Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Holt.

Hi Sara, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Hi! I’m Sara, I’ve been a practicing Certified Nurse Midwife for over 25 years. Over my long career I’ve had a unique perspective on where the traditional pregnancy care models fall short for pregnant people.
I’ve developed programs to help people navigate both high and low risk pregnancies. In 2022 , I founded Byenveni Baby, a community center and collective in Portland, Oregon. We offer support groups and services for families including; midwifery and community birth, lactation consultant services, consultations for people seeking VBAC, clinical birth reviews, and consultation for people experiencing high risk pregnancies.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

The obstetric care _____ (like most medical care models) is facing tremendous challenges. There is an increased focus on efficiency- seeing more patients and spending less time face to face with pregnancy families. The average obstetric care visit (prenatal care visit) is scheduled for 15 minutes – which translates into 6-8 minutes face to face with a provider. This isn’t nearly enough time to address concerns, discuss changes that are happening during pregnancy and provide guidance or reassurance.

Cesarean section rates in the United States were 32.4% percent in 2023. The World Health Organization advises that cesarean rates should be at 10-15%. The percentage of people who have complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, need for blood transfusion, and ICU admissions are at concerning levels as well. Sadly, maternal mortality numbers in the US are at never before seen rates. The USA continues to have the highest rates of maternal mortality when compared to other developed countries, and we also pay the most to deliver this care.

Wen working with me, families have time to create a pregnancy plan that honors their preferences and maintains safety.
My programs offer visits of 60-90 minutes of time to discuss any pregnancy related conditions or complications, answer all questions and provide guidance into how to stay healthy and increase the chances of a successful vaginal birth. Families get the benefit of my personal care and navigating this special time an expert in their corner. My 25+ years of experience actually translates to attending over 3,500 births!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.byenvenibaby.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byenvenibaby

Image Credits

Elizabeth Hite Photography