How Cecilia Martin Achieved Her Natural Birth Dream with Virtua

Cecilia Martin had a clear picture of the birthing experience she wanted when she became pregnant with her first child.

She figured if her grandmother was able to give birth to 13 children in an underdeveloped country, she also could experience childbirth with no medication and minimal medical intervention. She believed in the natural process women undergo during pregnancy.

She found a like-minded certified nurse midwife in Karen McEvoy-Shields of Virtua OB/GYN & Midwifery in Washington Township. They developed a birth plan, or "birth dream," as Karen called it, and throughout the process, Cecilia felt like Karen truly advocated for her and the birthing experience she wanted. Karen was a trusted partner every step of the way.

Virtua's midwifery practice continues to grow, offering women choices in natural labor and delivery options.

National Midwifery Week was September 29 through October 5, but each and every midwife is important and should be celebrated not only that week, but every week, for the incredible work they do to provide care for ALL women. #MidwiferyIsTheAnswer #NMW2019