Birth Journeys: Birth Stories and Birth Education for Moms & Pregnant Individuals

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When Trishia Plett stepped into the world of motherhood, it wasn't just a birth story she was crafting—it was a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the intimate dance between autonomy and wellness. As a health and wellness ambassador, Tricia opens the doors to her deeply personal journey through the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy, especially under the shadow of PCOS and a health scare. Gripping from start to finish, her narrative is a vibrant tapestry of emotional revelations, the push for unmedicated childbirth, and the pursuit of balance in her newfound role as a parent.

Navigating the healthcare system is no small feat, and Trishia’s experience is a masterclass in standing your ground and voicing your birth preferences. She pulls back the curtain on the complexities of high-risk pregnancies and the significance of aligning her birth plan with her values. Through this episode, listeners will witness the evolution of a mother's determination, the importance of prenatal preparation, and the influence of family history on birthing expectations. Trishia’s story resonates with power and encouragement, underlining her commitment to maintaining autonomy during childbirth and the tender moments that define the transition into parenthood.

In the dynamic interplay of career and motherhood, Trishia’s return to her profession adds a new dimension to her story. We unpack the nuances of integrating work and family life, the influence of understanding one's body, and the unexpected joys of natural postpartum recovery. The conversation culminates in a heartwarming expression of gratitude and a candid reflection on societal pressures and family planning. Each chapter of this episode is a mosaic of support and insight, offering a guiding light to parents and parents-to-be on similar voyages. Join us as we celebrate personal victories and navigate the tides of family life with Trishia Plett, whose story is nothing short of inspiring.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

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Ever wondered how the stress you're feeling could actually pause the miraculous process of childbirth? I’m peeling back the layers to reveal the unseen effects of stress on labor. This episode takes you through the science of stress and its ability to disrupt the delicate dance of hormones necessary for labor to progress. It's a discussion that promises not just insights but transformational tools for an empowering entrance into parenthood.

Transitioning smoothly, we then spotlight the immense value of emotional preparedness as you step onto the threshold of birth. It’s not just about the physical readiness, but arming yourself with the emotional resilience to claim a birth experience that is as serene as it is powerful. Listen as I explore the intersection of mind, body, and the birthing journey.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Discover the intricate dance of midwifery care and the empowering role of patients in healthcare through the expert eyes of Jodilyn Owen, LM, CPM, and Arya Pretlow, MSN, CNM, IBCLC, C-IYAT. For those curious about the meticulous qualifications behind safe home or birth center deliveries and the scenarios that necessitate a hospital transfer, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. We cut through the common myths surrounding non-hospital births, celebrating the proactive, data-driven approaches that characterize midwifery, and the vital collaboration with obstetricians. Meanwhile, the conversation also turns to the dedication of labor and delivery nurses who, despite the challenges of being understaffed and the emotional toll of the job, tirelessly prioritize the wellbeing of mothers and babies.

Step into the world of maternity care, where patient autonomy is nurtured and the resilience of healthcare providers shines bright. We examine the pressures new nurses face and the wisdom of experienced professionals in creating a personalized birth experience. This episode underscores the importance of encouraging patients to voice their needs, further highlighting the role of healthcare professionals in facilitating a birth experience that honors the physiological processes of labor. It's a heartfelt homage to those who navigate the high-stakes environment of hospitals, striving to maintain patient-centered care amidst a myriad of challenges.

Wrapping up, we delve into the transformative impact of collaborative care models, which bridge the gap between midwives and healthcare systems. Whether you're a healthcare professional or a first-time parent seeking guidance, join us on this exploration of birth environments and the profound respect for life that midwives bring to every delivery. Our conversation aims to connect you to a community that values every aspect of the birthing process and inspire collective efforts to improve maternity care for all.

https://www.birthcenters.org

https://mana.org

https://narm.org

http://www.midwife.org

https://www.facebook.com/PIHBWA/videos/260102946370489

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

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Ever wonder how drastically different two births can be? Imagine one which is calm and another being a chaotic rush - that's the compelling narrative of our guest Lindsay Bermudez, co-founder of Babycito. Lindsay takes us on a journey through her two unique childbirth experiences, the support she received, and the subsequent inspiration to create a platform connecting new parents with resources in Northern Virginia (and one day beyond1!)

As we delve deeper, we unravel the unspoken physical and emotional challenges of natural childbirth, highlighting the significance of equipping oneself adequately. Sharing our personal struggles, we bring up the topic of breastfeeding, including challenges faced with milk protein intolerance and the quest to find the perfect formula. We explore the necessity of having a strong mindset and support system, whether it's through childbirth classes or a comprehensive platform for new parents.

To wrap up our conversation, we delve into Babycito and the critical role it plays in bridging the gap between families and crucial services like doulas and lactation consultants. One thing is clear - the need for support extends beyond childbirth and evolves as the child grows. Tune in to learn how Babycito aims to support families and connect them with the resources they need throughout this incredible journey called parenthood.

Connect with Lindsay at babycito.co

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

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How does trauma from sexual abuse affect pregnancy and postpartum experiences? This pressing question forms the crux of our conversation with Jennifer Byrnes, LPC a seasoned therapist certified in perinatal mental health and EMDR. Unveiling some profound insights, Jennifer helps us dissect the complexities of consent, the way trauma imprints itself on our bodies, and how these elements can affect a woman's journey through pregnancy and beyond.

We journey further into the shadows of trauma, exploring its impacts on pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experiences. Jennifer guides us through the nuances of how trauma can manifest as dissociation and a sense of lost control during childbirth, and the essential role that trust and consent play in this process. Through a frank discussion, we tackle the realities of PTSD and postpartum depression, underscoring the need for a trusted support person, mindfulness techniques, and the importance of patient involvement in decision-making.

Finally, we turn our attention to the empowering process of delivery decision-making. Jennifer carves out a path for survivors, highlighting the importance of communication with providers and exploring various delivery options. We delve into the treatability of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, a condition affecting one in five individuals. Jennifer strongly encourages seeking help and finding a supportive provider, emphasizing that you are not alone. Let's navigate this challenging terrain together, learning, healing, and empowering each other.

To connect with Jennifer, go to: http://www.mytherapygoals.com/

Resources mentioned in this episode:

www.RAINN.org
www.emdria.org

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Prepare to challenge your preconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth as we tap into the expertise of our featured guest, Dr. Betel Aklilu, a chiropractor who passionately champions for chiropractic care during pregnancy. She spotlights how chiropractic adjustments can realign the pelvis and sacrum, creating a more conducive environment for the baby to descend during the birth process. Join us as we unveil the transformative potential of chiropractic care, debunking common myths, and serving as a valuable educational tool for expecting individuals.

We delve into the how chiropractic care leads to better outcomes in labor and delivery. We also explore the rising trend of midwives and OB/GYNs endorsing chiropractic care for malpositioned babies and stress the importance of embracing all forms of assistance during this pivotal journey. Sharing heartfelt testimonials and experiences, we aim to influence a paradigm shift, highlighting the positive impacts of chiropractic care during pregnancy.

As we wrap up this informative episode, we underscore the importance of thorough preparation and awareness around the entire birthing process. A standout story is shared of a mother diagnosed with preeclampsia who experienced a successful natural birth at the hospital, thanks to a thorough education and a supportive team including a doula and a chiropractor. We share the importance of  advocating for more awareness and available options for pregnant women. Dr. Aklilu's staunch belief in the advantages of staying active during pregnancy and the role of chiropractic care in facilitating this, shines through. We aim to spark a productive dialogue among providers, with the goal of allaying fear-based decisions, focusing solely on the ultimate prize: a healthy mom and a healthy baby.

To connect with Dr. Aklilu, please visit https://kelayi.org/

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Ever asked yourself, how does one juggle the demands of raising four daughters within five years and still maintain sanity? Our special guest, Mary Willcox Smith, not only tackles this question but also uncovers her personal journey to becoming a successful parenting coach. With a childhood marked by trauma, Mary’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of transformation. Follow her intriguing journey from her first pregnancy and birth experience in Argentina, through her subsequent births, to her decision to contribute to the world of parenting through her book.

The conversation gets even more riveting as we explore the unique challenges Mary faced with infant health and the diverse experiences shaped by her different births. Hear about her experiences with the Argentine medical system as we delve into the contrasting level of care her first and second daughters received. As we navigate through the intricate aspects of motherhood, you'll discover the invaluable importance of adequate medical care during childbirth. 

Our discussion isn't just about birthing stories and experiences; it's also about breaking the cycle of negative communication and creating a more empathetic environment for children. Find out how Mary adjusted to the new normal with her virtual presentations during the pandemic and the lessons she's taken away from it. We also brainstorm on her upcoming presentations on resilience and delve into the microstep method. Whether you're a new parent, an experienced one, or someone preparing for the journey, prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and empowered.

Connect with Mary here:

https://www.marysmithparentcoach.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Are you prepared to challenge conventional wisdom about childbirth, armed with knowledge and the power to make informed decisions? Get ready to join us for a compelling conversation with Maja Miller, a first-time mom who waited until 45 to have her baby. As a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and metabolic health coach, Maja shares her personal journey of waiting two years to implant her embryos, ensuring her body was in peak health. She unpacks her birthing experience, candidly discussing her challenges, her eventual C-section, and how she drew upon her knowledge of functional medicine to navigate her choices.

Our discussion dives into Maja's advocacy for her newborn son when hospital norms didn't align with her beliefs. We explore the significance of informed decisions during childbirth and the role of interventions. Maja shares her experiences of challenging the hospital's protocol, like negotiating for donor breast milk instead of sugar water and formula, and refusing a vitamin K shot containing a preservative. She also discusses her desire to forgo an epidural amid her concerns for potential impacts it can have on breastfeeding, and how she ultimately found a way to mitigate those impacts when she opted for a c-section with spinal anesthesia.

Finally, Maja emphasizes the importance of understanding your body's needs and preparing for a healthy pregnancy. She shares her initial negative perception of birth, influenced by the medical system and stories from her friends and family. Maja provides valuable insights on the importance of balancing minerals and micronutrients, and why she believes the typical prenatal vitamin isn't enough. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of gut health, the importance of advocating for oneself during childbirth, and actionable insights to ensure a safer and healthier childbirth experience. Tune in for this in-depth exploration of pregnancy, birth and early motherhood from a functional medicine perspective.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to master the art of breastfeeding? Join us as we sit down with the brilliant Arya Pretlow, a certified nurse midwife, lactation consultant, and yoga therapist, whose wealth of experience guarantees a comprehensive guide to successful breastfeeding. The conversation takes off right from the hospital setting - preparing you to navigate through the complexities and challenges that new parents often face. Arya emphasizes the crucial role of prenatal breastfeeding classes, the potency of a strong support network, and the benefits of a lactation consultant and local La Leche League meetings.

Our discussion with Arya delves deeper as we explore the nuances of the first feed, the importance of patience, and how to best support your newborn during this time. Arya imparts vital tips on achieving a deep latch and highlights the must-know techniques and considerations surrounding breastfeeding. She also addresses the potential influences of spinal anesthesia and the epidural on breastfeeding, underlining the necessity of evaluating the larger picture of labor and delivery when identifying breastfeeding issues.

As we progress, Arya guides us through the fraught process of making informed decisions for infant feeding, particularly for preterm and early-term babies. She stresses the need for healthcare providers to offer more comprehensive education on potential outcomes. Furthermore, we take a closer look at lactation support for pumping and nipple shields and the significance of finding the perfect fit for you. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with invaluable insights and practical tips from Arya's vast expertise to ensure a rewarding breastfeeding journey. So, why wait? Tune in now!

Connect with Arya at apwellnesservices.com

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.

Send us Fan Mail

Dive into the enthralling world of motherhood with Marie Carle, labor and delivery nurse, as she pulls back the curtain on her personal journey through pregnancy, delivery, and raising children. Marie, a mom to three daughters, brings a unique perspective to the table as she harmoniously merges her professional insights with her personal experiences. From managing gestational diabetes to navigating morning sickness, Marie's story is a testament to the power of resilience, intuition, and the love of a mother.

Stepping onto the labor and delivery floor, we delve into the intricacies of labor support and pain management. Being the child of two anesthesiologists, she has a unique insight into the anesthesia world, which she brings into her practice as a labor and delivery nurse. We discuss the role of partners in managing labor pain, the techniques employed in France, and the critical importance of pain management, particularly for patients who choose not to have an epidural.

Our conversation takes a historical turn as Marie recounts riveting tales from her family history, her parents' Caribbean adventure (Marie made a surprise appearance), and the advent of epidural delivery. We also discuss the significance of rest when you’re dating for a newborn, trusting your intuition as a parent, and the impact of various interventions on the laboring down process. Our discourse concludes with reflections on parenting and the importance of teaching children humility and empathy by saying 'I'm sorry'. Join us for a conversation that seamlessly blends the professional and personal, bringing to you insights and experiences that are sure to resonate with you, whether as a parent, a caregiver, or a childbirth enthusiast.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly Hof, BSN, RNC-EFM

🌿 Get my FREE Birth Plan Workshop! → https://kellyhof.com

🌿 Join the Ready for Birth & Beyond Online Community → https://www.facebook.com/groups/readyforbirthandbeyond

🌿 Listen to more episodes of The Birth Journeys Podcast® → https://thebirthjourneyspodcast.com

Medical Disclaimer

The Birth Journeys Podcast® is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Every pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience is unique. Information shared on this podcast — including personal birth stories — may not apply to your specific medical situation. Always consult your OB, midwife, or qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

While I strive to share current guidance aligned with organizations such as ACOG and AWHONN at the time of recording, medical recommendations evolve as research advances. Guests are entitled to autonomy in their medical decisions and may share experiences that differ from current practice guidelines.

My intention is to provide balanced, evidence-informed education and create space for diverse birth experiences — while encouraging you to make informed decisions in partnership with your healthcare team.