Shows
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEpisode 219: Two Births, Two NICU Stays: Why Only One Was Traumatic feat. AbigailIn this episode, Kayleigh sits down with Abigail to talk about her first birth complicated by low amniotic fluid, a late preterm induction, and a long, emotionally exhausting NICU stay, and how that experience shaped her postpartum mental health and feeding journey. Abigail also shares her second birth story, including intentional preparation, advocacy, and what it looked like to face another NICU admission without it becoming traumatic. This episode is a powerful conversation about control, grief, healing, and how trauma-informed care and support can change everything.In this episode, we talk about:🤰 A pre...
2026-02-0536 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 218: Understanding ECMO & Flight TransportIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Derek Grassley, RN CEN, CFRN, CCRN, NRP, FP-C WP-C - a flight nurse and ECMO specialist, to break down what ECMO is, when it’s used, and why it can be life-saving for critically ill pregnant and postpartum patients.This powerful conversation pulls back the curtain on critical care, emergency transport, and the realities of caring for patients at the edge of survival.🩺 In this episode, we cover:🫀 What ECMO is and the diff...
2026-02-0451 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 217: Placenta Accreta with Postpartum Complications feat. AndreaIn this powerful Listener Series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Andrea, who shares her story of an unexpected pregnancy complicated by severe placenta accreta, a nine-hour delivery surgery, massive hemorrhage, ICU recovery, and a long, complex postpartum healing journey.Andrea walks listeners through receiving a terrifying accreta diagnosis at her anatomy scan, navigating the fear of life-threatening hemorrhage, and making the critical decision to transfer care to a specialized accreta center. Her story highlights the importance of self-advocacy, multidisciplinary care, and listening to your instincts, especially when...
2026-01-2334 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastA Special ReRelease - Ep. 107: Parenting After Birth Trauma✨ Special Re-Release ✨ Parenting After Birth TraumaAs our children grow, many of us begin to notice something unexpected: the ways our birth trauma continues to show up, not just in our bodies and minds, but in our parenting.In this special re-release episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, we revisit a conversation that feels just as relevant, if not more so, today. Kayleigh offers a brief but meaningful overview of what it means to parent after birth trauma, and why this topic comes up again and again in our...
2026-01-2030 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 216: Placenta Previa, Accreta, NICU, and Finding Power After Repeated Birth Trauma feat. KaileeIn this deeply moving Listener Series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Kailee, who shares her story of infertility, recurrent placenta previa, NICU stays, medical trauma, and ultimately surviving placenta accreta with a life-saving hysterectomy.Kailee walks us through two high-risk pregnancies marked by hemorrhage, emergency cesareans, prolonged antepartum hospitalizations, NICU stays, and profound grief, alongside moments of advocacy, empowerment, and healing. Her story highlights how trauma can live alongside gratitude, and how reclaiming your voice can be life-saving.This episode is especially meaningful for NICU parents, those...
2026-01-1552 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 215: Giving Yourself Permission: Identity, Advocacy & Reclaiming JoyWhat does it really mean to give yourself permission, especially when you’ve been conditioned to put everyone else first?In this thoughtful and deeply resonant episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Dr. George James, psychologist, speaker, executive coach, and author of I Give Myself Permission. With over a decade of shared history, Kayleigh and Dr. James reflect on growth, identity, trauma, and the invisible narratives that shape how we show up for ourselves, particularly after birth trauma.Dr. James shares how the pandemic, racial reckoning, leadership burnout, and...
2026-01-1434 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 214: High Risk Pregnancies, Cardioversion, & NICU Stays feat. AlexIn this powerful episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Alex, a mom of two and congenital heart disease survivor, who shares her journey through two high-risk pregnancies and two traumatic births.Alex opens up about living with complex congenital heart defects, undergoing open-heart surgery as an infant, and entering pregnancy knowing she would always be medically high-risk. Despite meticulous care and expert providers, both pregnancies took sudden, life-threatening turns, illustrating how trauma can exist even when everything is “managed well.”This episode explores the fear, grief, and...
2026-01-0838 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 213: Coherence Therapy, Memory Reconsolidation, and Healing Birth TraumaIn this clinically grounded episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Kina Wolfenstein, LCSW, therapist, educator, and certified trainer in Coherence Therapy, for a deep dive into a lesser-known but incredibly powerful trauma modality.Together, they explore what coherence therapy is, how it differs from more familiar approaches like EMDR, CBT, and IFS, and why it can be especially effective for birth trauma, medical trauma, and complex attachment wounds.Kina explains how coherence therapy views symptoms not as pathology, but as coherent responses rooted in emotional learnings...
2026-01-0741 min
I AM ONE Podcast by Postpartum Support InternationalKAYLEIGH SUMMERS: The Birth Trauma MamaSend us a textOn today’s episode, we’re sitting down with the incredible Kayleigh Summers, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & friend of PSI. Kayleigh supports folks in the perinatal period especially as it relates to birth trauma - including consultation, therapy, support groups, workshops, a blog, sharing her lived experience at PSI trainings, and a little ‘ol podcast called The Birth Trauma Mama. (In case you didn’t pick up on the sarcasm, there isn’t anything little about Kayleigh’s podcast … at all!) Today, we'll be chatting about the lived experience of an Amniotic Fluid Embolism...
2026-01-061h 06
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 212: Triplet Loss, Twin Birth, Emergency C-Section, and The NICU feat. BellaIn this Listener Series episode, Kayleigh is joined by Bella, who courageously shares her journey through infertility, a high-risk twin pregnancy, perinatal depression, placenta previa, repeated hospitalizations, and an emergency C-section at just under 33 weeks.Bella walks us through the shock of conceiving triplets after one round of Clomid, the grief of losing one baby early in pregnancy, and the fear and uncertainty that followed as complications continued to stack. From significant bleeding episodes and preterm labor to an emergency birth that separated her from her babies, Bella’s story sheds light on the physical an...
2025-12-1831 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 211: Ethics in The Birth RoomWhat happens when something doesn’t feel right during labor or birth, but you don’t know what to do, who to call, or even what to name it?In this eye-opening episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Dr. Jennifer Dunatov, a healthcare ethicist with nearly 20 years of experience working inside hospital systems. Together, they unpack what ethics really looks like in labor and delivery and why it’s a vastly underutilized (but incredibly important) resource for birthing people, families, doulas, and clinicians.Dr. Dunatov shares how becoming a moth...
2025-12-1648 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 210: Eight Months Postpartum: A “Routine” Procedure Turned TraumaticIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Danielle, a therapist and mother of three, to share a story that challenges the narrow ways we often define birth and postpartum trauma.Danielle’s trauma did not occur during labor or delivery, it unfolded months postpartum, following what was supposed to be a routine surgical procedure to remove a fibroid. Instead, a cascade of medical complications led to a medical emergency, multiple surgeries, bladder injury, and an unplanned hysterectomy that permanently ended her ab...
2025-12-1133 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 209: EMDR, Perinatal Trauma, & OCDIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Tiffany Lowther, LMHC, a certified perinatal mental health professional and EMDR therapist, for an in-depth conversation about using EMDR to treat birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, OCD-like symptoms, and other perinatal mental health challenges.Tiffany shares both her professional expertise and lived experience, offering clear explanations of what EMDR is, how it works in the brain and body, and why it can be especially effective during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Together, Kayleigh and Tiffany unpack common misconceptions about EMDR and...
2025-12-0932 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 208: Rushed to the NICU: Navigating Pneumothorax, Infection Fears, and Postpartum Chaos ft. KelseaIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Kelsea, a mom of three, to share the emotional, terrifying, and deeply transformative story of her son Oliver’s birth and NICU journey a birth she hoped would finally be a peaceful experience after two difficult deliveries, but instead became her most traumatic one yet.Scheduled for a repeat C-section at 37 weeks due to rising blood pressures and a history of preeclampsia, Kelsea entered the hospital with a pit in her stomach, a feeling she now knows was intuition. The days...
2025-12-0529 min
The Practice Brave Podcast214: Birth Trauma, Survival, and the Power of Community with Kayleigh Summers In this episode, I sit down with Kayleigh Summers, a perinatal trauma therapist and the voice behind The Birth Trauma Mama. Kayleigh shares her powerful story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE)—a rare and often fatal childbirth emergency—and how that experience completely reshaped her life, identity, and path into motherhood. We talk about what it was like to navigate recovery after a traumatic birth, the emotional complexity that comes with surviving something life-threatening, and the grief that can follow when your birth and postpartum experience look nothing like what you imagined. Kayleigh also opens up a...
2025-12-0355 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 207: Surrogacy After Birth Trauma: The Feelings Beneath the ProcessIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Dvora Entin, LCSW, PMH-C, therapist, educator, and host of The Misconceptions Podcast, for a deeply honest and compassionate conversation about surrogacy— the hopes, complexities, grief, joy, and emotional labor that shape this path to parenthood. Dvora shares what intended parents often navigate beneath the surface: the grief of letting go of a hoped-for pregnancy, the vulnerability of trusting another person with your baby, and the invisible emotional work that unfolds long before birth and long after.This conversation bet...
2025-12-0238 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastA Special Re-Release: Ep. 129 Navigating the Holidays After Birth TraumaAs the holiday season approaches, we’re revisiting one of the most requested and resonant solo episodes of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. In this special re-release, Kayleigh dives into the complex, emotional landscape of navigating the holidays after birth or perinatal trauma, a topic that so many in our community quietly struggle with, but one that’s rarely talked about openly.Drawing from her own experience and the countless stories shared within this community, Kayleigh unpacks the many layers that make the holiday season uniquely challenging after trauma, whether your trauma happened during the holida...
2025-11-2537 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 206: Preeclampsia, Magnesium Toxicity, & a NICU Journey feat. RachelIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Rachel, a mom of two, to share her powerful and deeply layered story of navigating two very different pregnancies and births, both marked by moments of dismissal, fear, and intense advocacy.Rachel’s first pregnancy shifted dramatically at 30 weeks when she developed severe high blood pressure and preeclampsia, leading to weeks of confusion, mixed messages, and ultimately an induction at 34 weeks. Her experience left deep emotional imprints, including guilt, hypervigilance, and the grief of feeling disconnected fro...
2025-11-2042 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 205: In The Eye of The Beholder: Dr. Cheryl Beck on Birth TraumaIn this powerful conversation, Kayleigh sits down with Dr. Cheryl Tatano Beck, one of the most influential researchers in postpartum mood disorders and psychological birth trauma. Dr. Beck shares how her clinical work as a nurse and nurse-midwife led her into research, how she “fell into” traumatic birth as a focus, and why listening to mothers’ own words and metaphors changed everything.Together, they explore breastfeeding after birth trauma, the role of dignity and respect in preventing trauma, and the possibility of post-traumatic growth—not as a silver lining, but as a real, complex outcome of surviving somethin...
2025-11-1843 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 204: How a Lived Experience Can Strengthen (but not define) a Therapist's Work feat. LillianIn this special listener series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Lillian, a licensed clinical social worker to unpack both the personal and professional realities of NICU trauma, for parents, families, and the clinicians who support them.As a psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health, Lillian has spent years supporting women through infertility, postpartum mood disorders, and the transition to motherhood. But her work took on new meaning after her own experience as a NICU parent, giving birth to triplets at 34 weeks during the height of C...
2025-11-1326 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 203: “I Thought I Was Here to Help”: Healing the Helpers in Birth WorkIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Maggie Runyon, nurse educator, author, and co-creator of the Trauma-Informed Birth Nurse Program, for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about what it means to care — and to keep caring — in a system that so often asks too much of its helpers.Maggie’s new book, I Thought I Was Here to Help, explores the emotional and professional identity of nurses and other healthcare providers, unpacking how the “helper” mindset — while rooted in empathy and purpose — can also lead to burnout, moral distress...
2025-11-1141 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 202: Emergency C-Section & Dismissive Care feat. BetseyIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Betsey, a therapist, mother, and birth trauma survivor, to share her powerful and ongoing story of survival, advocacy, and rebuilding trust in the medical system.Betsey’s pregnancy started off routine, until her daughter Mara’s heart rate began showing signs of distress at 39 weeks. What followed was a series of events that would forever change Betsey’s experience of birth and motherhood.But Betsey’s trauma didn’t end in the delivery room. Her postpartum experience was marked by repeated m...
2025-11-0731 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastMini Series: Pregnancy After Birth TraumaIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh opens a gentle and honest conversation about the journey of considering pregnancy after birth trauma and introduces her new workshop, created specifically for this season.The Pregnancy After Birth Trauma workshop was designed as a supportive, trauma-informed space for anyone exploring a subsequent pregnancy after a difficult or traumatic birth. It offers guidance, reflection prompts, and tools to help you move through this process with clarity and a sense of agency. Whether you're actively trying, quietly wondering if you're ready, or still holding the question gently from...
2025-11-0415 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 200: Cervical Tear, Uterine Rupture, PPH & No Debrief feat. ChristineIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Christine, a mom of four, to share her harrowing and powerful story of surviving a rare and life-threatening birth and postpartum experience.After being induced at 37 weeks for hypertension, Christine’s delivery with her fourth son, Caden, started calmly, until everything changed. What followed was a series of medical emergencies including a cervical tear, uterine rupture, hemorrhage, and emergency exploratory surgery, followed by multiple re-hospitalizations and near-death experiences in the weeks after giving birth.Christine opens up about th...
2025-10-3040 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 199: Social Work, Medicine, and the Heart of OB CareIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Dr. Jackie Dallaire, an OBGYN and former social work major, to explore what truly human-centered care looks like inside the world of obstetrics.Jackie’s path to medicine began with a foundation in social work, where she learned the importance of empathy, systems thinking, and seeing every person in the context of their story. Those lessons have shaped how she shows up in her practice today, as a doctor who listens deeply, centers her patients’ autonomy, and advocates for a more...
2025-10-2842 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 198: Placental Abruption, Stillbirth, & Honoring Max’s Legacy feat. MeghanIn this deeply moving listener story episode, Kayleigh is joined by Meghan, who shares the heartbreaking and powerful story of her son, Max. 💛At 33 weeks pregnant, Meghan experienced a sudden placental abruption that led to a traumatic emergency delivery and the devastating loss of her baby. Through her story, Meghan opens up about the terrifying moments of realizing something was wrong, the life-saving efforts of her care team, and the sacred time she spent with Max after his passing.She also reflects on the reality of postpartum recovery after trauma, gri...
2025-10-2349 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 197: Midwifery Care in the HospitalIn this episode, of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Caitlin, a certified nurse midwife practicing within an OB/GYN group, to talk about how midwives are redefining patient-centered care inside traditional medical settings. Together, they explore what makes the midwifery model unique, why collaboration with obstetricians matters, and how integrating both perspectives can create safer, more supported birth experiences.Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how the midwifery model emphasizes relationship, trust, and holistic support, even within hospital-based systems, and why this approach can be a powerful antidote...
2025-10-2153 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 196: Medical Gaslighting, Racial Bias, & Emotional Fallout in the NICU feat. SowaniaIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Sowania Germain, LMHC-D, PMHC, a licensed therapist and fellow birth trauma survivor, to share her powerful story of pregnancy complications, hospitalization, and healing.Sowania’s journey began with an unexpected pregnancy that led to months of antepartum bed rest, countless medical interventions, and a premature birth, followed by the heavy emotional aftermath that so many parents silently carry. As a therapist and Haitian American woman, Sowania offers an insightful perspective on the intersections of medical trauma, cultural shame, and the lo...
2025-10-1639 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 195: From Hospital Halls to Healing Spaces: Meet Alicia Rainwater, LCSWIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Alicia Rainwater, LCSW, the newest member of the Holding Hope Perinatal therapy team. Alicia brings nearly a decade of experience as a medical social worker and shares how both her professional and personal journeys have shaped her approach to perinatal trauma and grief work.From walking alongside families in hospitals during some of their hardest days to navigating her own motherhood journey after losing her mom, Alicia’s story beautifully illustrates the heart of trauma-informed care, presence, empathy, and validation....
2025-10-1444 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 194: Placenta Accreta x2 & a Hysterectomy feat. RachaelIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Rachael to share her powerful story of surviving placenta accreta, not once, but twice, and the far-reaching impact it had on her body, her family, and her healing.Rachael, an IVF mom and nurse, opens up about her traumatic birth experiences: the emergency surgeries, hemorrhage, ICU stay, and the devastating loss of her ability to breastfeed after a pituitary rupture. She also shares her second accreta journey, which ended in a hysterectomy, and the complicated grief of both relief and loss that followed.
2025-10-0933 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 193: Inside UCSF’s Accreta Center: Lessons in Care, Trauma, and HealingIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Dr. Arianna Cassidy, maternal-fetal medicine physician at UCSF, to unpack one of the most complex and high-risk conditions in pregnancy: placenta accreta.Placenta accreta spectrum disorders have been rising alongside C-section rates, yet remain widely misunderstood. Dr. Cassidy shares her personal journey into medicine, her role in building UCSF’s multidisciplinary accreta center, and why the care for these patients must go beyond surgery and survival.Together, they explore:🩸 What placenta accreta is, why it happens, and the growing risk facto...
2025-10-0854 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 190: A Retrievals Podcast Conversation with Dr. Heather Nixon & Dvora EntinIn this special crossover episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast and The Misconceptions Podcast, Kayleigh and Dvora sit down with Dr. Heather Nixon, an obstetric anesthesiologist, to unpack one of the most overlooked aspects of birth trauma: pain during C-sections and failed anesthesia.Inspired by Season 2 of The Retrievals podcast, this conversation dives into what happens when patients are told, “you’re not feeling pain,” even when they clearly are. Dr. Nixon shares her professional journey of reckoning with the ways anesthesia has been taught, normalized, and misunderstood in obstetric care, and why communication and va...
2025-09-301h 00The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 191: The Retrievals Podcast Debrief with Dvora EntinIn this debrief episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast and The Misconceptions Podcast, Kayleigh and Dvora reflect on their powerful conversation with Dr. Heather Nixon, an OB anesthesiologist working to transform how pain is managed and communicated during C-sections.While the first conversation laid the groundwork, this follow-up goes deeper into the emotional, psychological, and systemic layers of what it means when patients feel pain and aren’t believed.Kayleigh and Dvora unpack:💔 How unacknowledged pain during birth translates into long-term trauma🧠 Why being dismissed in the OR can reinforce lifelong wounds around not bein...
2025-09-3033 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 189: AFLP, HELLP, & ICU Delirium feat. LindseyIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Lindsey, who shares her harrowing story of developing acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP) and HELLP syndrome at 37 weeks. What began as a healthy, joyful pregnancy quickly spiraled into a medical emergency involving liver failure, internal bleeding, intubation, dialysis, and a two-week ICU stay.Lindsey walks us through her fragmented memories, the video of meeting her daughter that went viral, and the hidden layers of ICU delirium and psychosis that shaped her early postpartum days. She also opens...
2025-09-2554 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 188: Birth Trauma, Body Image, and Eating ConcernsIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Andrea Wetterau, a licensed clinical social worker, EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, and perinatal mental health certified provider, for an eye-opening conversation on the intersection of birth trauma, body image, and eating concerns in the perinatal period.Andrea shares her personal journey of developing an eating disorder as a teen, choosing recovery every day, and later facing the resurfacing of old struggles after experiencing significant birth and postpartum trauma herself. Now, through her work with pregnant and postpartum clients, Andrea helps parents...
2025-09-2333 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 187: Uterine Inversion, Life-Saving Hysterectomy, & Postpartum Healing feat. AngelIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, we are joined by Angel, who shares her powerful story of birth, near-death, and healing after a rare and life-threatening complication: uterine inversion.Angel describes how her labor started smoothly and seemed “perfect" until the unexpected happened. What followed was a cascade of emergencies, including massive blood loss, emergency surgery, a hysterectomy, and days in critical care. Angel walks us through the terrifying moments of saying goodbye to her husband, the prayers she whispered before surgery, and the relief of waking up alive.But her story do...
2025-09-1833 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 186: Small Rebellions in a Broken SystemIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Dr. Ono Nseyo, an OB-GYN practicing in the Bay Area, for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation about patient-centered, trauma-informed care and what it means to show up as both a clinician and a human.Dr. Nseyo shares her journey from growing up as the daughter of Nigerian immigrants to becoming a physician passionate about addressing health disparities and providing care that honors dignity and autonomy. Together, Kayleigh and Dr. Nseyo explore what happens when healthcare providers reject the pressure of rushed, 10...
2025-09-1645 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 185: A Nurse's Perspective feat. KatelynnIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Katelynn, a labor and delivery nurse who was at the bedside during a devastating traumatic birth, Julia’s story (Episode 137).Together, they revisit that day, but this time through the eyes of the provider. Katelynn opens up about the chaos of rushing Julia to the OR, the horror of watching her patient code, and the emotional toll that followed. What unfolds is a powerful conversation about the very real trauma healthcare workers face when catastrophic events occur in labor and delivery....
2025-09-1135 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 184: Creating a Catastrophic Birth PlanPlanning for birth often centers around the joyful, expected moments, skin-to-skin, golden hour, and bringing your baby home. But what about the unexpected? What happens if birth takes a catastrophic turn?In this joint episode with The BirthLounge Podcast, HeHe Stewart and I are collaborating again. Together, we unpack what it means to create a catastrophic birth plan, a tool to help families feel informed and empowered even in rare, life-threatening situations.I share my personal experience of surviving an AFE and what I wish had been in place for myself, my baby...
2025-09-091h 18
The Birth Lounge PodcastEp. 376: Creating a Catastrophic Birth Plan with Kayleigh SummersThis episode isn’t just about birth plans—it’s about the plan no one wants to make, but every family needs. I’m joined by Kayleigh Summers, aka The Birth Trauma Mama, to have a real and raw conversation about creating a catastrophe plan during pregnancy.
Kayleigh shares her personal story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) and how that experience changed everything about the way she views birth prep. We talk about what most people skip over: ICU protocols, feeding plans, postpartum care in emergencies, and yes—even life support decisions.
It’s a heavy co...
2025-08-291h 23The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 179: Six Years OutIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I’m reflecting on six years since the day my life and my son Callahan’s changed forever. Six years since I experienced an amniotic fluid embolism that nearly took both of our lives. Six years into a healing journey that has been anything but linear.This solo episode is my most honest update yet. I talk about what recovery looks like this far out from the trauma: what’s changed, what hasn’t, the unexpected gifts, and the grief that still lingers. I share how I’ve learned to...
2025-07-0825 min
Golden HourWhen Birth Becomes Trauma: A Raw Conversation with Therapist Kayleigh Summers | Golden Hour Podcast, Episode 33What happens when the moment that’s supposed to be one of life’s most joyful turns into one of the most traumatic?In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Kayleigh Summers — licensed therapist, writer, and one of today’s most important voices in the conversation around birth trauma. After surviving a rare and nearly fatal Amniotic Fluid Embolism, Kayleigh turned her experience into purpose: helping others process, heal, and feel less alone through her therapy practice, podcast, and deeply honest social media storytelling.We talk about:What birth trauma really looks like — and why it’s...
2025-06-181h 17
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 170: Preeclampsia, Hemorrhage, & a NICU Stay as Queer Parents feat. AlejandraIn honor of Pride Month, this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast features a powerful and deeply personal conversation with Alejandra- a queer parent, birth trauma survivor, and passionate advocate for inclusive, affirming perinatal care. Alejandra shares about her family, their journey through infertility and IVF, and a traumatic birth experience involving preeclampsia, an emergency cesarean, a NICU stay, and a near-fatal postpartum hemorrhage.Together, Kayleigh and Alejandra explore the intersections of identity, trauma, and healing. They shed light on the systemic challenges queer families often face in reproductive healthcare and the strength and resilience it...
2025-06-0637 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 169: Preparing For Medical Procedures After TraumaIn this solo episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I share a personal journey preparing for and undergoing a simple procedure after experiencing significant birth trauma. What used to feel like an impossible task, stepping into a hospital, lying on a table, and surrendering control, became a moment of grounded confidence and self-advocacy. Drawing from both clinical knowledge and lived experience, I talk through the practical and emotional tools that helped me feel safe, empowered, and informed before, during, and after the procedure. This episode is a roadmap for survivors looking to reclaim autonomy and reduce o...
2025-06-0426 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 168: Postpartum Preeclampsia & A NICU Stay Miles Apart feat. ArianneIn this week's Listener Series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Arianne courageously shares her story of navigating a traumatic birth, a devastating postpartum complication, and the aftermath of nearly losing her life.After an otherwise healthy pregnancy, Arianne went into labor at 34 weeks following a sudden and severe bleeding episode. What unfolded was a cascade of medical emergencies, including an emergency C-section, high blood pressure that was dangerously overlooked, and a second hospitalization for postpartum preeclampsia, all while parenting a NICU baby and moving into a new home.As a Black woman, Arianne’s...
2025-05-2227 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 167: Mom Rage Isn't A Meltdown, It's A MessageIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh is joined by Nicole McNelis, LPC, therapist, educator, and nationally recognized expert in maternal rage. Nicole shares how she became known as “the mom rage lady,” what maternal rage really is (and what it isn’t), and why so many perinatal trauma survivors experience it.Together, Kayleigh and Nicole unpack the systemic, emotional, and trauma-related roots of maternal rage, reframing it not as a personal failure, but as a powerful, righteous signal that something in your environment isn’t working. Nicole offers a compassionate, evidence-based lens for understa...
2025-05-2140 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 166: 4th Degree Tear, Rectovaginal Fistula, & Ongoing Recovery feat. ScarlettIn this week’s Listener Series episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Scarlett bravely shares her story a layered, and still-unfolding journey through birth trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, and complex pelvic floor injuries that continue to impact her life more than five years later.She speaks candidly about the realities of:🩸 Surviving a traumatic birth and emergency postpartum care⚕️ Navigating misdiagnoses and medical dismissiveness🏥 Undergoing reconstructive surgery, just days before COVID shut down elective procedures💔 Living with an unresolved injury, even years later💬 Parenting solo while healing, with her husband deployed and her newborn in tow...
2025-05-1753 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 165: Delayed Bonding After Birth TraumaIn this re-release, Kayleigh revisits one of the most listened-to solo episodes of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast: a personal and validating exploration of what it means to struggle with bonding after a traumatic birth.We’re often told that the “golden hour” will be the most magical moment of our lives, that love will overflow the second our baby is placed on our chest. But for many trauma survivors, that moment never comes. Instead, we're left navigating guilt, shame, and confusion about why bonding didn’t look the way we were told it would.Drawing...
2025-05-1429 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 163: Not Ungrateful, Just TraumatizedIn this Mini Series episode, I dive into a nuanced conversation around gratitude practices for perinatal trauma survivors. While gratitude can be a powerful tool for healing, it often becomes complicated when paired with the experiences of trauma, grief, and loss.Whether you’ve felt pressure to “just be grateful” or are searching for ways to reconnect with yourself and your story, this episode offers validation and actionable insight.🔑 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The challenges of embracing gratitude after birth traumaWhy traditional gratitude practices can feel dismissive for survivorsHow to reframe gratitude t...
2025-05-0724 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 161: Pregnancy, Trauma, & The Body You're Left WithIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Colleen Reichmann, clinical psychologist, eating disorder specialist, and founder of Wildflower Therapy. Together, we dive deep into the complex intersections of body image, eating concerns, infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and birth trauma.Dr. Reichmann shares her professional expertise and personal journey navigating anorexia, infertility, and postpartum body changes, offering validation, compassion, and essential insights for anyone who has felt disconnected, angry, or let down by their body.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:🌸 How control, body image, and trauma collide during...
2025-04-2935 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 160: Sexual Trauma, Dehumanization, & PTSD Recovery feat. JocelynIn honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, this week’s Listener Series episode features a deeply moving and courageous conversation with Jocelyn. She shares her story of how a sexual assault in college—though years in the past—powerfully influenced her second birth experience, which unfolded into a traumatic emergency C-section under general anesthesia.Jocelyn Rodal's experience highlights the devastating impact of being unheard, unprepared, and uninformed in moments of extreme vulnerability—and how a history of sexual trauma can resurface in the birthing room in ways that even well-meaning providers may not realize.In this epi...
2025-04-2544 min
The C-Section Experience: Empowering C-Section Education and SupportThe Birth Trauma Mama Kayleigh Summers on Amniotic Fluid Embolism, Birth Trauma & Healing [33]AFE Foundation: https://afesupport.org Support Firefighter Matt Okula & Baby Crew After Tragic Loss: https://gofund.me/35664636 Jen and Bethany welcome Kayleigh Summers—licensed therapist, birth trauma survivor, and creator of The Birth Trauma Mama—for a powerful conversation about birth trauma, C-sections, and healing after traumatic birth experiences. Kayleigh shares her personal story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) during her son's birth in 2019, a rare and life-threatening childbirth complication. Together, they honor the memory of Hailey Okula, who tragically passed away from an AFE, and discuss the critical need for awareness, preparedness, and...
2025-04-221h 00
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 159: Pregnancy After Sexual Assault & Navigating The Medical System feat. MandyIn this deeply emotional and courageous Listener Series episode , Mandy shares her story- a story of medical trauma, sexual assault, domestic violence, birth trauma, and survival.From a devastating hospitalization at the start of the pandemic to becoming pregnant through rape and surviving an abusive relationship during pregnancy, Mandy brings raw honesty and incredible insight into how trauma, resilience, and advocacy can co-exist.In this episode, you’ll hear about:🔹 Mandy’s life-threatening medical complications leading up to pregnancy🔹 Discovering she was pregnant by rape while in an abusive relationship🔹 Living through hyperemesis...
2025-04-181h 07The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 158: Sexual Trauma & Perinatal Trauma: Understanding the ImpactIn this powerful and nuanced episode, I’m joined once again by Morgan Bradwell, LCSW, PMH-C, to explore the intersection between sexual trauma and perinatal trauma.We discuss how past sexual trauma can shape the perinatal experience, increase the risk of birth trauma, and impact postpartum mental health, including rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Morgan draws from her clinical experience supporting survivors of sexual trauma and perinatal trauma to help us better understand how to support pregnant people with this history, whether you’re a provider, a partner, or navigating it yourself.What You’ll Hea...
2025-04-1546 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 157: HIE, Postpartum Hemorrhage, & NICU Loss feat. PriyaIn this Listener Episode, I sit down with Priya as she shares her deeply personal and emotional journey through birth trauma, emergency medical interventions, and the unimaginable grief of losing her baby in the NICU. Priya opens up about experiencing a traumatic birth, the unexpected complications that followed, and the physical and emotional toll it took on her postpartum experience.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Priya’s birth trauma experience and emergency medical interventionsFacing a postpartum hemorrhage and its impact on recoveryNavigating the NICU stay and the heartbreak of infant lossPTSD, anxiety, and the ment...
2025-04-1042 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 158: C-Sections & Birth Trauma - Not One Size Fits AllApril is Cesarean Awareness Month, and we’re re-releasing this incredibly important conversation to spotlight the complexities, emotions, and real stories behind C-sections.On this solo episode, Kayleigh is discussing all things c-section. She shares a few different studies highlighting the data on c-sections and PTSD, as well as how they compare to other modes of delivery. Kayleigh also touches on TOLACs and planned cesarean sections after birth trauma. In this episode:- Types of C-Sections- C-Section and birth trauma- Communication and Support as mitigating factors- Delivery decisions aft...
2025-04-0849 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 156: C-Section Recovery & Birth TraumaIn this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I sit down with a Victoria, a midwife to explore the complexities of birth trauma from a provider’s perspective. Together, we discuss the emotional and physical impact of traumatic births, how midwives support birthing people through these experiences, and the importance of trauma-informed care in maternity settings.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How midwives approach birth trauma and support their clientsThe role of informed consent and shared decision-making in reducing traumaPractical advice for navigating the postpartum period after a traumatic birthHow providers can...
2025-04-0258 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 155: When an ICU Nurse has an AFE feat. JennaIn this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I sit down with Jenna, an ICU nurse and fellow Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) survivor. Jenna shares her harrowing birth experience, the life-saving interventions she received, and the long road to recovery.We discuss:💔 The shocking moment Jenna realized something was very wrong after birth🚨 Her rapid decline & emergency medical response🩸 Being diagnosed with AFE, intubated, and placed on ECMO 🦵 The unexpected vascular complications & multiple surgeries that followed...
2025-03-2748 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 154: Honoring AFE Awareness Day: Understanding Amniotic Fluid EmbolismMarch 27th marks Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) Awareness Day, a time to honor the lives affected by this rare but life-threatening complication. In this special episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, we take a deep dive into what AFE is, how it happens, and what can be done to improve survival rates.In this episode, we discuss:🩸 What is AFE? Understanding this sudden and unpredictable complication⚕️ Symptoms & Diagnosis: How AFE presents and why it’s difficult to diagnose🚨 Emergency Response & Treatment: The critical importance o...
2025-03-2529 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 153: Low Platelets, Two Traumatic Births, & Giving Birth Alone feat. CourtneyIn this powerful Listener Series episode, Courtney shares her deeply personal journey through birth trauma, miscarriage, and healing. From navigating unexpected medical challenges to advocating for herself in the face of systemic failures, her story is one of resilience, grief, and ultimately, self-discovery.On this episode, you will hear:💔 Facing childbirth with a history of trauma & medical anxiety💔 The emotional toll of low platelets & losing control over pain management💔 A traumatic induction experience & feeling unheard by medical providers💔 The devastating experience of miscarriage & lack of support💔 Giving birth alone during COVID & the las...
2025-03-2033 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 152: Finding the Right TherapistSearching for a therapist after experiencing birth or perinatal trauma can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this special mini-series episode, we break down exactly how to find a therapist who is trained in both perinatal mental health and trauma, so you can get the support you deserve.In this episode, we cover:🔹 The best qualifications & trainings to look for in a therapist🔹 Why both perinatal mental health & trauma training matter🔹 Where to search for a specialized therapist (PSI, Touchstone, & more)🔹 What questions to ask in a free cons...
2025-03-1819 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 151: Anesthesia & Birth Trauma: Ineffective Pain ReliefA special and highly requested rerelease - Dr. Vibha Mahendra, a board-certified Obstetric Anesthesiologist, joins me on this episode to discuss anesthesia options during labor and delivery and why they are sometimes ineffective, potentially leading to trauma for the patient. Dr. M also provides insight into how providers can problem-solve these pain relief issues and communicate with patients in a way that mitigates trauma. This was such an insightful conversation and I think does a great job educating the patient in a way that puts them in a better position to advocate or communicate with their support p...
2025-03-111h 15
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 150: Inadequate Pain Management & Invalidating Debriefs feat. JoniIn this deeply moving episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Joni shares her raw and powerful birth story—one filled with unexpected turns, systemic failures, and unimaginable strength. From an intense labor experience to a traumatic C-section where she felt the surgery, Joni walks us through the emotional and physical aftermath of her birth and the complex journey of processing trauma while embracing new motherhood.On this episode, you will hear:💜 The impact of unplanned and traumatic C-sections💜 What happens when medical records fail to reflect a patient’s reality💜 How systemic hospital failures affe...
2025-03-0740 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 149: Litigation After Birth Trauma: Understanding the ProcessOn this week's episode, we welcome Marlie Willer, an experienced trial lawyer whose practice focuses on civil litigation with an emphasis on obstetrical negligence and maternal health rights. She recognizes the gaps between the injuries suffered by mother and babies and the limited legal options available to them. Marlie discusses with us in detail what it means to decide to pursue litigation after birth trauma and birth injury. There is so much to learn in this episode and Marlie and her expertise is so incredibly helpful and validating.On this episode, you will hear:...
2025-03-0459 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 148: Deployment, NICU stay, NEC, & 23 Years of Healing feat. KrisOn this week's episode, we welcome Kris to share her story. Kris offers us a unique perspective of experiencing generational birth trauma. Kris' mother passed away at 3 days old, and she shares with us her own birth trauma with her second pregnancy with her son Logan - who is now 23. After years of healing and putting in the work for it, Kris shares about what it is like to be 20+ years removed from your birth trauma and how important it is to speak out your trauma and not be small in your story. We hope this episode gives hope...
2025-02-2836 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 147: Mini Series: Navigating Medical Appointments After Birth TraumaThis week, we are releasing a new mini series episode. We are breaking down a little how-to for preparing for medical appointments after birth trauma. There is a possibility of so much activation, fear, and anxiety in medical appointments after you have experienced birth trauma, so I am going to talk you through it and break down a long-term prep for a medical appointment, what that can look like and what the before, during and after process is. If medical appointments after birth trauma is a challenging thing to navigate, remember you aren't alone in it and you can...
2025-02-2517 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 146: Compounding Complications feat. HannahOn this week's listener story, we are doing a special rerelease with Hannah's story. Hannah and her wife had a fairly healthy pregnancy but she experienced what she refers to as serial complications during and after the birth of their daughter.Things you will hear on this episode:- Induction and long labor- 3B tear due to a laceration- Struggling to bond- Breastfeeding challenges- Deep vein thrombosis - Postpartum Depression- Small bilateral pulmonary emboli - Developing mastitis and a UTI- postpartum D...
2025-02-2140 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 145: Providers Are Human: Understanding & Supporting Provider TraumaOn today's episode, we are talking about provider trauma. This is a topic that we are incredibly passionate about and I think this plays an intricate role in birth and perinatal trauma and our ability to prevent it. We are specifically talking about any health care worker in the labor and delivery, obstetric and NICU/ICU space - essentially anyone involved in one's care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. This is such a personal topic, as I share how my team made space to process the trauma they experience with my AFE and Cal's birth.In this...
2025-02-1729 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 144: NICU Loss, Subsequent Birth & the Deafening Silence of Grief feat. NandiOn this week’s episode, we welcome Nandi as she bravely shares her story of love, loss, and healing. Nandi opens up about her first pregnancy with her son, Kiran Jude, whose life was tragically cut short by a brain bleed just three days after birth in the NICU. She also reflects on the birth of her daughter, a journey that resulted in an emergency C-section and a hysterectomy due to her blood disorder, Factor VII Deficiency. With courage and vulnerability, Nandi speaks about navigating the depths of grief, the deafening silence that accompanies it, and the ways she co...
2025-02-1447 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 143: Sex & Intimacy After Birth TraumaA special rerelease - Rachel Wright, LMFT, shares about the impact of birth and birth trauma on sex and intimacy. She answers all of your questions related to navigating intimacy and sex with a partner and yourself after birth trauma. This is a must-listen-to episode full of wonderful nuggets and concrete suggestions for approaching intimacy after birth trauma. In this episode you will hear:- Communicating needs and boundaries with your partner- Approaching/initiating intimacy after birth trauma- Intimacy and pleasure outside of sex- Planning out intimacy with yourself and...
2025-02-101h 11
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 142: Emergency Cerclage, Bedrest and a NICU Journey feat. StaciOn this week's Listener Series, we welcome Staci. She shares with us about her pregnancy with her daughter that turned into a marathon of bedrest. Early in her pregnancy, Staci went to a prenatal appointment and had to be rushed to the hospital for an emergency cerclage placement. She was placed on bedrest to keep the pregnancy going as long as possible. Due to being on the Cherokee Nation insurance plan, her and her family had to move to Oklahoma to be closer to the prenatal care she needed for her high-risk situation. Staci was able to stay pregnant...
2025-01-3036 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 141: Adoption and Perinatal TraumaOn this week's episode, we are talking about the intersection of adoption and birth and perinatal trauma. We are joined by Gabbie Ryan, who has personal and professional experience in this. Gabbie was adopted from China at 18 months old to a white family in Minnesota. She is now a diversity equity and justice leader in the Twin Cities and specializes in adoptee self-discovery. Gabbie and I really dive into the adoption practices and the idea of "coming out of a fog" as an adoptee. We hope you enjoy and learn something new in this episode - we are not...
2025-01-2753 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 136: The Grief & Joy of an Only Child After Birth TraumaOn Today's episode, Kayleigh shares her own journey with coming to accept their family of three over the past 5 years. In this episode:- Positives of having an only child- Fears about having an only child- Making the decision to have an only child- Acceptance and Grief of your family looking different than you imagined. For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through Th...
2025-01-0745 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 129: Navigating the Holidays After Birth TraumaOn this week's episode, we are rereleasing our Navigating the Holidays episode where Kayleigh talks about birth trauma and navigating the holidays. The holidays can be triggering for many whether its navigating an anniversary around the holidays or family members asking questions about your trauma or future family planning.Things you will hear on this episode: - navigating first holidays after trauma- coping with an anniversary of birth trauma that falls around the holidays - family conversations: establishing coping skills, support plans and boundariesFor more birth trauma content and a co...
2024-11-2537 min
Mom and Mind363; Life-Threatening Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Story of Birth Trauma, Survival, and Healing with Kayleigh Summers, LCSW, PMH-CToday’s episode carries a sensitivity notice for anyone currently processing a birth trauma. Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. Through sharing her lived experience as an amniotic fluid embolism survivor, Kayleigh supports families through perinatal trauma. She has created thriving support communities through Instagram and TikTok, and she uses her podcast, The Birth Trauma Mama, to provide connection, storytelling, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other types of trauma.Show Highlights:
Kayleigh’s first pregnancy, which was typical until her routine appo...
2024-09-0945 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 109: Making Birth BetterOn this episode, Kayleigh is joined by Nikki Wilson of Make Birth Better, a UK organization that was created to end the suffering from birth trauma. Make Birth Better provides support, training, and campaigning related to both birth and vicarious trauma. We dive into a lot of advocacy and awareness in this discussion as well as hearing about Nikki's own personal experience of how she came to be in this space.On this episode, you will hear:- support, training, and advocacy for better birth experiences- taking a systematic approach to prevent and treat...
2024-07-1554 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 108: Vasa Previa, NICU, & Isolated Antepartum Stay feat. SamiOn this week's Listener Series, we are joined by Sami - an elementary school classmate of Kayleigh's. Kayleigh and Sami reconnected in 2020 because of birth trauma. Sami shares about her pregnancy and birth experience during the height of COVID and how it took an unexpected turn with a diagnosis of Vasa Previa required a hospital admission at week 30 until her baby way born. She shares about her unexpected diagnosis, the impact of COVID on antepartum admissions, particularly as an immunocompromised patient and her son's NICU stay.On this episode, you will hear:- The challenges of...
2024-07-1156 minThe Birth Lounge PodcastEp. 276: Surviving Amniotic Fluid Embolism with Kayleigh Summers, LCSWHeHe is joined with Kayleigh Summers, or The Birth Trauma Mama, to discuss a rare but serious pregnancy complication known as Amniotic Fluid Embolism. This episode dives into what causes AFE, the signs & symptoms plus what Kayleigh's healing process looked like after her experience. You will also hear questions and discussions to have with your provider if you have risk factors that increase your chances of experiencing AFE or if you're curious how your hospital would manage an event such as AFE in your birth. This episode mentions birth trauma, maternal death and fetal demise so please be kind...
2024-07-101h 30
Birth With PowerEp 262: Birth Trauma With Licensed Clinical Social Work and Birth Trauma Survivor Kayleigh SummersIt’s a miracle that today’s guest, Kayleigh Summers, is even alive. She is an amniotic fluid embolism survivor and went into cardiac arrest twice during labor. When you hear her story, you’re going to be blown away.This lived-experience led her to center her career around perinatal trauma. As a licensed clinical social worker, she is supporting families experiencing perinatal trauma and has created a thriving community where survivors can feel less alone.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:What birth trauma is and what causes itWhat the symptoms areHow to deter...
2024-06-1154 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 91: The Unexpected with Emily OsterOn this episode, Kayleigh is joined by Emily Oster, Brown University economics professor and Best-Selling Author to discuss her new book, The Unexpected. This book will be a go-to for those in the birth trauma community who have experienced complications and are able/interested in having more children. Join us as we discuss the importance data plays in conversations with providers, especially after birth trauma. Guest Bio:Emily is on a mission to empower parents by providing the data and tools they need to make confident decisions. After getting a PhD in economics from Harvard, s...
2024-04-2837 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 85: C-Sections and Birth Trauma: Not One Size Fits AllOn this solo episode, Kayleigh is discussing all things c-section. She shares a few different studies highlighting the data on c-sections and PTSD, as well as how they compare to other modes of delivery. Kayleigh also touches on TOLACs and planned cesarean sections after birth trauma. In this episode:- Types of C-Sections- C-Section and birth trauma- Communication and Support as mitigating factors- Delivery decisions after birth trauma (TOLAC v. planned c-section)- C-Sections under general anesthesiaStudies Discussed:Garthus-Niegel S, von Soest T, Knoph C...
2024-04-0949 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 83: AFE: A Provider's Perspective with Dr. SaberinThis week's episode is a very special one. To honor AFE Awareness week, Kayleigh welcome's her very own OB that handled her AFE episode. Dr. Saberin moved into action very quickly when she recognized that Kayleigh was having an AFE. Her number one priority was to get Cal out via an emergency cesarian-section to help save Cal and better the chances of Kayleigh's survival.On this episode you will hear:- Dr. Saberin's memory of Kayleigh's birth experience and AFE- STAT C-Section- mass transfusion protocol- Kayleigh being resuscitated by cardiac...
2024-03-271h 00The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 79: Friendship After Birth TraumaOn this week's episode, Kayleigh dives into the topic of friendship after birth trauma covering big questions like: How do we navigate and protect our friendships after birth trauma? How can we still support those around us while also honoring our needs in healing after birth trauma? We hope that this episode leaves you with some nuggets and encouragements as you navigate friendship after birth trauma. What you will hear in this episode:- how birth/perinatal trauma can impact friendships- the importance of connecting with others who have experienced birth/perinatal trauma...
2024-03-1130 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 78: Supporting a Friend After Birth TraumaOn this week's episode, Stephanie DeFilippis joins Kayleigh. Stephanie is a licensed therapist who specializes in perinatal mental health and is also the founder and owner of Crescent Moon Therapy. In this episode Kayleigh and Stephanie talk about the pros and cons of having a therapist with a shared lived experience or not. The conversation continues into the ways one who has never experienced birth trauma can support someone who has.On this episode you will hear:- the role of a lived experience in therapy- the importance of therapists working through their own...
2024-03-0439 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 72: The Miscarriage DoulaOn this week's episode, Arden Cartrette, @themiscarriagedoula and Kayleigh have a deep dive conversation into the specific care of being a miscarriage doula. Arden shares about her own experiences of recurrent loss and the support she offers other families experiencing miscarriage and loss, especially those who go on to have subsequent pregnancies after loss.What you will hear on this episode:- what being a miscarriage doula means and the unique space of work it is- nuances of support for miscarriage and loss- the intersection of trauma and loss- support...
2024-02-1233 min
The Feminist Mom PodcastBirth Trauma & Paternalistic Care with Kayleigh SummersToday I am speaking with Kayleigh Summers. Kayleigh is a licensed therapist, mom, and birth trauma survivor located in Southeastern PA. You may know her on social media as thebirthtrauma_mama. Kayleigh suffered an Amniotic Fluid Embolism during the birth of her son in 2019, which almost took her life. Since then, She’s used her skillset as a therapist and lived experiences as a birth trauma survivor to create a supportive community for others who have experienced trauma during the perinatal period. She creates social media content and resources to help other birth trauma survivors navigate their healing.
2024-01-1658 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 64: Navigating The Holidays After Birth TraumaOn this week's episode, Kayleigh talks about birth trauma and navigating the holidays.Things you will hear on this episode: - navigating first holidays after trauma- dealing with an anniversary of trauma that is - family conversations, establishing boundariesFor more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Bi...
2023-11-2937 min
Misconceptions1. When Birth Becomes Trauma with Kayleigh Summers When Birth becomes a Trauma: Kayleigh Summers was expecting her first child, and after an uneventful labor the birth took a frightening turn. Listen to her story unfold and learn about the impact of birth trauma on identity, motherhood and parenting. Guest links: Website: https://thebirthtraumamama.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirthtrauma_mama/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebirthtrauma_mama Dvora Entin:
2023-10-2742 min
BCEN & FriendsSpeak Now with the Birth Trauma Mama (Kayleigh Summers)In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Kayleigh Summers.
Kayleigh Summers is a licensed clinical social worker and private practice owner in Downingtown, PA. Kayleigh uses her training as a licensed therapist and her own experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to treat and support families experiencing perinatal trauma.
Kayleigh has created thriving birth trauma support communities through Instagram and TikTok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma.
Come along as Michael...
2023-10-1739 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 52: Treating Perinatal Trauma: A Candid ConversationAbigail Barth, MSW, RSW, PMH-C is a therapist with expertise and lived experience in perinatal trauma and grief. She joins Kayleigh for a very candid but deep conversation about all things perinatal trauma, including a broad overview of treatment options and what it means to be a perinatal trauma therapist with your own lived experience. Things you will hear on this episode:-Defining and understanding narrative therapy-Defining and understanding creative arts therapies-Societal expectations and pressures related to the perinatal period.-The power of language in the perinatal space.- Providing...
2023-10-1152 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 47: Advocacy & Support After Infertility, Loss, HELLP & 2x NICU StayOn this episode, Ebony Ford joins us and shares her journey through infertility, loss, and birth trauma. While pregnant, Ebony was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome which put her in acute liver and kidney failure. Her traumatic, near death birth story and her daughter's NICU journey birthed a passion for advocacy and mentoring. Kayleigh and Ebony discuss the importance of advocacy and support plans especially when considering a subsequent pregnancy and delivery after birth trauma, like Ebony experienced with her son. You can find Ebony Ford on Instagram: @andweshallreignEbony Ford i...
2023-09-2150 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 44: C-Section Under GA & NICU Stay Due to Severe Gestational Hypertension feat. HeatherOn this week's listener episode, Kayleigh is joined by Heather - who you heard from on Episode 1 of this season. Heather is The Birth Trauma Mama's project manager and shares her birth trauma experience and NICU journey.Heather and her husband live in Arkansas and got pregnant with their daughter in January 2022. She had a healthy pregnancy up until week 32 when her blood pressure skyrocketed and had to be monitored for two weeks. Heather delivered at 34 weeks via cesarian section and the procedure didn't go as planned.Her daughter spent 24 days in the NICU and...
2023-09-1147 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 43: Community & Connection with Dear NICU MamaOn this episode, Kayleigh is joined by Ashley and Martha of the non-profit Dear NICU Mama as we kick off NICU Awareness Month. Dear NICU Mama is a nonprofit and global community that provides immediate peer support through diverse programs and services. Founded and led by NICU mothers, they strive to be a safe, trauma-informed community where past and present NICU families know that they don’t walk alone. Things you will hear on this episode: - Dear NICU Mama and their mission- A brief recap of both Ashley and Martha's birth and NICU stor...
2023-09-0755 minThe Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 41: Birth Trauma Recovery: Four Years InWelcome to SEASON TWO! We have a lot of exciting things to share with you for this season. You will hear a new voice on this episode - Heather has joined Kayleigh and The Birth Trauma Mama as a Project Manager. We start off the episode with a review of the highlights from season one and our gratitude for the support and impact of this podcast. We couldn't have done that without YOU listening! At the end of the episode, there is an exciting reveal for this season of the podcast.In this episode, Kayleigh an...
2023-08-3145 min
The Critical Care Obstetrics PodcastAn Interview with Kayleigh Summers, The Birth Trauma MamaDr. Stephanie Martin interviews Kayleigh Summers, The Birth Trauma Mama. Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist and private practice owner in Downingtown, PA. She specializes in perinatal trauma and has specific training in both perinatal mental health and EMDR. Kayleigh uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to treat and support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving birth trauma support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other...
2023-06-0543 min
Momwell166: Birth Trauma Part 2: Facing Pregnancy After a Traumatic Birth with Kayleigh Summers, Clinical Social WorkerFacing a subsequent pregnancy after a traumatic birth can feel overwhelming and scary. You can’t predict what will come next, but you can heal from your past trauma and prepare a strong support system. Today, clinical social worker Kayleigh Summers, founder of The Birth Trauma Mama, joins us for part 2 of our conversation about birth trauma. Last week, we talked about how trauma can impact our decision to expand our family. Today, we’re discussing how to prepare for a subsequent birth after a traumatic experience.Show Notes: bit.ly/40pKGQfBook a Fre...
2023-03-2940 min
Momwell165: Birth Trauma Part 1: How Birth Trauma Impacts Our Family Decision Making with Kayleigh Summers, Clinical Social WorkerA traumatic birth experience can leave moms feeling conflicted, lost, and unsure of themselves. We’re often told that we should be grateful or appreciative for a healthy baby, no matter what the birth looked like. But traumatic birth experiences can stick with us, impacting our future decisions, such as whether or not to grow our family. I sat down with clinical social worker Kayleigh Summers, founder of The Birth Trauma Mama, to discuss traumatic birth experiences. In part 1, we talk about how birth trauma impacts us and the importance of healing. (For the second part...
2023-03-2238 min