The VBAC Podcast

Positive Homebirth After Cesarean Birth Story on a Skoolie!  Many women dream of a homebirth after cesarean but worry that it can't be done for many reasons. Monica Fox, a mother of two, herbalist, and tiny-home dweller, shares her c-section birth story, NICU experience, how she healed from brith trauma, why she chose a home vbac (HBAC), and her top tips for women dreaming of a VBAC or homebirth after cesarean. Monica also shares the challenges she faced during her breastfeeding journey and her inspirational and unique path to healing breastfeeding trauma.  Get instant access to more VBAC resources by clicking here! 

How does Hyperemesis Granidium (HG) affect Vaginal Birth After Cesarean?  Today Jaimie Zaki discusses Hyperemesis Gravidium and two way HG can impact your VBAC goals. Jaimie also shares tips for how to determine if a condition like hyperemesis gravidium will ruin your VBAC plans.  Get instant access to theVBACpodcast's Resource Library, including a Free online VBAC class, plus more pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding resources!  Don't forget to support the podcast by leaving a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts now! 

Does an Anterior Placenta cause issues for VBAC moms?  In this episode of theVBACpodcast we explore what an Anterior Placenta is and how anterior placentas affect your ability to have a safe vaginal birth after cesarean.  To learn more about planning your VBAC, visit theVBACpodcast Resource Page to access Free Online VBAC Class and other pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding resources.  Don't forget to support the VBAC podcast by contributing to the "virtual tip jar" here! Keep the VBAC podcast free and accessible for all women planning a VBAC! 

A positive hospital VBAC is possible! Listen to Hannah Gill's inspiring VBAC Birth Story!  Many women worry that a positive VBAC experience just isn't possible in the hospital. Doula and Childbirth Educator Hannah Gill shares her experience with overcoming her emotions about her c-section and how she prepared for a positive vaginal birth after cesarean in the hospital.  If you are a c-section mom dreaming of a positive and peaceful VBAC experience, check out the FREE online VBAC class Combating Fear During VBAC right now!  Access other resources from theVBACpodcast or contact Jaimie at www.littlebearlactation.com/links   

Season 2 of theVBAC podcast is coming up December 1! In this episode of theVBACpodcast, learn more about Jaimie Zaki, your virtual VBAC doula, c-section mom, and homebirth mom!  Upcoming episodes of theVBACpodcast include topics like inspiring, positive VBAC stories, homebirth VBAC stories, Freebirth VBAC stories, and questions like:  Can I have a VBAC with Gestational Diabetes?  Can I have a VBAC with an Anterior Placenta?  Should VBACs be induced?  Cervical Exams during your VBAC  Understanding Scar Thickness when planning a VBAC  Can Hyperemesis Gravidium impact my VBAC?  Can I VBAC a big baby?  Planning out of hospital VBACs  VBACs and Due Dates  When should I go to the hospital for my VBAC?  And soooo much more!  FREE VBAC RESOURCES & DONATE TO KEEP PODCAST GOING: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/links

Do you dream of a VBAC but have no idea where to actually start learning all the things about planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean? In today's Season 1 Finale Episode Jaimie Zaki, VBAC Doula, and hostess of theVBACpodcast talks about how to get started in your journey toward Vaginal Birth After C-section. In this podcast Jaimie also shares the great VBAC resources available during the off season and some exciting news about Season 2 of theVBACpodcast!    Check out the VBAC resource library and book your FREE VBAC Consult with Jaimie at www.littlebearlactation.com/links

"Can I have a VBAC if my c-section was for failure to progress" is one of the most common questions moms wanting a VBAC will ask.  Understanding the reason for your cesarean can be a critical part of healing from your c-section and preparing for a successful VBAC. Often, when a woman is told her c-section was for "failure to progress" aka not dilating enough or fast enough, she believes that her body is not able to dilate and therefore a vaginal birth will never be possible.  The good news is that you CAN have a VBAC after a c-section for failure to progress.  Inside this episode of the VBAC podcast, we dive into reasons that a woman may not dilate efficiently in labor and what you can do for a better birth experience next time.  Make sure you check out the FREE Combating Fear During VBAC online VBAC prep class to learn more about how fear and safety cycles can impact labor progression and cervical dilation.  For more VBAC resources visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links    Client Testimonial: "Jaimie is not only a resource, she's a support system inside your support system that you didn't know you needed. She walked with me through the emotional and mental turmoil that comes with a traumatic emergency C-section birth experience. She is so kind and so brilliant. She is extremely educated and will talk through the medical parts that don't make sense and then she'll debunk entire thought processes. If you are looking for someone who knows their stuff, will advocate for you, will answer your 1000 questions and will bring peace into (or back into) your life, Jaimie is your woman. I will absolutely call her once I am pregnant again. I couldn't imagine not involving her in my next pregnancy. She gave me peace of mind that I could absolutely do a VBAC. Do yourself a favor and just type out that little email to her. You'll feel like you're talking to an old friend"   

Are you wondering what labor positions are most recommended for an unmedicated VBAC?  You're not alone! Many women planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean find it really important to learn more about labor positions to help them cope with labor contractions and help their baby descend efficiently for a complication free, unmedicated VBAC.  In this episode of the VBAC podcast I'll share the most important tips every mom needs to know about working with her body as she labors!  If you liked this episode and you're ready to learn more about achieving your Vaginal birth after cesarean, check out the VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program, a self paced course designed for women like you to strengthen the Three Pillars of Confidence for a better birth experience.   Access all VBAC resources inside the VBAC Podcast resource library at www.littlebearlactation.com/links   

"How can I prepare my body for a successful VBAC?"   This is one of the most common VBAC questions I hear, and one VBAC podcast listener recently inquired asking for tips on preparing her body for a positive and successful vaginal Birth After Cesarean.  In this episode of theVBACpodcast, I share my approach to preparing MY body for a healthy pregnancy and birth. We discuss things like diet, prenatal vitamins, herbal remedies, and fitness tips for a successful VBAC.  If you're ready to stop being afraid of birth and reclaim your power for a positive and peaceful VBAC, make sure to check out  VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program where I teach you everything you need to know to strengthen your three pillars of Confidence for a better VBAC. After the VBAC With Confidence self-paced birth prep course, you'll be able to identify your fears about birth, learn how to overcome them, create a birth plan you feel confident in, and understand the meaning of freedom in surrender.  Access the VBAC podcast VBAC Resource Library at www.littlebearlaction.com/links to take the next step toward a better birth experience! 

When we hear Uterine Rupture VBAC birth stories, it can stir up a lot of fear for women planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. Hearing these birth stories makes Uterine Rupture feel much more real to us, and can shake our confidence as we make decisions about our own birth plans. If you've recently heard a uterine rupture TOLAC story, and are wondering if you should continue planning a VBAC or just go ahead with a planned repeat cesarean, this episode is for YOU.  Please remember that this podcast is intended to offer a jumping off point for conversation with your birth support team, VBAC provider, and connection with God, in addition to providing resources for starting self research. This podcast is not intended to offer medical advice or diagnosis, and any decisions you make after listening to this podcast are solely YOUR responsibility.  To learn more about VBAC decision making, writing a VBAC birth plan, and overcoming your fears as you prepare for birth, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links where you can access FREE resources like Access to the VBAC With Confidence Facebook Group, Combating Fear During VBAC, and more! You can also access VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program and schedule a private postpartum or prenatal consult with Jaimie when you visit the VBAC Resource Library    Did this episode of theVBACpodcast leave you feeling inspired and excited for your VBAC? Please take a moment to leave a podcast review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, to let me know that you're enjoying these conversations, and to let other Mamas know this podcast is worth the listen! Thank you for your support! 

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR HOSPITAL HAS A VBAC BAN!   Have you heard of hospitals with VBAC Bans? What is a VBAC Ban? Why do some hospitals ban VBAC? And do VBAC Bans make any sense? In this episode of theVBACpodcast, your hostess, Jaimie Zaki, dives into these questions with some strong opinions AND tells you the one question you NEED to ask if your provider is insisting on a scheduled repeat c-section due to VBAC ban.  If you're battling a VBAC ban or have had a VBAC at a hospital with a VBAC ban, email Jaimie to share your story! jaimeizaki@littlebearlactation.com  If you're sick of letting fear write your birth story and you're ready to take charge of your VBAC, check out VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program to learn how to strengthen your Three Pillars of Confidence so you can have a positive and peaceful birth after cesarean no matter what curveballs birth throws at you!  Not sure if you're ready for the class, but definitely ready to learn more? Join the VBAC with Confidence Facebook Group now to ask your questions for weekly Q&A! 

Was your c-section medically necessary?  It is so important to debrief, reflect on, and understand the circumstances surrounding your c-section before planning your VBAC. Rehashing a traumatic cesarean can be emotionally challenging, but understanding your c-section is the key to healing from your traumatic birth. We can't change the past. BUT understanding it can sometimes help us change the future. In this case, healing emotionally from your c-section can help you have a better VBAC.  But how do you know if your c-section was medically necessary or not? First you need to understand birth and variations of normal, then you need to understand what your options were when your c-section was recommended. Unfortunately there is no checkbox type test to put your c-section up against to determine if it was medically necessary or not, but there are a few common cesarean scenarios that I'm going to use as examples for breaking down whether or not your c-section was necessary.  If you are still processing your c-section and need help doing that before getting confident for your VBAC, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links to connect with Jaimie so she can help you understand your c-section and create a plan for a better birth experience the next go-round.  If you've processed your c-section and feel confident that you're ready to plan your VBAC, make sure you check out the VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program where you will learn to strengthen your Three Pillars of Confidence to ensure a positive and peaceful birth after cesarean. 

In this episode of theVBACpodcast Jaimie will discuss the importance of understanding your c-section and some of the common reasons doctors recommend cesarean births.  Why did YOU have a c-section? Do you feel it was totally necessary, absolutely unnecessary, or are you unsure? Are you worried about having a repeat cesarean for the same reason? Email Jaimie at jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com and share your C-section story and why you're planning a VBAC for your next birth!  Are you looking for a social media space where you can learn more about planning a positive VBAC without all the social media drama? Check out VBAC with Confidence - theVBACpodcast Pregnancy Support Group on Facebook!  Are you ready to take the next step to reclaim your power for your VBAC? Are you done letting fear write your birth story? Join me inside of VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program to start preparing for your healing VBAC 

Unassisted Homebirth After Cesarean: Is it reckless to plan an unassisted VBAC or is it the ultimate show of strength? In this episode of theVBACpodcast Jaimie shares her complex thoughts and feelings about Unassisted Homebirth After Cesarean and the complicated question of whether or not unassisted VBAC is reckless or the bravest thing a VBAC mom can do.  Jaimie Zaki is a homeschooling Mama to 4 little Bears, Licensed Practical Nurse, Birth Doula, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Jaimie is a C-section mom, has had one hospital VBAC with the epidural, and then two home birth VBACs with 10 pound babies. Jaimie's mission is to inspire you to reframe your fears so you can reclaim your power for a positive and peaceful vaginal birth after cesarean.  If you're ready to stop letting fear write your birth story, hop on over to VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program where Jaimie helps you strengthen your Three Pillars of Confidence for a better birth after cesarean.  For more VBAC resources or to get in touch with Jaimie, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links 

Should I write a VBAC Birth Plan?  Women planning VBACs typically have strong feelings about creating a birth plan. If your last birth plan went out the window, you might be hesitant to write a birth plan for your VBAC, but you also might feel like it's something you're "supposed" to do. In this episode of theVBACpodcast, Jaimie Zaki will discuss the unique considerations around creating a VBAC specific birth plan.  Jaimie Zaki is a homeschooling Mama of Four Little Bears, Licensed Practical Nurse, Birth Doula, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant dedicated to inspiring your to release your fears around pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding and reclaim your power for a positive and peaceful birth after cesarean. As a c-section mom and three time VBAC mama, Jaimie specializes in supporting women through pregnancy after cesarean, the complex emotions that come with healing from a c-section, and overcoming fears as you prepare for your VBAC. If you're ready to stop letting fear write your birth story, join Jaimie inside her FREE Facebook Group for VBAC Mamas   If you're ready to take the next step toward a positive and peaceful vaginal birth after cesarean, join Jaimie inside of the VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program where you will learn how to strengthen the Three Pillars of Confidence for a better VBAC birth experience.  For more VBAC resources and to connect with Jaimie Zaki visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links   

THREE TIPS FOR AVOIDING A REPEAT C-SECTION WHEN YOU'RE PLANNING A VAGINAL BIRTH AFTER CESAREAN  Welcome back to theVBACpodcast! When you're planning a VBAC, the thought of a repeat cesarean can be really overwhelming. It's scary to think of needing another c-section when you really want a vaginal birth. While we can't control everything about birth, there are SOME things we have control over. In this episode of theVBACpodcast, Jaimie Zaki will share with you her Three Tips for Avoiding a Repeat Cesarean when you're planning a VBAC.  Jaimie Zaki is a homeschooling mom of four kiddos and has had a cesarean for breech presentation, a hospital VBAC with an epidural, and two homebirth VBACs with 10 pound babies! Jaimie is also a Licensed Practical Nurse, Birth Doula, and IBCLC who has worked with women from pregnancy through postpartum since 2016. Jaimie's mission is to arm you with the information you need to feel inspired to reframe your fears about VBAC and reclaim your power for a positive and peaceful birth after cesarean.  Inside this episode Jaimie referenced questions to ask your VBAC Obgyn or Midwife. You can access the blog post here:  https://www.littlebearlactation.com/post/four-questions-to-ask-your-doctor-or-midwife-about-vbac-vaginal-birth-after-cesarean   If you're ready to learn more about the VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program so you can take the next step toward a better VBAC, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247   For other resources and to contact Jaimie visit www.littlebearlactation.com/links     

If you're planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, you know that the most common concern that mothers and doctors have about VBAC is the increased risk of uterine rupture. Uterine rupture can be very scary and confusing. The more you talk about it, the more confused you might feel. The trouble with uterine rupture is much of the data is outdated, pulled from poorly designed studies, and does not even clearly define "uterine rupture". So today, I'd like to help you learn more about uterine rupture by discussing three important uterine rupture facts every mom planning a VBAC should understand. Uterine Rupture Fact #1: Uterine Rupture and Uterine Dehiscence are not the same thin The first reason studies on uterine rupture can be misleading is that some studies do not differentiate between uterine rupture and uterine dehiscence. Conflating these two phenomenons inflates the perceived risk of uterine rupture when, infact, many women included in the data did NOT experience uterine rupture. Uterine rupture is defined as a full thickness separation of the uterine wall. Simply put, every layer of the uterine wall separates, tears, opens up and there is a gaping hole in the uterus. This is extremely dangerous and can cause hemorrhaging, fetal hypoxia, and even fetal death.   On the other hand, Uterine Dehiscence is a partial thickness separation of the uterine wall, sometimes referred to as a "uterine window" because surgeons can usually see the baby through the uterus. While there is a lot of controversy about conflating these two ideas, and whether or not uterine dehiscence is likely to turn into a uterine rupture, it is critical to understand that these two conditions are NOT the same, so if you're looking at a study on uterine rupture, it is critical to understand whether the study combines these two conditions or differentiates them. Uterine Rupture Fact #2: Uterine Rupture is least common in SPONTANEOUS labor after cesarean While there are many studies that cite a range of statistics for uterine rupture, when we break the numbers down with more scrutiny and nuance, we see that the incidence of Uterine Rupture for spontaneous labor is around 4 in 1000 (or 0.4%).   For augmented labors (aka labor started naturally but providers use medical intervention to "speed up" labor) the Uterine Rupture rate increases to approximately 9 in 1000, and for induced VBAC labors the Uterine Rupture rate is around 10 in 1000 (1%). Now, these numbers change when we discuss labor induction methods and other variable circumstances. For instance, one study published in January 2022 suggested a 0.4% uterine rupture rate in BOTH the spontaneous labor group AND the Pitocin Induction Group. The take away here is that while induction can be a safe option in necessary situations, you're less likely to experience uterine rupture if you wait for labor to start naturally versus scheduling an induction. Uterine Rupture Fact #3: There is a 2.8% perinatal mortality for victims of uterine rupture While the low likelihood of uterine rupture may be starting to comfort you, you might also be thinking "well what if I am that one percent? Then what?" While I'm not minimizing the trauma and seriousness of uterine rupture at all, the good news is that 97% of full term births that experience uterine rupture will survive. The perinatal mortality (fetal death occurring during labor or within 28 days of birth) rate associated with uterine rupture is 1 in 16 overall (including premature births), and 1 in 32 for term births. Of course there are other complications that can occur such as mother hemorrhaging, requiring a hysterectomy, oxygen deprivation for baby leading to birth injury, etc. At this time I am unaware of solid statistics for these circumstances, but if I come across them I'll eagerly add them to this post. Jen Kamel from VBAC Facts did some awesome math on this statistic, applying it to Landon's 2004 study citing a 0.7% Uterine Rupture Rate, and estimated that the rate of perinatal mortality due to uterine rupture is about 1 in 2380 to 1 in 5100. That's like a 0.0004% likelihood of experiencing perinatal death due to uterine rupture.   How have your thoughts on Uterine Rupture and VBAC Risk changed?   While this low statistic doesn't minimize the reality that this tragedy CAN occur, it might help you put the likelihood into perspective. Do these numbers sound like numbers that we should all be TERRIFIED of, and giving our rights up over? For me personally, that's a risk I'm willing to take, since I know no birth is without the possibility of tragedy. These numbers, however, can help alleviate the fear you might be feeling over uterine rupture so that you can start making your VBAC birth plan decisions from a place of INFORMATION and INTUITION, not fear.   Do me a favor an pop over the the FREE VBAC Support Group on Facebook and let me know how these numbers changed your thought process on Uterine Rupture and VBAC!      

BREASTFEEDING AS BIRTH CONTROL? TIPS FOR PREVENTING PREGNANCY TO IMPROVE CHANCES OF VBAC SUCCESS Reasons for delaying pregnancy after cesarean  If you've had a c-section odds are you have multiple reasons for making pregnancy prevention a priority. Some reasons might include increasing likelihood of reaching breastfeeding goals, giving your body an opportunity to heal from your cesarean, managing postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, AND if you're planning a VBAC: increasing likelihood of VBAC success by creating the ideal space between pregnancies.  For more on ideal time between c-section and VBAC, check out THIS EPISODE Traditional Birth Control Options for Postpartum: Breastfeeding/LAM, Natural Family Planning, FAM  In this episode of theVBACpodcast we won't just discuss WHY you may be choosing to delay pregnancy, but also what options you have as an alternative to popular birth control methods like the pill, IUDs, Depo shot, and condoms.  The truth is you do NOT have to use hormonal birth control or IUDs to navigate postpartum pregnancy prevention!  This episode will discuss breastfeeding as birth control/ lactational ammenhorea (LAM), Natural Family Planning Options, and Fertility Awareness   Looking for more VBAC Resources & Support? I got ya covered!  Get on the MamaBearVIP List + Free Access to Combating Fear During VBAC Join my FREE VBAC Support Group on Facebook  Access VBAC with Confidence  Or Connect with Jaimie

Did you have a cesarean that felt physically and emotionally challenging? Then you tried breastfeeding and it was awful? Some women wonder if you can breastfeed after a c-section. The answer is YES you CAN breastfeed after a c-section BUT the truth is, a cesarean birth DOES increase the likelihood of breastfeeding challenges. If you aren't prepared for these challenges or don't know how to manage them, it can lead to postpartum depression and a belief that your body is broken. Instead of believing that your body is broken because you had a c-section followed with breastfeeding challenges and low milk supply, I want to inspire you to understand exactly WHAT happened and create a plan for NEXT time. With an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) you CAN reach your breastfeeding goals after a c-section.... BUT you might just find that a successful VBAC makes breastfeeding easier than ever before. In this episode of theVBACpodcast we will discuss the ways that a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean can improve your breastfeeding experience.  Join the MamaBearVIPList for Free Access to Combating Fear During VBAC: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Connect with Jaimie at jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com  VBAC With Confidence www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 VBAC Support Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/5425054587515038/ 

As a Catholic Mother, Our Lady of La Leche has been an inspiring image, bringing me closer to God as I experience birth, breastfeeding, and motherhood, AND as I support mothers through the transitions of birth, breastfeeding, and motherhood.  In honor of last week's VBAC Awareness Day and this week's World Breastfeeding Week, I share the Novena of Our Lady of La Leche and the Litany of Our Lady of La Leche as a prayer to come back to when you need strength, peace, help surrendering, and encouragement on this difficult journey of preparing for your Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.  www.littlebearlactation.com  Learn more about Our Lady of La Leche https://missionandshrine.org/about-us/our-story/ 

In today's episode of the VBAC podcast, Jaimie Zaki, a VBAC mom who overcame postpartum depression and anxiety related to a traumatic cesarean, shares this piece of wisdom: Your birth experience does matter. Find out what Jaimie learned about the impact of a traumatic birth experience from a dementia patient in a long term care facility in 2012.  If anyone has told you that birth experience isn't that important, they're wrong. Listen to this week's episode of the vbac podcast to learn more about why you CAN and SHOULD value your brith experience, and what you can do to prepare for a better VBAC!    FREE VBAC CLASS  www.littlebearlactation.com/links  VBAC WITH CONFIDENCE COMPLETE BIRTH PREP PROGRAM  www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  Follow Me on IG  www.instagram.com/thevbacpodcast   

When you're dreaming of a Healing VBAC birth, the thought of your VBAC ending with emergency repeat cesarean can be scary. In today's Birth Story episode, we talk with Rachel McComiskey who shares her story of her first c-section that she says was due to provider abuse, her planned VBAC that ended in another traumatic cesarean, and how she found healing when her third birth and second VBAC attempt resulted in a third emergency cesarean. Rachel shares the biggest lessons she learned about planning a successful VBAC, what it means to have an empowering birth, and her tips for a positive VBAC experience.   The most important lesson Rachel shared with me was that CBAC (cesarean birth after cesarean) CAN be a healing experience also! I hope you find this C-section birth story inspiring and hopeful!  If you're planning a VBAC and ready to learn how you can strengthen the three pillars of confidence for a better birth, no matter what curveballs are thrown at you, check out VBAC With Confidence TODAY. Inside of the VBAC WITH CONFIDENCE complete birth preparation program, I teach you how to overcome fears associated with birth, how to make decisions you feel confident in, flex your birth plan as needed, and find freedom in surrender.  Get access to all of my VBAC Resources at www.littlebearlactation.com/links 

Cesarean Awareness gets a whole month. Breastfeeding Awareness gets a whole month. We're here to start making sure VBAC Awareness gets AT LEAST a day... I'm making it a WEEK. Are you ready for another inspiring VBAC story?!  To celebrate VBAC Awareness Day we're chatting with Nichole Joy Black to hear about her planned Cesarean Birth, Hospital VBAC and unexpected unassisted home birth. Nichole shares her journey from making fear based birth decisions to getting in touch with her intuition and becoming confident as she planned her dream VBAC.  Check out Nichole's podcast to hear MY interview on HER show too!  Connect with Nichole online or on Instagram    FREE VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  VBAC With Confidence (use code VBACAWARENESS until 8/2/2022) www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 Win FREE Coaching Session by leaving a podcast review and tagging the show in your IG stories! 

In this week's episode of theVBACpodcast we're chatting with Rachel Garrett, Hostess of the Homebirth After Cesarean Podcast, doula, and home birth midwifery assistant, about her planned homebirth turned cesarean and why she's planning a Homebirth VBAC (also called HBAC) for her current pregnancy. We discuss nuances of supporting women during pregnancy and labor, challenges within the birthing system, and the emotional work that has helped Rachel to find peace with her c-section, and prepared her to surrender in her upcoming labor and birth.  To connect with Rachel and check out the homebirth after cesarean podcast, visit @homebirthaftercesarean on IG or visit https://hbacpodcast.podbean.com  FREE VBAC CLASS: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  VBAC With Confidence Class (just $73.50 now through August 2, 2022 with code VBACAWARENESS) www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 Share your birth story OR professional insight as a podcast GUEST: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast

Cesarean Awareness has the whole month of April, Breastfeeding Awareness gets a worldwide week in August, and then the whole month is celebrated as breastfeeding awareness month in the USA. Well now, VBAC Awareness is a thing too! This year is the second annual VBAC awareness day on July 30th and we will use this week to celebrate!  Vaginal Birth After Cesarean is still so widely misunderstood. So this week on theVBACpodcast, you will be invited to listen in on some conversations I had with amazing women who have had cesareans, VBACs, and who encourage and support other women to have empowered, positive, and peaceful vaginal births after cesarean.  But that's not all! This week you get special access to VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program for a low low low $73.50... When you sign up you'll be entered to win a FREE Private Birth Prep session with Jaimie! You can also enter to win a free private VBAC preparation session with Jaimie by leaving a REVIEW of the podcast on apple podcasts, screen shotting your favorite episode and sharing on IG Stories (be sure to tag Jaimie @thevbacpodcast )  Free VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program: www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  @theVBACpodcast on Instagram Connect with Jaimie: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast  

Are you excited about your upcoming Vaginal Birth After Cesarean? During your preparation you're probably hearing a lot of confilcting "VBAC Truth". On today's episode of the VBAC podcast I want to discuss some uncomfortable truths about VBAC. Now, we're not talking about things like uterine rupture... No. We're talking about Traumatic Vaginal Births, Birth Partners who haven't processed THEIR birth trauma, and the biggest mistake being made by doulas, childbirth educators, midwives, and OBGYNs when discussing birth goals (especially for VBAC!).   Combating Fear During VBAC FREE Birth Class www.littlebearlactation.com/links Be a guest on theVBACpodcast: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast  VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Preparation Program: www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  Connect with Jaimie by email jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com 

Creating a VBAC Birth Plan can feel really overwhelming. One of the special considerations you'll have to learn about when creating your VBAC Birth Plan is your Fetal Monitoring Options.  Typically, if you're planning a hospital birth, policies will encourage you to comply with continuous fetal monitoring for your TOLAC. However, this decision isn't that simple. In this episode of theVBAC podcast we discuss why continuous fetal monitoring is recommended, what kind of monitors are available, and what you might want to think about when deciding your preferences on fetal monitoring during your VBAC labor.  Free VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  VBAC With Confidence: www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 Be a GUEST: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast

The last weeks of pregnancy come with a lot of stress. If you're planning a VBAC, the last weeks of pregnancy can be even more stressful if your provider is trying to impose arbitrary due date restrictions, gatekeep birth plan options, or plays the bait & switch game. From questions like "when will labor start" to "is this a sign of labor", your mind will be running wild in the days and weeks before your VBAC. In this episode of theVBACpodcast, Jaimie Zaki, three time VBAC mama and birth doula shares random advice on how to stay focused on your goals of a positive and peaceful vaginal birth after cesarean.  Make sure you get on the email list for updates about upcoming VBAC Awareness Day specials **AND** get access to the FREE Combating Fear During VBAC online VBAC Class at www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Join the VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program @ www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  And email Jaimie at jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com if you're ready for some one-to-one VBAC Birth Prep.  Follow Jaimie and theVBACpodcast on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @thevbacpodcast  To share your story or have your VBAC questions featured, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast to submit 

Creating your VBAC Birth Plan will bring up a lot of questions about various interventions. We recently discussed what ACOG said is considered safe regarding Epidurals and VBAC birth plans, but how do you decide whether or not you should get an epidural when creating your VBAC birth plan? In today's episode of theVBACpodcast, we will talk about how to decide if you should get an epidural, and three reasons why all VBAC moms need to prepare for an unmedicated, epidural free VBAC.  Don't forget to make sure you get on the email list to get FIRST DIBS on exciting information about VBAC Awareness Day 2022, Get on the MamaBear VIP List by enrolling in the FREE VBAC Class: Combating Fear During VBAC. www.littlebearlactation.com/links  You can also access VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program for JUST $147 right now!! www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  And if you want to connect with me directly, email me at jaimiezaki@littlebearlactation.com so we can set an appointment for private birth prep support!  Submit VBAC stories, podcast pitch, and ASK JAIMIE @ www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast

If you had a c-section that was physically or emotionally traumatic, you may be wondering if you will ever heal from your birth trauma. You may hear stories of "healing birth experiences" and dream of this for your next birth. As you create your VBAC Birth Plan you imagine a magical moment of healing when you achieve your birth goals. While it is great to dream of your VBAC as a positive and beautiful experience, it is crucial to start healing from your c-section BEFORE Your VBAC. This episode of theVBACpodcast will explain why planning a healing VBAC plan is dangerous and what you SHOULD focus on for a positive birth after cesarean. Be on theVBACpodcast or submit an ASK JAIMIE question: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast FREE Combatting Fear During VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program: www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247  

In today's episode of theVBACpodcast, we will continue exploring and understanding ACOG VBAC Practice Guidelines. On last week's episode we discussed VBAC Candidacy according to ACOG and learned that most women should have the option to plan a vaginal birth after cesarean. This week we will dive into what ACOG advises regarding policies for managing a TOLAC or Trial Of Labor After Cesarean (aka VBAC labor).  Topics discussed will include: Tips for inducing VBACs / VBAC induction options  VBACs and Epidurals  VBAC and Fetal Monitoring to prevent Uterine Rupture  Understanding of Uterine Rupture Risks  Preterm Delivery and VBAC  External Cephalic Version (ECV) and VBAC    If you're ready for more tips on achieving your VBAC and a guide for how to create a VBAC birth plan, check out the VBAC With Confidence Complete Labor Prep Program  www.littlebearlactation.com/links  To have your VBAC birth story or a VBAC question featured on the podcast, visit www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast  Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast to get notified of new episodes every Tuesday and Wednesday, and if you're liking what you hear, be sure to drop a review to let me know!   

Looking for an inspirational hospital VBAC birth story with epidural? In this episode of theVBACpodcast, hostess Jaimie Zaki shares what she learned from her hospital VBAC with an OBGYN and CNM (nurse midwife) team, how her birth plan changed in labor, and why she still felt that she had a positive birth experience.  The Mission of theVBACpodcast is to inspire women to reframe their fears around Vaginal Birth After Cesarean and reclaim their power for an empowering VBAC birth experience.  Share your VBAC story: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast  Submit your VBAC questions for Ask Jaimie: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast  VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 VBAC Preparation Consulting: www.littlebearlactation.com/consulting  Resources: www.littlebearlactation.com/links   

In today's episode of the VBAC podcast, we're going to answer questions like "What is ACOG?" "What are ACOG Guidelines" and what does ACOG say about vaginal birth after cesarean? When you meet with an OBGYN about you VBAC birth plans, he or she is likely to refer to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines for VBAC management. However, women frequently find themselves in a situation where their OBGYN is making VBAC recommendations that do not follow ACOG guidelines. While guidelines are not rules, and it is up to each provider and patient to consider benefits and risks TOGETHER, too often, ACOG's guidelines are being misapplied or blatantly ignored and warped. Mothers planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean should take the time to get to know the ACOG VBAC Guidelines published in the ACOG VBAC Practice Bulletin. In this episode of the VBAC podcast, we will explore what exactly ACOG says about vaginal birth after cesarean, the risks, the benefits, and the birth plan options available to VBAC candidates.  This episode of theVBACpodcast will discuss benefits of VBAC, risks of VBAC, the option of repeat cesarean, and who is a good candidate for VBAC: including more information on special scars and VBAC, Due Dates and VBAC, recommendations for Vaginal Birth After Multiple Cesareans (VBAMC), planning a VBAC with a 'Large for Gestational Age" (LGA) baby (also called macrosomia), and many more VBAC candidacy variables.    Be on theVBACpodcast or submit an ASK JAIMIE question: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast FREE Combatting Fear During VBAC Class: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/627c013046c9ddac8218a3a0 VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Prep Program: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 VBAC Consulting With Jaimie: www.littlebearlactation.com/consulting Social Media: instagram.com/thevbacpodcast

Are you looking for an inspiring hospital VBAC induction birth story? Then you're in luck! In this episode of theVBACpodcast, Doula and Childbirth Educator Abby Williams shares her journey into motherhood as a doula, how becoming a doula changed her perspective on cesareans and vaginal births, how she planned a home birth despite having a complex medical history with multiple surgeries including back and hip surgeries AND having diet-controlled gestational diabetes. Abby went on to have a homebirth cesarean for her second birth due to breech presentation and an unexpected cholestasis diagnosis, then had a birth center turned hospital induction VBAC with Cholestasis.  Abby shares her birth story and insight as a birth worker on how she utilized the Three Pillars of Confidence for more positive birth experiences. Abby also shares insight on keeping a flexible birth plan as you prepare for your Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.  Follow Abby on Instagram & Facebook @abbythebirthworker    Get Instant Access to the Free Combating Fear During VBAC class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Apply to be on the podcast: www.littlebearlactation.com/podcast    Connect with Jaimie to process your cesarean & prepare for VBAC: www.littlebearlactation.com/contact    Don't forget to rate & review the podcast if you're loving it!

Did your doctor tell you that you have to wait 18-24 months to have a vaginal birth after cesarean? Were you told that if you get pregnant too soon after your cesarean VBAC is off the table and you have to have a repeat cesarean? Are you wondering if it's safe to have a VBAC less than 18 months, or even 12 months after your cesarean?  Today on theVBACpodcast we're going to talk about the common recommendations for spacing pregnancies to increase your chances of a VBAC, what ACOG says about pregnancy intervals for VBAC, and what the data says about spacing your pregnancy after cesarean.  **As a reminder, this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. This podcast is not intended to serve as individual or personal medical advise. Please use this information as a conversation starter with your OBGYN or Midwife if you have more questions about pregnancy intervals and VBAC**  FREE VBAC CLASS: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  VBAC With Confidence Complete Birth Preparation Program: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/vbacwithconfidence247 Connect with Jaimie: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/contact  Instagram: www.instagram.com/thevbacpodcast  

Creating a VBAC birth plan can be uniquely challenging. Often, mothers find themselves needing to switch providers during their pregnancy, change hospitals, or even switch to out of hospital birth. These decisions can be very challenging, especially when they go against some of society's commonly held beliefs about VBAC (that are often over exaggerated). In this episode of theVBACpodcast, Hostess Jaimie Zaki shares more about how she chose to switch from a hospital VBAC to a homebirth after cesarean (hombirth VBAC, at home VBAC, HBAC) for her second VBAC birth. Jaimie also shares why she believes a hospital birth would have ended in a repeat cesarean, and discusses differentiating fear versus intuition when making decisions about your birth.  The goal of theVBACpodcast is to inspire mothers to reframe fears around childbirth and reclaim their power for a positive and peaceful VBAC birth experience.  My Cesarean, Hospital VBAC, and Homebirth Stories on the Homebirth After Cesarean Podcast with Rachel Garret Connect with Jaimie on Instagram or on her website.  Get INSTANT ACCESS to the FREE VBAC CLASS here.  Private Support Group https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups 

There is SO much to learn about vaginal birth after cesarean. There are many tips for achieving your VBAC, but this is the NUMBER ONE FACTOR that can SABOTAGE your VBAC goals. Before writing your VBAC birth plan, you need to understand this crucial piece of VBAC advice.    If you're ready to get CONFIDENT about your VBAC goals, join me for the FREE Combating Fear During VBAC class where you'll learn how to leverage Three Pillars of Confidence to shut down fear! www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Private Support Group https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups 

Generational Wisdom can be a contributing factor to your VBAC success. While some OBGYNs will rate your odds of VBAC or Repeat Cesarean off of a VBAC Calculator, what they don't account for is the impact of generational wisdom on both you and your birth partner.  In this episode we will discuss how Womanly Wisdom influences both men and women and how this nurturing can make or break you birth after cesarean plans. If you are dreaming of an empowering VBAC, it is crucial for you to understand how womanly wisdom impacts the members of your birth team Connect with Jaimie on Instagram or her website.  Get INSTANT ACCESS to the FREE VBAC CLASS here.  Private VBAC Group https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups  

Creating your VBAC birth plan can be so hard. Odds are google is telling you one thing, your OBGYN is telling you something different, and the girl who lives down the street is telling you another thing... There are so many misconceptions about VBAC, and the big problem is sometimes even doctors and midwives give bad VBAC advice. In this episode, we will explore three common lies you might have been told when planning your Vaginal Birth After Cesarean and the truth about VBAC. This episode will help you better understand what options VBAC moms have when planning their birth.    If you're ready to shut down fear and start feeling confident as you plan your VBAC, check out the FREE Combating Fear During VBAC class now! www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Private VBAC Group https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups 

If your last baby was born via cesarean section and you're dreaming of a VBAC, you might be hearing some people say that VBAC is a dangerous option. The truth is VBAC is safe for most women, but some factors can make you higher risk while others make you lower risk. In this episode of the VBAC podcast we explore what makes a woman a good candidate for VBAC and whether or not VBAC is still an option if you have certain risk factors.  If you're unsure whether or not VBAC is the right option for you, give this episode a listen!    Connect with Jaimie on Instagram  If you're ready to feel confident as you plan your Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, check out the FREE Combating Fear During VBAC class at www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Private Support Group https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups  Blog Post/ Transcript - https://www.littlebearlactation.com/post/is-vbac-the-right-option-for-you-how-to-decide-if-you-should-plan-a-vaginal-birth-after-cesarean  

In this episode of theVBACpodcast, VBAC mom and doula Jaimie shares tips for increasing your likelihood of VBAC success by strengthening your womanly wisdom. Learn how your God-Given womanly instincts and intuition can transform your vaginal birth after cesarean birth experience. Before you start creating your VBAC birth plan, be sure to check out this episode of theVBACpodcast to make sure you have a strong mindset for a better, more positive and peaceful VBAC.   Free VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links  Private Support Group: https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups  Blog Post / Transcript - https://www.littlebearlactation.com/post/increasing-the-likelihood-of-achieving-your-vbac-by-strengthening-your-womanly-wisdom  

Welcome to theVBACpodcast! Are you a c-section mom desperately dreaming of a VBAC, but you feel like you have no clue where to get straight answers or how to start preparing for your VBAC? You aren't sure what is a VBAC fact or a VBAC myth, and you keep hearing scary birth stories, and want to start surrounding yourself with inspiring VBAC stories? Then you're in the right place!  The VBAC podcast is here to help you understand everything you need to know when you're planning a vaginal birth after cesarean. From sharing the truth about VBAC research, tips on VBAC birth plans, to inspiring VBAC birth stories, the VBAC podcast strives to inspire mothers to start reframing their fears around childbirth and reclaim their power for a better, more positive birth after cesarean experience Submit your VBAC Questions by DMing me on Instagram  Get Instant Access to FREE VBAC Class: www.littlebearlactation.com/links Blog Post/Transcript - https://www.littlebearlactation.com/post/the-vbac-podcast-welcome-to-the-vbac-podcast Private Support Group - https://www.littlebearlactation.com/groups