In Part 2 of Olivia’s story, we move beyond the resuscitation and into what so many survivors say is the hardest part, the aftermath. From ICU recovery to postpartum trauma, returning to work, and making the deeply personal decision to grow her family again, Olivia shares a raw and powerful look at life after surviving an amniotic fluid embolism.

This episode is a testament to grit, grief, and redefining what healing actually looks like.

✨ In this episode, we cover:

🩺 Life after survival, ICU recovery, dialysis, and the long road home
💔 The hidden trauma of the postpartum period after a near-death experience
🚫 Loss of autonomy, HIPAA violations, and navigating care as both patient + provider
🧠 PTSD triggers, panic attacks, and the reality of returning to work in healthcare
🤍 The role of support systems and showing up when it matters most
👶 Becoming a mother while still healing physically and emotionally
🤰 Choosing a subsequent pregnancy after AFE and facing judgment for it
🏥 A high-risk pregnancy with intense monitoring and a carefully crafted birth plan
⚠️ When the plan falls apart: an unexpected early delivery
🎀 Welcoming Rosie, and why a “healing birth” didn’t erase the trauma
📚 Starting a DNP program postpartum and turning pain into purpose
📊 Using lived experience to drive change in maternal healthcare

💡 Olivia also shares her powerful DNP project focused on improving emergency department response to maternal emergencies, bridging critical gaps in care and advocating for systemic change.

💭 Key Takeaway:
Healing after birth trauma isn’t linear, and it isn’t about “fixing” what happened. It’s about learning to carry both grief and hope, while continuing to write your story forward.

⚠️ Content Note:
This episode includes discussion of medical trauma, ICU stays, and life-threatening birth complications. Please listen with care.

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.