In this episode, we hear from Lise, an inspiring Canadian mum who achieved an unassisted VBA2C homebirth while managing Type 1 diabetes.

Lise’s journey is one of resilience, self-trust, and unwavering determination as she navigated a system that often felt disempowering to take control of her birthing experience.

After two previous Caesarean births, both prompted by concerns over reduced movements late in her pregnancies, Lise faced immense challenges.

Both of her boys were taken to special care shortly after birth—an experience she refers to as “medical kidnapping,” where implied consent allowed care to be provided without proper consultation. These experiences fuelled her desire for a different, more autonomous birth journey.

During her third pregnancy, Lise dedicated herself to researching, listening to birth stories, and reading empowering birth books, including Rachel Reed’s Rites of Passage.

Feeling healthy and confident, she managed her diabetes at home with continuous blood sugar monitoring and a proactive approach to her care.

However, the journey wasn’t without its obstacles. Staying with her in-laws late in pregnancy, Lise was told at 40 weeks that she was no longer welcome to birth in their home due to fears of potential litigation. Undeterred, Lise quickly found alternative accommodation at an Airbnb, where she birthed her baby with a trusted birth companion by her side.

Lise’s story is a testament to the strength of trusting your body, doing your research, and taking control of your birth experience, even in complex circumstances.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• Lise’s experiences with two prior Caesareans and the challenges of navigating medicalised care.

• Perspectives of type 1 diabetes and detangling diabetes from birth. 

• The emotional impact of “medical kidnapping” and implied consent in her earlier births.

• How she took charge of her health and planned for an unassisted VBA2C at home.

• The hurdles she faced at 40 weeks and how she overcame them to birth her way.

🎧 Tune in now for Lise's story.

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Disclaimer: The VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. The stories and opinions shared are personal experiences and should not be considered medical advice. Every birth journey is unique, and we encourage you to research, trust your intuition, and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care.

The host and guests of this podcast are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the information shared. By listening, you acknowledge that you take full responsibility for your own health and birth choices.