Hi, we’re Andrea and Maggie! Get to know more about us here.

ANDREA PONGO LM, CPM

My motivation in becoming a midwife was ignited through my four very different birth experiences. After my first delivery in one of the best hospitals in Los Angeles I felt discouraged by the machine that the hospital institution is. I deeply desired to be walked through the birth of my children with the space to ask questions, be heard and have a voice. For the delivery of my second child I understood what I wanted and needed. I worked hard in the care of my provider to make my voice heard, and while that experience brought some redemption, I didn’t want to “work hard” to be heard. Shortly after, I discovered the Midwifery Model of Care. Midwifery care is uniquely nurturing, hands-on care that is based on the fact that pregnancy and birth are normal life events. So, for my third delivery I chose to be in the care of a midwife and it was then that I was able to have my focus truly be on growing a baby and soaking in my experience as a third time mom.

I was incredibly inspired by my experiences to begin serving families as a birth doula. Giving my clients the tools to be present and confident in their care was beyond rewarding. I knew it was just the beginning of my journey and when I was  presented with the opportunity to take my work further I jumped right in and enrolled into midwifery school. I apprenticed with 3 different midwifery practices in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties and I completed my degree through the National College of Midwifery. I am a Certified Professional Midwife through the North American Registry of Midwives and a Licensed Midwife in California.

I find true enjoyment in my work and delight in the opportunity to work with a variety of families, including people of color and Spanish speaking clients. All the families I have the pleasure of serving are unique and wonderful in their own way. My intention as a midwife is to be a calming and unvarying presence for your family. The journey through childbirth is vulnerable and humbling and I believe every family can benefit greatly from compassionate midwifery care. My ultimate desire is for you to have a voice in your perinatal care and to step into parenthood confidently.  I understand how intimate this time in your life is to you and I would be honored to be invited into it!

Maggie Rajtar-Sullivan LM, CPM, IBCLC

My step into midwifery came from a deep longing to honor the intricacies and natural function of the human body. I have spent over a decade in medicine, earning my M.D. in 2015 and spearheading research and development for a biomedical engineering startup in the LA area. I organized and oversaw clinical utilization of our technology in Universities across the US including a clinical trial with Harvard University. This opportunity is where I truly noticed that all we need is the right support to help our bodies function optimally.

My first daughter taught me all the lessons, threatened preterm labor, a hospital delivery full of intervention, and postpartum anxiety and depression that left me wondering why anyone does this. I knew there had to be better options. With the pandemic shifting everyone’s lives around in the start of 2020, I sought the midwifery model of care for my second pregnancy, which is what all care should truly be modeled after. During my prenatal care, birth and postpartum, I felt a greater calling that this was where I was meant to serve others. Although stepping away from medicine to specialize in midwifery is not typical, it is where I am able to make the most impact through education and preventative care.

I further sought education and training to the highest credential of lactation support. As an IBCLC and proud member of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, I have helped hundreds of dyads find success and joy in their journeys. As a Midwife I look forward to integrating my knowledge of medicine with the holistic midwifery model, serving families with the most accurate and up to date evidence based care. I am humbled daily to be a part of the journey into parenthood for many families. To see them grow into parents and guide them through any challenges is extremely humbling and gratifying; I look forward to serving you and your family!