Today, I’m talking with Mary Haseltine—Catholic mother of eight, doula, and author of Made for This: The Catholic Mom’s Guide to Birth. Her work has been such a gift to countless women who long to see birth not as a medical event but as something deeply tied to our faith, our design, and the beautiful mystery of bringing new life into the world.

In this episode, Mary shares how her own birth experiences led her into birth work and ultimately to write Made for This. We talk about the theology of birth, why birth is more than just getting through labor, and how it’s an invitation for us as women to trust, to surrender, and to see birth as part of our calling as mothers.

You’ll hear us unpack:

• How Mary’s experiences of both home and hospital births shaped her understanding of birth as a reflection of the Paschal mystery
• The importance of reclaiming the spiritual and sacramental dimensions of birth, especially in a culture that sees birth as a medical emergency
• The difference between controlling birth and receiving it as a gift
• How to prepare spiritually for birth—especially in those final weeks
• Practical ways to choose a birth team and birth setting that align with your faith and values

Mary also shares insights into her Made for This Birth app and her ongoing work to support Catholic mothers and birth workers around the world.

If you’ve ever felt a longing to see your birth experience through the lens of faith—or to be reminded that your body was designed with intention and beauty for this work—this conversation will resonate deeply.

Resources Mentioned:

• Mary’s book, Made for This: The Catholic Mom’s Guide to Birth
• The Made for This Birth app, with birth affirmations, prayers, and a directory of Catholic birth workers
• Mary’s website: madeforthisbirth.net

Resources:

🕊️ ⁠FREE LABOR POSITIONS GUIDE⁠

🕊️ ⁠THE HOLY CONFIDENT BIRTH COURSE⁠

🧺 ⁠SHOP MY MOTHERHOOD FAVES⁠

Be assured of my prayers as you prepare for one of the most powerful experiences of your life. You were made for this!

About Me

Hi, friend! I’m Eve—a Catholic mom, Registered Nurse, Doula, and Childbirth Educator. I help women reclaim God’s design for childbirth and prepare for natural, faith-centered birth experiences they’ll love. On this podcast, we’ll explore birth, faith, and natural motherhood with Jesus at the center.

Want to learn more? Visit⁠ holyconfidentbirth.com⁠.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.
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