Illinois Hospital Delivers 1,629 Babies in Record Year

SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Illinois welcomed 1,629 babies in 2025, marking the most births in the Women's Center's history. The record-breaking number shows families are placing their trust in hometown hospitals for one of life's most precious moments.

But the real story goes beyond the numbers. While delivering more babies than ever before, the hospital's team managed to keep their cesarean rate at just 18 percent, well below the national average.

This matters because lower C-section rates for low-risk pregnancies typically mean safer recoveries for moms and healthier starts for babies. The medical team focused on supporting natural birth when safe, helping families avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.

The hospital also achieved a 79 percent success rate for vaginal births after cesarean, known as VBAC. These successful deliveries help reduce risks for moms who want more children in the future, since multiple C-sections can lead to complications.

Liz Dabb, Director of the Women's Center, credits the team's commitment to individualized care. Every family receives personalized attention in private birthing suites, with access to a Level II newborn intensive care unit if needed.

The Ripple Effect

When a hospital excels at maternity care, entire communities benefit. Families no longer need to travel long distances for safe deliveries, keeping support networks close during a vulnerable time.

Strong local maternity care also means better follow-up for new parents, easier access to pediatric specialists, and continuity of care as babies grow. When 1,629 families choose the same hospital, they're building a community of shared experience and mutual support.

The results prove that exceptional outcomes and compassionate care can grow together. More births didn't mean rushed appointments or impersonal treatment, it meant more families getting the attention they deserved.

Families expecting babies can learn more about the hospital's maternity services and start planning their own birth experience at ssmhealth.com/maternity.