First-Time Parents’ Experience at Winchester Hospital

A Labor and Delivery Story

Becoming a parent for the first time is an incredible experience filled with excitement, anticipation and numerous decisions. One of the most important choices expectant parents face is selecting the right place to welcome their baby into the world. For 26-year-old Massachusetts native Cali Leccese, this decision was made with careful consideration.

Choosing the Right Hospital

As Cali and her husband prepared for the arrival of their first child, they recognized the significance of choosing a hospital and care team that aligned with their values. They prioritized a facility that was close to home and highly recommended for its exceptional, safe care. Like many first-time parents, they sought advice from friends and conducted their own research.

Cali was already familiar with the reputation of nearby Winchester Hospital and valued that her trusted OB/GYN was affiliated with its Labor and Delivery Unit. The hospital’s Baby-Friendly designation, signifying its commitment to promoting mother-baby bonding and breastfeeding support, was another key factor in her decision.

Ultimately, Winchester Hospital stood out as the ideal place for the Lecceses to welcome their first baby into the world.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Understanding that childbirth can be unpredictable, Cali crafted a flexible birth plan in anticipation of her baby's arrival. This flexibility became crucial when routine prenatal check-ups revealed that her baby’s head circumference was measuring smaller than average. This prompted additional ultrasounds to monitor the baby’s development closely. As she neared the 38-week mark, it was determined that an induction would be the safest option for delivery.

The following day, Cali was admitted to Winchester Hospital to be induced. At 1:40 pm she received her first dose of medication to kickstart her labor and was feeling excited and prepared for the arrival of her baby. Twelve hours later Cali’s contractions were growing more intense, and she inquired about pain management options with her care team.

“My nurse, Lindsey, provided me with the information I needed to make decisions and supported those decisions,” says Cali. “She was my advocate. She made me feel so comfortable; she was such a calming presence in those high stress situations.”

One-On-One Care

As labor progressed at a measured pace, Cali remained calm and present thanks to the unwavering encouragement from her husband and transparency from her care team. At one point, while pushing, her baby’s heart rate began to drop. Her care team responded immediately, adjusting Cali’s position and preparing for the possibility of additional support from the Special Care Nursery.

“The open line of communication throughout the night put me at ease,” says Cali. “They didn’t hide anything. The team told me everything that was happening and guided me through it.”

On November 6, 2024, at 8:12 am, Cali and her husband welcomed a healthy, 5 lbs. and 14 oz. baby girl named Michelle into the world.

A Positive Experience From Prenatal To Postnatal Care

Reflecting on the experience, Cali emphasizes how a supportive, trusted environment can make all the difference during the unexpected situations that arise during childbirth.

“The entire team was fantastic,” says Cali. “They were so on top of everything. They never made me feel crazy for worrying, they answered all my questions and were so reassuring. They continuously checked on my wellbeing and my baby's wellbeing.”

For the Leccese family, Winchester Hospital provided medical expertise as well as the compassionate and personalized care that made their journey into parenthood a positive and memorable experience.

Learn more about trusted pregnancy and birth care at Winchester Hospital.