Shows
Ireland's Birth StoriesEP176 Sarah Louise PT2/2 Two Planned Homebirths, MiscarriageThis week I share my chat with Sarah Louise (The Village Pilates) who talks me through the second part of her story, two home births and her experience with miscarriage. In PT1 of Sarah Louises (EP 166) story she shares how quick her second labour was birthing her daughter at home which was completely unplanned, she was coming and there was no doubt about it. Considering how quick her second labour was she naturally decided to opt in for the home birth scheme under the care of the SECM. She then shares her own experience with miscarriage and her decision...
2025-07-141h 26Ireland's Birth StoriesEP175 Lisa, Three Pregnancies, Two Births, Birth at 34WKS, Ectopic Pregnancy, Full Term Pregnancy, BreastfeedingThis week I share my chat with Lisa who talks me through each of her pregnancies including an ectopic pregnancy. Lisa gave birth prematurely to her first baby at 34 weeks, thankfully her daughter was healthy with no complications to follow as a result of coming into the world early. We then chat through Lisa's second pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy. She really went through so much enduring prolonged pain and multiple trips to hospital. We then revisit Lisa's third pregnancy which she admits was nerve wracking for a number of reasons. Her second daughter came into the world full term...
2025-07-071h 32Ireland's Birth StoriesEP174 Eleonora, TTC, Pregnancy & Birth of Son, Family Health, Induction, Epidural, BreastfeedingThis week I share my chat with Eleonora who talks me through the birth of her son Adam. Eleonora talks us through TTC and how she navigated those 6 month’s waiting to see a true positive test. She then talks through the plan which was to induce her at 39 weeks but this changed later in her pregnancy. Labour started all own its own but baby was happy to stay put. She was later induced and opted for an epidural which gave her the rest her body desperately needed.We chat through some early mot...
2025-06-301h 11Ireland's Birth StoriesEP173 Niamh, Two Pregnancies & Births, Induction, Emergency C-section, NICU, Placenta Previa, Private Care, Planned C-section, NICUThis week I share my chat with Niamh who talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Niamh was overdue with her first boy which led to an induction. She was later brought for an emergency c-section as baby wasn’t happy at all. She talks us through the hours and days that followed this experience.We then talk through her second birth story which was 11 weeks ago now. It was discover very early on that Niamh had placenta previa. This immediately lead to alarm bells from Niamh’s perspective but her medical team assur...
2025-06-231h 35Ireland's Birth StoriesCommunity In You with Angel CassinIn this episode I share my chat with Angel. We revisited the birth of her son back in EP163 which was a gorgeous home birth. This time we talk about community, the tools to help you build support around you and the highs and lows of our personal experiences. Hearing Angles perspective just shows how unique we all are but despite this there is always a deep connection engrained within us as mothers.Below I have included links which might be of interest to youTogether Estranged: https://www.togetherestranged.org/
2025-06-1845 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP172 Eilis, Reciprocal IVF, Induction, Epidural, Vaginal Birth, Haemorrhage, Supporting Our PartnersThis week I share my chat with Eilís who talks me through her one pregnancy and the birth of her daughter. Together with her wife Laura, Eilís conceived her baby via reciprocal IVF. She shares so much from how life looked through pregnancy, partner support and just navigating life whilst trying to focus on what lay ahead.Eilís then shares her birth story. She was induced and later gave birth to her daughter vaginally. What followed was rare but resulted in emergency surgery and multiple blood transfusions. I loved chat with...
2025-06-161h 31Ireland's Birth StoriesEP167 Jessica, One Pregnancy and Birth, Induction, Very Quick LabourIn this week’s episode I share my chat with Jess who talks me through her one pregnancy and the birth of her little girl. We chat through discovering she was pregnant, pregnancy itself and then into her induction. We often hear of stories around inductions with women waiting days for their baby to arrive. This wasn’t the case for Jess but infact the complete opposite. After feeling the effects of the induction she was examined and discovered she was 2.5cm dilated, she felt relief hearing this. She was getting somewhere. A short time later she felt a chan...
2025-05-261h 02Ireland's Birth StoriesEP165 Nikki - One Pregnancy & Birth, Hospital Birth, PND & Anxiety EP165 Nikki - One Pregnancy & Birth, Hospital Birth, PND & AnxietyIn this episode I share my chat with Nikki who talks me through her one pregnancy and the birth of her son. Nikki loved being pregnant but is also honest about her struggles with anxiety. She attended pregnancy yoga which was transformative as she used tools learned through her instructor (also teaches antenatal classes) throughout her birth. They formed a deep connection giving her that extra level of support.Nikki revisits her son’s birth, the following hours and into the early days of...
2025-05-051h 30Ireland's Birth StoriesEP164 Meghan - Major Surgery (Removal of large mass, ovary & fallopian tube), Recovery, One Pregnancy and Birth, Positive Hospital Birth, BreastfeedingIn this episode I share my chat with Meghan who talks me through her one pregnancy and the birth of her son, Ronan. Meghan's birth story is so gorgeous as she was surrounded by nothing but support from her husband and midwives. The years prior to Meghan's pregnancy were incredibly tough as she overcame major surgery just as she was about to start planning her wedding along with other serious and very scary diagnosis in her close family unit.Thank you so much for sharing MeghanSupport the podcastBuy Me...
2025-04-281h 14Ireland's Birth StoriesEP163 Angel, One Pregnancy & Birth, Combined Care, Homebirth, Positive Birth StoryIn this next story I share my chat with Angel who revisit the birth of hr son, Barra. Angel opted for homebirth mostly with the support of her local maternity hospital.She is such a great story teller so it was amazing to hear her go back to those moments of sheer disbelief that she was infact in labour followed by acceptance that baby was this was happening, she was giving birth. She shares the vulnerability labour can bring about explaining her experience in such a gorgeous way. Angel birthed her baby with the support of...
2025-04-211h 05Ireland's Birth StoriesEP162 - Orlagh, Two Pregnancies & Births, Caesarean Births, Achondroplasia Diagnosis (Dwarfism), Life with SummerIn this week's episode I share my chat with Orlagh Reid who talks me through her two pregnancies and caesarean births. Orlagh revisits some tough moments in her experience entering into motherhood from discovering there was potentially something "wrong" with her baby at 37 weeks to receiving the news that her daughter Summer had Achondroplasia also known as Dwarfism. Oralgh chats through navigating those early days along with life with Summer know. Thanks so much OrlaghSupport the podcastBuy Me A CoffeeUse code BIRTHSTORIES10 to avail of 10...
2025-04-141h 00Ireland's Birth StoriesEP161 PT2/2 Paige, Third Birth, Severe Vertigo, Induction, Repeated Requested Epidural (Not administered in time)This week I share part two of Paige's story. This episode is very different to Paige's first two pregnancies and births as she suffered with severe vertigo. Paige was crippled with constant vomiting and dizziness whilst also trying to manage daily life. She revisits multiple hospital trips and doctors appointments to try and find a solution to her illness. At 38 weeks Paige was induced which was a decision made together with her consultant. Unfortunately, her wishes were heard but not listened to as she repeatedly asked for an epidural but it wasn't administered in time. Paige talks us through...
2025-04-071h 07Ireland's Birth StoriesEP160 PT1/2 Paige, Private Care, Three Births, Positive Induction, Epidural, BreastfeedingIn this week's episode I share part 1 Paige's story. We revisit her first two births both being positive surrounded by support from midwives and consultant. She was induced with her first baby and later opted for an epidural. She also opted of an epidural with her second birth but this time she went into labour herself, feeling her water break for the first time. Paige also chats through her first experience breastfeeding and how tough she found it but took a very different approach with her second baby. Support the podcastBuy Me A...
2025-03-311h 00Ireland's Birth StoriesEP159 Sarah Louise, Pregnancy Loss, Second Birth, Planned C-Section, Partner SupportThis week on the Ireland's Birth Stories podcast I share my chat with Sarah Louise. Many of you will remember our first chat in November 2022 which was so tough as she was pregnant going through the breakdown of a relationship. This time her story is very different. She was supported by her fiance, feeling loved and the kindness of a partner not only throughout pregnancy but also in those postpartum days.Sarah Louise chatted through each step of her planned c-section from waiting to go into surgery to her recovery at home.Support...
2025-03-2432 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP158 Aishling, First Pregnancy, Severe Hyperemesis, Pancreatitis, Induction, Emergency C-section, PostpartumIn this week's episode I share my chat with Aishling who talks me through her first pregnancy and the birth of her son. Aishling suffered from severe hyperemesis which had a huge impact on her life. We also chat through other health complications which really made an already tough pregnancy even more challenging. We then chat through Aishlings birth story, she opted for an induction and later it was decided to bring her son into the world through an emergency c-section. We also chat through these early postpartum days which were really tough.Thanks Aishling
2025-03-171h 06Ireland's Birth StoriesEP157 Judith PT2/2 Early Pregnancy supported by IVF clinic, Hospital Care, Induction, Positive BirthIn this week's episode on the Ireland's Birth Stories podcast I share my chat with Judith who talks me through her pregnancy with Rian. Judith was monitioredclosley throughout her pregnancy right from the very early stage to the moment Rian came Ito the world. She also discovered her cervix was measuring short therefore had a stitch inserted to ensure baby was safe and sound for as long as possible. Judith then revisit the final few weeks, her deciosn to have an induction and the birth of her last baby, Rian.Support the podcastBuy...
2025-03-1045 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP156 Judith PT1/2, Years of TTC, Serendipitous Moments, IVFThis week on the Ireland's Birth Stories podcast I’m sharing my chat with @anirishmammy who talks me through the last few years of her life TTC. Judith has been very open on her own IG page but here we really go through each of the treatments she underwent, how she felt mentally moving from a place of acceptance to deciding to try one last time and the toll it took on her body. Judith and I spoke back in 2021 and have always stayed in touch rooting for one another. We had this connection but she also experienced the po...
2025-03-0349 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP155 Charlotte, Two Births, C-section, VBACThis episode was brought to you by *Birth Baby Beyond*Book your free doula consultation via their website or visit their Instagram for further information. EP155 Charlotte, Two Births, C-section, Birth Preparation, VBACIn this week's episode I share my chat with Charlotte who revisited reach of her two births with me, We chat about TTC, pregnancy sickness and her first birth which resulted in a C-section. Her second pregnancy and birth looked very different. She invested so much time in her preparation and was supported in her choice by her consultant.Th...
2025-02-241h 19
The 360 LeadHERship Podcast#046 Who exactly is Lucy Gernon?Send us a textLucy who?Who is the real Lucy Gernon and what makes her tick?Lucy is best known for her love of pink and teaching women in corporate leadership roles proven strategies and tools to improve work-life balance, stop negative self-talk and build your leadership toolkit, so you excel in your career without burning out or missing out on life. She is also host of the popular Powerhouse Revolution podcast for women in leadership. But who is the real Lucy Gernon and what makes he...
2022-11-0926 min
Ireland's Birth StoriesEP80 - Fidelma - Three Vaginal Births, Early Pregnancy Loss, Gentlebirth, Early Labour at 36 weeksEP80 - Fidelma - Three Vaginal Births, Early Pregnancy Loss, Gentlebirth, Early Labour at 36 weeksIn this weeks episode I chat to Fidelma who talks me through her three positive vaginal experiences. Fidelma also suffered an early pregnancy loss which she touched on but previously she spoke in detail about her loss in this episode Between Us - Early Pregnancy LossShe used @gentlebirthofficial to help her through those sleepless nights during the final stages of pregnancy. She also chats about her breastfeeding journeys and the lack of support she received after her first baby. On her third pregnancy she was...
2021-11-1558 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With Tara Whelan (Resilient Emotions)In this episode of A Moment With I share my chat with Tara Whelan the founder of @resilientemotionsInitially. Originally, Tara and I planned one chatting solely about her two experiences with birth but our conversation went in a different direction. We chat about her mental health struggles both pre and postnatally and also how her experience has allowed her to find her purpose and create Resilient Emotions ReferencesThe Havening TechniqueAlex Heath Produced & edited by Corah Gernon at She Talks ProductionsShow Your SupportBuy Me A CoffeePatreon Ho...
2021-11-1037 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP79 - Niamh, One Pregnancy & Birth, IVF, Labour & Birth Preparation, Positive InductionThis week I share my chat with Niamh who talks me through her pregnancy and the birth of her little boy Jack. Niamh and her husband Barry discovered they had unexplained infertility after a long period of trying to conceive naturally. After attending a clinic and undergoing IVF treatment they were so thrilled to receive the news they were expecting their first baby.Niamh immediately went into birth prep mode, reading books, watching birth videos, looking at birth images online and they attended a hypnobirthing class very early on in her pregnancy. She also maintained her fitness and continued...
2021-11-081h 24Ireland's Birth StoriesEP78 - Dairíona - One Pregnancy & Birth, Induction, Cesarean Birth, Birth During Restrictions (Sensitive Content)In this next episode I share my conversation with Dairíona who talks me through her experience of pregnancy and labouring alone thoughout COVID restrictions. Listening to Dairíonas story in many parts is difficult and for this reason I would consider her episode to be of a sensitive nature.She talks me through conception, her various hospital visits due to concerns of baby’s movement, a bleed and also erratic blood pressure. Her experience was very mixed with some medical staff being nothing but supportive but she also encountered others whom she thought could have shown her more comp...
2021-11-0553 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP77 - Anita - One Pregnancy & Birth, Unmedicated Vaginal Birth, Doula Support, BreastfeedingIn this weeks episode I share my chat with Anita who is both a birth & postpartum doula. I love hearing the perspective of someone who works in the world of maternity care. She chats me through early pregnancy, preparation for birth and how she felt in anticipation of giving birth considering she supported women for years prior to her own pregnancy.Anita was respected and supported during labour and birth with the midwives reading her birth preferences thoroughly ensuring she got the birth she wanted. Although her labour was long and intense she birth her little boy unmedicated which...
2021-10-2556 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP76 - Nicole - One Pregnancy & Birth, Epidural, Emergency Cesarean Section, Internal Bleed, ICU, BreastfeedingIn this week’s episode I share my chat with Nicole who spoke to me about her pregnancy & the birth of her little boy Brody. We chat about how she felt at various stages throughout her pregnancy and her early signs of labour. After hours of labour the decision was made to birth little Brody via emergency C-section due to meconium in her waters and other indications baby needed help. After her surgery Nicole felt intense pain across her shoulders that she just couldn’t ignore. It was later discovered that she has a huge internal bleed which led her...
2021-10-181h 11Ireland's Birth StoriesEP75 - Aoife - One Pregnancy & Birth, Down Syndrome Diagnosis, Cesarean Birth, Early MotherhoodThis next episode I chat to Aoife who created her page last year @down_with_croia and I'm so glad she did. Aoife shares how she felt when she saw that positive test and the early weeks of pregnancy. During a routine 12 week scan the stenographer noticed some markers which indicated the possibility her baby had Down Syndrome. After further tests Aoife & Craig were told they were expecting a baby girl and these tests also confirmed the diagnosis of Down Syndrome. They were beside themselves with the fact they were having a little girl, their girl!Aoife then chats a...
2021-10-1139 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With Mary Tighe - Co-Founder of @doulacareirelandThis week I'm sharing my chat with Mary Tighe (@birthingmamas ) who together with Jen created the agency, Doulacare Ireland. We chat about where her love of supporting birthing women originated. We chat about the various roles of a doula. We also dive into how the matches you up with the person that is right for you, this is one of Mary's favourite aspects of the job. She also discusses the process of a doula joining their team which I think is really important.We chatted for well over an hour which could have turned into a couple of hours...
2021-10-0636 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP74 - Nessa - Planned Homebirth, Breech Vaginal Birth, Emergency C-section (Australian Maternity Hospital)In this next episode I share my chat with Nessa who is a wellness coach aswell as hypnobirthing birthing coach and so much more. At the time of our conversation Nessa was living in Australia but was in the process of returning home to Tipperary where she now lives with her family. Nessa planned on birthing her boy at home with the support of her partner, midwife and doula. She prepared mentally aswell as physically staying active throughout. At 38 weeks after an unsuccessful ECV due to baby presenting breech, Nessa was told that her HB was no longer an...
2021-10-041h 06Ireland's Birth StoriesEP73 - Chelsea, Two Pregnancies & Births, Positive Birth Stories, Unmedicated Vaginal BirthsIn this week's episode I share my chat with @chelseahudson_1 who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Chelsea didn't plan on birthing her boy without pain relief but he came so quickly it simply wasn't any other option. She comments on how amazing she felt after his birth and couldn't quiet believe she had experienced birth without pain relief.She was pregnant with her little girl throughout Covid so didn't have the support of her partner while in labour in hospital but once again everything happened so quickly so it wasn't long before he could join her. She...
2021-09-2759 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With Lorraine LozanoIn this next episode I chat to Lorraine, the founder of Globebaby Doula. Lorraine is a full spectrum doula and has created various workshops to support her clients on their journey into motherhood. Due to her own experiences, Lorraine realised there was a very obvious need to support those about to embark on childbirth! She can help her clients with prepariton for labour, birth, breastfeeding and also help out at home with the seemingly simply tasks like light house work.We chat about a 3-Step-Rewind process that Lorraine offers, which can help lift heavy symptoms or thoughts linked with...
2021-09-2229 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP72 - Amanda - Four Pregnancies, Two Births, Early Pregnancy Loss, Chemical Pregnancy, Forceps, Induction, Medication Free BirthIn this week's episode I share my chat with @amandarussellryan who talks me through her two experiences with birth. Amanda suffered an early pregnancy loss with her first pregnancy and later a chemical pregnancy on her third pregnancy. Amanda chats about the birth of son which was aided by forceps as he was a stargazer. She also lost a significant volume of blood which impacted her immediate recovery and those first few hours with baby. She recalls how she felt so supported by her medical team and speaks of them so fondly. She then dives into the details surrounding...
2021-09-201h 06Ireland's Birth StoriesEP71 - Justine - One Pregnancy & Birth, Induction, Birth During Maternity Restrictions, Early MotherhoodIn this next episode I chat to freelance stylist and a familiar face to most of us @justinekingxx . We spoke about the moment she took that first pregnancy test, attending appointments alone and having COVID-19 at 6 months pregnant.Justine was induced as part of the hospital induction trial and very quickly felt the effects at home. I will let you hear all about her labour, how she coped and her experience in general. Justine's labour progressed quickly leaving little time for her partner to make his way to the hospital, despite living minutes away. Unfortunately, due to the restrictions...
2021-09-1344 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP70 - Clare - Pre & Post Baby Chat Early Pregnancy Loss, Labour & Birth Preparation, Emergency C-section, Complications Post BirthIn this week's episode I chat to Clare who at the time was expecting her second baby and in the throws of labour/birth preparation. We also touch on her first birth experience in 2018 bringing her little boy Sean into the world. We then chat about how she was feeling in comparison to her pregnancy with her first boy. She talks me through her level of preparation from attending @pamjdpilates weekly pilates class (and falling asleep each time!), attending a hypnobirthing class with @midwife_aine and using her @gentlebirthofficial app to help calm her mind in the evenings. Although...
2021-09-061h 01Ireland's Birth StoriesEP69 - Tanja - Two Pregnancies & Births, Hospital Birth, Homebirth, Preparation for BirthIn this week's episode I share my chat with Tanja who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Tanja came to Ireland as a student 18 years ago and fell pregnant with her little girl in her first year of college. Although she was supported by her friend she had a tough birthing experience. She was completely unaware of the birthing process and how her body would feel, she was petrified. Unfortunately, despite being so scared and alone, the hospital didn't support her as much as she felt she needed.Her second experience was poles apart. She chats to me...
2021-08-3052 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP68 - Sinead - Five Pregnancies & Four Births, Early Pregnancy Loss, Sepsis, Birth During CovidIn this week's episode I chat to Sinead who talks me through her five pregnancies & four births. She chats about pregnancy for the first time, feeling guilt for her first child whilst pregnant with her second baby and we then chat about her third pregnancy.Sinead suffered early pregnancy loss on her fourth pregnancy. She talks us through how devasting it was but also the physical aspect. Her symptoms became increasingly severe and she spiked a temperature which was later associated with a sepsis diagnosis. A strong message from Sineads's story is that of realising you're not the only...
2021-08-231h 18Ireland's Birth StoriesEP67 - Ailish - Three Pregnancies & Births, Two hospital Births, One HomebirthIn this episode I chat to Ailish, founder of @thebumproom which I'm sure many of you know well. Ailish chats to me about her first pregnancy and trying to remain somewhat focused on labour and birth after the passing of her dad. We then chat about her second pregnancy which again was a hospital birth and finally her third pregnancy which was a homebirth.Ailish is so passionate about pregnancy, labour and birth, infact it's nearly palpable when you speak to her. Her love and intense thirst for knowledge on how to best support women, not only through pregnancy...
2021-08-1650 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP66 - Nadia - Three Pregnancies, Four Births, Forceps, Positive Vaginal Twin BirthMany of you have been asking for another twin birth story, so here it is. Nadia gave birth to her first little girl at the age of 19 and unfortunately her experience was quite traumatic. She mentions how she carried those feeling of trauma through to the birth of her second little girl but thankfully she had a gorgeous, positive vaginal birth.Nadia and her partner decided they wanted to add to their family once again but to their surprise and delighted they discovered they were expecting twins. Nadia shares a funny moment during the scan when her partner thought...
2021-08-0954 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP65 - Amy - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Vaginal Birth, Episiotomy, Birth Trauma, Hands-off Positive Vaginal Breech Birth Hospital Setting (Norway)In this next episode I chat to Amy who talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Amy's first experience wasn't what any women should be subjected too. She was unsupported not only through the birth of her little boy but also breastfeeding. Amy & her husband decided the time was right to start trying for another when their son Nikolai was 18 months old. Four months into her second pregnancy, Amy was flooded with anxiety as a result of her previous experience. Thankfully, she was supported by everyone she came in contact with from that point (bar one!). Her little...
2021-07-2657 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP64 - Niamh - Gestational Diabetes, Vaginal Delivery, Epidural Blood Patch, Postpartum AnxietyIn this next episode I chat to Niamh who at the time is 26 weeks pregnant with her second baby. We chat about how she is feeling in the lead up to this baby's arrival before she shares the details of her first experience bringing her little girl Evie into the world.Niamh was diagnosed with gestational diabetes and talks me through the lifestyle changes she had to make, from adjustments to her diet to testing her sugars multiple times a day. We then delve into her labour where she opted for an epidural. Unfortunately, her epidural wasn't smooth sailing...
2021-07-191h 04Ireland's Birth StoriesEP63 - Sinead - 𝘗𝘳𝘦 & 𝘗𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘉𝘢𝘣𝘺 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘵 One Pregnancy & Birth, Breech Presentation, Positive C-section, Birth During COVID-19In this episode I chat to Sinead just before her little girl arrives and we then catch up couple of months after entering motherhood. Sinead attended hypnobirthing classes in the lead up to the birth aswell as utilising breastfeeding support antenatally. Attending an appointment at 24 weeks it was discovered that her little girl was breech. The hospital gave her various options including ECV but Sinead went with her gut instinct and left the decision with her baby.Together with her medical team, the decision was made to deliver her baby via C-section. I catch up with Sinead a couple...
2021-07-121h 02Ireland's Birth StoriesEP62/PT2 - Nicola - Ana's Birth, Haemorrhage, Pregnancy After Loss, Evie's Birth**𝘚𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵**This first picture is of Nicola & Evie. Evie is Nicolas second daughter who was born last year after the loss of her little girl Ana, who was born sleeping. The following two pictures Nicola shared with me, are of Ana.This week Nicola shares the events following Ana's Birth which led to surgery and a pretty tough recovery. She felt the immediate need to conceive again so a plan was put in place......mother nature had other wonderful ideas!We chat about the birth of her daughter Evie and the days following her arrival. Nicola spiked a temperature and subsequently spent two nights in hospital due to...
2021-07-0548 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP62/PT1 - Nicola - IVF, Positive C-section, Coping with Grief, Late MiscarriageEP62/PT1 - Nicola - IVF, Positive C-section, Coping with Grief, Late Miscarriage𝗦𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁This episode contains conversation surrounding pregnancy loss In this week's episode I chat to Nicola who shares her story through fertility struggles, grief, positive cesarean section and the loss of her daughter Anna at 23 weeks gestation.Nicola suffered an early pregnancy loss after her first round of IVF but later welcomed her son Ted after a second IVF attempt. She shares how she coped with the depths of grief after the sudden death of her sister just weeks before her baby was due. Thankfully, she had a really positive birth experience bringing her...
2021-06-281h 08Ireland's Birth StoriesEP61 - Sinead - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Induction, Epidural, Homebirth, Breastfeeding JourneyIn this week's episode I chat to Sinead who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Sinead was induced at 37 weeks as baby was measuring small. She made the decision to keep her circle small and told very few people she was going to have baby soon. She was supported by a great team of midwives who encouraged her to keep moving while in labour. She then shares her experience in the days following.Sinead decided she wanted a homebirth on her second pregnancy so contacted @homebirthmidwife_mullingar Angela in her third trimester who happened to be available. She...
2021-06-211h 03Ireland's Birth StoriesEP60 - Judith - Vaginal Births, Epidural & Unmedicated, Early Pregnancy Loss, Late Miscarriage𝘚𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵In this week's episode I chat to Judith who talks me through her vaginal births, multiple pregnancy losses and a late miscarriage at 16 weeks.Judith was diagnosed with PCOS which she knew could contribute to difficulties conceiving. She fell pregnant with her little boy weeks before her wedding and chats us through her pregnancy which thankfully was uneventful. She opted to have an epidural and speaks of some funny moments in the delivery room.Unfortunately she suffered multiple pregnancy losses after the birth of her first boy. She was given pregnancy supporting medication and also made some lifestyle changes. She then fell pregnant with her second little bo...
2021-06-141h 21Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 59 - Eibhlín - Pre & Post Baby Chat, Three Pregnancies & Births, Unmedicated Natural Births, Homebirth, Domino Scheme (Three 9+ pound babes)I spoke to Eibhlín in January when she was in her final trimester with her third pregnancy. We chatted about her two previous experiences with labour and birth, one being a homebirth on a barge she shared with her husband and the other was a hospital birth after she was diagnosed with polyhydramnios.Eibhlín then talks us through how she felt throughout her third pregnancy and we catch up after her little girl arrived safely into the world. She birthed three gorgeous healthy babies weighing 9'13, 10+ and 11+ pounds, all vaginally with no intervention. She mentions several occasions wh...
2021-06-071h 12Ireland's Birth StoriesEP58 - Carolina - Two Pregnancies & Births, Precipitous Births, Mental & Physical RecoveryIn the episode I chat to Carolina who talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Carolina conceived four months after she and her husband made the decision was made to start a family. She felt fine throughout her first pregnancy but at 36 weeks she felt a sharp pain in her stomach. This pain was followed by vomiting and a very noticeable feeling of the babys head dropping after a visit to the toilet. Her baby was born hours later. From that initial pain to birth it was a mere three hours.Her second experience delivering her daughter was...
2021-05-3156 minIreland's Birth StoriesBetween Us - Early Pregnancy LossWe chat about our shared experience with early pregnancy loss. We discuss the physicality, the emotional toll and also how we can support others through their loss. I truly appreciate the level of honesty from each guest. Stories being shared without censorship are important, we are not spared the detail when we go through our own experiences.Special thank you again to our panel of guestsxProduced & edited by Corah Gernon at She Talks ProductionsShow Your SupportBuy Me A CoffeePatreon Hosted on Acast. See acast...
2021-05-261h 21Ireland's Birth StoriesEP57 - Triona - Two Pregnancies & Births, Hospital Births, Induction, Epidural, Natural BirthIn the next episode I chat to Triona who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Triona had two very different experiences, both in a hospital environment. She opted for an epidural with the birth of her little girl and thankfully she was up and walking quiet soon afterwards.It took her 7 months to conceive her little boy. Triona second experience was so animalistic. She was completely unaware that her body and mind were guiding her to prepare for labour and the birth of her baby. She went inwards, wanted quiet, comfort and warmth, everything you need to allow...
2021-05-241h 09Ireland's Birth StoriesEP56 - Kirsty - One Pregnancy & Birth, Placental Abruption, Hysterectomy, ICU, Recovery (UK)𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩In this next episode I chat to Kirtsy who talks me through her pregnancy and the birth of her little girl Mia in a UK hospital. Kirsty conceived quickly and had an smooth pregnancy. On one occasion it appeared her placenta was low lying but thankfully this resolved itself with no intervention.At 38 weeks, Kirsty lost a severe amount of blood but was sent home from the hospital after all appeared ok. She then lost a considerable amount of blood on a second occasion, immediately went to the hospital and refused to leave until it was fully examined.In a very short space of time her situation changed...
2021-05-171h 01Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 55 - Sarah - 3 Pregnancies & Births, Loss and Coping with Grief, Planned C-section, VBACIn the next episode I chat to @sarah_tobin who talks me through her three experiences with pregnancy & birth. Before we go into her birth stories I ask Sarah to give us an insight into Tapping (EFT). I've spoken to several women throughout the past year who have gained so much from their sessions with Sarah..We then go into Sarah's birth story. Her little girl Alice passed away days after birth which Sarah says was the result of negligence at the maternity hospital in the UK. She then talks us through the weeks and months following Alice's passing...
2021-05-1055 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 54 - Claire - Two Pregnancies & One Birth, Miscarriage, Induction, PPH, RecoveryIn this next episode Claire talks me through her two pregnancies and one birth. Claire suffered a missed miscarriage which was discovered at 13 weeks. It wasn't until her subsequent pregnancy that she realised there was unresolved feelings attached to her previous experience. She worked with @sarah_tobin early on which enabled her to really settle in and enjoy her pregnancy. Infact, she mentions that despite being in lockdown her second trimester was one of the most enjoyable periods of her life..Claire went into spontaneous labour but did need an induction due to the presence of meconium in her...
2021-05-0359 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 53 - Orla - 4 Pregnancies, 3 Births, Birth at 26 weeks, Late Miscarriage, Planned C-section, Gestational DiabetesIn the next episode I chat to Orla who talks me through her 4 pregnancies and 3 births. She experienced so much throughout her journey into motherhood. Her first little boy arrived into the world spontaneously at 26 and spent 93 days in hospital before coming home. She suffered a missed miscarriage on her second pregnancy and late miscarriage at 16 weeks on her third pregnancy. Orla chats to me about Liam's birth and those immediate decisions you have to make after the loss of a baby..Throughout her fourth pregnancy she was expectedly nervous but was supported with regular scans by the medical...
2021-04-261h 13Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 52 - Mairead - Two Pregnancies & Births, Planned Homebirth, Transfer, Epidural, Homebirth, MotherhoodIn this episode I chat to Mairead who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. She planned for a homebirth with her first boy but was transferred as her waters had broken past the 24 hour time frame. She opted for an epidural which she mentions was the best decision at the time. It allowed her body to rest and recharge for her boys birth.We then speak about her second pregnancy, again she opted for a homebirth. I love how Mairead speaks of the day she went into labour and she mentions her "labour project" which is...
2021-04-1954 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With - Eva Rose - Birth Photographer & DoulaIn this episode of AMW I chat to @evarosebirth. What she has created has given me the opportunity to see birth in it's rawest form. The images she captures and shares strike so much emotion in me and I know I'm not alone. Seeing a woman in the height of possibly the most transformative experience of her life is so very special.We all know Eva as the incredible birth photographer she is but she is also working tirelessly to try bring about change in maternity care. I ask Eva where her interest in birth photography originated, we chat...
2021-04-0731 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 51 - PT2 - Alice - One Pregnancy & Birth, Epidural, Postpartum Hemorrhage, RecoveryIn last week's episode we ended our conversation just after this little man's arrival into the world. How peaceful and gorgeous does he look in this photo!In part two of Alice's story she speaks of the postpartum hemorrhage she suffered soon after she was settled into the ward. Alice was hemorraging for a long period before it was finally recognised and action was taken. She deteriorated quickly and spent sometime in the high dependency unit. So much happened in such a short space of time.Awareness of postpartum blood loss, what's considered normal and what's not is so...
2021-04-0545 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP51 - PT 1 - Alice - One Pregnancy & Birth, Epidural, Postpartum Hemorrhage, RecoveryWith Alice's support I have decided to share her story across two episodes. In part 1 of her story she talks me through her pregnancy during Covid-19, her long labour and the birth of her son.Alice shares so much detail of her experience and I know it will be of such value to many of you. After a long labour it was discovered there was meconium in her waters. She decided to opt for an epidural to give her body time to rest before birthing her baby vaginally.We touch on the first few hours postpartum but I will...
2021-03-2952 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With - Tracy Donegan, Midwife, Author and Gentlebirth founderIn this episode of AMW I chat to Tracy Donegan the creator of @gentlebirthofficial. We chat about the origins of her idea that has now developed into a tool used by people worldwide. She chats to me in detail about why she created various aspects of Gentlebirth with a particular focus on brain science.I know so many of you have utilised the Gentlebirth app not only for birth preparation but also through loss and postnatally. Tracy's voice very often puts me to sleep or dilutes the stress of my day while I listen to the Wellness track on...
2021-03-2531 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 50 - Jessica - Pre & Post Baby Chat, Third Birth, Epidural, Positive Induction StoryIn the next episode I chat to Jessica. We spoke when Jessica was 36 weeks pregnant about how she felt, the prep in the lead up to Bonnie's arrival and what her birth preferences were. There was so much excitement in her house with her two little ladies waiting on their sisters arrival. We then spoke a few days after Bonnie came into the world, Jessica was still on such a high. Her waters broke on her due date as per her daughters predictions. She got the epidural she wanted, they decided induction was best and she was also administered...
2021-03-2250 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 49 - Yvonne - 3 Pregnancies, Two Births, Infant Loss, Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome) Diagnosis, Down Syndrome Diagnosi- Story surrounding Infant Loss shared - In this episode Yvonne shares her story of experiencing the loss of her son, Noah at 34 weeks gestation. She received the devastating news that Noah had Edwards Syndrome which is considered a life limiting genetic condition. Yvonne shares details of his birth along with so much more which I'm very grateful for. We then chat about her little girl Ayla who recently celebrated her 2nd birthday. Ayla was diagnosed with both Edwards Syndrome & Down Syndrome after birth. I have followed Yvonne's story for some time and have seen Ayla grow from strength...
2021-03-1548 minIreland's Birth StoriesMotherhoodI asked some of our previous guests to share what motherhood means to them Enjoy!Produced & edited by Corah Gernon at She Talks ProductionsShow Your SupportBuy Me A CoffeePatreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2021-03-1411 minIreland's Birth StoriesA Moment With - Sue Jameson, President of the Association of Lactation Consultants in Ireland @alcirelanOn this episode of AMW I chat to Sue who talks me through the role of a lactation consultant. Being completely honest I initially thought an IBCLC helped you with a poor latch or could help with tongue tie, little did I know.We discuss how a IBCLC can support you both antenatally and also in the days following babies arrival. The continuity of care and follow-up is what makes this service so special. It's amazing to see many other health professionals qualify as lactation consultants to support their patients. It's most certainly no easy task gaining that qualification...
2021-03-1027 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 48 - Rosie & Adam - 4 Pregnancies & Births, hospital & homebirth experienceIn this next episode I chat to Rosie and Adam, creators of the @the_irish_mummy podcast. We chat about Rosie's four experiences with pregnancy & birth. Together they share not only intimate details of each birth but we also discuss how mindset can have such a profound impact on your experience.Rosie made a conscious effort to educate herself after her first birth and as a result was so in tune with her body. She understood the environment she needed to help that oxytocin flow and always trusted her instincts. Adam also shares his perspective as a birth partner...
2021-03-081h 02Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 47 - Rosie - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Hospital Waterbirth, Hemorrhage, Retained Placenta, Swift Labour, Experience with BreastfeedingIn this episode I chat to Rosie who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Rosie utilised the birthing pool in the Coombe and delivered her little boy safely with the support of her midwives and husband. She suffered a hemorrhage so immediately had to leave the pool to be treated. She also had difficulty with her placenta which she goes into. Throughout her second pregnancy she suffered anxiety and had various visits to the maternity hospital to investigate a number of bleeds. Rosie also hoped for a waterbirth second time round but this wasn't signed off due to...
2021-03-011h 00Ireland's Birth StoriesA Moment With -Áine Hennessy Community MidwifeIn our first episode I chat to a homebirth midwife. Áine tells me why she chose to be a midwife and later why she felt being out in the community was where she needed to be. We chat about why the service needs to be considered from early pregnancy when your care options are being discussed.She shares everything you need to know from initial contact if you are considering homebirth, antenatal appointments, the birth itself and those two weeks of postnatal care. The 2020 stats speak for themselves 94% of service users rated the service as excellent, 99% felt their postnatal c...
2021-02-2443 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 46 - Leanne - One Pregnancy & Birth, Planned Homebirth, Positive C-sectionIn the next episode I chat to Leanne who talks me through her pregnancy and the birth of her little boy, James. Leanne planned a homebirth, built a relationship with her midwife and prepared her home but later for reasons which she will go through, it was decided she should birth her baby in hospital.She talks me through her long labour which finally ended with a C-section to bring her boy into the world. It wasn't what she ever envisaged the outcome would be but she had such a positive experience. She was surrounded by a team that...
2021-02-221h 08Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 45 - Tia - One Pregnancy & Birth, Subchorionic Hematoma, Cyst, Positive C-section, Starting a Family AbroadIn this next episode I chat to Tia who talks me through her pregnancy & the birth of her little girl, Sofia. Tia was diagnosed with a cyst prior to falling pregnant but in the early weeks of conceiving she learned she also had a Subchorionic Hematoma. She left an appointment at 5 weeks feeling as though "This is it, this will be the end of this pregnancy". She was prescribed bed rest for the first three months of her pregnancy and thankfully baby Sofia was just fine. Tia shares such a positive C-section story. She nurtured both her body and...
2021-02-1546 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 44 - Georgina - One Pregnancy & Birth, Preparation & Expectations of Life as a First Time MotherIn the next episode I chat to Georgina who talks me through her experience with pregnancy and the birth of her little girl Rua. She had such a group of supportive women surrounding her which is so beautiful. They guided her through her preparation into motherhood and in those weeks following Rua's arrival. George wasn't opposed to having an epidural but in the end she brought her little girl into the world with the aid of her 900 song playlist, a husband who she recalls reminded her of a gym coach "breathe in, out, in, out" and the presence of...
2021-02-0850 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 43 - Sinead - Grief, 4th Degree Tear, Rectovaginal Fistula, Emergency C-sectionIn our next episode I chat to Sinead who talks me through her two experiences with birth. Sinead gave birth to her little girl Lily 9 years ago shortly after the sudden loss of her husband, Geoff..Sinead talks us through giving birth with the support of her family and the days following Lily's arrival. Although her medical team were aware she suffered a 4th degree tear it wasn't until later, after a scope that they found the rectovaginal fistula. Essentially, there was a small tear between the rectum and the vagina which caused passing of stool through the vagina...
2021-02-0155 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 42 - Julie - One pregnancy & Birth, Mother with Cerebral Palsy, C-section"We have to stop underestimating people!"In the next episode I chat to Julie who talks me through her pregnancy & the birth of her son, Ricky. Julie has cerebral palsy as does her husband David and together embarked on the journey into parenthood with a solid plan in place.She discusses how she commenced her preparation for pregnancy two years prior to concieveing. She focused on being physically strong, creating a strong team around her and also has an exceptional family unit to support them.Julie built a trusting relationship with her obstetrician and with her support, decided to...
2021-01-2557 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 41 - Megan - 3 Pregnancies, 2 Births, Epidural, PND, Birth during Covid-19In this episode I chat to Megan who talks me through her three pregnancies & two births. Unfortunately Megan had a miscarriage early on with her first pregnancy. She conceived quickly with her little girl Aylla and she goes into all the details surrounding her pregnancy and birth. She speaks of her experience with PND which I know will resonate with many of you. I asked Megan to share her story on the podcast due to how honest and forthcoming she has been in sharing such a private time of her life. It's imperative to our health and the health...
2021-01-1859 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 40 - Pamela - 5 Pregnancies, 3 Births, Epidural, PND, 2 Miscarriages, Late MiscarriageTrigger warning : In this episode we chat about the loss of Pam's little girl Rosie at 18 weeks gestation. Pam goes into details surrounding Rosie's birth which some may find difficult to listen too. I am so grateful to Pam for sharing her story, as loss is still very much unspoken. Thank you Pam ❤️In this episode Pam chats about her 4 pregnancies & 3 Births. During her first experience with birth Pam required an episiotomy to aid with her little man's arrival as he had shoulder dystocia and she was also tearing into her back passage. Thankfully, he entered the world safe, happ...
2021-01-111h 23Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 39 - Jen - One pregnancy & Birth, Induction, Positive C-sectionIn the last EP of 2021 I chat to Jen (@irishmamabuys ) about her pregnancy & the birth of her son Ben. Jen welcomed her niece into her life when she was 18 months old so Ben was very lucky to have his sister waiting for him when he arrived home.Jen discovered she was pregnant at nearly 3 months, although it was a shock they welcomed the lovely surprise. She was living in Spain at the time but decided to move home during her third trimester. Jens estimated due date came and went and she was later induced. Little Ben was showing signs...
2020-12-3045 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 38 - Nicole - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Positive C-section, HELLP Syndrome, Emergency C-section, Birth During Covid-1In this week's episode I chat to Nicole who talks e through her two pregnancies & births. Nicole's first little girl was delivered via C-section after she was lying breech transverse and remained pretty comfortable where she was. Nicole suffers from low platelets therefore attempting to move her little lady in utero wasn't an option due to the risk of hemorrhage. We then chat about Nicole's second pregnancy where she continued to feel great, if anything just a little slower. She requested a full blood check in her third trimester with the results leading to an emergency section. Her medical...
2020-12-2838 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 37 - Stephanie - 2 Pregnancies, 1 Birth, Miscarriage, Planned Homebirth (First Birth), Life as a First time motherIn this week's bonus episode I chat to Stephanie who talks me through her journey to motherhood. Stephanie suffered a miscarriage with her first pregnancy which she admits, hit her like a tonne of bricks. Thankfully, she was quick to conceive again. Stephanie suffered from SPD from the 17/18 weeks mark and attended a physio to help her manage the pain. She is actually a physio by professional so I love that despite knowing all the tips & tricks to help alleviate her discomfort she still took the time to look after her body.She had a planned homebirth with the...
2020-12-2355 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 36 - Lorraine (PT2) Pregnancy & Birth during Covid-19, Positive C-sectionIn the next episode I continue my chat with Lorraine. She shares some really beautiful & intimate moments from finding out she was pregnant, sharing her news with her family and how she felt in those early weeks.She talks us through her pregnancy and we discuss how isolating it was for her being pregnant through Covid.Lorraine was induced but little Jack was particularly comfortable. The decision was made to bring Jack into the world via C-section which, as you can see from the gorgeous pictures, was a very positive experience."Feel the fear and do it anyway"
2020-12-2138 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 35 - Lorraine - Part 1 - Solo Journey to Motherhood, Chosing Donor, IUI attempt, IVFI decided to share Lorraine's story across two episodes. What brought her into motherhood is an incredible journey and I feel privileged that she shared every detail. In this episode she chats to me about her decision to enter motherhood on her own, her journey with SIMS clinic and so much more. Lorraine always wanted to be a mother and on her return from living in the states she felt it was time to begin her incredible journey. Holding her niece, feeling that connection and surge of love was a factor in solidifying her decision. She also s...
2020-12-1452 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 34 - Emma - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Epidural, Induction, Suction, Forceps BirtIn the next episode I chat to Emma who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Emma found it difficult to conceive on her first pregnancy and through investigation discovered she had a septum in her womb. After surgery to remove the septum Emma and her husband were delighted to discover she conceived three months later..Emma then talks us through her labour and birth. She was induced with Harry and later required assistance with his birth which I will let Emma tell you all about..On her second pregnancy Emma was focused on avoiding intervention but unfortunately that...
2020-12-071h 09Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 33 - Lisa - Three Pregnancies & Births, Two hospital Births, Epidural, HomebirtIn this week's episode I chat to Lisa about her three pregnancies and births. Lisa's first little boy was born in hospital and she chose to opt for an epidural, followed by a very quick birth. She talks us through postpartum life first time round and the changes she made with her two subsequent pregnancies. She referred to the grove in her couch where she sat and fed her second little boy without any interruptions or feeling obliged to fulfill any other needs bar those of her babies. A contrast to her first experience.She then talks us through...
2020-11-3059 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 32 - Kat - Two Pregnancies & Births, Positive C-section, Comparing Life After Baby 1 & 2, Husband's PerspectivIn this episode I chat to Kat who holds a very special place in my hearts, she was the photographer at our wedding. We clicked and will always be in touch. She chats to me about her two pregnancies & births. Her first experience with birth was tough and with that followed a difficult life post baby as a first time mother. Kat is so honest and open which I appreciate. Her husband also shares his perspective and tells us what he saw in Kat that triggered him to suggest she needed help.Life after her second daughter, Juno was...
2020-11-2736 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 31 - Catherine, 3 Births, Miscarriage, Epidural, C-section, VBAC, Birth during CovidIn this week's episode I chat to Catherine who talks me through her experiences with pregnancy & birth. Catherine has three very different births. On her first pregnancy, second stage of labour was so quick with her little man entering the world swiftly. She talks us through a rough few weeks of breastfeeding and the support she availed of to help her alleviate the constant discomfort..She had a C-section with her second pregnancy due to the presence of meconium in her waters and also inconsistencies with babies readings..Throughout her third pregnancy she was crippled with SPD and unfortunately...
2020-11-231h 10Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 30 - Ariana - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Planned Homebirth, Transfer, C-section, Positive C-sectiIn this weeksepisode I chat to Ariana who talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Ariana is the founder of @wellfedphotography and is in the process of creating a book surrounding breastfeeding. She has spoken to 120 women about their journeys and being a photographer, has ensured to capture beautiful images of those who will feature their stories. We agreed that we feel very privileged to not only listen to so many stories but also see very special pictures that were taken at such an intimate time in someone's life.Although Ariana had two C-sections to bring her babies...
2020-11-1658 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 29 - Clare - 3 Pregnancies & Births, Midwife Led Unit, Hospital Birth, Quick 2nd Stage, InductioIn this week's episode I chat to Clare who talks me through her 3 pregnancies & births. Clare decided to opt for MLU with her hospital on her first pregnancy but was transferred up to the consultant unit as her little babies heart rate wasn't recovering after her contractions. She talks us through the details of her first birth. .She then talks us through her second pregnancy & birth which she considers to be a healing experience. She had a very quick 2nd stage of labour with her little boy and that trend continued onto her 3rd experience. She also asked the midwives t...
2020-11-091h 15Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 28 - Laura - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Homebirth, Birth During Covid19In this week's episode I chat to Laura who talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Laura and her husband started investigating their fertility after trying to conceive for a number of months. After deciding to opt out of the fertility clinic route Laura fell pregnant spontaneously. She enjoyed her first pregnancy and decided to go down the homebirth route for no other reason bar she felt it was a very natural decision. Laura's first and second pregnancy were poles apart. She really struggled with sickness and managing life pregnant with a toddler. She opted for the homebirth...
2020-11-021h 10Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 27- Ivana - OnePregnancy & Birth, Planned Homebirth, TransferIn this episode I chat to Ivana who talks me through her pregnancy & the birth of her son. Ivana was in the care of the hospital for much of her pregnancy but decided much later to opt for a homebirth. She previously had surgery to remove part of her cervix but thankfully, all was well at the time of her pregnancy and her cervix had actually lengthened.Ivana's midwife made the decision to transfer her to hospital which she goes into in our chat. Her midwife stayed with her in the hospital for support and she still received her...
2020-10-2650 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 26 - Lucianne - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Hospital & HomebirthIn this episode I chat with Lucianne about the birth of her two little girls, Daisey & Poppy. Lucianne chose the Domino Scheme with her first pregnancy as she felt they supported her decision and interest in having a natural birth. She has nothing but positive things to say about the service and the women who helped her birth her little girl. She tells me how incredible she felt after giving birth but also, shocked. I will let her tell you why!Lucianne decided to have her second baby at home with the support of @privatemidwivesireland. She speaks so fondly o...
2020-10-191h 07Ireland's Birth StoriesEP25 - Jessica - One Pregnancy & Birth, Domino Scheme, Hypnobirthing, Hospital BirthIn this episode I chat to Jessica, we actually discovered we live within walking distance of one another which was lovely. Jessica chats me through her pregnancy & the birth of her son, Louie. She originally from Australia, as you will hear from her gorgeous accent and married an Irish man making the permanent move to Ireland in 2017. She attended hypnobirthing with @brenda_communitymidwife and found it to be so beneficial, arming her with the knowledge to make decisions she was comfortable with. She had a back to back labour which was tough and she opted for an epidural which gave her...
2020-10-1151 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 24 - Siobhán - 3 Pregnancies, 2 Births, HELLP syndrome, Emergency C-section, Miscarriage, Hospital BirthIn this weeks episode I chat to Siobhán who talks me through her experience with pregnancy and birth. She shared many up and downs including a diagnosis of HELLP syndrome, an emergency C-section, isolation and an a tough post partum journey. Siobhán also chats about her experience with miscarriage so openly which I know so many of you will relate to.We then dive into her third pregnancy which she struggled with, a contrast to her first. She really endured so much which you will hear throughout the podcast. A story well told, raw honesty and the detail we a...
2020-10-0458 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 23 - Maria -2 Pregnancies & Births, Hospital Birth, Arrival En-Route, Birth Trauma Resolution PractitionerIn this episode I chat to Maria who talks through her two pregnancies and births. Maria enjoyed both pregnancies but suffered with cholestasis through her first pregnancy which meant she needed close monitoring. Her first birth wasn't necessarily what she had hoped for. Despite being disappointed that she had an induction and epidural she found found her outlook on birth was a lot more balanced. Her second little boy made a very swift arrival en-route to the hospital. She describes her experiences and then mentions that she remembers hearing the sound of the rain hitting the car r...
2020-10-0134 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 22 - Sarah-Jane - Pregnancy, Loss, Hospital Birth*Trigger warning* This episode contains sensitive content surrounding loss which may not be suitable for you at this time.In this episode I speak to Sarah-Jane who chats to me about her journey with pregnancy, birth and unfortunately loss. During a routine scan Sarah-Jane and her husband received the devastating news that their little boy was incompatible with life. She brings us through how they navigated life throughout the weeks following Luke's diagnosis. Sarah-Jane also highlights that being open with their circumstances to friends, family & even colleagues helped create a beautiful support system..After much heartache, Sarah-Jane and her husband r...
2020-09-291h 07Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 21 - Ellen - 2 Pregnancies & Births, Hospital Births, Perspective of a Young MotherIn this episode I chat to Ellen and she talks me through the birth of her little boy & girl. Ellen had a particularly long labour with her first baby leading her to believe her little girl would follow suit. This wasn't the case. Olivia made her way into the world very quickly. Ellen laboured in the water with her first birth and recalls how it aided her to relax along with the support of her amazing midwives. Ellen is now a Gentle Birth instructor after finding her passion in all things pregnancy & birth. Her honesty when she speaks of l...
2020-09-251h 00Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 20 - Jen - 3 Pregnancies & Births, Doula, Hospital Birth, Arrival en route to Hospital & HomebirthIn this episode I chat to Jen about her three pregnancies & births. Jen decided to employ a doula on her first pregnancy and she proved to be an amazing support. She helped prepare them for the birth and held their space within the hospital allowing Jen to have that much needed quiet time to really tap into her final stages of labour. She was such an anchor throughout and importantly helped Jen & Mark process the birth which wasn't what they had expected or hoped for. She then chats to us about Juno's birth which was a swift to say the l...
2020-09-241h 08Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 19 - Michelle - 5 Pregnancies & Births, 3 Births in the US, 2 HBIn this episode I chat to Michelle and she talks me through her five pregnancies & births. Her first three babies were born in the US. She was pregnant at 16 with her first baby and very much felt unsupported in the hospital environment. She went on to have a free birth with her third child after an unwanted experience in the hospital with her second pregnancy. Michelle was supported by her close friend (doula - midwife in study) in the hours after her baby arrived. Michelle & her husband welcomed their fourth & fifth babies in their home, here in Ireland with the sup...
2020-09-231h 05Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 18 -Tracey - 2 pregnancies & births, Forceps, Unplanned HomebirthIn this episode I chat to Tracey and she talks me through her two pregnancies and births. Tracey's first labour and birth was not what she expected and unfortunately she had a tough experience. The birth of her son Billy was aided with interventions which led to an extended stay in the hospital. .She availed of the birth reflection service which is offered by maternity hospitals as a means of understanding your birth. Tracey gives us an insight to the service and also what she & her husband gained from it..She then talks me through her second pregnancy and the s...
2020-09-221h 08Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 17 - Michelle -Two pregnancies, Hospital Births, Twin Vaginal Delivery, EpiduralIn this episode I chat to Michelle who talks me through her two pregnancies & births. Michelle is mum to three kids as she found out she was expecting twins on her second pregnancy. She chats to me about her first pregnancy and how she felt throughout her postpartum weeks & months. She then chats about the moment they received the news they were expecting twins and describes her immediate feelings. The level of care she received throughout her pregnancy was second to non with a huge amount of support and preparation provided by the hospital. Michelle opted to have a...
2020-09-211h 21Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 16 -Ali - Hospital Births. Instrumental Birth, Triplet BirthIn this episode I chat to Ali who talks me through the births of her four kids, Georgia, Ted, Lenny & Bruce. Ali's first experience with birth was tough with a difficult few weeks recovery. She discusses the importance of being honest with women about what to expect in the pregnancy and also what our bodies go through in those few weeks after baby arrives. She then talks us through the shock of discovering they were pregnancy with triplet boys after suffering a miscarriage just months prior. She was prepared so thoroughly by the hospital teams and highlights how available...
2020-09-071h 11Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 15 - Rana -3 Pregnancies & Births, Unsuccessful Epidural, Positive BirthIn the next episode I chat to Rana who talks me through her 3 pregnancies & births Rana gave birth to her first son in Turkey where the culture is C-section strong which wasn't necessarily her preference. Men aren't allowed into the hospital so she laboured and birthed alone after chosing to go with an epidural which failed to take. Unfortunately, this was the case on her second labour too. .Rana felt her level of knowledge and preparation wasn't where it needed to be in order to achieve the natural, medication free birth she desired on her third birth. So, as a tea...
2020-09-0457 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 14 - Clare - HG, Induction, C-section (Sensitive content)In this episode I chat to Clare about her pregnancy and the birth of her little boy, Teddy. As a midwife, Clare understood the importance of preparing for her birth so took various classes to ensure she was ready for what lay ahead. Unfortunately her labour was tough and a difficult birth followed. Clare also talks about her breastfeeding journey and struggles and how she decided to re-lactate with success. Although Clare's story is tough to listen to at times, it's still so evident that her passion lies with mum & baby. She remains dedicated to her calling as...
2020-08-311h 08Ireland's Birth StoriesEP13 - Steph - IVF, HG, Hypnobirthing, C-SectionIn this next episode I chat to Steph about her journey with IVF both in Ireland & abroad. Steph endured 5 rounds of treatment before a successful pregnancy which thankfully brought her beautiful daughter Sophie into this world. Steph suffered from hyperemesis gravidarum but saw her sickness as a sign that all was well with baby which shows a completely different perspective. During Steph's pregnancy she practiced hypnobirthing which contributed to her strong yet calm mindset through labour & birth. There is something special with how she tells her story, you'll agree with me I'm sure of it Enjoy! Produced & edite...
2020-08-2444 minIreland's Birth StoriesEP 12 - Emma & Mikey - Hospital Birth, Induction & HomebirthIn this weeks episode I chat to Emma and her husband Mikey. They talk me through Emmas two pregnancies and births. Emma initially wanted a homebirth on her first pregnancy but the location was unsuitable as they were in the process of building their home. They talk me through Emmas experience with an induction and her hospital birth. Emmas refers to one of her midwives and an "angel", I love how she connected with her immediately. On Emmas second pregnancy she knew homebirth was the route she wanted to go down, home is where she felt most comfortable. Together...
2020-08-171h 07Ireland's Birth StoriesEP 11 - Ciara - Hospital Births, Induction, Vaccum Births, Home WaterbirthIn this episode I chat to Ciara about her four pregnancies & births. Ciara had three hospital births and chose to birth her last little girl at home in a birth pool. Ciara & here husband lived in Russia throughout her second and third pregnancy but decided to travel home on both occasions to birth her babies in Ireland. Ciara was determined to have a natural birth on Hannah and prepared as much as possible to allow this to happen. Not only did she train to ensure she was physically strong but she also used Gentlebirth tracks and positive stories to...
2020-08-1254 min