A Mother’s Instinct: From Home Birth to Hospital Care

Dezra and Jay Brigham expected to welcome their eighth child the same way they had welcomed the others—at home, in familiar surroundings, with loved ones nearby.

Originally from northeastern Pennsylvania, the family traveled the country in a fifth wheel before settling in Newburg. Over the years, Dezra had multiple home births, experiences that helped her become deeply attuned to her body and labor. By this pregnancy, she felt confident recognizing what felt normal—and when something didn’t.

Dezra’s intuition told her something was different this time. Although she was past due, there was no clear emergency—simply a feeling she couldn’t shake. Her body wasn’t responding the way she knew it should, and she didn’t have the energy she typically felt going into labor. Despite her reluctance, Dezra knew with calm certainty that seeking help was the right decision.

“I told Jay we needed to go to the hospital,” Dezra said. “I wasn’t sure why. I just felt very strange.”

When Jay and Dezra arrived at Phelps Health, they didn’t know what to expect. Unsure of where to go or what to do, they nervously entered through the Emergency Department and were quickly taken to Phelps Health’s Obstetrics and Nursery unit.

The nurses understood that Dezra’s home birthing experience gave her a lot of insight into her own body. Instead of dismissal or judgment, they found a team that listened to their concerns and respected their wishes. 

“As a concerned husband, I was guarded at first,” Jay said. “But the care team quickly had both of us feeling more at ease.”

“Everyone was so kind and helpful,” Dezra added. “They were willing to accommodate us as much as possible, as long as everything went well and the baby and I were healthy.”

After consulting with Mylhan Myers, DO, an obstetrician and family medicine physician at Phelps Health, the Brighams made an informed choice to proceed with a cesarean section. Dr. Myers listened closely to the couple’s concerns and wishes, explained what they could expect, and invited them to choose music to play in the operating room. 

When Miriam was delivered, the care team honored her parents’ wishes when it was safe to do so. 

“I got to hold her right away after the birth and nurse her,” Dezra shared. “We even delayed cord clamping, which isn't common for a C-section. I felt peaceful and safe.”

Dezra recovered well and experienced far less pain than she had anticipated. Jay found himself surprised by how comfortable and supported they both felt—physically and emotionally. Miriam continues to thrive, surrounded by siblings ranging in age from 2 to 14 years.

Today, the family continues to turn to Phelps Health when they need care. The children see Angie Watkins, CPNP, MSN, APRN, at the Pediatric Clinic, and the family also uses the Walk-In Clinic when needs arise.

Each interaction reinforces the same feeling the Brighams experienced during Miriam’s birth: respect, capability and genuine care.

“I’m so happy to share this experience,” Dezra said. “I want other home birthers to know that if hospital care is needed, they will be well taken care of at Phelps Health. My family was truly blessed.”