Shows
VBAC Birth Stories58 | Rachel's unmedicated VBAC in hospital after 35 hours of labour following an emergency caesarean; Private Hospitals, DoulaIn this episode we chat to Sydney mum of two Rachel who experienced an unmedicated VBAC in a private hospital setting after going through 35 hours of labour. Following her caesarean Rachel went on to experience poor postpartum mental health and reflects how her first birth unfolding the way it did could have contributed to those feelings. Rachel reveals her reasons for wanting to try for a vaginal birth again and one of those reasons is not one that we would immediately think of, but Rachel so eloquently explains how just the very process of going on a V...2022-12-141h 12VBAC Birth Stories57 | Rosalie's Homebirth Transfer VBAC following an Emergency Maternal Assisted Caesarean after Induction; Posterior Babies, Deep Transverse Arrest, PTSD, IVF, Same Sex Couple, Face Presentation.In this episode we speak to Adelaide mum of two Rosalie about her two births. Rosalie underwent IVF and speaks about the unique challenges women in same sex relationships face when dealing with healthcare. Her first birth was an emergency caesarean which followed an induction for having a macrocosmic baby and being post-dates. Rosalie was very well educated about birth and was planning a public hospital funded homebirth before she was 'risked out.' She knew about the cascade of intervention yet she was coerced into a procedure that she did not want. This coercion was the catalyst for h...2022-10-281h 49VBAC Birth Stories56 | Birth After Caesarean - In conversation with Dr Hazel Keedle - PhD, Author, Midwife, Academic, and VBAC mum.Today we have the honour and pleasure of chatting to Hazel Keedle once again on the podcast. Hazel is a lecturer at Western Sydney University and midwifery researcher who has primarily focused on women’s experiences of vaginal birth after caesarean and is now a lead researcher in the Birth Experience Study- the largest study on women’s experiences of maternity care in Australia. Since we last spoke Hazel has completed her PhD and is now an author with her newly released book Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth. We spoke to Hazel way back in Seas...2022-09-2256 minVBAC Birth Stories55 | Shelley's VBAC with COVID19 following a planned caesarean due to HSV1 Genital; Genital herpes, covid, breastfeeding, private hospital and public hospitalIn this episode we chat to Shelley, a mum of two from Adelaide. Shelley reached out to us shortly after having her baby because she wanted to share the unique circumstances surrounding her first birth and VBAC. Shelley lives with Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Genital, it is classified as a type of STI, and because of the stigma this carries Shelley could not find any stories from women who have navigated pregnancy and birth with this condition. It is estimated that three-quarters of Australian adults are infected with HSV1.Shelley talks about how her genital herpes a...2022-08-311h 15
VBAC Birth Stories54 | Amielia's VBAC at 42 weeks and 6 days following an emergency caesarean after induction at 41 weeks and 5 days; Indigenous Australian, 'FTP' at 2cm, Group B Strep, VBAC with shorter birth-interval, Meconium stained waters, Special care nursery, DoulaAmielia is a 21 year old Djab Wurrung woman and this week we would like to share her birth stories in celebration of NAIDOC week.Amielia only found out about the details of her indigenous ancestry when she was 12 and who her family were related to. She grew up learning about her cultural practices and a part of the disappointment in her first birth was the disconnect between these practices and the public hospital system. Later she would learn there was a program dedicated to indigenous women that she would seek to be a part of in her next pregnancy.2022-07-091h 37
VBAC Birth Stories53 | Tina's drug-free VBAC following an emergency caesarean at 2cm dilation; Public Hospital, Meconium in waters, TTN, NICU, Episiotomy, Student MidwifeToday we meet Tina a registered nurse and mum of two who lives with her husband in Melbourne. She shares her two very different birth and postpartum experiences with us. After Tina's son was born via an emergency caesarean he experienced what is called TTN (Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn). Babies with TTN have extra fluid in their lungs or the fluid leaves too slowly from their lungs. It is more likely to occur in c-section babies. She shares what it was like for her having a baby in special care and then the NICU ward. Having an unexpected surgical...2022-06-101h 11
VBAC Birth Stories52 | Katelyn's homebirth transfer caesarean following a caesarean after induction; Private Hospital, Private Midwife, Posterior Labour, Obstructed Labours, Late-term gestations, VaginismusIn this week's episode we speak to western Sydney mum of two, Katelyn. Like so many of us in our first birth Katelyn just wanted to experience a physiological birth in a hospital setting, but ended up agreeing to an induction. Interestingly Katelyn intuitively felt that her induction was not medically necessary and there was a good chance she'd end up having surgery that day, yet she felt she couldn't say no.Katelyn was determined to re-write her story in her second birth, and that she most certainly did even though despite giving her absolute all this birth ended...2022-05-061h 51
VBAC Birth Stories51 | Kate's VBAC with an epidural in theatre following an emergency caesarean; Posterior Labours, Augmented Labours, Infant Tongue Ties, Episiotomy, Forceps, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Kate who is a mum of two living in Darwin. Kate is the daughter of a midwife so she really did have some knowledge on her side going through her first birth, but after labouring for a very long time she was placed on a caesarean pathway and although there were things about that birth she would change- she was able to bond with her daughter and have immediate skin to skin which we often hear makes all the difference to a positive caesarean outcome. In her second birth, you will hear of how she...2022-03-251h 08
VBAC Birth Stories50 | Laura's swift waterbirth VBAC following an emergency caesarean involving induction (post-dates) and a surprise breech baby; MGP (Midwifery Group Practice), Public Hospital, NICUIn today's episode we hear our first VBAC birth story from Tasmania. Laura is a mum of two who lives in Hobart and had a swift and beautiful VBAC waterbirth at her public hospital. In her first birth she was induced for reaching post-dates and during the pushing phase it was discovered that her baby was breech. Despite the sudden way her emergency caesarean unfolded Laura holds no trauma from this birth and she shares with us why she thinks this is. In her second pregnancy it's refreshing to hear how well supported Laura was in her desire to...2022-03-1146 min
VBAC Birth Stories49 | Jaihden's positive VBAC with Induction (AROM) and epidural following an emergency caesarean under general anaesthetic, perinatal depression and anxiety, and postnatal depression; Gestational Diabetes, Private ObstetricianThis week we sat down with Jaihden who is a Sydney based mum of two girls who experienced perinatal depression and anxiety as well as postpartum depression. She bravely shares how she navigated these periods and how the experience inspired her to give back to women going through the same challenges. Jaihden sheds light and humour on some dark moments. She speaks about her challenges and blessings and how her husband and support team of health professionals kept her feeling safe through this time.For Jaihden her primary caesarean didn’t affect her frame of mind or make her an...2022-02-251h 14
VBAC Birth Stories48 | Michelle's switch from hospital to homebirth VBAC following an Emergency Caesarean; Public Hospitals, Private Midwife, Cervical Lip, Postpartum Haemorrhage, Perinatal AnxietyWelcome to Season 3 of VBAC Birth Stories!In today's episode we chat to Melbourne mum of two and registered nurse, Michelle. Michelle went into spontaneous labour with her first child but was recommended to have an emergency caesarean close to the finish line of her labour, but Michelle wouldn’t say it was a true "emergency" in the sense of the word. Michelle returned to hospital in her second pregnancy but did not feel supported in her quest to have a VBAC - this coupled with a bit of perinatal anxiety and covid hospital restrictions Michelle took control of he...2022-02-111h 17
VBAC Birth Stories47 | Kirsten's homebirth with a 4.5kg posterior baby following an emergency caesarean and vaginal first birth; Higher BMI, 4th degree tear, Birth Trauma, Induction, Epidural, Twins, Breastfeeding, Private OB, Public Hospital, Private MidwifeIn today’s episode we meet Kirsten who is a doula and mum of four and living in Western Australia.Her first birth in her local rural hospital taught her about consent and trauma in the birth ward and she speaks about the fact that having a natural birth didn’t ensure she was protected against these realities.The second time around she found herself pregnant with twins and while steered towards a caesarean, she was able to birth her first twin vaginally but taken into theatre when twin B wasn’t descending.In her third pregnancy Kriste...2021-12-1759 min
VBAC Birth Stories46 | Sammy's posterior labour VBAC following an emergency caesarean with a posterior baby; Birth Trauma, PNA, MGP, Private Midwife, Doula, Tandem breastfeeding, Public HospitalToday we meet Sammy who is a mum of two living in Brisbane Queensland who is a trained doula and high school music teacher. She tells us of her first birth which ended in an emergency caesarean. Sammy, like 1 in 3 Australian women experienced significant birth trauma as a result of what happened and this birth went on to change the course of her life- inspiring her to help other women by providing emotional and physical birth support to those in need.We hear of her journey towards her VBAC, what tools she accessed to assist her towards her second...2021-11-161h 25
VBAC Birth Stories45 | Rosie's 2 VBACs following pregnancy loss and an emergency caesarean; Medical termination, Chorioamnionitis, Premature birth, Epidural, Gestational Diabetes, Precipitous Birth, Calmbirth, Private OBGYNIn today’s episode we speak to midwife and Calmbirth educator from regional Victoria, Rosie. Rosie has had four very different birth experiences.This episode has a trigger warning as we do discuss pregnancy loss.Rosie’s first birth was a medical termination at 23 weeks following a rare diagnosis her daughter was given at her 20 week scan. Rosie tells of the often unspoken guilt and complex grief that comes with this form of loss. The gravity of her experience caused her to reflect on the ways in which the system in general can treat birth and how important it i...2021-10-291h 10
VBAC Birth Stories44 | Amy's twin VBAC following infant loss after emergency caesarean at 36 weeks due to placental abruption; Breastfeeding challenges, PICU, Gestational Diabetes, Posterior and Breech baby, Public HospitalThis week Amy and her mum Janene a midwife join us to share her extraordinary three birth stories. Her first a vaginal birth, her second a caesarean birth, and her third a VBAC with twins.This episode has a trigger warning as baby loss is discussed.Amy’s first pregnancy was thankfully straightforward with a positive induction experience followed by a vaginal birth under Midwifery Group Practice at her local hospital. Having her mum’s guidance she was well informed ahead of time, however she was faced with breastfeeding struggles following her first birth and the positive birth expe...2021-10-151h 35
VBAC Birth Stories43 | Kasey's drug-free VBAC following an emergency caesarean due to a Bandl Ring; Induction, Posterior and Obstructed Labour, Epidural, Breastfeeding struggles, Allergies, Episiotomy, Public HospitalToday we hear from Kasey who lives in Melbourne with her husband and two daughters. In her first birth she experienced the rare complication of a bandl ring and was taken for an emergency caesarean despite reaching full dilation. We speak about what it's like to be a young mother in your twenties when your peers are all doing different things and how this can affect friendships. We also speak about her challenges with her oldest baby's allergies and breastfeeding and what a difference the right support and education can make. In her second pregnancy Kasey was determined...2021-09-241h 19
VBAC Birth Stories42 | Nadima's drug-free VBAC with a 4kg baby following an emergency caesarean after induction; 51 hour labour, MGP, Public Hospitals, HypnobirthingToday we meet Nadima who lives in Melbourne with her husband and two children. Nadima, like many of us, never imagined she would have a caesarean so when she was wheeled into theatre for an emergency caesarean this naturally came as a shock to her. She was booked in for an induction at 37 weeks due to earlier concerns with her baby’s heart rate, but she actually never got to experience labour. Although Nadima doesn’t describe her first birth as traumatic she knew immediately that she did not want to go through another caesarean if she could prevent it in a...2021-09-0341 min
VBAC Birth Stories41 | Zara's experience of uterine rupture and emergency caesarean following a planned caesarean for breech; ECV, Birth Trauma, PND, Low iron levels, Prodromal Labour, Augmented Labour, Posterior baby, MGPToday we meet Zara from central Queensland and talk to her about her two births. Zara's VBAC journey began with Darcy who was a planned caesarean due to his breech positioning. The caesarean itself wasn't traumatic, but it was what happened afterwards that left Zara feeling like she could not go through childbirth again. She experienced post natal depression following this birth.Zara's heart eventually opened to the possibility of having another baby and when the time came she felt a deep desire to have a VBAC, doing everything in her power to give herself the best opportunity including...2021-08-201h 33
VBAC Birth Stories40 | Birth in the Time of Covid and Maternity Care in Australia: Hannah DahlenVBAC Birth Stories in discussion with Professor of Midwifery Hannah Dahlen on how Covid-19 restrictions are affecting birthing women in Australia and what women can do to make the most of their birth experience and postpartum in these trying times. We speak about the impact of birth restrictions on migrant women and their families, domestic violence screening and how antenatal care has been affected. We also talk about the state of maternity care in Australia and how we can influence policy change to improve this- where to from here and what is the hope for maternity care in Australia?...2021-08-1639 min
VBAC Birth Stories39 | Mel's surprise breech 2VBAC homebirth following a prior caesarean for breech; Congenital Heart Defect (VSD), PROM, Neonatal ResuscitationToday Mel shares her second VBAC birth story with her third baby Emilia.Her birth was a surprise breech homebirth, which was somewhat poetic given her primary caesarean was due to her first baby being breech. Her second birth in a public hospital under caseload midwifery care was a successful unmedicated VBAC (You can listen to this story in episode 2).We talk about Mel’s decision to homebirth, the implications of covid on her pregnancy, the complications she faced in Emilia’s pregnancy when she was found to have a Ventricular Septal Defect at 20 weeks and how her third birt...2021-07-301h 15
VBAC Birth Stories38 | Jess' 2 vaginal births, one of which a drug-free VBAC following a caesarean with twins; Private Hospitals, MGP Public Hospital, Child with special needs, Hip Dysplasia, Miscarriage, CalmbirthIn this episode we meet Jess who is a mother of four living in regional Victoria.Jess has a unique VBAC story to tell us.Her first birth was a vaginal birth in a private hospital setting- the fairly positive birth experience was somewhat overshadowed when doctors discovered her newborn daughter had a rare connective tissue disorder. Despite the challenges presented by her eldest’s diagnosis, Jess embraced motherhood and was thrilled to discover she was pregnant with twins. When one twin was found to be breech Jess agreed to a planned caesarean for her second birth.In between each of...2021-07-121h 18
VBAC Birth StoriesPositive COVID-19 Birth ReflectionsThree women reflect on their COVID-19 VBAC birth experiences in Australian hospitals. Michal is a Melbourne based midwife and mother of three who shares her experience in Episode 16. Jessica is a mother of two based in Torquay whose birth is shared in Episode 19. Erin is a Perth mother of two who recently shared her story in episode 36 after she found herself labouring during a transition phase post 3 day lockdown in WA. We hope you can learn from their advice and that it helps you not to feel discouraged on your VBAC journey in these times. 2021-07-0103 min
VBAC Birth Stories36 | Erin's story of repeat emergency caesarean during a post COVID-19 3-day lockdown period; Type 1 Diabetes, Induction, Group B streptococcus, Birth support restrictions, Student midwife, Public hospitalToday we hear from Erin who lives in Perth with her husband and two children. Erin is a Type 1 Diabetic and we hear how this affected her first pregnancy and what different approaches she took in her VBAC pregnancy to give herself the best chance of experiencing spontaneous labour for the first time, as she was induced at 37 weeks in her first birth as per hospital policy for Type 1 Diabetic women.Erin tested positive to Group B streptococcus (GBS) towards the end of her VBAC pregnancy which also coincided with a snap-lockdown in Perth of 3 days. In maternity this...2021-06-251h 12
VBAC Birth Stories35 | Mara's drug-free VBAC with a short birth interval following emergency caesarean with a posterior baby; Augmented Labour, Cervical Lip, Birth Trauma, Doula, Premature Baby, NICU, Public HospitalToday we hear from Wollongong (NSW) mum of two Mara who had a VBAC with a short birth interval of only 15 months. Mara’s first birth was a deeply traumatic emergency caesarean where she reached full dilation with a posterior baby. She was determined to have a VBAC when the time came, which to Mara’s surprise happened a lot sooner than she had anticipated and this posed some challenges for her as her hospital were very discouraging of a VBAC due to her birth interval being less than 18 months apart. You’ll hear how Mara bravel...2021-06-041h 21
VBAC Birth Stories34 | Lara's positive gentle caesarean due to breech positioning + drug-free VBAC; PCOS, Miscarriage, Shoulder Dystocia, Velamentous Cord, MGP, Doula, Public Hospital“Prepare your body and mind to achieve your VBAC and then let go of your attachment to the outcome.”If anyone knows how to fight the good fight its Sydney based mother of two and human rights lawyer, Lara.As a VBAC hopeful Lara was fastidious in her birth preparation but in the end the events which unfolded took her and her care providers by surprise. Despite the rare occurrence of velamentous cord insertion and shoulder dystocia Lara achieved her VBAC and a positive birth outcome against all odds.Thankfully in both of her births she was trea...2021-05-141h 24
VBAC Birth Stories33 | Emma's positive induced VBAC with a low-dose epidural following an emergency caesarean after induction; 4.28kg VBAC Baby, Cervical Scar Tissue, LLETZ procedure, Migraines, Private Hospital, Public Hospital, MGP, CalmbirthIn this episode we meet Emma, a mum of two boys who lives in Wollongong south of Sydney. Emma is a nurse and aspiring midwife and is also a prenatal yoga teacher and has her own yoga studio. Emma’s first birth in the private system ended in an emergency caesarean after she was induced at 39 weeks. It was discovered later that cervical scar tissue from a previous LLETZ procedure may have played a role in not allowing her labour to progress.Emma was determined in her second birth to maintain a positive mindset and she accessed a va...2021-04-011h 17
VBAC Birth Stories32 | Crystal's drug-free VBAC following elective caesarean with twins; Breech, Breastfeeding, ECV, Small Babies, "Failing" Placenta, Public Hospitals, MGP, HypnobirthingIn today's episode we chat to Queensland mum of three and co-creator of the clothing brand Sunday Wild, Crystal, about her VBAC journey which began with an elective caesarean with her twin daughters. Crystal tells her story with a refreshing humour and warmth and speaks to the fact that not all elective caesareans are really wanted. During our chat Crystal touchingly realises with hindsight what could have been possible, but was sadly taken away from her after her caesarean.Crystal's story is really about personal growth and the self advocacy that can come with evidence based research and trust...2021-03-181h 25
VBAC Birth Stories31 | Kate's HBAC - Switch from hospital to homebirth at 35 weeks; Emergency Caesarean, Post-Dates, Overactive Pelvic Floor, Gestational Diabetes, High BMI, Public Hospitals, MGP, Private Midwife, DoulaIn today's episode we meet Kate, a mum of two who lives with her husband near Newcastle north of Sydney. Kate's had the unique journey of experiencing three kinds of maternity care models across her two pregnancies. Her VBAC journey began with an emergency caesarean performed in Sydney while she was under the midwifery group practice continuity of care model, also known as MGP. Kate walked away from this birth without any overriding feelings of trauma, but for a long time thought there was something wrong with her body, in particular her pelvis.Before falling pregnant with her second...2021-03-041h 19
VBAC Birth Stories30 | In conversation with Calmbirth Director Karen McClay on birth preparation and her own VBAC journeyIn this bonus episode of VBAC Birth Stories we speak to Karen McClay, better known as the Director of Calmbirth, but a lesser known fact about the registered midwife, nurse and mother of three is that she herself undertook her own VBAC journey. We had the privilege of hearing that personal story in this interview.Karen shares the emotions surrounding her initial caesarean and the complexity of this experience, and how women on a VBAC journey are often forced to look back and examine their first birth experience in a different way to others.Karen also talks about...2021-02-2537 min
VBAC Birth Stories29 | Renee's two positive emergency caesarean births following induction; Midwifery Group Practice, Babies not engaged at term, Cord Prolapse, Rare reaction to Prostaglandin GelToday we meet Renee, a mum of two from Sydney who works as a clinical dietician. She is also the co-founder of Nurture the Seed, an encompassing guide to all things nutrition to help those going through preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum through evidence-based research and nourishing recipes (see notes below for more information).In Renee’s first birth she had a rare adverse reaction to the prostaglandin induction gel, leading to an immediate emergency caesarean with a baby who was not engaged in her pelvis. Two months into her second pregnancy COVID-19 reached our shores, and throughout it all Re...2021-02-1859 min
VBAC Birth Stories28 | Talia's Breech VBAC and 2VBAC following emergency caesarean after induction for post-dates; Unexplained infertility, Geriatric, Pubic Hospitals, Breech Clinic, Augmented Labour, Doula, Caseload Midwifery CareIn today's episode we meet Talia who shares with us her three birth stories, the first of which ended in an emergency caesarean following an induction for being post-dates.Although the caeasarean experience was fairly positive for Talia she still sought to achieve a VBAC the second time around. At 38 years of age she was classed as a geriatric pregnancy and was told her baby was presenting breech at 34 weeks. Her public hospital only offered a caesarean for breech babies at term, leading her to pursue a vaginal breech birth with a specialist breech obstetrician. After an unsuccessful ECV...2021-02-0456 min
VBAC Birth Stories27 | Vanessa's accidental homebirth following an emergency caesarean after induction; PROM, Private Hospital, High BMI, Doula, GP-shared care, Public HospitalWelcome to Season 2 of VBAC Birth Stories! In this our first episode of 2021 we hear from Vanessa, a Brisbane mum of two who had an accidental homebirth with her VBAC baby.Vanessa’s first pregnancy was textbook all the way through and when her waters began to leak at 38 weeks she headed straight into hospital to be assessed, and it was then she was told she would be induced the following morning. Vanessa, like many first time mums we speak to, did not know at the time that she could have declined and was not given any other option ot...2021-01-211h 18
VBAC Birth Stories26 | Siobhan's drug-free VBAC following elective caesarean due to breech positioning; Posterior Labour, ECV, Student Midwife, MGP, Birth Centre at Public HospitalIn this the final VBAC birth story episode of 2020 we chat to Siobhan who lives with her husband and two children in the Gold Coast. Siobhan’s first baby was presenting footling breech towards the end stages of her pregnancy and after an unsuccessful ECV (External Cephalic Version) she reluctantly signed on the dotted line accepting a planned caesarean birth. Whilst the caesarean was text-book and she wasn’t separated from her baby, she did experience challenges with breastfeeding and also a bit of postpartum anxiety. In her next pregnancy she knew she wanted a VBAC from the beginning, but a se...2020-12-101h 02
VBAC Birth Stories25 | Nikii's drug-free VBA2C; Emergency caesareans, Epidural, Meconium in waters, Short Inter-pregnancy Interval, Doula, Public Hospital, HypnobirthingIn this episode we speak to Nikii, originally from New Zealand and now lives with her partner and 3 young boys in Brisbane. Nikii experienced two emergency caesareans and then a deeply healing vaginal birth. Prior to her primary caesarean Nikii had not done any education about childbirth, and just went with the flow, which was the flow of her care provider- a local public hospital. She laboured for 17 hours before being taken into theatre and describes this birth as traumatic.Hoping for a VBAC in her second birth, which was only 13 and a half months after her first, she...2020-11-261h 10
VBAC Birth Stories24 | Michela's Homebirth after an Emergency Caesarean (HBAC); Breech, ECV, Private Obstetrician, Private Midwife, DoulaIn today’s episode we chat to Michela, a mum of two living with her husband in Brisbane. Michela knew before she fell pregnant that she wanted to approach birth in a way that resonated more with her life philosophies and hired a private midwife initially to support her at her local hospital’s birth centre, but as her pregnancy progressed she decided a homebirth would actually be a better fit. Unfortunately circumstances changed, and Michela’s plans to have an intervention-free birth at home turned out to be the complete opposite of what ultimately transpired.She knew she wanted...2020-11-121h 16
VBAC Birth Stories23 | Catherine's drug-free VBAC following an emergency caesarean with a posterior baby; Private Obstetrician, Private Hospital, hired Midwife, Low PAPP-A level, HypnobirthingIn today's episode we meet Catherine from the Central Coast of NSW. She is a mother of two boys who speaks to us about her fertility struggles and emergency caesarean which was actually a refreshingly positive experience. Her first baby was posterior and she laboured for a long time with him before being taken into theatre guided by her private obstetrician who she had a very good relationship with.In the early stages of her VBAC pregnancy she was told she had a low PAPP-A level (placental related function associated with increased chance of low birth weight, pre-term baby...2020-10-2952 min
VBAC Birth Stories22 | Midwife Hannah's positive induced VBAC following an emergency caesarean with a posterior baby; Gestational Hypertension, Public Hospitals, Continuity of Midwifery CareIn today’s episode we meet Hannah, a midwife and mum of two living with her husband in Brisbane. Hannah was not expecting her first birth to end in a caesarean at all, but despite a difficult and challenging labour her son’s birth was overall a positive experience.Hannah suffered an early miscarriage in-between her son and her daughter’s births, but knew when the time came to give birth again she would definitely try for a VBAC.Her third pregnancy was going pretty smoothly until she was diagnosed with gestational hypertension. Her hospital’s policy was to induc...2020-10-151h 00
VBAC Birth Stories21 | Kristi's drug-free VBAC with a 4.75kg/10 lbs. baby following emergency caesarean after induction for Cholestasis; PTSD, Posterior babies, Doula, MGP, Public HospitalsIn this episode we meet Kristi, a mum of two living with her husband and two boys in Brisbane. In Kristi’s first birth she was recommended an induction due to Obstetric Cholestasis (liver disorder presented in pregnancy which causes itchiness). Despite dilating to 10cm and reaching the pushing phase of labour, Kristi was taken into theatre for an emergency caesarean. She did not know what actually caused her caesarean until years later.After a difficult start to breastfeeding which involved a tongue tie, Kristi was diagnosed one year after her birth with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and she br...2020-10-011h 14
VBAC Birth Stories20 | Sophia's story of emergency repeat caesarean with her baby with Down syndrome following elective caesarean for Polyhydramnios and suspected large baby; Private Hospital, Public Hospital, Midwifery Group PracticeIn this episode we meet Perth mother of two, Sophia. In her first pregnancy Sophia was diagnosed with Polyhydramnios, a condition where there is an excess of amniotic fluid. Her obstetrician recommended a c-section based on the findings of this but also the risk of shoulder dystocia given the baby was predicted to be large. Sophia begrudgingly elected for a c-section and while she describes her experience as perfectly fine she immediately knew she would want to try for a VBAC next time around.Falling pregnant again Sophia was given the news that her second baby has Down syndrome...2020-09-171h 14
VBAC Birth Stories19 | COVID-19 Birth, Doula restrictions - Jessica's VBAC with an epidural following emergency caesarean after induction for high blood pressure; Public Hospital, Private Hospital, Meconium in waters, HypnobirthingIn this episode we chat to Jessica who lives with her husband and two children in Torquay at the start of the beautiful great ocean road in Victoria.Jessica reflects on how she made the decision to not make a birth plan for her first birth and just go with the flow, but knowing what she knows now she wished she had prepared herself a bit better- a sentiment that rings true for many of us.Her first birth ended in an emergency caesarean following an induction at 40 weeks for high blood pressure readings.For her second...2020-09-0351 min
VBAC Birth Stories18 I The Birth Map - Rethinking the Birth Plan with Catherine BellThis week we chart the high seas with birth cartographer, author and artist Catherine Bell. A former marine biologist Catherine is now completing her PhD on ‘Birth Mapping’ which looks at how health care providers can work with birthing women to pursue mutually beneficial pathways in all birth settings.We cover:- What the difference is between a birth plan and a birth map- The importance of your birth partner and support person in birth- How to ensure your care provider is on board with your VBAC pathway- How we can facilitate true women centred care and decision making in b...2020-08-2738 min
VBAC Birth Stories17 | Jess' story of accidental homebirth following a VBAC with an epidural; Elective caesarean due to breech positioning; Doula, Hypnobirthing, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Jess who lives with her husband and 3 children in Samford Valley in Queensland. All of Jess’ babies presented breech, which was the reason behind her caesarean in the first place. Yet Jess went on to experience two very different vaginal births following two successful ECVs (External Cephalic Version) which involved her babies being manually turned to be in the cephalic (head down) position. Jess’ first VBAC included medical intervention and her second VBAC was an accidental homebirth which she still revels in the memory of.Listen to the different ways Jess prepared for both of h...2020-08-201h 04
VBAC Birth Stories16 | COVID-19 Birth - Midwife Michal's 2 VBACs following an emergency caesarean with a posterior baby; Private Hospital, Private ObstetriciansIn this episode we meet Michal, a midwife and mother to 3 boys who lives with her husband in Melbourne.Michal has had three very different birth experiences. Her most recent birth was only three months ago during the current COVID-19 pandemic where she was treated as a potential COVID-19 patient in labour due to her being ill at the time.Michal experienced a miscarriage before falling pregnant with her first son. His birth was an emergency caesarean despite reaching full dilation - which although she desperately wanted to avoid she knew it was the right decision immediately after...2020-08-061h 11
VBAC Birth Stories15 | Aimee's 2 VBAC homebirths following a homebirth transfer due to Placental Abruption; Pregnancy Loss, Private Midwife, Doula, Public HospitalIn this episode we bring you three birth stories from Aimee Sing, mother of three living in the Blue Mountains in Sydney. After commencing her career in environmental science Aimee found her true calling in birth advocacy. She’s now the coordinator of Homebirth New South Wales and Homebirth Australia. She’s also the Co-founder of Homebirth Consortium Australia, and is a doula and breastfeeding counsellor.Aimee had planned a homebirth with her eldest daughter Willow, but ultimately needed a caesarean at 36 weeks due to placental abruption. Although her caesarean was not traumatic for her, she knew she wanted to t...2020-07-231h 18
VBAC Birth Stories14 | Midwife Amberley's drug-free VBAC following an emergency caesarean; Breech baby, Continued Midwifery Care, Private Midwife, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Amberley, a Registered Midwife (endorsed) who lives with her husband and two children in Melbourne.Amberley was working as a midwife at the time of both of her births. Her first birth was a planned vaginal breech birth which ended in a caesarean, and although an overall positive experience and recovery she was determined to have a VBAC for her next baby.Amberley’s reflections on both of her births are thought provoking and moving. We discuss birth plans and consent in the labour ward, and Amberley shares how she handled a loved on...2020-07-0951 min
VBAC Birth Stories13 | Marion's homebirth transfer following emergency caesarean after induction for suspected static foetal growth; Bandl's Ring, Private Hospital, Private Midwives, Public Hospital, HypnobirthingIn this episode we meet Marion, whose first pregnancy ended in a traumatic emergency caesarean following an induction due to what was termed ‘static growth’ of her baby in the final weeks.Almost 44% of women that labour will be artificially induced in Australia and Marion’s experience is a testament to the birth trauma that can be experienced as a result of such intervention. While not every induction unfolds in this way- it is important to understand the effects that induction of labour can have on women and their birth outcomes.Years later Marion equipped herself with a wealth...2020-06-251h 17
VBAC Birth Stories12 | Midwife Annalise's VBA2C waterbirth with insulin-dependent Gestational Diabetes; PND/PNA, Scoliosis, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Annalise, a midwife from the Gold Coast who is a mother to three children.Her primary caesarean was an emergency following an induction at 41 weeks for being past her due date. She was led to believe that her childhood spinal surgery for Scoliosis could have played a role in the way things unfolded in that birth. When she fell pregnant again she was told an elective caesarean would be her safest option, so she proceeded with one. She experienced post natal anxiety following this birth.After this Annalise became a qualified midwife and...2020-06-101h 09
VBAC Birth Stories11 | Ashleigh's story of repeat emergency caesarean following a successful VBAC; Caseload Midwifery Care, Public Hospital, Placental Abruption, Bandl's Ring, CalmbirthIn this episode we meet Ashleigh who experienced three very different births in a Sydney public hospital under the caseload midwifery care model. Ashleigh suffered from Hyperemesis Gravidarum in her first pregnancy only. She went into preterm labour in her first birth at 36 weeks and was prepped for a caesarean after her son was showing unexplained foetal distress. She was taken into theatre where it was found that she had suffered from placental abruption during the labour. This occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterus.Following this experience Ashleigh was steered towards the repeat caesarean path by...2020-05-2846 min
VBAC Birth Stories10 | Midwife Emma's VBAC with an epidural following elective maternal-assisted caesarean due to maternal anxiety; Private Obstetrician, GBS positive to negative, Meconium in waters, Shoulder Dystocia, Re-lactationIn this episode we meet mother of two and registered nurse and midwife Emma who lives with her two boys and her husband, also a nurse, in Queensland.After working in hospitals and having exposure to a variety of emergency situations Emma had decided that she would elect to have a maternal-assisted caesarean which she describes as a fantastic experience. Emma has an underlying heart condition called POT Syndrome (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia) which caused her some perinatal anxiety as well as a fear of natural birth and seeing the situations at the other end that can go wrong. Emma...2020-05-1458 min
VBAC Birth Stories9 | Natasha's drug-free VBAC with a special scar after an emergency caesarean following 3 day labour, epidural and Pitocin drip; posterior and transverse babies, doula, COVID-19 postpartum, Public Hospital, HypnobirthingToday we meet Natasha who is a mother of two living in Sydney. Natasha experienced an early miscarriage before falling pregnant a second time with her daughter. She laboured for three and a half days, eventually receiving an epidural and experiencing augmentation of labour with the synthetic oxytocin hormone drip. She had progressed through labour to the point where her baby was crowning when doctors performed the caesarean. Her baby weighed 4.38kg. Her daughter was separated from her at birth but despite this Natasha was able to have a positive breastfeeding experience. She experienced some postpartum baby blues and speaks...2020-04-301h 05
VBAC Birth Stories8 | Stephanie's unmedicated Twin (Di/Di) VBAC following induction and emergency caesarean; Private Midwife, Midwifery Group Practice, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Stephanie who had a triumphant unmedicated VBAC with her Dichorionic/Diamniotic twin daughters two and a half years after having an emergency caesarean with her son. The day before Stephanie's son's due date her father sadly passed away, leading her to pursue an induction in the hope of being present for her father's funeral. She always hoped for a natural birth even before falling pregnant, but unfortunately this wasn't to be. She eventually agreed to an epidural and despite reaching 10cm dilation and the pushing phase she was told she was going to be taken...2020-04-161h 01
VBAC Birth Stories7 | VBAC Matters - A conversation with VBAC researcher Hazel KeedleIn this bonus episode we speak with Hazel Keedle who is a lecturer at Western Sydney University, PhD Candidate, and midwifery researcher who focuses on women’s experiences of vaginal birth after caesarean. Hazel’s passion for VBAC stemmed from her own personal experience of having a VBAC only 14 months after her caesarean section. She has worked in all midwifery models of care including Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) and as a privately practicing midwife, and now as an academic she spends most of her time producing VBAC research. She undertook a Masters Honours thesis on why women have a VBAC at h...2020-04-101h 08
VBAC Birth Stories6 | Katelyn's drug-free VBAC with a special shaped uterus following induction and emergency caesarean; Uterus Didelphys, Private Hospital, NICU, HypnobirthingIn this episode we speak with Katelyn. Katelyn has Uterus Didelphys, which is unique as her uterus has two separate regions where the foetus can grow, meaning two uteri or two wombs with two cervices. Her first baby grew on one side and her second baby grew on the other. During her first pregnancy her private obstetrician advised her to keep her hopes for a natural birth low, despite this Katelyn laboured to 8cm following an induction before being led to an emergency caesarean. In her second pregnancy Katelyn prematurely went into labour at 33 weeks, experiencing a swift drug free...2020-04-0254 min
VBAC Birth Stories5 | Andrea's waterbirth VBAC following an elective caesarean due to Gastroschisis; Public Hospital, NICU, Hyperemesis Gravidarum, CalmbirthIn this episode we speak with Andrea who had a planned caesarean with her eldest child due to a condition called Gastroschisis, where her baby's intestines were growing externally while in utero. Successful lifesaving surgery was performed on her newborn immediately following her caesarean. The neonatal intensive care unit became like a second home following the birth as their hospital stay got extended to three and a half months due to her baby developing a golden staphylococcus infection. Six years later Andrea returned to a public hospital setting armed with knowledge and research determined to have an unmedicated water birth...2020-03-1846 min
VBAC Birth Stories4 | Kate's 2 drug-free VBACs following emergency caesarean under general anaesthetic; IVF, waterbirth, Private Midwife, Public Hospital, Private OB, CalmbirthIn this episode we meet Kate who had an emergency caesarean under general anaesthetic with her eldest daughter Elsie, and has since gone on to have two VBACs; one with Florence and another with George. The journey to conceive Florence wasn’t an easy one, it took 6 years and with the aid of IVF. During her pregnancy with Florence she was very undecided as to whether to pursue a VBAC or have a repeat caesarean. It was only at 36 weeks pregnant through a chance meeting and session with a chiropractor that she became aware of independent midwives and decided to me...2020-03-0447 min
VBAC Birth Stories3 | Erin's homebirth after two emergency caesareans; posterior babies, meconium in waters, Private Midwife, Doula, Public HospitalIn this episode we meet Erin, whose fifth pregnancy was a triumphant homebirth following two caesareans and two previous losses, one of these a stillbirth at 20 weeks. Erin's birth with her eldest daughter was a planned public hospital birth, which ended in a traumatic emergency caesarean. For her following pregnancy she hired a private midwife intent on having a homebirth but was transferred to hospital after meconium was found in her waters. Immediately after experiencing her second caesarean she thought she would elect to have a third if she were to have another baby, however, by the time she fell...2020-02-211h 08
VBAC Birth Stories2 | Mel's unmedicated VBAC following elective caesarean for breech; Gestational Diabetes, Doula, Caseload Midwifery, Public HospitalIn this episode we hear from our host Mel, whose first birth was an elective caesarean due to breech positioning. Although this was elective Mel had wished for the experience of a natural birth and labour. She went on to have a successful unmedicated VBAC with her second baby two and a half years later. In her second pregnancy Mel was told she had gestational diabetes.Listen to how Mel gave herself the best chance of having a vaginal birth and experiencing a positive VBAC. Mel is passionate about birthing and encouraging women to empower themselves to achieve a...2020-02-2144 min
VBAC Birth Stories1 | Steph's unmedicated VBAC following induction and emergency caesarean; Public Hospital, HypnobirthingIn this episode we hear from our host Steph, whose first birth began as spontaneous labour with her waters breaking on her due date. Twelve hours after her contractions first began she was briefed at the hospital and told induction was recommended as the risk of infection to the baby was too great. After being in active labour for over 8 hours and reaching full dilation on only gas she was told if her baby was not delivered soon she would need to be taken for an emergency caesarean. She was physically exhausted, angry and completely deflated - but this was...2020-02-2153 min
VBAC Birth StoriesIntroductionMeet your hosts and find out what inspired us to create VBAC Birth Stories.Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @vbacbirthstories2020-02-2107 min