Podcasts about vbac

In today's episode we reference the following resources:Should I be induced? Evidence on the ARRIVE TrialPlanning Your Successful VBAC**********Welcome to the June Q&A! In today's episode, we begin with a listener who has some things to say about the term VBAC. Our questions begin with one from a new mother whose enthusiastic in-laws are eager to babysit her exclusively breastfed baby. The conversation is less about breastfeeding and more about expectations, trust and boundaries.Next, we answer one we've never been asked: "What do contractions actually feel like?" How's it possible this hasn't come up before?!Then, we discuss a common late-pregnancy scenario: a routine ultrasound that leads to concerns about a "big baby." When a healthy 38-week pregnant woman is told her baby's abdomen is measuring large, how much weight should she give to that information? As always, we finish with Quickies, covering cervical lips, high-lipase milk, pacifiers, coffee during pregnancy, milk blebs, antidepressants, swaddling, wake windows, dates, sex, retained placenta, induction, creatine, and a few personal questions about coffee preferences and family size.Have a question for a future Q&A? We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail and join the conversation! Call us 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN! That's 802-438-3696.**********Choosing Induction: When it Might be NeededSend us Fan Mail Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs RhetoricNeeded

Willa joins the pod from San Francisco, CA to share her journey from a 41+5 spontaneous 30-hour labor with OP positioning and a cesarean with her 9lb, 6oz first baby to a VBAC with her 10lb, 3oz second baby. She talks about switching providers, using Dilapan rods for cervical ripening, being induced at 41 weeks, and navigating another OP baby. Willa shares the lessons she learned about preparing emotionally for birth, the nuances of birth language, trusting that each birth can be different, and surrounding yourself with people who will be your biggest VBAC champions. And stay until the end to hear the most beautiful poem about her VBAC journey! How Dilapan-S Rods WorkEBB Birth: Pros and Cons of Foley and Dilapan-S® for InductionThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Links: The Birth Hour: Real Birth Stories to Inform, Inspire, and Empower (book available for preorder now!) Get your breast pump, lactation support, and maternity compression garments for free at aeroflowbreastpumps.com/birthhour and use promo code BIRTHHOUR15 at for 15% off supplies and accessories. Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course - use code 100OFF for $100 off Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Support The Birth Hour via Patreon! 

In this episode of Australian VBAC Stories, we are joined by Rena, a mother of two from East Gippsland, Victoria.After a traumatic induction, emergency caesarean birth, severe postpartum infection, and postnatal depression with her first daughter, Rena knew she wanted a different experience for her next birth.In this episode, she shares her journey towards a planned VBAC, including years of research, choosing continuity of care with a private midwife, navigating hospital policies, and learning how to advocate for herself when faced with resistance during labour.Rena's story is one of resilience, determination, and discovering the power of her own voice. Her VBAC wasn't just a different birth experience, it was a transformative experience that left her feeling stronger, more confident, and deeply trusting of herself.Rena lives in East Gippsland with her husband Kyle and their daughters, Vana and Freya, where they are building an off-grid home and creating a simple, grounded life together.A special thank you from Rena to her midwife Megan from The Village Way Gippsland, whose calm presence, knowledge, and trust in birth helped her feel truly seen, heard, and supported throughout her journey. And to her husband Kyle, whose unwavering support and belief in her never faltered.Rena hopes that by sharing her story, other women planning a VBAC feel empowered to trust themselves, ask questions, and advocate for the birth experience they deserve.

Send us Fan MailShow notes On January 1, 2027, every global OB code your practice has billed for the last thirty years is being deleted. Seventeen CPT codes. Gone. Replaced with a completely new structure for how every dollar of maternity revenue is earned, attributed, and collected. And the real deadline for your practice is not January 1, 2027. The real deadline is right now. What is actually going away For over thirty years, OB practices have lived in a bundled global world: one patient, one pregnancy, one code. Effective January 1, 2027, 17 global obstetric CPT codes (including 59400 for a global vaginal delivery and 59510 for a global C-section) are being deleted entirely. The AMA and ACOG determined the global model no longer reflects modern OB standard of care, and so the structure is being fully replaced, not patched. The four new phases of maternity billing Phase 1, Antepartum care. All bundled antepartum codes deleted. Every prenatal visit billed as individual E/M with TH modifier (99202 through 99215). Phase 2, Labor management. New dedicated code category for the first time in CPT history. Reported per calendar day, with straightforward vs complex management distinction. Phase 3, Delivery. Vaginal vs cesarean restructured. VBAC coded differently than first-time vaginal. Add-on procedures (3rd/4th degree laceration repair, uterine tamponade) now separately billable. Phase 4, Postpartum care. All existing postpartum codes deleted. Hospital care codes for inpatient day-after-delivery. Office E/M for outpatient follow-up. Same-date postpartum bundled into delivery. Why the real deadline is Q3 and Q4 2026 Cash flow in January 2027 will be decided this Q3 and Q4. Payer contracts reference CPT codes by number, so contracts that reference deleted codes need renegotiation now. Documentation habits have to change before the new codes go live, because every prenatal visit now needs to support E/M level selection. A 200-patient OB practice undercoding prenatal visits by even $40 each is leaving close to $100,000 a year on the table from day one. The multi-provider attribution problem Under the global model, attribution was easy: one practice, one fee, regardless of which provider saw which visit. Under the new model, every encounter is attributed to the individual provider who performed it. Practices with midlevels, hospitalists, or shared call need a clear protocol for labor management billing, on-call coverage, and cross-coverage now, or they will either double-bill (compliance risk) or miss charges (phantom revenue) from day one. Three actions this week Pull a payer contract audit. List every commercial contract referencing global OB codes that needs renegotiation before January 1. Run a prenatal documentation review. Pull 10 recent prenatal charts per provider and assess them against current 99213 and 99214 E/M standards. The gap is your single biggest revenue risk. Map your provider attribution workflow. Write out exactly how labor management, on-call coverage, cross-coverage, and same-day postpartum care will be tracked when every encounter is attributed individually. Episode breakdown 1. The 17 deleted codes 2. The four new phases of maternity billing 3. Why Q3 and Q4 of this year is your real deadline 4. The multi-provider attribution gap 5. What patients will see on their EOBs 6. Your 90-day action plan 7. What is ahead in the rest of the OB Global Coding Series Resources → Live OB Global Updates Webinar (PRIMARY): eligibility.natrevmd.com/obgyn-global-updates-webinar → Book a call with Heather: calendly.com/heather-natrevmd → Payment Posting Audit Checklist: eligibility.natrevmd.com/payment-posting-checklist → Practice Revenue Leak Scorecard: eligibility.natrevmd.com/nrm-revenue-scorecard-v3 → Coming next in the series: EP189 — How to Bill Antepartum Care Under the New E/M Model 

Heute gibt es einen Replay von Folge 2, in der Anne Schmuck von den Geburten ihrer zwei Kinder erzählt. Ihre Tochter kam aufgrund von einem hohen Gradstand per sekundärer Sectio zur Welt, ihr Sohn, wie gewünscht per VBAC, dafür aber ein paar Wochen zu früh. Mehr zu Annes Arbeit findet du hier. Der nächste in Person Mama-Baby-Yogakurs findet ab dem 24.6.26 in 1080 Wien statt. Und am 17.7. findet der erste Embodied Cycles Cirlce in 1180 Wien statt. Mehr Infos und Anmeldung hier. Folge direkt herunterladen Den kostenlosen Guide zur nicht-medikamentösen Schmerzlinderung kannst du dir hier runterladen. Melde dich hier zum Geburtsgeschichten Newsletter an. Zur Schwangerschaftsyoga Online Videothek geht es hier entlang. Das Webinar zum Thema Kaiserschnittnarben & Narbengewebe gibt es hier. Hier kannst du eine Google Review für den Podcast schreiben und damit dazu beitragen, dass mehr Frauen authentische Geburtsgeschichten hören können. Zum MutterKultur Substack geht es hier entlang. Den Geburtsgeschichten Instagram Kanal findest du hier.

 Fertility Docs Uncensored Today's episode of Fertility Docs Uncensored is hosted by Dr. Carrie Bedient from the Fertility Center of Las Vegas, Dr. Susan Hudson from Texas Fertility Center, and Dr. Abby Eblen from Nashville Fertility Center. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Amy Harris, reproductive endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility in Colorado Springs, for a listener-question episode focused on the uterus and endometrium. In this episode, we tackle some of the most common and challenging questions surrounding the uterine lining and embryo transfer. Dr. Amy Harris joins us to discuss what she would do for a patient with fluid in the endometrial cavity, including possible causes, recommended evaluation, and treatment options. We review why fluid often resolves after progesterone exposure, when aspiration before embryo transfer may be considered, and how different stimulation protocols can impact outcomes. We discuss recurrent implantation failure after the transfer of multiple euploid embryos in the setting of a thin endometrium. We discuss potential causes of a thinning uterine lining, including hormonal abnormalities, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and Asherman syndrome. Strategies such as changing endometrial preparation protocols, reassessing thyroid and prolactin levels, and allowing the uterus time to recover without medication exposure. We review treatment options for uterine scar tissue and discuss whether programmed or modified natural frozen embryo transfer cycles may offer advantages in specific situations. Finally, we address the question of transferring two embryos at once after a prior cesarean delivery. We discuss the risks of twins and higher-order multiple pregnancies, including prematurity, neonatal intensive care admissions, pregnancy complications, and the emotional and financial impact on families. We also explore whether vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) may be an option for some patients planning future pregnancies. Can fluid in the uterus prevent embryo implantation? What causes a thin endometrial lining? How is Asherman syndrome treated? Should patients choose a programmed or modified natural transfer cycle? Is transferring two embryos ever worth the risk? Join us as we answer these important listener questions. This podcast was sponsored by US Fertility. 

In this "Mailbag" edition of the Healthful Woman podcast, Dr. Nathan Fox answers listener questions covering a range of women's health and obstetric topics. He addresses questions about chorioamnionitis found on placental pathology, returning to fertility after long-term Mirena IUD use, the history and current practice of episiotomies, and NICU level considerations for a planned VBAC delivery. The episode wraps up with a thorough discussion of Asherman's syndrome, including its causes, diagnosis, treatment via hysteroscopy, and implications for future fertility.

Geburtscoach Dr. Lütje klärt in diesem Video über die Möglichkeiten und Risiken der vaginalen Geburt im Zustand nach Kaiserschnitt (vaginal birth after cesarean) anhand neuester Studien auf.

This episode is sponsored by Hiya Health, Factor Meals, Ladder, & ASPCA Pet Insurance. Hiya Health: Get 50% off your first order of Hiya's clean kids vitamins and new Kids Daily Growth + Protein at https://hiyahealth.com/UNPLANNED—this deal is not available on their regular website. Factor Meals: Head to https://factormeals.com/unplanned50off and use code UNPLANNED50OFF to get 50% off and free daily greens per box with new subscription only, while supplies last until 09/27/2026. Ladder: If you have an iPhone, go to https://ladder.fit/UNPLANNED to take a quick quiz and get a free 7-day trial with no credit card required, plus $10 off your first month if you join. ASPCA Pet Insurance: To explore coverage, visit https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/UNPLANNED Today on Unplanned, we're sharing a huge update on our birth plan. Abby opens up about becoming a VBAC candidate, navigating the risks and emotions that come with it, and why reaching the third trimester feels especially meaningful after our loss. We also talk pregnancy hormones, strange sympathy symptoms, birth prep, AI robots (for some reason), and why we're trading a babymoon for a “nesting moon.” Plus, Matt and Abby take an ultimate pregnancy quiz. Follow The Unplanned Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/unplanned__podcast/ https://www.tiktok.com/@unplanned_podcast Listen to the pod on Spotify/ Apple Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ToDA4ufQuWuEgMq07zN6t https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-podcast/id1669604504 Follow Matt & Abby: Abby's Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/abbyelizabethoward/ Matt's Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/_matt_howard_/ TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@matt_and_abby Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/mattandabb YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@MattandAbby Chapters: 01:35 - Travel Diaries 10:33 - 3rd Trimester Struggles 22:28 - Nesting 25:59 - Ultimate Pregnancy Quiz 46:13 - Change in birth plan 01:00:54 - Hypno Birthing 01:04:32 - Pregnancy symptoms 01:08:26 - Sympathy Symptoms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexis is a Type 1 diabetic mom of three boys from Nevada. Her first birth was a 37-week induction due to her diabetes that ended in a vaginal delivery. For her second birth, Alexis was told she needed a cesarean because her baby was expected to be "massive," but after birth, he was perfectly average-sized. In the OR, her providers admitted their prediction was wrong, and Alexis was devastated. Alexis was determined more than ever to educate herself and advocate hard for her next birth.During her third pregnancy, Alexis navigated polyhydramnios, multiple provider changes, and concerns about possible fetal heart abnormalities that ultimately turned out to be no issue after birth. But even with these challenges, still advocated and achieved her unmedicated VBAC. Her labor ended with a shoulder dystocia with her baby having a broken arm, but with a smooth recovery. Alexis shares how TVL, research, informed decision-making, educating her support team, and using the B.R.A.I.N. acronym helped her throughout her pregnancy and birth journey.Note from Alexis: “There was never a real explanation as to why they suspected he had ARSA, the increased velocity, or the small hole in utero. And as a tip for anyone in labor, honey is considered a clear liquid, and the cheap honey bears at Walmart are great during labor! I took swigs off of it during labor for energy and to keep my blood sugar up. The midwife came to check on me at one point mid-swig and said that was the first time she had seen that in her 25 years. I couldn't find honey sticks locally for a reasonable price, but I could find local honey bears.”Keywords: VBAC, Type 1 diabetes, juvenile diabetes, induction, 37-week induction, scheduled cesarean, suspected macrosomia, big baby, polyhydramnios, unmedicated VBAC, shoulder dystocia, broken humerus, birth injury, fetal heart concerns, ARSA, informed consent, B.R.A.I.N., VBAC prepNatural Birth for Type 1 Diabetics Facebook GroupT1D Pregnancy Course Needed Website: Code TVL for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this episode, we hear from Mikaela - a wife, mother to three girls, Christian birth doula and childbirth educator in QLD - as shares the story of her three very different births: from a traumatic emergency caesarean at 32 weeks after developing HELLP syndrome, preeclampsia and cholestasis, through to two hard-won VBACs in the years that followed.She speaks candidly about birth trauma, PTSD, NICU and special care experiences, navigating high-risk pregnancies with multiple autoimmune conditions, and the long process of rebuilding trust in herself and her body after her first birth. Along the way, we explore the realities of advocating for yourself within the system, the impact of hospitalisation and separation from your baby, and how knowledge, support and understanding physiological birth changed the way Michaela approached her later pregnancies and births.This conversation also touches on obstetric violence, induction after caesarean, premature rupture of membranes, special care policies, breastfeeding through medical complexity, and the emotional weight of mothering while navigating serious health challenges. Despite everything her body endured, Michaela's story is ultimately one of persistence, deep self-advocacy, and finding her own way through birth and motherhood on her terms.We hope you enjoy this story as much as we did hearing it!You can find Mikaela at @birth_by_design Please join us on our journey to bringing you all kinds of VBAC stories from across the country from here on in by subscribing and following us on social media, @australianvbacstories on Instagram and Australian VBAC Stories on Facebook. If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to rate or review, and tell your friends!If you are feeling that you might benefit from mental health support after listening to our podcast, please reach out to one of the organisations below:PANDA https://panda.org.au/Gidget Foundation https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/COPE Australia https://www.cope.org.au/If you've experienced mistreatment or disrespectful care in your pregnancy, birth or postpartum and are seeking advocacy support, please contact one of the following organisations:Maternity Choices Australia https://www.maternitychoices.org/Maternity Consumer Network https://www.maternityconsumernetwork.org.au/Thank you for tuning in to our podcast.

Holistic Fertility, “Unexplained Infertility,” and Mercier Therapy with Dr. Jen Mercier In this episode, HeHe sits down with fertility specialist, midwife, and creator of Mercier Therapy Dr. Jennifer Mercier for a powerful conversation about infertility, reproductive health, and why so many families are being told “everything looks normal” while still struggling to conceive. Together, they unpack the reality behind “unexplained infertility,” the labs and diagnostics that are often skipped in traditional fertility care, and why true fertility support has to look at the whole body—not just your ovaries. Dr. Mercier breaks down cycle-specific hormone testing, thyroid health, prolactin, semen analysis, endometriosis, C-section scar tissue, and the environmental factors impacting fertility rates today, from microplastics and endocrine disruptors to chronic stress and lifestyle exposures. HeHe and Dr. Mercier also dive into restorative reproductive medicine, NaPro approaches, and Mercier Therapy, Dr. Mercier's pelvic visceral manipulation technique designed to support reproductive function and improve pelvic mobility. This episode is packed with practical education, hope, and empowering reminders that infertility care should never be one-size-fits-all. If you've ever felt dismissed, rushed toward IVF without answers, or frustrated by “normal” labs that don't explain what's happening in your body, this conversation is for you. 00:00 Non Toxic Registry 04:48 Meet Dr Jen Mercier 11:09 What Traditional Care Misses 22:15 Fertility Crisis Causes 39:07 Unexplained Infertility Roots 45:09 Seven Pregnancies Later 45:48 Joy of Later Motherhood 47:27 VBAC and Hospital Pressure 48:15 Why Doulas Matter 49:07 Mercier Therapy Explained 50:04 Documentaries and Premiere 54:41 Finding a Practitioner 58:05 Phones, Nature, and Ions 59:50 NAPRO and Systemic Issues 01:02:35 Microplastics Practical Swaps 01:09:47 Hope and Final Takeaways   Guest Bio: Dr. Jennifer Mercier, ND, PhD, is a fertility specialist, midwife, and the creator of Mercier Therapy®, a pelvic visceral manipulation technique supporting reproductive health. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped hundreds of couples conceive naturally and has trained healthcare professionals worldwide. She is the author of Conceive and the filmmaker behind Fertility: The Shared Journey and Conceiving Miracles. Connect with Dr. Mercier:  www.ExpectAMiracle.life SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Mercier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jennifer.mercier   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Check out the study by Shanna Swan here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9370524/

Allison Parker is a pelvic floor physical therapist and mom of two from South Carolina, joining us today to share her journey to an induced VBAC after a cesarean for breech presentation. She talks about navigating a failed ECV, postpartum hemorrhage, postpartum preeclampsia, and her tough second pregnancy which ultimately led to an induction at 37 weeks due to preeclampsia. Allison tells us what helped her feel prepared, including finding a supportive provider, hiring a doula, hearing other women's stories on The VBAC Link (!), and learning to pivot when things had to change.As both a VBAC mom and pelvic floor PT, Allison also shares practical advice for preparing for birth and recovering postpartum. We discuss perineal massage, C-section scar massage, open glottis pushing vs. when to use closed glottis pushing, pelvic floor recovery, healing after a 3rd degree tear, and why the mental and emotional preparation are just as important as the physical. Keywords: VBAC, induced VBAC, breech, ECV, preeclampsia, postpartum preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, pelvic floor physical therapy, 3rd degree tear, pelvic floor recovery, vaginal recovery, C-section recovery, scar massage, perineal massage, epidural VBAC, supportive provider, doulaRome Physical TherapyNeeded Website: Code TVL for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Story, Hanna shares her home VBAC story after two C-sections, delivering a 9 lb 11 oz baby despite being told her pelvis was “too small” in previous births. She recounts a first pregnancy shaped by COVID stress, a long induction ending in C-section, and a discouraging postpartum comment about never birthing vaginally. Her second pregnancy included deep VBAC research, doula support, a 42-week induction attempt, painful positioning, a partial epidural, a repeat C-section, and alarming (later contradicted) claims of uterine rupture. After reviewing her op report with her provider, Hanna pursued a third pregnancy with improved nutrition, fitness using Training for Two, and spontaneous labor at 42 weeks; after 2.5 hours of pushing, an OB and midwife resolved a shoulder dystocia, and postpartum was physically tough but emotionally healing with smooth breastfeeding.Find Hanna here!: @hanna_elisabeth_turner  on Instagram@joysofbirth doula page on Instagram00:00 Welcome and Episode Preview00:48 Meet the Hosts and Mission01:35 Introducing Hanna's HBAC Story02:08 First Pregnancy During COVID03:54 Induction to First C-Section05:36 Pelvis Comment and Postpartum07:16 Second Pregnancy and TOLAC Plan10:12 Labor Struggles and Walchers13:07 Repeat C-Section Trauma16:03 Uterus Scare and Grief17:57 Second Opinion Changes Everything25:02 Choosing Home Birth Support27:20 Training for Two and Pain-Free Pregnancy32:41 Choosing Gentle Induction34:07 Pelvic Mobility Theory35:45 Membrane Sweep Plan38:17 Active Day Sparks Labor41:31 Early Labor and Support46:12 Water Breaks Intensity Hits48:20 Two Hour Push Marathon52:35 Shoulder Dystocia Emergency58:09 Big Baby Aftermath01:00:01 Postpartum Recovery Reality01:05:09 Advice After Two C Sections01:07:23 Final Thanks and Resources————

In this April/May recap episode, Sophia and Eva reflect on four unique home births, including a retained placenta transfer, a severe preeclampsia diagnosis discovered during labor, a successful VBAC after multiple uterine surgeries, and a surprise baby boy born into a family with two daughters.They also discuss neonatal resuscitation training, fetal heart tone reviews, newborn screening skills, postpartum recovery, and the lessons birth continues to teach them as midwives.If you are in the Sonoma County Ca area and interested in home birth support: www.bornwildmidwifery.com Some of Sophia's FAV products to support you through pregnancy and beyond: ▶︎Afterease Tincture by Wish Garden Herbs: ▶︎Sitz Bath Herbs by Motherlove Organics: ▶︎HIRO diapers: ▶︎Mioberry Organic Muslin Swaddle sets & more: Save 15% with code: Bornwild15This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice.We are not providing medical or legal guidance, nor are we encouraging listeners to engage in any practice that may be unsafe or unlawful in their jurisdiction. Birth choices, medical care decisions, and midwifery practices are highly regulated and vary by state and country.Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified, licensed professionals and to research the laws applicable to their location before making any health or birth-related decisions.By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own decisions and actions.The show notes may contain affiliate links. IF you click and purchase product or service I might be compensated. Thank you for your support. 

This week, Ivy Slater, host of Her Success Story, chats with her guest, Adrianne Nickerson. The two talk about the challenges women founders face in raising capital, the strategic formation of partnerships with major health systems, and how Oula is addressing both the medical and emotional needs of women before, during, and after pregnancy—all with the goal of transforming women's healthcare in the U.S. In this episode, we discuss: How Adrianne Nickerson identified the problems with traditional maternity care and designed Oula's innovative, team-based care model combining midwives, OB-GYNs, and care navigators to create a more personalized, supportive experience for women. What it took to develop partnerships with major institutions like Mount Sinai, Stanford, and a soon-to-be-announced Charlotte, NC location, and what shifting market trends made big institutions willing to consider new care models. When market conditions, such as changing consumer sentiment about over-medicalization and health workforce shortages, accelerated Oula's traction with health systems. Why the U.S. maternity care system was overdue for change, with poor outcomes, high costs, and a one-size-fits-all approach that left many women dissatisfied or even traumatized by their experiences. How constraints, obstacles, and even pandemic-era disruptions created unexpected opportunities to refine and scale the Oula business model. Adrianne Nickerson founded Oula in 2019, a collaborative maternity care practice that brings together midwives, OBGYNs, and care navigators to provide comprehensive care before, during, and after pregnancy. The practice delivers a full range of clinical services — preconception counseling, pregnancy care, hospital birth, postpartum support, and ongoing gynecology care — complemented by 24/7 care navigation, virtual support, educational resources, and expert-led workshops. Oula's team-based model emphasizes shared decision-making and personalized,whole-person care, consistently achieving outcomes that exceed national benchmarks: fewer cesarean births, lower preterm birth rates, higher VBAC success, and an average NPS of 90+. Oula accepts most major insurances, including Medicaid, and serves patients across New York and Connecticut, with continued expansion underway. Interested in learning more? Reach out to partners@oulahealth.com. Website: https://oulahealth.com/ Social Media Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriannenickerson/      

At just seventeen years old, Lexi found herself pregnant and facing pressure from her doctor to terminate her pregnancy after her baby was diagnosed with Spina Bifida. She was told her son would never live a normal life, but despite the fear and uncertainty, Lexi chose to continue her pregnancy and gave birth via cesarean section. Today, her son is fourteen years old, healthy, and thriving. Two years later, Lexi became pregnant again, but her second pregnancy ended in tragedy. Throughout her prenatal care, she repeatedly voiced concerns that something was wrong, yet her symptoms were dismissed by providers. Her baby was ultimately stillborn due to severe undiagnosed IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction). After these two birth experiences, Lexi lost trust in the mainstream maternity care system and turned to midwifery care for her future pregnancies. In this episode, she shares her journey through pregnancy after loss, cesarean birth, stillbirth, VBAC after two cesareans (VBA2C), and ultimately achieving a healing home birth with a 10-pound baby! If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

This week on the Birth Trauma Mama Podcast listener series, Kayleigh is joined by Kayelynn to share her powerful story of preeclampsia, birth trauma, repeat C-sections, and the complicated journey of pregnancy after trauma. In honor of Preeclampsia Awareness Month, this episode highlights the reality of living through severe preeclampsia, navigating emergency medical decisions, and coping with the emotional aftermath that can linger long after birth.Kayelynn vulnerably shares her experiences across three pregnancies and births, from a traumatic induction and emergency C-section at 35 weeks to pursuing a VBAC after trauma to ultimately finding empowerment in choice, healing, and reclaiming trust in herself. This conversation is an honest reminder that healing is not always linear, and that “redemption” after birth trauma can look very different from what we imagine.✨ In this episode, we discuss:

Happy Spring! And welcome to the May Q&A!We start with a listener email we loved, followed by a discussion on creativity and why it matters, especially in the early years of motherhood when it can feel completely out of reach.Then we get into your questions.We talk about postpartum hemorrhage and how it's defined, including whether 500 cc of blood loss is truly cause for concern, and the use of Pitocin and Cytotec in that context, particularly for VBAC mothers. We also revisit RhoGAM and walk through when it may or may not be necessary, especially if you're not planning future pregnancies.One listener asks how to handle being the only one in the family making different choices around birth and parenting. We share our thoughts on boundaries, restraint, and when saying less is often the stronger position.In quickies, we cover induction at 42 weeks, complete placenta previa, vitamin D for breastfed babies, pelvic floor therapy access, low libido in pregnancy, newborn weight checks, birth combs, and how to get through the third trimester in the summer.Finally, when one fan asked our opinion on which of us may be the better driver, one of us shares an old story of getting a reckless driving ticket!**********Send us Fan Mail Cozyearth: Use code DTB for 20% offNeeded

Celia is a mom of four, an Air Force Technical Sergeant, and a passionate advocate for evidence-based communication in birth. In this episode, she shares her four very different birth experiences: a 36-hour induction ending in a forceps delivery and severe tear, another induction that turned precipitous, a breech Cesarean that felt calm and healing, and ultimately a hospital water birth VBAC at a hospital that DIDN'T allow water births! Celia opens up about prenatal depression, birth trauma, knowing your worth, switching providers, and the reality that both cesareans and vaginal births can be traumatic, and both can also be healing.Celia also sheds light on the power dynamics with navigating military maternity care as an enlisted service member treated by officers within the system. She talks about healing from an abusive relationship, how she opened her heart to love and trust again, and the unique challenges that come with a blended family. We encourage all Women of Strength to give grace to the younger versions of yourself just as Celia so beautifully exemplifies!Keywords: VBAC, hospital water birth, birth trauma, military maternity care, MTF, active duty VBAC, switching providers, forceps delivery, breech cesarean, advocacy, prenatal depression, precipitous labor, healing, hospital policiesPostpartum Support International Provider DirectoryNeeded Website: Code TVL for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Getting pregnant again after a C-section comes with unique physical, emotional, and hormonal considerations that many women are never told about. In this episode, we break down what to know about fertility after cesarean birth, scar tissue healing, adhesions, secondary infertility, VBAC considerations, pelvic floor recovery, and the emotional impact a C-section can leave on the body.We discuss how scar tissue and C-section healing may affect implantation, why some women experience difficulty conceiving after a cesarean, and the importance of supporting your core, pelvic floor, nervous system, and microbiome before trying for another baby. We also dive into placenta previa and accreta risks, uterine rupture statistics, spacing pregnancies after C-section, and how trauma can remain stored in the body long after birth.Whether you're preparing to conceive after a cesarean, considering a VBAC, healing from birth trauma, or simply wanting to better understand your body after a C-section, this episode offers both practical guidance and compassionate support.00:00 Trailer & Intro01:43 How C-Sections Can Affect Future Fertility03:52 Scar Tissue & Adhesions Explained05:25 Placenta Previa & Accreta Risks After Cesarean10:25 Antibiotics, Microbiome & Secondary Infertility11:41 Birth Trauma & Nervous System Healing15:25 Body Image, Desire & Emotional Recovery18:54 How Long Should You Wait Before Another Pregnancy?22:46 Pregnancy Spacing, Core Strength & Recovery24:29 Signs Your Scar May Need More Support26:15 Pelvic Floor Therapy & Core Healing29:19 Scar Massage, Gua Sha & Red Light Therapy32:18 Supplements & Nutrients for Scar Healing36:35 Preparing for a VBAC After C-Section38:38 Multiple C-Sections & Birth Decisions43:05 VBAC Statistics & Uterine Rupture Risks49:15 Why Birth Decisions Aren't One-Size-Fits-All50:25 Preconception Support After a C-Section51:30 Encouragement for Your Next Pregnancy JourneyResources From This Episode:Get $10 off Evvy Vaginal Test here!Bloom MethodThrive Physical Therapy (Dr. Lauren Mallari Snyder in San Diego)Restore PT - Sarah Grahm (local in Boise)Treasure Valley Pelvic Health Other Related Episodes:All About VBAC Part 1 EpisodeAll About VBAC Part 2 EpisodeVaginal Bugs and the Essential Role They Play Episode The Secret Fertility Factor No One Talks About EpisodeHome Birth Turned C-Section: Dr. Leah's Birth Story EpisodeDr Leah's Second Birth Story EpisodeDetoxing Before Pregnancy: What Actually Matters (And What Doesn't) EpisodeWhen Sex Hurts: The Root Cause No One Talks About EpisodePreconception: What It Is and Why It Matters EpisodeComing Off Birth Control: What Your Body Needs Before Pregnancy EpisodeBreastfeeding While Trying To Conceive EpisodeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Inside The Birth Lounge Membership, HeHe recently taught a live deep dive on these exact topics—and new members get instant access to the replay library packed with evidence-based birth education and advocacy support. In this re-aired episode, HeHe breaks down one of the most common late-pregnancy questions: Should you get a membrane sweep? If you're approaching your due date, feeling pressure about induction, or wondering whether a sweep is actually “natural,” this episode gives you the evidence-based, no-fear explanation you've been looking for. HeHe walks through exactly what a membrane sweep is, how it works, what it feels like, and whether it technically counts as a form of induction. She explains what providers often don't tell parents about success rates, Bishop scores, VBAC safety, prodromal labor, and why going into labor isn't the only way a sweep can still “work.” You'll also learn the potential risks, what informed consent should sound like during prenatal visits, and how to advocate confidently if a provider is pushing interventions you're unsure about. This episode is packed with practical education and real-world advocacy tools to help you make a decision that feels aligned for your body, your birth, and your goals—not just the hospital's timeline.

May is Maternal Health Awareness Month, and at The VBAC Link, we deeply believe that maternal health is so much more than physical well being. We recognize the complexity of every birth experience, and for those struggling, we send our love, solidarity, and support. In this HIGHLY anticipated episode, Lily and Paige sit down with birth trauma therapist Ashley Ward, LPCC about what trauma is, the many different ways it can present itself, and where to find healing. They talk about the culture of “ranking” birth stories and normalize the experience of feeling icky about a birth story, even if everything seemed perfect on paper. Ashley also shares her personal experiences with birth trauma in her most traumatic birth that appeared to be picture-perfect at a birth center. Her perspective gives both clinical insight and validation for experiences that are often minimized or misunderstood.Ashley believes that sharing birth stories matters, and they deserve a witness. In a world where shame can become the loudest voice in the room and birth conversations can split into divisive binaries, she aims to bring nuance, compassion, and dignity-informed care into the perinatal space. Birth does not happen in a vacuum, and Ashley beautifully reminds us that every birth is part of a larger story, one that existed before labor began and continues long after delivery.Topics include:What a panic attack can feel likeThe definition of traumaBirth trauma vs. medical traumaRanking birth stories as “better” or “worse”Feeling unsettled by your birth storyRadical acceptanceGrieving things you may never experienceBody acceptancePostpartum mental healthBirth story processingShame Finding joy Signs that you need professional helpKeywords: birth trauma, healing, postpartum, VBAC, CBAC, birth after cesarean, cesarean, C-section, mental health, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, panic attacks, radical acceptance, birth story processing, motherhood, trauma-informed care, postpartum therapist, birth center, induction, maternal mental health, perinatal therapyPostpartum Support International Provider DirectoryAshley Ward TherapyNeeded Website: Code VBAC for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In today's episode, Cynthia and Trisha are joined once again by Nancy Wainer, award-winning author, longtime home birth midwife, and the woman who coined the term VBAC in her 1980s book Silent Knife. With decades of experience supporting women through vaginal birth after cesarean, Nancy brings clarity to a conversation that is shaped by fear, false information, and shifting medical standards.This episode is part free-flowing conversation and part Q&A, where we take listener questions and explore them in depth. We cover topics including delayed postpartum hemorrhage after cesarean, uterine rupture, scar thickness, “uterine windows,” closely-spaced pregnancies, doulas in a home birth setting, and VBAC with twins or breech babies. We also look at the common reasons women are given for repeat C-sections and where those claims hold up and where they don't. We wrap with Quickies and a personal question Nancy's never been asked.#273 | Special Q&A Featuring Nancy Wainer on VBAC and More#272 | Nancy Wainer, CPM and Pioneer of the VBAC, Shares Her Journey from Mother to MidwifeSend us Fan Mail Needed

We are honored to have THE Jen Hamilton join us on the pod today! Jen Hamilton is a labor and delivery nurse, viral TikTok creator with over 6 million followers, and author of Birth Vibes: Stories and Strategies for an Empowered Birth (May 2026), a warm, clinically grounded guide to navigating childbirth with confidence and calm. She is the founder of Hot Mess Express, a nonprofit offering judgment-free house cleaning and organizing for women in need, and a passionate advocate for dismantling systemic racism and misogyny in obstetrical and gynecological care. A 2026 President's Award recipient from the American Nurses Association and a frequent presence in outlets including CNN, The New York Times, and The Huffington Post, Jen has become one of the most recognizable voices in modern nursing through her signature blend of clinical expertise, frank humor, and deep empathy. She is funny, kind, generous, gracious, and quickly becoming a household name!In today's episode, Jen sits down with Lily and Paige to chat all about creating the best vibes for your birth. They do a deep dive into VBAC, and ask questions that came directly from you all. This is an episode you DO NOT want to miss. Today's topics include: Using interventions as toolsWhy a provider may be the factor if someone will have a VBAC or notDirty secret of OBHow Jen feels about doulasHow to ask for a new nurseDebriefing your birth Preparing for a different birth experienceExpectations around coping techniquesGiving yourself graceBaton race of coping analogyFunny and memorable stories in L&DUnique VBAC circumstancesFailure to progressHow she would improve cesareans and humanize the experienceKeywords: Jen Hamilton, labor and delivery, L&D nurse, OBGYN, cesarean, vbac, birth after cesarean, cbac, doula, birth vibes, epidural, failure to progress, tolac, vbac consent, hospital vbacBirth Vibes: Stories and Strategies for an Empowered BirthJen's Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Substack, WebsiteNeeded Website: Code TVL for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Tatiana is back with her second VBA2C story!! She first joined us on Episode 107 in 2020 where she dove into all the details around her first two C-sections and her first VBA2C. It was a planned HBAC turned hospital delivery with a supportive OB, but her heart still craved the home birth experience. In this episode, she returns with a full-circle update on the birth of her fourth sweet boy. Her fourth birth was the HBA2C she was hoping for, aka a hotel birth after two cesareans with a midwife she deeply trusted. If you're scratching your head wondering about these logistics, don't worry! Tatiana shares it ALL. We dive into a critical conversation around access. Many providers and hospitals still restrict VBA2C, and it is especially difficult to find support for an out-of-hospital VBA2C. Tatiana shares why expanding midwifery care matters, how pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy can support better outcomes, and why finding a provider you trust (no matter the distance) can make all the difference.Keywords: VBAC, VBA2C, HBA2C, hotel birth, out-of-hospital birth, cesarean, prior vaginal birth, VBAC after two cesareans, birth access, midwifery care, pelvic floor therapy, provider support, informed consentEpisode 107 Tatiana's VBA2C NYT Article on Continuous Fetal MonitoringThe VBAC Link Blog: The 5 Most Common Reasons for C-sectionThe VBAC Link Blog: How to Navigate VBAC Hospital PoliciesNeeded Website: Code VBAC for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this deeply honest and powerful episode of Healing Trauma Mamas, we sit down with Lindsay to share her raw and transformative birth journey.After experiencing multiple miscarriages, an unplanned cesarean, and postpartum sepsis, Lindsay carried the weight of trauma, self-doubt, and fear into her next pregnancy. But through intentional healing, mindset work, and support, she chose to pursue a VBAC—and experienced a truly beautiful, redemptive birth.Her story doesn't end there.What followed was an unexpected postpartum complication that led to an emergency transfer, reminding us that birth can hold both beauty and challenge at the same time.This conversation is a powerful reminder that:Two things can be true at onceBirth is unpredictableAnd your story is still worthy, no matter how it unfoldsIf you've ever felt like your birth didn't go “as planned,” this episode is for you.

The evidence shows that vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a safe option for many families, but it's still frequently inaccessible to them. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Nicholas Rubashkin discuss the systemic barriers that limit families' opportunities to choose a VBAC. They explore how hospital policies, outdated guidelines, and clinical tools like the VBAC calculator have shaped who's a "good candidate" and who is not.   Dr. Rubashkin also shares insights from his research on inequities in maternity care, including how race-adjusted algorithms reinforce disparities, why the "immediately available" standard still impacts hospital policies today, and how geography, provider practices, and induction policies can influence VBAC access. Plus, hear evidence-based strategies for advocating for a VBAC, including how to evaluate providers and interpret VBAC rates.   (01:36) Dr. Rubashkin's background and path into obstetrics (08:32) Major barriers to VBAC access in the U.S. (11:37) The "immediately available" standard explained (14:38) Misconceptions about emergency cesarean availability (16:58) Ethical and legal implications of VBAC restrictions (18:02) Institutional barriers (20:17) The VBAC calculator and how it influenced access (26:12) Racism, bias, and interpretation of VBAC data (30:02) Induction and VBAC: evidence vs. practice (36:17) What informed consent for VBAC should include (37:18) Identifying supportive vs. reluctant providers   Resources ACOG's VBAC guidelines and recommendations: acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2019/02/vaginal-birth-after-cesarean-delivery Human Rights in Childbirth: humanrightsinchildbirth.org/ UCSF's Better Birth Research Initiative: betterbirth.ucsf.edu/ International Cesarean Awareness Network: ican-online.org/   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

We are closing out our Cesarean Awareness Month series on the most common reasons for C-sections with a deep dive into all things fetal monitoring! CNM Paige Boran, who attended Lily's VBAC and who we deeply love and trust, answers every question you can imagine. This is definitely an episode you will want to save and listen back to often!Midwife Paige talks about:The history of continuous fetal monitoringThe differences between continuous, internal, and internal monitoringBradycardia and tachycardia readingsCFM and VBACWhen she recommends having CFMHow to advocate informed consent and declinationEarly, variable, and late decelerationsHead compression and cord compressionWhen fetal heart tracings become concerning & what empowered conversations look likeWays to help resolve decelsPlacental insufficiencyAll signs of uterine ruptureHow to make the decision of going for a C-section or continuing to labor Evidence on continuous fetal monitoringAnd more!! We are so grateful for providers like Midwife Paige who we have seen in action and are willing to take the time to help educate our community. For those who question if they made the right call to have a cesarean or continue to labor due to fetal heart readings, we send you love. It is so tough! Fetal heart tones are so nuanced. We hope that with this episode, you feel empowered with more knowledge to find a team that gives you the support and individualized care you deserve. Evidence Based Birth®: Evidence on Continuous Fetal MonitoringNYT Article on Continuous Fetal MonitoringThe VBAC Link Blog: The 5 Most Common Reasons for C-sectionThe VBAC Link Blog: How to Navigate VBAC Hospital PoliciesNeeded Website: Code TVL for 20% OffAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this episode, I dive into a question so many women carry when planning a VBAC: what if my VBAC fails?We unpack the fear behind “VBAC failure” and gently reframe what that really means. I share my own experiences, the emotional weight many women carry after birth trauma, and why your outcome does not define your worth or success.We talk about:Why “VBAC failure” isn't actually a failureThe role of mindset, support, and environment in birthWhy homebirth isn't a guarantee—but can change the experienceLetting go of guilt, blame, and unrealistic expectationsThis episode is here to remind you: if you show up, prepare, and make the best decisions you can in the moment—you have not failed.You get to define what success looks like in your birth.Enjoy this episode! More from Ashley:Join us in: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The VBAC Village⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Insta: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@ashleylwinning⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.ashleywinning.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ VBAC Homebirth Support ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Group here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Love the podcast? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy me a⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ coffeeDisclaimer: The VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. The stories and opinions shared are personal experiences and should not be considered medical advice. Every birth journey is unique, and we encourage you to research, trust your intuition, and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care.

We are so happy to be sharing Lilly's birth story of her second baby boy, Franklin

As we continue our Cesarean Awareness Month series, CBAC and RCS moms, this one's for you. If your future birth looks like a subsequent cesarean, we want to make that cesarean the best, most peaceful, and empowering experience it can be. Better birth after cesarean means better options, and today's episode takes a deep dive into the option of Maternal Assisted Cesareans (MAC). We are joined today by Dr. Koen Deurloo from the Netherlands. Dr. Koen is a Dutch OB/GYN specializing in perinatology and family-centered cesarean birth. Since 2017, his team has performed more than 300 Maternal Assisted Cesareans, developing one of the most experience-based approaches to this technique. He is also the author of Door de ogen van een gynaecoloog and teaches widely on respectful, trauma-informed birth care. His work focuses on creating transparency and calm so parents feel genuinely involved and supported throughout the entire process, especially in the operating room. In this episode, Dr. Koen walks us through how he was first introduced to the MAC (spoiler: it was a mom and her doula!), how the procedure has evolved over time, what his patients have to say about it (another spoiler: 100% recommend it), and how to advocate for this kind of experience with your provider.Birth after cesarean deserves dignity. It deserves options, and it deserves finding a provider who holds your stories with care and who speaks about birth the way Dr. Koen does.We PROMISE this is an episode you will not want to miss!!!Women of strength, we know how difficult it can be to choose between going for a VBAC, pivoting to a CBAC, or scheduling a repeat cesarean. Whether for medical or personal reasons, your choice is valid and good. There are so many brave ways to birth. As always, our team here at The VBAC Link is here to give you options, stories, resources, love, and support!Through the Eyes of a Gynecologist by Dr. Koen DeurlooMACAZINEPaige's Maternal Assisted Cesarean StoryNeeded Website: Code VBAC for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off monthly plans at thisisneeded.com. Needed Experts Podcast: Apple Podcasts and Spotify The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon!   

Is it possible to have a VBAC with multiples? YES. In honor of Cesarean Awareness Month, Erin, a registered dietitian and mom of four (under 5!), shares her journey through cesarean, VBAC, miscarriage, and a twin VBAC. She opens up about navigating postpartum anxiety, benefiting from medication, and how her hard work and growth helped her have a different mindset when a lot of similar things happened in subsequent births. Erin's first birth was a cesarean during COVID due to fetal heart decels, her second was a healing VBAC and her third and fourth births were an induced twin VBAC for cholestasis. Her stories touch on miscarriage, close pregnancy intervals, di-di twin pregnancy, provider support, membrane sweeps, epidural and Pitocin. She also shares the realities of postpartum recovery, breastfeeding with a nipple shield, and facing a neonatal emergency when one of her twins required surgery at just three weeks old. Erin's big VBAC tips are to have birth preferences instead of rigid plans while holding strong to your boundaries, find care that is individualized to your unique circumstances, and lean into positive affirmations. Connect with her on Instagram @the.dietitian.mama or at morningbirdnutrition.com.VBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StoryAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

At the 41-week mark in pregnancy, conversations and decisions about induction can start to feel more urgent and complex. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Sara Ailshire share why the 41st week has become such a focus in maternity care and what the evidence actually says about induction at this milestone.   They discuss elective induction versus expectant management and key findings from major studies like the INDEX and SWEPIS trials. They also talk through potential benefits and risks, including changes in stillbirth risk, newborn outcomes, and maternal experiences.   Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of stillbirth. Please take care while listening.   (00:05:58) How common is labor induction? U.S. rates and challenges with data accuracy (00:09:25) Medically indicated vs. elective induction (00:15:24) The limits of research on induction vs. expectant management (00:20:18) The INDEX trial (00:28:36) Follow-up observational study to INDEX: preferences, Cesarean rates, and outcomes (00:32:51) The SWEPIS trial (00:41:59) Impact of SWEPIS on guidelines and outcomes in Sweden (00:44:40) Benefits of elective induction at 41 weeks (00:46:34) Risks and potential downsides of induction (00:49:18) FAQ: Induction and VBAC considerations   For a full list of resources and references, visit ebbirth.com/inducingduedates.   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

April is Cesarean Awareness Month and Women of Strength, we are aware of YOU. All month long, we are bringing you VBAC stories & discussions featuring these most common reasons for cesareans:• Big babies• Failure to progress• Twins• Breech• Fetal heart tonesAnd for our CBAC and RCS mamas, we've got a special episode all about maternal assisted cesareans, so stay tuned!! In today's episode, we talk with Katie, a Certified Professional Midwife from Oregon, whose journey into midwifery began after her own VBAC. Her first birth began spontaneously at the start of COVID and ended in a cesarean with an asynclitic, sunny side up baby. Her second birth was a healing VBAC at a freestanding birth center with midwives.Her third birth at home was longer than her previous VBAC and required her to let go of expectations and trust the process. This birth ended in a successful VBAC with a shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage, and a second degree tear. We'll let you listen to the episode to find out just how big her record-setting baby was!Katie talks about just how different births can be, what it takes to become a CPM, ways to manage postpartum hemorrhage, shoulder dystocia maneuvers, safe transfer from out-of-hospital to hospital care, and recent policies that impact midwives attending VBACs. Katie reminds us to choose your birth team wisely, the mind is a powerful thing, and sometimes letting go of expectations is the only way through.VBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StoryAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

On this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Stories, Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interview Destiny about her two births. Her first ending with an unplanned C-section in 2024 after laboring to 10 cm, pushing 1.5 hours, spiking a fever with concern for infection, and baby's sustained high heart rate. Her second, a much faster VBAC just three weeks ago! For baby #2, Destiny had planned a repeat C-section because he was breech for weeks—until a last-minute ultrasound showed he'd flipped head-down, leading to a TOLAC with Pitocin, lots of movement (wireless monitors!), sudden transition, and a 15-minute unmedicated push. She shares postpartum comparisons, the importance of understanding why a C-section happened, limiting room “spectators,” and that unmedicated stitches plus a 45-minute intern tutorial is not the vibe.00:00 Podcast Welcome00:39 Meet The Hosts01:30 Destiny Joins01:41 First Birth Prep02:39 Late Pregnancy Recap04:13 Labor Begins05:18 Admitted And Monitored07:53 Epidural And Slowdown09:45 Pushing And C Section Call15:12 Recovery And Anxiety15:51 Second Birth Goals16:24 Breech Surprise Flip19:11 Tolac Induction Starts21:27 Pitocin And Hospital Checks22:22 Pitocin Starts Slow23:12 Hip Opening Moves24:17 Supportive Care Team25:27 Station Zero Progress27:49 Epidural Decision Talk28:58 Transition Hits Hard30:18 Chaotic Rapid Delivery34:11 Postpartum Recovery Win35:33 Advice After C Section38:41 Fast Labor Lessons40:58 Sutures and Boundaries42:31 Wrap Up and Resources____________

In this warm and deeply moving episode, host Chetana sits down with Rachel — a mother, visionary, and midwifery student from Jayapura, Papua, Indonesia — who turned her own transformative birth experience into a mission to bring gentle, dignified birth care to one of the most underserved regions in the world.Rachel shares how a VBAC at Bumi Sehat in Bali — under the care of the legendary Ibu Robin Lim — changed the entire course of her life. Returning home to Papua, she and her husband Ronald built AHBS (Angel Hiromi Bumi Sehat Papua) from the ground up: starting with just a plot of land, moving their own furniture into the building, and slowly gathering the equipment, midwives, and mentorship needed to open their doors in December 2019.This episode is a love letter to the women of Papua — and to everyone who believes that every mother, no matter where she lives, deserves to be treated like a goddess.In this episode we cover:Rachel's first C-section, and the longing for a normal birth that led her to Robin Lim in BaliWhat a VBAC at Bumi Sehat felt like — and why it changed everythingThe founding of Angel Hiromi Bumi Sehat (AHBS) - the only midwife-led birth center in PapuaThe role of Augustine (Maggie) in bringing gentle birth philosophy to Papua — and why her six-month visit left a lasting imprintWhy Rachel decided to enroll in midwifery school herself — after her own staff told her she "knew nothing"The ongoing challenge of training midwives in gentle birth when mainstream protocols dominateWhat changed in the birth rooms after Chetana's visit — upright births, birthing balls, dim lighting, and mothers who don't want to go homeRachel's vision for AHBS: a third floor, an operating room for gentle cesareans, a dedicated training space, and an ultrasound roomHow AHBS is funded — and what continued support looks likeResources & Links:

Rachel, a VBAC mom, NICU nurse, researcher, and soon to be women's health NP, shares her healing VBAC journey with us today. Her first birth started as an induction and quickly turned into an urgent cesarean. She experienced a failed spinal, aggression from providers, and general anesthesia. Rachel talks about some tough things she's seen as a NICU nurse and how trauma can show up secondhand. She shares why it's so important to process those experiences, and how she uses them to be a more compassionate caregiver.We also talk about what it means to truly be informed during birth. It matters so much to be humanized in those moments, to be talked to and included in decisions as they're happening instead of being told after the fact.As she prepared for her VBAC, Rachel focused on evidence based care, setting clear boundaries, and building a supportive team around her. We talk about how physiological birth can still be supported in a hospital setting, practical prep like the role of Webster certified chiropractic care, and why partners need time and space to process birth too.Rachel also shares what it was like to have the same doula for both her cesarean and her VBAC and how that support made a difference, not just during birth but in processing everything afterward. Her story is such a good reminder that healing is possible, support matters, and you deserve to feel seen, heard, and respected every step of the way.Keywords: VBAC after traumatic C-section, NICU nurse VBAC story, informed consentVBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Evidence on DatesThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StoryAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Electronic fetal monitoring is one of the most common interventions in hospital birth, but it's also one of the least understood. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln about what continuous electronic fetal monitoring actually does, what the research says, and why it became such a routine part of labor care in the first place. With recent media attention shining a spotlight on this technology, they break down the history, the evidence, and the real-world pressures that shape how it's used today. Learn why continuous monitoring can increase Cesarean rates in low-risk births, when it may be helpful in higher-risk situations, and how it can influence movement, comfort, and decision-making during labor. Dr. Lincoln also shares practical ways to ask questions, understand what terms like "reassuring" and "indeterminate" mean, and partner with your care team so you can make informed choices without feeling powerless or pressured. (02:26) Dr. Jennifer Lincoln's updates: doctors' strike, leadership, and writing The Birth Book (10:09) Why electronic fetal monitoring is in the spotlight and what it actually measures (13:40) The history of fetal monitoring and what it was designed to prevent (17:37) The biggest drawbacks: false positives, rising C-section rates, and medical-legal pressures (23:18) How continuous monitoring can affect movement, comfort, and labor experience (26:28) Artifact, wireless monitors, and challenges with accuracy (28:27) Intermittent monitoring: what it is and how it works (30:11) When continuous monitoring may be more beneficial in higher-risk situations (37:53) Understanding "reassuring," "indeterminate," and "non-reassuring" patterns (39:46) What care teams may try before recommending a cesarean (45:15) Questions parents can ask when concerns arise about the fetal heart rate (48:03) Continuous monitoring during VBAC and navigating autonomy and policy (51:01) Why these conversations should happen before labor and how to advocate collaboratively Resources Hear about the new research on home birth with Dr. Dekker on Dr. Lincoln's "Let's Talk about Birth" podcast: drjenniferlincoln.substack.com/p/announcing-my-new-podcast Get a copy of Dr. Lincoln's book, The Birth Book: An OB-GYN's Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery: penguinrandomhouse.com/books/785889/the-birth-book-by-dr-jennifer-lincoln/ Learn more about Three for Freedom: threeforfreedom.com/ For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, Abby shares her VBAC birth story following an emergency cesarean. Determined to experience a vaginal birth, she prepared carefully while navigating limited provider options in Alabama. What unfolded during labor and delivery underscores how provider behavior, rather than maternal physiology, often determines birth outcomes. Abby describes how a manual vaginal extraction caused a nearly catastrophic fourth-degree tear, requiring three subsequent surgeries in the months that followed and significantly disrupting her early postpartum period with her newborn.We ask Abby whether she has considered legal action against the doctor and hospital, and we explore how birth trauma shapes future decision-making. Abby explains why she is choosing a repeat cesarean for her third baby after this traumatic vaginal birth, and what autonomy and dignity can still look like within surgical birth.She also reflects on how faith, support, and intentional processing helped her move forward, and what she hopes other women will take from her story.Learn more about Abby here: http://www.abbyevelynphotography.com**********Send a text Needed

If you've been with us for a while, you've probably heard women say they did all the things to get their VBAC. But what actually are “all the things”? This episode covers it!As moms prepping for their own VBACs and now doulas helping others do the same, Paige (coming hot off a birth!) and Lily sit down to talk about everything you can do before conception and during pregnancy to prepare for an empowering VBAC or repeat cesarean. Scar mobilization, acupuncture, therapy, Webster-certified chiropractic care, what books to read, how to find the right doula, choosing your birth location & team, finances, nutrition, processing trauma, positioning, and so much more. Comment on this episode and let us know what you did to prepare that we missed! ALL THE LINKS: How to Find a Truly Supportive ProviderSigns It's Time to Switch Your ProviderDeciding Home vs Hospital BirthChoosing VBAC or Repeat C-sectionEpisode 119 Pelvic Movement in Pregnancy and Birth With Gina ConleyEpisode 160 Everything Left UnsaidEpisode 386 Dr. Stu Fischbein & Midwife Blyss YoungOur Favorite BooksVBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StorySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Why do so many women leave birth feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or even traumatized? And what actually helps create a better birth experience? In this episode, I'm joined by Erica Manto Paulson, a certified doula, childbirth educator, and certified clinical hypnotherapist who has supported families in birth for more than 20 years. Erica's passion for this work began after her own VBAC experience, where the support of a skilled doula transformed her birth. That experience inspired her to dedicate her life to helping women feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout pregnancy and birth. Erica brings not only deep knowledge, but also a genuine heart for this work that shines through in her every word. In this conversation, we explore: • Why pregnancy and birth are nervous system experiences, not just medical events • How to find the right care team • Patterns Erica has seen in positive birth outcomes versus traumatic ones • Words of wisdom for women who have experienced a traumatic birth • How feeling heard, safe, and supported impacts labor, postpartum recovery, and mental health • What advocacy really looks like in birth, and how families can speak up without creating conflict • The powerful role doulas and support systems play in creating calmer, more confident birth experiences Find Erica on Instagram @nurturecincy Her website: www.welcometonurture.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/nurturecincy If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn't mean it always comes naturally. In this episode, we chat with Lily's personal boob fairy

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have NataliNatali is a mama of two from South Africa who birthed both her babies in the UK.She is a holistic vocal coach and the founder of the Vocal Liberation Method, dedicated to helping individuals awaken their connection to their voices. She nurtures authentic expression and grounded confidence, empowering people to step into their power and express themselves in a way that aligns deeply with their true selves, a connection she believes is essential in both life and birth.After experiencing a traumatic C-section during the COVID years with her first child, Natali embarked on a profound journey of healing and empowerment. Her second birth, a home VBAC freebirth with her daughter Noa, transformed her experience from feeling silenced to embracing her voice, allowing her to feel soft, flowing, and free. This journey reaffirmed her belief that birth is a sacred and transformative rite of passage for every mother.Natali emphasizes that the most meaningful preparation for birth involves sharpening your intuition, surrounding yourself with unwavering support & learning to recognize and use your voice to advocate for yourselfThis can mean taking up space, speaking uncomfortable truths, or trusting the primal sounds your body wants to express.Curious about Natali? Find her on Instagram as @NataliVocalCoach Want to work with Anna or join The Sacred Birth Worker Mentorship?Find Anna's Website, about her Mentorship & How to Work with Her, as well as all Links & Resources she mentions in the episode here:www.sacredbirthinternational.com/links-podcast

Ashley Adynah is a wife, mom of four boys (one bonus son and three birth stories of her own), and the creator behind The Parenting Strategy. She went into her first birth aware of the gap in Black maternity care, spoke up, and was assured by her team that she would be well taken care of. But Ashley's induction ended in a traumatic C-section compounded by a uterine infection, infected incision, passing out at home, and needing a home nurse. She was dismissed and not believed over and over again. 9 months later, Ashley became pregnant again, and knew she wanted a VBAC. She educated herself, switched providers at 38 weeks after being told she'd need another C-section for a “big baby,” labored at home, and was 8cm when she got to the hospital. She had a pain-free, unmedicated VBAC, delivering her 9 lb 6 oz son with no tears!Her third pregnancy brought new fears when her placenta grew into her previous C-section scar, aka placenta accreta. Lily, Paige, and Ashley dive into what placenta accreta is and what it means for birth. After meeting with lots of specialists and facing the possibility of serious complications, she leaned hard into her faith. During her cesarean, it was confirmed that her accreta had grown into her first C-section scar (and this is why preventing primary cesareans and having the option to VBAC matters!). But Ashley's placenta detached on its own, she was able to have a horizontal incision, and keep her uterus. Her little boy was 4lb, 11oz and spent 11 days in the NICU. Ashley is incredibly resilient, strong, and so inspiring! Keywords: Black maternal health gap, traumatic C-section, postpartum infection, VBAC story, unmedicated VBAC, placenta accreta, NICU, birth trauma healing, maternal advocacy, birth after cesareanVBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StorySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Liz's first birth was an induction that ended in a cesarean. When she said, “I can feel that,” referring to pressure, her doctor put her under general anesthesia without consent.With her second, Liz planned for a VBAC. The midwife broke her water without consent. She labored to 9.5 centimeters and stalled with a cervical lip. She was overwhelmed by so many hands touching her as they tried to manually resolve it. Liz was defeated and accepted another non-emergent cesarean, this time with the complicated layer of her father-in-law performing it. But before she knew what was happening, she was under general anesthesia again without consent. Twice, she did not hear her baby's first cry and still has no idea how long it was before she held them.Liz sunk deep into postpartum depression and survival mode. It was years before someone told her what happened wasn't okay. She began the long road of healing with pelvic floor therapy, talk therapy, and rebuilding her strength. She found God meeting her in the tiniest, most intimate details of her journey.For her third birth, she chose to invest. She traveled for her care. She chose loving, hands-off support with midwife Paige Boran at A Woman's Place and her doula, Danielle Kent. And this birth was every bit as different as she needed it to be. Spontaneous, waterbirth, en caul. Liz reached down and pulled her baby up out of the water. She heard the first cry. She held her baby first.While this birth didn't erase what happened before, something in her soul was restored that day. Her autonomy was reclaimed. It was the fought-for and faith-filled waterbirth of her dreams.We get chills and tears every time we talk about Liz's story, and we know you will absolutely love her like we do!A Woman's PlaceDanielle Kent Birth & PhotographyVBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

 If you're aiming for a VBAC this pregnancy, this one is for you mama!I had a wonderful conversation with My Essential Birth Mama, Sarah. She shares how she navigated pregnancy, labor, and birth with confidence — even when things didn't go exactly as planned. We discuss everything from preparing her mindset during pregnancy to advocating during labor and embracing the beauty of her baby's arrival. This episode is full of encouragement for any mama preparing for birth...and especially for my VBAC mamas!Here are some highlights from the episode:• How Sarah prepared mentally and physically for birth during pregnancy • The mindset shifts that helped her release fear and build confidence • What early labor felt like and how she knew things were progressing • The tools she used to manage contractions naturally • How preparation helped her advocate for herself in the hospital • What it looked like to pivot peacefully when birth didn't unfold exactly as expected • The emotional moment she met her baby • Her honest postpartum reflections and what she wants every pregnant mom to knowBirth may not always go exactly according to plan — but it can still be powerful, peaceful, and empowering. I hope this story reminds you that your body was designed for this, and with the right preparation, you can walk into your birth feeling strong and ready.

Allison Champ is a mama of three and a VBAC Link Certified VBAC Doula serving families in the Dayton, Ohio area. Her first birth was an induced, epidural vaginal delivery with a premature manual removal of the placenta, which required a uterine scraping procedure. Allison, Lily & Paige chat about that third stage of labor and what is/isn't evidence based. Her second pregnancy began as a planned home birth but changed after a 20-week placenta previa diagnosis. Following multiple significant bleeds, she delivered by cesarean at 34 weeks, where placenta accreta was discovered. Allison walks us through what accreta is and what her doctor did to save her from having a hysterectomy. Her baby spent one week in the NICU and Allison shares how tough it was to not be able to go home to her toddler due to COVID.  For her third pregnancy, Allison planned a home birth (HBAC) with co-care. She had a fast labor, a surprise gender (boy!), and a shoulder dystocia that was smoothly resolved by her team. Her girls were right by her side taking pictures with their Polaroid cameras and cheering their mama on. Allison wraps up her episode by saying how each of her very different births have made her a better doula. She is thankful that the tough moments have helped her savor the sweet ones even more.Keywords: induction, cesarean, NICU, VBAC prep, co-care, placenta accreta, placenta previa, advocacy, third stage management Allison's Doula WebsiteVBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StorySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands