In this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Rachael to share her powerful story of surviving placenta accreta, not once, but twice, and the far-reaching impact it had on her body, her family, and her healing.

Rachael, an IVF mom and nurse, opens up about her traumatic birth experiences: the emergency surgeries, hemorrhage, ICU stay, and the devastating loss of her ability to breastfeed after a pituitary rupture. She also shares her second accreta journey, which ended in a hysterectomy, and the complicated grief of both relief and loss that followed.

But this conversation doesn’t stop with the medical story, it shines light on the ripple effects of birth trauma. Rachael bravely discusses the toll it took on her marriage, her husband’s hidden struggles with alcohol, and the often-overlooked suffering of partners in the aftermath of traumatic births.

Together, Kayleigh and Rachael explore:

💔 The realities of placenta accreta and its life-threatening complications
🩸 How trauma can linger in the body long after physical healing
🧠 The critical role of therapy, medication, and community in recovery
👩‍❤️‍👨 Why partners’ grief and trauma must not be forgotten
🌱 What healing can look like, planting new roots, finding hope, and creating meaning after loss

Rachael’s story is one of survival, resilience, and a call to remember that birth trauma impacts the entire family system. Her honesty offers both validation and hope to survivors and their loved ones.

Resources & Links

💜 Connect with Kayleigh: @thebirthtrauma_mama
🌐 Learn more at Holding Hope Perinatal
👩‍💻 Connect with Rachael on Instagram: @rachaelmcmullan_ or visit her website: https://www.rachaelmcmullan.com/

For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.

Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.