Ellsworth native gives birth in water at RFAH
Leah Hoikka was born on May 8 at 12:53 a.m. into a tub of warm water.
- Family photo
- Miller and Dittman
RIVER FALLS--Leah Hoikka was born on May 8 at 12:53 a.m. into a tub of warm water.
The newborn was lifted out of the water and into her mom’s comforting embrace by Dr. Greg Miller.
"I knew I wanted to have a 100 percent natural labor and thought water birth would provide the relief I was looking for. I got in the water and the contractions stopped, it was incredible as the pain melted away and it was just me pushing,” said Melissa. “The water was a huge pain management tool."
"I had no idea what it would be like, but the water definitely made labor a lot easier for her," said Erik Hoikka, who did not get into the tub, but was with his wife throughout the process.
River Falls Area Hospital (RFAH) has added water births as a delivery choice option for moms, in addition to traditional vaginal, cesarean and Vbac deliveries.
"We have a reputation for providing excellent care--our patients are always the center of our attention and we continue to support all childbirth experiences," said Julie McGary, RN, labor and delivery nurse, and birth center manager.
RFAH requires women to meet certain criteria to use the water birth option. They also must sign consent forms provided to physicians who deliver at the hospital.
The Hoikkas live in Ellsworth. Leah has an older sister Amelia, who is thrilled about her new baby sister.
"When my Dr. Miller mentioned water birth was soon to be an option at River Falls Area Hospital, I researched the option and knew that I wanted to deliver that way. It was even better than I expected," said Melissa.
More from around the web
RSS Feeds