During her first pregnancy, Amanda completely deferred to her medical team. The birth ended in coached pushing, a totally unnecessary episiotomy, and Pitocin. She describes herself as completely disconnected from the whole experience. And she left it knowing she would never do it that way again.

In her postpartum period, Amanda discovered freebirth story podcasts, and it completely changed how she thought about birth. With her next baby, she planned and had a home birth, but had to navigate a postpartum transfer due to a birth defect that had gone undetected during pregnancy. Having had a powerful, autonomous home birth helped her navigate the ensuing NICU stay with her power intact.

Very quickly postpartum, Amanda conceived her third baby. This birth happened so fast, the midwife didn't make it. But it was exactly the experience she needed to once again step in her true maternal power!

If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

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Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at [email protected]

Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net

Intro / outro music: Dreams by Markvard