Journalist and author Rachel Somerstein joins Jen and Bethany to share her first-hand account of birth trauma during her unplanned cesarean section. Rachel’s story begins with a delayed epidural request during a painful labor, where she felt dismissed, unsupported, and labeled as “crazy” by her care team. When her labor ended in a c-section, her experience became even more traumatic.  She repeatedly told her OB she could feel the surgery, but was not believed. She was placed under general anesthesia only after her baby was born, but not before enduring the emotional and physical toll of inadequate neuraxial anesthesia.  Rachel’s story powerfully illustrates the importance of listening to laboring women, providing timely pain relief, and honoring patients' voices in the OR. 

Topics Discussed

• The lack of C-section education in standard prenatal and birth classes

• Delayed pain relief and being dismissed when requesting an epidural

• Inadequate neuraxial anesthesia during C-section

• Being conscious during surgery and feeling the procedure

• Having no memory of the birth despite being awake due to trauma and medication

• How trauma affects both the birthing person and their partner

• The importance of early recognition of birth trauma and early access to therapy

• Shame and isolation after a traumatic birth

Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide

Jen and Bethany unpack the stigma surrounding C-sections: where it comes from, why it persists, and how we can start to dismantle it. Drawing from their own personal birth stories and professional backgrounds, they explore the cultural myths, language, and assumptions that contribute to C-section shame. The hosts discuss why many women feel judged for having a Cesarean birth and highlight the urgent need for more inclusive, honest conversations about all birth experiences. If you’ve ever felt like your C-section was misunderstood, minimized, or seen as “less than,” this episode is for you.

Topics covered include:

    •    Why C-sections are often stigmatized in birth culture

    •    The emotional impact of feeling judged after a Cesarean

    •    How media and education shape public perception of C-sections

    •    Personal reflections on shifting beliefs around Cesarean births

    •    Why all birth stories deserve respect, support, and validation

Whether you’re preparing for a planned C-section, processing a past one, or just want to better understand this often-overlooked part of birth culture, you’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and empowered.

Jen and Bethany break down the causes of postpartum skin reactions after c-section: from surgical prep and adhesives to glue and Steri-Strips. Learn how to spot allergic reactions, when to seek help, and what can actually soothe the itch. Plus, why physical discomfort can impact emotional recovery—and how to advocate for yourself postpartum.

Topics include:

• Common causes of postpartum itching and rashes after C-section

• Chlorhexidine (ChloraPrep) vs. Betadine reactions

• Adhesive allergies: Steri-Strips vs. surgical glue

• When to seek medical evaluation

• Holistic remedies to soothe irritated skin

• The emotional toll of lingering postpartum discomfort

• Tips for self-advocacy in recovery

Jen and Bethany unpack a common but often misunderstood side effect of c-section births: intense itching during or after surgery. Known medically as opioid-induced pruritus, this itching is typically caused by medications like fentanyl and morphine used in spinal and epidural anesthesia—not an allergic reaction.

They explain why c-section moms are especially prone to this side effect, how opioid medications impact the brain’s sensory processing, and why Benadryl often doesn’t work to relieve the itching. Instead, they discuss evidence-based treatment options like Nalbuphine, which can offer real relief.

You’ll also hear practical tips for how to advocate for yourself before and after surgery, including how to talk to your anesthesiologist and what to include in your c-section birth preferences. 

If you're preparing for a C-section or navigating c-section recovery, this episode is packed with must-know information to help you feel more in control, comfortable, and confident.

Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://csxpodcast.com/products/c-section-guide-freebie Jen and Bethany explore how positive bedside manner can transform c-section birth experiences, sharing heartwarming stories from listeners and their own personal encounters. They highlight the power of empathy, support, and forgiveness in the healing process after a c-section. From moments in the operating room to recovery, they show how simple gestures and validating words from doctors, nurses, and labor and delivery teams can turn a medical procedure into an empowering, memorable birth story. Tune in to hear real examples of how supportive providers make a lasting impact — and why kindness and communication matter so much during c-section births. Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

AFE Foundation: https://afesupport.org Support Firefighter Matt Okula & Baby Crew After Tragic Loss: https://gofund.me/35664636 Jen and Bethany welcome Kayleigh Summers—licensed therapist, birth trauma survivor, and creator of The Birth Trauma Mama—for a powerful conversation about birth trauma, C-sections, and healing after traumatic birth experiences. Kayleigh shares her personal story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) during her son’s birth in 2019, a rare and life-threatening childbirth complication. Together, they honor the memory of Hailey Okula, who tragically passed away from an AFE, and discuss the critical need for awareness, preparedness, and compassionate care in maternal health.

This episode dives deep into the emotional and psychological effects of birth trauma, especially for C-section moms and the healthcare providers who care for them. Topics include:

The connection between C-sections and birth trauma Delayed bonding and its emotional impact The importance of skin-to-skin contact for healing Why debriefing after a traumatic birth matters The under-recognized trauma experienced by providers How to reduce stigma and support postpartum mental health More from Kayleigh Summers Podcast: The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast Instagram: @thebirthtrauma_mama https://thebirthtraumamama.com/ Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Click here to enter our giveaway: CSX Sock Giveaway (running from 4/15-4/22) Jen and Bethany explore the powerful role of bedside manner in birth and postpartum care—and how the words spoken to women during labor, delivery, and recovery can leave a lasting impact.

They asked their community: What’s something a medical provider said to you during birth that you’ll never forget? The answers revealed just how deeply words can affect a mother’s birth experience. Some responses were uplifting—but many reflected moments of judgment, dismissal, or emotional pain that still linger.

Through heartfelt listener submissions and personal reflections, Jen and Bethany highlight the importance of compassionate communication, trauma-informed care, and empathy in obstetric settings. This conversation is a powerful reminder that supportive and respectful maternal healthcare is essential for emotional and physical healing.

If you’ve ever felt dismissed during your birth, or want to understand how we can improve maternal health outcomes through better communication, this episode is for you. Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Jen and Bethany are joined by Dr. Allison Mell, pediatric physical therapist and founder of Tots On Target. In this episode, Dr. Mell shares how parents—especially those with C-section babies—can advocate for their child's physical development from the very beginning.

Drawing on her experience as a mom of four, including preemie twins born via C-section, Dr. Mell dives into motor milestones, the effects of prematurity, and how to best support healthy development. She breaks down the benefits of tummy time, the importance of open floor play, and why limiting time in containers like bouncers and swings matters. The conversation also explores the differences and overlaps between pediatric physical therapy and occupational therapy, and how both play key roles in early development. Dr. Mell answers common questions about milestone delays, baby products, and concerns many parents face in the first year.

Whether you're navigating the NICU, supporting a late crawler, or simply wondering how to set your baby up for success, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice. Dr. Allison Mell is a pediatric physical therapist with over 15 years of experience helping babies and young children reach their developmental milestones. She is the founder of Tots On Target, an online resource dedicated to supporting parents and professionals in fostering motor development. Through her popular Instagram account (@totsontarget), she shares expert tips on movement and milestone progression.

Dr. Allison also runs The Tot Spot Membership, a comprehensive program designed to help babies roll, crawl, and walk. The membership includes step-by-step courses and direct access to her for ongoing guidance, ensuring parents feel confident in supporting their child’s development. As a mom of four- including preemie twins born via C-section who are now teenagers—she understands the challenges parents face and is passionate about empowering them to be strong advocates for their children. For more information and several free resources visit totsontarget.com. Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

Struggling with anxiety around childbirth and C-sections? You're not alone. In this episode, Jen and Bethany explore the realities of C-section anxiety, sharing personal stories, expert-backed coping strategies, and the importance of communication in managing fears. They break down medication options and effective non-pharmacological techniques like the 3-3-3 rule, music therapy, and progressive muscle relaxation to help ease anxiety before and during a C-section. Plus, they discuss how education, preoperative support, and informed decision-making can shape a more positive birth experience. Real stories shed light on the emotional complexities of birth choices, including the decision to have an elective C-section. Whether you're preparing for surgery or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical tools and reassurance for navigating childbirth anxiety. Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

We’re bringing back one of our absolute favorite episodes—one that we believe is crucial listening for every new mom preparing for a C-section. Whether you're planning your birth or just want to better understand what to expect, this conversation is not to be missed. In this replay episode, we dive deep into all things spinal anesthesia, the most commonly used technique for C-sections. We explain exactly what a spinal is, why it’s often chosen over other anesthesia options, and how it works to keep you comfortable and safe during surgery. You’ll learn about the medications used (like local anesthetics and opioids), how it feels when it’s administered, and what sensations you can expect. We also break down the key differences between spinals and epidurals, the benefits and potential drawbacks, and how medical teams test its effectiveness.

On top of the clinical details, we share personal insights, preparation tips, and emotional considerations to help you feel informed and empowered. Whether you’re preparing for your first C-section or just want a deeper understanding, this comprehensive episode is designed to support you every step of the way. 00:00 Introduction to Spinals 00:26 Understanding Neuraxial Anesthesia 01:28 Spinal vs. Epidural: Key Differences 04:46 Medications Used in Spinals 15:39 The Spinal Procedure Experience 21:11 Prepping for the Procedure 21:22 Numbing the Skin: What to Expect 22:04 The Procedure: Pressure and Sensations 23:05 Personal Experiences with Spinal and Epidural 26:07 Understanding the Numbing Process 29:06 Testing Anesthesia Effectiveness 34:31 Navigating the Operating Room Experience Website: csxpodcast.com Email us: [email protected]. Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. Download our FREE C-Section guide here: https://www.csxpodcast.com/guide This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.