Having to have a medically necessary caesarean when you were planning a physiological unmedicated home birth can be a difficult change to accept, so I am hugely grateful to Bonnie for coming on to the podcast to share her story of her pregnancy and birth. Bonnie's baby needed to be born by caesarean early, and she talks about how she navigated the discussions with doctors, and why having a maternal assisted caesarean was so important to her and her experience of birthing her first baby.

If you'd like to hear more about maternal assisted caesareans, what they are, and how to help get your medical team on board with one, listen to my interview with Dr Natalie Elphinstone who facilitates this kind of birth regularly: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbirth/episodes/S6-Ep-7---maternal-assisted-caesareans-with-Dr-Elphinstone-e1o61u6

Disclaimer: The information and provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical or legal advice; instead, all information available on this site are for general informational purposes only. We reserve the right to supplement, change or delete any information at any time. The information and materials on the podcast is provided "as is"; no representations are made that the content is error-free. Whilst we have tried to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information we do not warrant or guarantee the accurateness. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the content of the podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed. Your use of content contained in or linked to this podcast is entirely at your own risk. The Better Birth podcast accepts no liability for any loss or damage howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.

In this episode of Better Birth Stories podcast, host Erin Fung welcomes Shannon and James, a couple who share their transformative birth story following a traumatic first experience. They discuss the extensive research and preparation they undertook to ensure a positive outcome for their second birth, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and advocacy in the birthing process. Shannon recounts her feelings of empowerment during her home birth, contrasting it with the coercive environment of the hospital during her first labor. The couple highlights the significance of support, education, and the right to make choices about their birth experience, ultimately celebrating the joy and healing that came with their new arrival.

Throughout the conversation, Shannon and James reflect on the challenges they faced, including navigating hospital policies and advocating for their preferences. They share insights on the emotional and psychological aspects of birth, the importance of feeling safe and supported, and the impact of their previous experiences on their current journey. Their story serves as an inspiration for expectant parents, emphasizing that with the right preparation and support, a positive birth experience is achievable.

In this episode I chat to Gemma, mum of two, who had two very different yet positive births. Her first was planned to be a home birth but ended up as a labour ward induction, yet she still feels positive and empowered, and her second birth was the home birth she wanted.

I chat to Emma the Naked Doula about the birth of her second child. Whilst the birth didn't take the path she had hoped and dreamed of, Emma's story is one of tenacity, faith, instinct, intuition and power, and demonstrates the importance of knowing yourself, your body, and your options. This story is raw, emotional and inspirational. Thank you so much Emma for your vulnerability and authenticity sharing such a powerful birth story!

We also talk about Emma's book, the Fearless Birth Book, which is available to buy at https://geni.us/FearlessBirthBook

Disclaimer: The information and provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical or legal advice; instead, all information available on this site are for general informational purposes only. We reserve the right to supplement, change or delete any information at any time. The information and materials on the podcast is provided "as is"; no representations are made that the content is error-free. Whilst we have tried to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information we do not warrant or guarantee the accurateness. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the content of the podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed. Your use of content contained in or linked to this podcast is entirely at your own risk. The Better Birth podcast accepts no liability for any loss or damage howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.