In this episode we welcome Tanya, who shares her experience with midwifery care for her first birth and then free birthing her second babe! Tanya recounts her transition from a tattoo artist to a birth worker living in Las Vegas. She opens up about her first pregnancy, detailing her initial apprehensions with a hospital birth and her decision to opt for a midwife-assisted home birth. Tanya talks about her pregnancy challenges, including being treated differently at work after announcing her pregnancy and eventually being fired. 

She provides insights into her birthing experiences, emphasizing her trust in the birthing process and the importance of maintaining positive energy and support. Additionally, Tanya discusses her preparation and decision to choose a free birth for her second child, the prenatal care she administered herself, and how her doula, best friend, partner, and mother supported her through the process. The episode highlights the significance of autonomy, trust in the body's wisdom, and the profound connection between mother and child during birth.

00:00 Introduction and Community Announcements

01:04 Tanya's Background and Journey to Motherhood

03:35 Challenges in the Workplace During Pregnancy

08:37 Deciding on a Home Birth

18:43 First Birth Story: Sequoia's Arrival

32:04 Post-Birth Reflections and Midwifery Care

39:00 Transition to Birth Work and Doula Experiences

44:16 Preparing for a Free Birth

51:40 Deciding Who to Invite to the Birth

54:03 Finding the Right Doula

55:26 Documenting the Birth

57:20 Early Labor Signs

01:00:06 Contractions Intensify

01:06:36 Preparing for Birth at Home

01:09:47 Active Labor Begins

01:19:19 The Baby is Born

01:33:59 Post-Birth Reflections

01:38:15 Final Thoughts and Doula Services

EPISODE LINKS TANYA.

CONNECT WITH SARAH.

CONNECT WITH BRITTANY.

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DISCLAIMER.

The content of this podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to take full responsibility for their own bodies and decisions and to consult with qualified professionals as needed.