Pregnancy Care in San Antonio: Cecilia’s Experience at CHRISTUS Children’s

Personalized Pregnancy Care and Communication

Cecilia’s first pregnancy had been straightforward. But during her second pregnancy, she faced unexpected concerns early on.

At 12 weeks, she began experiencing bleeding—something that can have a range of causes in pregnancy.

Being a medical professional myself, I think sometimes having too much information can make you anxious, she said. My mind automatically goes to the worst-case scenario.

As Cecilia's nervousness grew, she turned to her care team for guidance. Through clear communication and reassurance, they helped her better understand what was happening, easing her concerns.

Later in the pregnancy after routine scans, Cecilia learned the baby was measuring small during the second and third trimesters. This brought on a new set of worries. But her team continued to closely monitor the baby's growth and determined nothing needed to be done at that time. Over time, the baby's growth caught up and continued to progress well.

High-Risk Pregnancy Care with Maternal-Fetal Medicine

At 36 weeks, Cecilia encountered a more serious complication. An ultrasound revealed an umbilical vein varix—a rare condition in which part of the umbilical vein becomes dilated.

I knew that if a blood clot formed in the cord, it could affect the baby’s circulation, Cecilia said.

She was referred to maternal-fetal medicine specialist James Hill, MD, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at CHRISTUS Children’s. After discussing the risks and benefits of early delivery, she decided to move forward with induction at 37 weeks.

At 37 weeks, I was officially full term, and it was explained that deliveries between 37 and 39 weeks are generally safe, said Cecilia.

Labor and Delivery Experience

Cecilia checked in for induction on August 8, 2025. During labor, she experienced unexpected bleeding once again, and the care team acted quickly, while keeping her informed. 

The nurses started preparing me for an emergency cesarean section, Cecilia said. "Which I was not mentally prepared for."

However, with close monitoring of Cecilia and her baby, the care team determined it was safe to continue labor rather than proceed immediately to surgery.

Within two hours, on August 9, baby Isabela was born at 8:17 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 8 ounces.

Despite the bumps along the way, both Cecilia and the baby were healthy.

A Patient-Centered Birth Experience

Reflecting on her experience, Cecilia emphasized how important it was to feel informed, supported and included in decision-making throughout her care.

Every step of the way, I felt like I understood what was happening, she said. That helped me stay grounded, even during the more stressful moments.

Today, Isabela is thriving—nursing well, gaining weight and enjoying tummy time with her big brother, Sebastian.

Women’s Health Services in San Antonio

Cecilia’s story highlights the importance of patient-centered pregnancy care, especially when unexpected challenges arise.

Families in San Antonio have access to these services at CHRISTUS Children's:

• Prenatal care and ongoing pregnancy monitoring
• Labor and delivery services
• High-risk pregnancy care
• Postpartum support

Moms will always remember their baby’s birth for the rest of their lives, Cecilia said, I’ll never forget how I was supported at every turn.

Learn more about the Fetal Care Center and the Center for Women's Health at CHRISTUS Children's.