanted an unmedicated VBAC, she literally rolled up her sleeves and said, ‘Let’s do this!’ That level of enthusiasm and support meant everything to me.”
Now, Sabrina eagerly shares her story with others. “Every time I hear of a friend who’s pregnant, I ask, ‘Do you live nearby? You have to check out Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists.’ This practice is completely unique, nothing like any other OB/GYN I’ve ever been to. They truly make you feel supported and empowered.”
For Sabrina, the experience was not just about having a successful VBAC. It was about feeling heard, supported, and empowered throughout her journey.
