Cristina Emch, CNM - Beacon Medical Group Midwifery Centered Care

Like so many in the medical profession, Cristina was inspired by witnessing the work of others. “My grandmother received home health care when I was in high school, and I admired the nurses and aides that took care of her,” she explains. “That’s when I decided I wanted to become a nurse.”

As a certified nurse midwife, Cristina sees and helps women throughout their lifetime – whether they are pregnant, seeking routine care or having an issue related to women’s health. “I chose this particular specialty because I wanted to be able to help women throughout their pregnancy and beyond, in a more comprehensive way than I could as a registered nurse.”

Her philosophy is to treat the whole patient, not just their diagnosis. “I want my patients to know they can talk to me about anything! Pregnancy is so much more than growing and having a baby,” she enthuses. “You are also creating a family, and it is so special to be a part of this.”

That sense of caring for her patients is also what drew her to Beacon. “I was interested in joining an established midwifery program where the staff works together well as a team, while also identifying and meeting their community’s needs.”

“Everyone deserves to be heard, to be healthy and to live their best life,” Cristina says. “Women are so strong. In our lifetime, we go through so many changes and challenges with such strength and grace. Never underestimate a woman!”

Cristina is a member of the American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM) and the Indiana ACNM affiliate.

In her own words…

Who is or was the most influential person/role model in your life? My parents, they have raised five wonderful children, which is no small feat!

What was your first job growing up? What do you remember about it? I was a barista at a local coffee shop (not Starbucks). I enjoyed seeing and talking with the customers and working with a great crew!

What is your favorite food? Movie? My favorite food would have to be sushi. My favorite movie is 10 Things I Hate About You. Can you tell which era I grew up in?

What were your best/worst subjects in school growing up? I was always good at science classes. My worst was English, until my senior year when I had an excellent teacher.

If you could sit down to dinner with anyone (alive or deceased) who would it be and why? That’s hard, probably one of my deceased grandparents so I could talk with them again.

In addition to medicine, what are you passionate about? What are your hobbies, interests? I am passionate about volunteering in the community. I really enjoy traveling, riding my bike and trying new recipes.

Do you have pets? Yes! I have two cats who were littermates.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I was the president of the swing dancing club at my college, and I still enjoy dancing today.