The word midwife means “with women,” which exemplifies Bella Births’ philosophy of providing support throughout the natural child birth process.


“Midwifery is a calling,” Director and Clinical Coordinator Kathleen Mayorga said. “We have a passion for caring for mothers and their babies. This is a real need for women, and they need to know we are not only their care provider but we are here as their support and friend.”


Bella offers full prenatal and postpartum care at the center. The only service not provided in-house is sonogram screening. Options for delivery include a private room, a water birth or an in-home birth.


“The typical people who come to us are naturally minded,” said Mayorga, who is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and a Certified Nurse Midwife. “It is very important for us to know their wishes and desires.”


Founded in 2002, Bella Births is located 3 miles from two hospitals with labor, delivery and neonatal intensive care unit services.




Bella Births Kathleen Mayorga founded Bella Births in 2002.[/caption]

However, the midwives at the center pride themselves on the low number of patients who must be transferred to a hospital.


“During the past year, we’ve maintained a transport rate of 2 percent,” said Office Manager Kara Ward, who has had a child at Bella. “We know that emergencies can arise, and we are prepared.”


To assist with possible intervention needs, the birth center has a longstanding partnership with a local board-certified OB/GYN.


Lisa Black, a licensed midwife and Registered Nurse, said most of the women served at Bella Births are repeat mothers or referrals. She said the goal is to get to know and educate families and provide referrals to other medical providers as needed.


“The main thing we want our mommies to know is that we are here for them,” she said. “This is all about their birth, their way.”