In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Laura Whitburn — physiotherapist-turned-researcher and Senior Lecturer at La Trobe University — whose work shines a light on labour pain and intrapartum communication. Laura’s research explores the psychological, social, and environmental influences on the childbirth experience, with a focus on creating safer, more supportive care for women in labour.
We dive into:
- Laura’s journey from physiotherapy to anatomy teaching and research in labour pain
- What drew her to explore the complexities of labour pain
- The “distressed-to-dissociated” pain spectrum she introduced at Better Births
- How distress and dissociation present during labour, and when dissociation might actually be protective
- The critical role of communication in shaping a woman’s pain experience
- How psychological safety impacts labour and birth outcomes
- Practical strategies for clinicians and birth partners to foster supportive, safe environments
- How women preparing for birth can use this knowledge to advocate for themselves
- The one thing Laura wishes every woman and clinician knew about labour pain
This conversation is both insightful and empowering, offering evidence-based perspectives alongside practical tools for anyone supporting birth.
