After an unplanned pregnancy very newly into her marriage, Melissa planned a home birth, but was transferred out of midwifery care due to a pre-eclampisa diagnosis. She was given no other option than an induction in the hospital.

Overall, she was grateful to have not ended up with a cesarean, but there was so much that happened during that birth that was violating and unnecessary. After her baby was born, she started listening to birth story podcasts and realized that birth didn't have to be that way.

During her second pregnancy, Melissa knew she wanted a different experience. She sought out a midwife with who had a wealth of knowledge about how to manage her blood pressure holistically in the event that she developed high blood pressure again.

Recorded at just 7 weeks postpartum, her second birth was full of joy, humor, and there's a surprise twist at the end!

This is such a beautiful story!

Her high blood pressure prevention protocol:

• Passionflower tea
• Epsom salt baths
• Reducing stress
• Journalling

(Please note that I am never giving medical advice on this podcast, I am simply sharing women's own stories!)

You can follow Melissa on Instagram @mklemens28

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