EP142 | Brooke -Navigating Long Labours, HBAC with supportive birth team

In this episode I speak with Brooke, who shares her journey of two contrasting birth experiences – a hospital birth followed by a supported home birth after caesarean (HBAC).

Brooke, from Perth, opens up about her first pregnancy, which was unexpected and happened just before COVID hit.

She recounts her long and challenging labour, which ended in a caesarean at the hospital. Despite thorough preparation, including hypnobirthing, Brooke faced numerous interventions that left her feeling unsupported and traumatised by the experience.

In her second pregnancy, determined to have a different birth, Brooke sought continuity of care through a private midwife after finding out local midwifery programs had stopped accepting VBACs. With the support of her midwives, Brooke navigated her way through her HBAC with a calm and relaxed mindset, allowing her body to do the work.

Brooke talks about the importance of trusting your body and the process, especially after her first birth experience was filled with disruptions and unnecessary interventions. She emphasises the value of having continuity of care, particularly with someone who understands your wishes and concerns.

This episode offers insight into the reality that birth can take time and that each experience is unique. Brooke’s journey highlights how home birth provided her with the space, support, and trust she needed to bring her baby into the world on her own terms.

Key Takeaways:

• Brooke's first birth was a long labour that ended in a caesarean, leaving her feeling defeated and traumatised.
• For her second birth, Brooke chose to have a home birth with a private midwife, focusing on healing and letting go of expectations.
• Trusting the process and her body, she successfully gave birth at home, which she describes as a peaceful and empowering experience.
• Continuity of care with a midwife who understands you is crucial for feeling supported throughout your birth journey.

Thank you for tuning in!

If you’re planning a VBAC or considering a home birth, this episode is a must-listen for insights on how to trust the process and advocate for the birth you desire.

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Enjoy this episode,

Ashley

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