Testimonial:

I feel sympathetic when I hear mothers talk about their birth experience as something that they would rather forget. Our birth experience at Simona's Natural Birth Center was wonderful. Simona is a caring and knowledgeable midwife. The environment was home-like, soothing, and relaxing. I felt completely comfortable with my surroundings during labor.

I really wanted a natural, drug-free, intervention-free birth because I believe it is better for my baby. I doubt that I would have been able to accomplish this in a hospital setting. Simona and her staff were very encouraging and supportive. I had a long pushing stage and Simona was patient. I felt like she believed in me and my ability to give birth to my baby without intervention.

I saw a doctor for my prenatal appointments before I found Simona. I hated the prenatal exams with my doctor. We always had to wait for what seemed like eternity in the waiting room only to be seen by the doctor for two minutes. We felt like we were rushed during our time with the doctor. Simona was generous with her time during our pre- and postnatal appointments. I didn't like the whole idea of a hospital birth either. How can a laboring woman be comfortable in an environment that is new to her, with nurses that she has never met? The doctor only shows up for the delivery. Simona was with us throughout labor and delivery. I felt comfortable with her because she always treated us with kindness.

During my pregnancy, when I told people where we were planning on having the baby, I was constantly told that I would regret not going to a hospital, and that I would regret not having an epidural. They were totally wrong. During labor, I felt very thankful for where I was. I am happy with our birth experience. It was definitely a positive experience. Thank you, Simona!!!

Sincerely,

Angela, Rob, and baby Ryan Dylan Jensen



 

 

Testimonial:

Our experience at Simona's Natural Birth Center was amazing. She is an absolutely wonderful midwife and nurse. Simona is very kind, nurturing and cares about her "couples." I hesitate to say "patients" because I never once felt sick nor mistreated because I was pregnant. Most hospital treat pregnant women as if they have an illness. Not to mention, their options at the hospital are very limited and sometimes ignored. I had interviewed many women and many of them told me the same story. That they were forced to induce their labor, had different nurses coming in and out, and my least favorite had a caesarian. That is why I choose to have a natural underwater birth. My experience was awesome and exactly what I had envisioned and wanted. Simona listened to all my requests and followed through. For instance, it was important to me to wait until the umbilical cord stop pulsating before cutting it. As well as, laying the baby immediately on my stomach. Those requests were very important to me and Simona did them. I would encourage all women to experience a natural underwater birth because it is relaxing and definitely an unforgettable experience. I would do it again!!!

Julia, Rhett, and baby Rhyss Luca Pascual


 

 

 

Testimonial:

As we anticipated our first childbirth experience there was plenty to learn and discover in the process. We decided that having a natural birth and a water birth was the ideal scenario for many reasons. Simona Natural Birth Center and Women's Wellness provided us this opportunity, that we could find no where else. Simona's philosophy regarding pregnancy and birth aligned with our desire to have a well informed, safe and significant birth experience.

Simona is warm and personable, yet professional and thorough. Simona welcomed questions and dialogue during all our pre-natal visits, which empowered us as full participants to be comfortable and confident about the birth.

The Birth Center (and staff) created a peaceful, joyful atmosphere allowing us to have an incredibly significant labor and birth experience. We really appreciated the wonderful birthing tub, relaxing environs, and Simona's expertise. We are so grateful for the positive experience and the chance to marvel in the birth of our son.

-Sarah,Steve & Weston Jones


 

 

 

Testimonial:

Four months into our pregnancy, my husband and I grew tired of the hour long visits to our prenatal care waiting room, followed by a ten minute session with our very preoccupied physician. Needless to say, we were very unhappy. After getting ahold of a book about the beauty of natural child birth and midwifery, I began my search for a Natural Birth Center. I found Simona. Her eye-catching website displayed her spectacular experience, and genuine compassion for life. I was immediately fond of her by that alone, but it was meeting her that won us over. She warmly welcomed us into her home away from home. Simona spent over an hour with my husband and I, addressing our questions and concerns, and took the time to get to know us both, as a couple and individually. By the time we had to go, we had already decided to transfer into Simona's care. From then on, every appointment with Simona was more like visiting a good friend. She's such an empowering woman. Just the woman I needed to deliver my baby. She prepared us for our big day with plenty of patience, videos, and her own knowledge. So when the day came, we knew exactly what to expect, and what to do. My husband called Simona when my contractions were five minutes apart, and then we made our way. I remember being scared at home, and in the car, but as soon as I heard Simona's voice, my nerves were calmed. Simona gave me a quick check up, and immediately walked me into the birth room, which was an absolute haven! The tub was ready for me with candles, insence, and music already going. All I had to worry about was stepping into the warmest and most amazing whirlpool ever. As I continued to labor, Simona tended to me as I needed her. There was a time when I thought she was out of the room, and I remember so pitifully asking my mom & husband for her, and the answer I got was, "I'm right here dear." She had been behind me the whole time. Everytime I needed Simona, she was there, and she gave me the strength to believe in myself and the power my body withholds. And with that said, our son was born. Seven pounds, nine ounces, very healthy, and all natural. My husband and I are extremely proud parents and eternally grateful for Simona. She truly IS the BEST Midwife EVER!

-Naomi & Benny Morales


 

 

 

Testimonial: Coming Soon


 

 

 

Testimonial: Photo Coming Soon

I would not have done it any other way. During my first trimester I was with an OBGYN my primary doctor had referred me to. It took only two visits with him to know I was not happy with the services. He questioned why I would want to practice yoga during my pregnancy. He never gave me information about nutrition or exercise during pregnancy. I found his services lacking and impersonal. At the time, there was an article in the Whittier Daily News about Simona Natutral Birth Center. I read the article and wondered if I could have my baby in such a terrific place. I think what stood out most for me was the interview with Simona and how she discussed pregnancy and birth as something natural. I suddenly became excited about my own pregnancy and wanted to take charge of it. So I called Simona within a week of having read the article and went for a tour. I fell in love with the birthing room and thought this is awesome. Never did I feel pressured by Simona to have my baby at her center. However, from the moment I met Simona I could feel the warmth and the positive energies and thought this is the person I want to deliver my baby. I wish I could say it was a smooth transition with my insurance but it was not. They were not supportive but that only made me want to take charge of my pregnancy and the birth of my baby. Again Simona was very supportive as I dealt with insurance issues. Once all the insurance issues were settled and I started my prenatal care with Simona everything went smoothly. At each visit Simona prepared me for the birth of my baby. She guided me in taking care of myself as I went through the journey of my pregnancy. As time got close to my expected due date we discussed how I envisioned the birth of my baby. I don't know if OBGYNs ask such questions or prepare women for the birth on the level the Simona does. My expected due date was November 20th and like magic on the very day I birthed my baby at the Simona Natural Birth Center.
I started feeling uterine surges late on November 19th. I called Simona to let her know I was starting to have surges. I stayed in contact with Simona throughout the night and early the next morning she called me. It was terrific to have that level of care from Simona. Based on the way I was talking and how I described my surges Simona said I was ready to come in around 11:00 am on November 20th. I am not sure at what time I got in the water I only know I was relieved to finally be in the water because it felt good to have the jets hitting my back. The entire time Simona was right there encouraging me telling me I was doing a great job. Her voice was so reassuring to me.
Then suddenly what seemed like a second I was sitting in the water with my new baby in my arms and Simona made it feel like a celebration. Everyone present cheered and welcomed my beautiful baby into the world. Since the birth of my baby I feel I continue to have Simona's support.
I don't know what it is like to have a baby in a hospital hooked up to a monitor with nurses coming and going and a doctor who will show up at the last minute. I just know of a midwife who is there with me every step of the way, encouraging me, and empowering me to birth my baby naturally.

Yolanda Lopez


 

 

Testimonial:

After much research on natural childbirth and after seeing several physicians, I chose Simona Istrate, BSN, CNM, to provide prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for my first pregnancy. I began my prenatal care with Simona towards my last trimester. I was treated with care and respect. Simona recommended that I take hypnobirthing classes as women who had prepared for childbirth in that way seemed to have shorter and calmer labor and delivery experiences. My meditation was focused on having a short, painless, and joyful labor and delivery and is consistent with my belief that God made childbirth to be a natural and joyful (not fearful) part of life.

On December 29th, I began having contractions every 15 minutes around 2pm although I had experienced a few irregularly earlier that day. They were not painful, just intense. At Simona's recommendation, I spent time in warm bathwater. The buoyancy of the water helped relieve pelvic pressure and made me fall asleep.

Around 6:30pm, I called Simona to inform her that my contractions were two minutes apart although my water had not broken and I was still able to walk and talk through the contractions. She advised me to go to the hospital as
I had chosen to have a hospital birth.

The pushing was almost fun; I smiled and felt a sense of joy. The atmosphere in the delivery room was calm and joyful. Our beautiful daughter Charisma was born naturally without painkillers at 9:09pm, 8lbs 8ozs, 21 inches. Although I had some tearing, my recovery was quick and uneventful. I had a great pregnancy and delivery. I was glad I took the time to educate myself and choose Simona Istrate.

MARCIA-&-CHARISMA


 

 

 

Testimonial: Photo Coming Soon


My dearest Simona,
I'm overwhelmed with tears of joy and thanksgiving as I write to tell you how blessed we are to have had you for our midwife! Words cannot describe our love and gratitude for all you did for the three of us . . . our precious Brooklyn Renee will be told all about you over and over again as she grows up.

When I met you six months ago I knew God had answered our prayers in sending us someone who would take care of me and my little baby with much love; little did I know that He would go above and beyond giving us more than we asked for. You, Simona, are an angel. I am amazed at how you lovingly stood by my side and made sure that I would get the best birth experience possible, and I did. I know my birth plan didn't go as planned but I trusted your decisions and knew I was always in good hands. Never did I fear for anything, other than another day of labor to go by :
Thank you for believing in me and not giving up on me. I appreciate how much you sacrificed in order to see that I have my daughter as natural as possible. I'm thankful that my first nine hours were at the birth center . . . I loved the atmosphere and everything that went along with it. I have pictures of me there with you and with my husband, the both of you wanting the best for me. I'll never forget my experience there!
When it came down to going to the hospital I felt at ease knowing that you would be there to support me and cheer me along. I will not forget the long hours you stayed awake or the hunger pains you must have had : You are truly my hero Simona.
The white rose you gave me helped me focus in the hospital and now it sits with my other preserved roses that have come along in my life for special occasions. And when you came to visit me the next day after Brooklyn was born my heart lit up when I saw you come around those curtains - It felt soooo good to see you refreshed again. The pink rose you gave me that day sits on my windowsill and every time I look at it I can't help but feel overwhelmed with love!

Our future plans are to have another child someday and it is with great hope that you will take us on again : I can't imagine anyone but you caring for me during my next pregnancy and birth experience!!!

I hope you have a wonderful vacation in Europe - you deserve it! I look forward to seeing you next time so I can give you another great big heartfelt hug!!!!

All our love and more,
Michelle and baby Brooklyn Renee


 

 

 

Testimonial:


My experience at Simona Natural Birth Center was very positive. This was my first time being pregnant and my husband and I knew we wanted to find a caring and knowledgeable provider who would focus on providing a birthing experience with the least medical intervention necessary. When we first told my family that we wanted to have the baby at a birth center with a midwife, they were a bit apprehensive. Simona encouraged us to bring my family to the birth center so that we could discuss it together. After seeing the facility and talking over their concerns and questions with Simona, they left feeling reassured that I would receive the best care. And they were not disappointed. From the beginning I was so impressed with Simona's warmth and professionalism. She encouraged us to ask questions and never made us feel rushed. When I would come in for my appointments, I felt like I was visiting a friend's home. One of my favorite parts of the visit was being greeted by Simona's warm smile and hugs. The birth center is beautifully decorated and creates a soothing environment for visits and giving birth. But it also had all the supplies Simona needed to monitor my progress and attend to any situation that might arise during the birthing process. Because I am petite, many people had thought that I would need to get a C-section, however Simona always encouraged me that I could give birth vaginally and naturally. Her belief in me was comforting and inspiring. When the day arrived for me to give birth, Simona was prepared and confident. She was there to encourage my husband I whenever we needed it. She gave me snacks and juice and let me rest between contractions. She didn't try to rush me. And when my daughter Lily arrived, she made sure we were both healthy. Simona was instrumental in helping me to have a positive birth experience and I will always be thankful for her.

Sincerely,
Mini Palmer