In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen shares her inspiring journey of having a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) for her second child, Luca. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, the importance of mindset and preparation, and the invaluable support from her midwives and partner, Dr. Dom. Dr. Jen emphasizes the significance of hydration, nutrition, and mental readiness during pregnancy and postpartum. Her story highlights the empowerment that comes from being informed and advocating for oneself, offering encouragement to women considering a VBAC. Join Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom for an insightful and heartfelt discussion on childbirth and motherhood.

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Needed Discount:

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Jen Health Discount:

It is Doc Jen's birthday month! To celebrate, Jen is inviting everyone to join her doing the Full Body High Intensity plan on Jen Health! You can get this full month plan for only $20 using code OPTIMAL at checkout. Just go HERE and sign up for the monthly membership. You get access to this plan and 11 other plans to help you start to move freely and confidently in your body. Come join us today!

We think you’ll love:

• Jen Health Monthly Discount
• Free Postpartum Guide
• Jen’s Instagram
• Dom’s Instagram
• YouTube Channel

For full show notes and resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/402

What you will hear in this episode:

2:18 Dr. Jen shares her decision-making process for choosing a vaginal birth after cesarean.

3:35 Dr. Jen explains how listening to other VBAC stories fueled her decision.

7:12 Importance of having supportive midwives and a positive birth environment.

9:06 Dr. Jen expresses her desire to avoid going past 42 weeks for delivery.

12:18 Description of Dr. Jen's experience with early labor symptoms and contractions.

14:14 Dr. Jen recounts the moment she realized her water broke during early labor.

18:01 Details about arriving at the hospital and the disappointment of only being two centimeters dilated.

20:22 Discussion on the importance of having a birth plan and necessary items for the hospital.

23:28 The role of support partners in advocating for the birthing person's wishes.

26:39 Details on the exciting progression of labor from two to six centimeters.

29:34 Dr. Jen discusses her mindset and goals for her VBAC journey, emphasizing acceptance and preparation.

31:38 Dr. Jen expresses her need for emotional support from Dr. Dom during the transition period in labor.

34:19 Jen transitions to pushing after getting out of the tub, focusing on positioning for effective delivery.

37:11 Dr. Dom contemplates the best position for Jen to push, considering both her wishes and the baby's needs.

39:03 Jen describes the intensity of the final pushes and the support from the medical team during...