The VBAC Link
Join us as we share VBAC birth stories to educate and inspire! We are a team of expert doulas trained in supporting VBAC, have had VBAC's of our own, and work extensively with VBAC women and their providers. We are here to provide detailed VBAC and Cesarean prevention stories and facts in a simple, consolidated format. When we were moms preparing to VBAC, it was stories and information like we will be sharing in this podcast that helped fine tune our intuition and build confidence in our birth preparation. We hope this does the same for you! The purpose of...
Mon, March 31, 2025
Episode 391 Molly Returns Sharing Her Post-date Induced VBAC + Co-Host Allison + The Emotions of Birth
Molly joined us for Episode 84 talking about her unexpected breech Cesarean and first VBAC story. Today, she returns sharing her second VBAC story! Molly shares her powerful journey through loss, IVF, selecting her powerhouse birth team, preparing for different outcomes, post-dates, a multiple-day induction, a beautiful delivery (where her husband caught their sweet baby!), and navigating a placental lobe. Allison, one of our VBAC-certified doulas, joins Meagan as a co-host talking about her work as a virtual doula and the importance of how women are treated during their births. Coterie Diapers - Use code VBAC20 for 20% off How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. I hope you guys are having a fantastic day or evening and are excited for another episode of The VBAC Link. We have our friend, Molly, today, and she is from central Alabama, and then we also have a co-host today. She's one of our doulas. Her name is Allison. Hello, Allison. Allison: Hi, Meagan. Hi, Molly. Molly: Hi. Meagan: I was going to say, and hello, Molly. Molly: Hi. Meagan: Welcome to the show you guys, and thank you for joining us. Allison is actually one of our doulas. I don't know if you've noticed along the way here and there, we have one of our doulas on as a co-host. I think it's so fun to hear an educational topic from them and then, of course, share where they are at because I truly believe hiring a doula is so impactful. In fact, on Molly's form, that is one of the tips that she gave. Right, Molly? You're like, hire a doula. Molly: Yes, absolutely. It made all the difference this birth. Meagan: Yes. Doulas are incredible. So if you can, hire a doula. Before we get into Molly's story, Allison, I wanted to just turn the time over to you really quick and have you share a little bit more of where you are at. So for the listeners, maybe in your area, they can find you. Allison: Absolutely. Well, listeners, you have a treat because I serve everyone all over the world, globally. All of my work is online. My business name is The Cesarean Doula because I actually support women and birthing people emotionally after having emotionally difficult or traumatic Cesarean births. I do all of my work primarily over the Internet over Zoom. My focus is actually not on birth but on postpartum and on recovering from the feelings of grief, sadness, loss, overwhelm, and confusion that we often have after a Cesarean that's undesired o
Wed, March 26, 2025
Episode 390 Johanna's HBAC + PROM + Supportive Provider + Postpartum Planning
Johanna is a girl mama joining us today from Canada. She had an unplanned C-section with her first, an HBAC with her second, and was pregnant with her third at the time of recording! Johanna reflects on her experiences with both supportive and unsupportive care during her pregnancies. Meagan and Johanna dive into your options surrounding PROM, the significance of intuition in decision-making, the impact of provider choices on birth outcomes, and the nuances of VBAC postpartum recovery. The VBAC Link Blog: Home Birth VBAC Everything You Need for Your HBAC Supportive Providers 10 Signs to Switch Your Provider What to Do When Your Water Breaks Labor Guide Coterie Diapers - Use code VBAC20 for 20% off How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have our friend Johanna with us from Canada today, and she's going to be sharing her HBAC story. So for those who may be , new to the VBAC world, or just all of the acronyms that the VBAC world has, HBAC is pronounced home birth after Cesarean. So if you are one of those who really wants to look into all of your options for birthing locations, which I encourage everyone to do, definitely listen up here. We're going to be talking about a lot of really great things including picking a provider and PROM knowing that you maybe had a provider that wasn't ideal the first time and more about HBAC. So we are going to be diving into a lot of really, really great, juicy topics. But in place our review today, Johanna and I are actually going to talk a little bit more about picking the right provider. So, Johanna, welcome to the show. Johanna: Thank you. Meagan: I am so excited for you to be with us today and so grateful that you are here to talk about this topic. Because like I was saying before we pressed record, I see daily in our community, every single day, and not even just our community, in othe
Mon, March 24, 2025
Episode 389 Kristin from Ask the Doulas Podcast + VBAC Prep + Assembling Your Dream Team of Experts
In this special episode, Kristin, host of Ask the Doulas podcast and founder of Gold Coast Doulas, gives tips on building your supportive birth team. Kristin and Meagan talk specifics on HOW to switch providers if you’re feeling the push to do so. Once we have our dream team, we’re good and don’t have to do any more work, right? Nope! We keep educating and preparing ourselves. That’s the way to truly get the most out of that dream team. Kristin’s book ‘Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby’ is a one-stop shop where you can get all of the education you need for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Her advice is so valuable for VBAC moms and birth workers, too! Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby Ask the Doulas Podcast Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello. Hello. We have a special episode for you today. We have my friend, Kristin, who is actually the owner of Ask the Doulas Podcast on with us today. She is going to be talking about establishing our birth team and the importance of it. We're going to talk a little bit more about what to expect when we might not find a provider that's supportive and how to navigate it. She's going to talk more about her book and so many things. You guys, I'm really excited. Kristin is a woman who has always had a passion for supporting other women both personally and professionally. In college, Kristin served on the executive committee of her sorority and organized events on campus related to breast cancer and other women's issues. After the birth of her daughter in 2011, a new passion awoke within her. Kristin began reading and studying birth from all perspectives, philosophies, and medical approaches. She joined organizations like The Healthy Kent Breastfeeding Collation and used her event coordinating skills to build and promote the organization and create community awareness. You guys, she has done so many incredible things. Kristin's research has led her to learn more about doulas, and in 2012, she hired doulas herself for the support of her second birth. The level of compassionate care and comfort that she received from her doulas ignited a spark within her and led her down the path of becoming a doula herself. And man, can I connect to this because this is exactly what happened to me. When you guys have a doula who inspires you and touches you and motivates you the way it sounds like Kristin did and I did, ev
Wed, March 19, 2025
Episode 388 Liz's HBAC After an Unexpected Cesarean Following a Late Hypertension Diagnosis
Liz, a mama of two from Long Island, New York, joins us today sharing her experience with preeclampsia, an unexpected C-section, and her successful VBAC with her second. Liz had a perfect health history and never had any surgeries before her C-section. It was so frustrating to feel so out of control. In between her birth and her second pregnancy, Liz’s mom unexpectedly passed away. She shares how she has been processing the intense grief from her mother’s passing and from the positive birth experience she wasn’t able to have. Liz made lots of changes going into her VBAC birth including diet, switching providers, and choosing to birth at home! Liz's Doula Coterie Diapers - Use code VBAC20 for 20% off How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan Hello, everybody. We have our friend, Liz, from New York with us today. She is a mom of two and almost two years old. Right? Your VBAC baby? Liz: Yes. Meagan Almost two years since your VBAC baby. And then an almost six-year-old. And yeah, like I said, she lives in New York, and she's going to be sharing her stories with you guys today. With her first birth, she actually had preeclampsia, so she's gonna talk more about that. And then with her second birth, she didn't have preeclampsia. I think this is an important thing to talk about because we know that having preeclampsia again is a possibility, and it might be slightly increased if you've had it, but it doesn't mean you will. So I'm hoping that we can talk a little bit more if you did do anything to try to avoid it. The second one, we'll talk more about that in a little bit. But knowing that it's still okay. If you have preeclampsia, you can still VBAC. Now, in her second one, she didn't have preeclampsia, but you can still VBAC if you have preeclampsia. So we're going to talk about that a little bit after your first birth too, because I want to know more. All right. We do have a Review of the Week today, and this is by jess2123. It says "Best Podcast for VBAC". It says, "I listened to the podcast after my son's birth. I learned so much that I knew I wanted a VBAC for my second birth. When I became pregnant again, I would listen to this podcast during my walks. Thanks to the wealth of knowledge that I gained, I had my unmedicated VBAC in 2023." Congratulations, Jess, on your VBAC, and thank you so much for your review. I know this year we'r
Mon, March 17, 2025
Episode 387 VBAC Q&A With Dr. Nicole Rankins + Preeclampsia, Scar Thickness, and More
Meagan welcomes Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins, a board-certified OB/GYN, to discuss everything related to pregnancy, childbirth, and the VBAC experience. With over 23 years of experience and more than 1,000 deliveries, Dr. Rankins shares her insights on common questions and concerns from expectant mothers. From the importance of mindset during labor to understanding the implications of the word “allow” in provider-patient relationships, this episode is packed with valuable information. Don't miss out on Dr. Rankins' tips for a calm and confident birth, and learn how to advocate for yourself in the birthing process! Dr. Nicole Rankins' Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength, It's Meagan, and I am so excited to be joining you today with our friend, Nicole Calloway Rankins. Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins is incredible. We've been following her for a long time and have collaborated with her in the past and are so excited to be having her on the podcast today. Dr. Rankins is a board-certified practicing OB/GYN, wife, mom and podcast host here to help you get calm, confident, and empower you to have a beautiful birth you deserve. She was born into a family of educators, and she felt a pull to medical school the day she looked in the mirror and saw a vision of herself in a white coat. And get this, it all happened while she was studying to be an engineer. She says, "I know that sounds crazy, but that vision has led me to exactly where I am supposed to be today- serving pregnant women." She's delivered more than 1,000 babies and has de-mystified childbirth for thousands more through her 5-star rated All About Pregnancy and Birth Podcast which she's going be talking about a little bit more today. I'm so excited for her. She has over 2 million downloads and her online birth plan and childbirth education classes. You guys, she is really changing so much about the birth world. She's incredible. You're going to hear it today. I love chatting with her. You can find her at drnicolrankins.com and of course, we'll have all of her other podcasts and Instagram and all that in the show notes. So get ready, we're excited. We're going to be talking a little bit more about common questions for an OB/GYN, but then we're also going to be diving into questions from you personally. I reached out on Instagram and said, "Hey, what are your questions for this doctor?" She is so excited to answer them, and she did. We went
Wed, March 12, 2025
Episode 386 Dr. Stu & Midwife Blyss Answer Your Questions + VBAC Prep & Uterine Rupture (REBROADCAST)
Originally aired in June 2019 as our 73rd episode, we still often think back to this amazing first conversation we had with Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young! Now, almost 6 years later, the information is just as relevant and impactful as it was then. This episode was a Q&A from our Facebook followers and touches on topics like statistics surrounding VBAC, uterine rupture, uterine abnormalities, insurance companies, breech vaginal delivery, high-risk pregnancies, and a powerful analogy about VBACs and weddings! Birthing Instincts Patreon Birthing Blyss Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, guys. This is one of our re-broadcasted episodes. This is an episode that, in my opinion, is a little gem in the podcast world of The VBAC Link. I really have loved this podcast ever since the date we recorded it. I am a huge fan of Dr. Stu Fischbein and Midwife Blyss and have been since the moment I knew that they existed. I absolutely love listening to their podcast and just all of the amazing things that they have and that they offer. So I wanted to rebroadcast this episode because it was quite down there. It was like our 73rd episode or something like that. And yeah, I love it so much. This week is OB week, and so I thought it'd be fun to kick-off the week with one of my favorite OB doctor's, Stuart Fischbein. So, a little recap of what this episode covers. We go over a lot. We asked for our community to ask questions for these guys, and we went through them. We didn't get to everything, so that was a bummer, but we did get to quite a bit. We talked about things like the chances of VBAC. We talked about the chances of uterine rupture and the signs of uterine rupture. We talked about inducing VBAC. We talked about uterine abnormalities, the desire of where you want to birth and figuring that out. And also, Blyss had a really great analogy to talk about what to do and how we're letting the medical world and insurance and things like that really contemplate where we or dictate where we are birthing. I love that analogy. You guys, seriously, so many questions. It's an episode that you'll probably want to put on repeat because it really is so great to listen to them, and they just speak so directly. I can't get enough of it. So I'm really excited for you guys to dive in today on this. However, I wanted to bring to your attention a couple of
Mon, March 10, 2025
Episode 385 Ambrosia's VBA2C + Teen Pregnancy + The Myth of a Small Pelvis
In this episode of The VBAC Link Podcast, join Julie as she sits down with Ambrosia to discuss her journey from a teen pregnancy to achieving a VBAC after two C-sections. Ambrosia shares her unique experiences, the challenges she faced, and the importance of advocating for herself in the medical system. Julie and Ambrosia give insights into the myth of a small pelvis and preeclampsia. How is a small pelvis really diagnosed? Does preeclampsia always mean a medically necessary C-section? Listen to find out! The VBAC Link Blog: Overuse of the CPD Diagnosis Coterie Diapers - Use Code VBAC20 for 20% off How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: All right, Good morning, good morning, good morning. It is Julie here today with The VBAC Link Podcast, and I'm really excited about our story today. I have with me Ambrosia. Is Ambrosia how you say it? Ambrosia: Yes. Julie: Okay, good. I didn't want to go the whole episode without saying your name wrong. Okay, we have it. Ambrosia. I'm really excited because today we have a VBAC after two C-section story. I love especially these stories. Her first pregnancy was a teen pregnancy, and I am really interested in hearing her experience about that because I know that it's a very unique circumstance and a very different journey as a teenager, and there are unique challenges associated with that. So I'm excited to hear more about that and about all of her journey through all of her births. But before I do that, I'm going to share a Review of the Week. This one is a throwback to 2020. I was looking through our spreadsheet and saw that we haven't done that one yet, so I'm going to throw all the way back almost four years ago. This review was on Apple Podcasts, and it says "Meagan and Julie and the women sharing their birth stories are amazing. They share real life stories of all kinds of births and helpful, useful, practical information that has really helped me feel prepared for my VBAC which I hope will happen very soon. I highly recommend listening to this podcast to be informed and encouraged. I also highly recommend their online VBAC course. It's self-paced and offers so much valuable information and good resources. It has really helped me feel ready and empowered to birth my baby. Thank you for all you awesome ladies do for women and the birth world." I will say thank you so much for sharing a review. If you haven't already, take some time, pause the podcast right now. Go ahea
Wed, March 05, 2025
Episode 384 Maria's Birth Center VBA2C + The Power of VBAC Prep + What Happens if You Can’t Pee in Labor?
While we can't control many parts of birth, there is so much we CAN do to quite literally change the trajectory of our birth outcome. First: Feel safe with where and with whom you will give birth. Second (but just as important!): Prepare yourself mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. During her first VBAC attempt, Maria hired a midwife. Her second birth had so much more advocacy, progress, and positivity, but there were still missing pieces, new traumas to process, and things she wished had gone differently. You will NOT WANT TO MISS hearing all of the things that changed for Maria from her first two births to her third. The proactive work, the passion, the prep, the healing, the research, the manifesting, the surrendering, the trust, and to top it all off, the beautiful, unmedicated VBA2C outcome. Just like Maria, our greatest hope is for all of you to unlock this birthing power that is already within you, no matter the birth outcome. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello, you guys. It seems like a common theme lately. A lot of people are wanting to submit their VBA2C stories, and I love it. I love it absolutely so much. We know so many of, these listeners in our community are wanting to know, is it possible? Can we VBAC after two Cesareans? I'm sure you've been noticing the theme in January and February, and now here in March, we have another VBAC after two Cesarean stories coming to you today from our friend Maria. Hello, Maria. Maria: Hi. Meagan: Thank you so much for being here and sharing your stories. We were just chatting a little bit before we got started about kind of where her birth took place, and she'll tell you more. But the VBAC was in Texas, right? Maria: It was. Yes, it was in Texas. Meagan: It was in Texas. So Texans. Texans? I don't know. we have Floridians, Utahns. Is it Texans? Maria: Texans. Yeah. Yep. And you know, Texas is a huge state, so this is central Texas in the Austin area. Yeah, because it's such a big state. It is. Meagan: It is very huge. We know people have to sometimes drive really far away to find support. And when it comes to VBAC after multiple Cesareans, we know sometimes that can be really challenging. And when I say sometimes, it's often. It is often challenging to find that support. So I really like to show everybody where you are in a way because we want people who are in Texas or who can get to Texas or who find it manageable, that they know that there is a supportive provider there. <
Mon, March 03, 2025
Episode 383 Noel's Induced VBAC with Premature Rupture of Membranes + What is PROM?
“I don't think anyone pushes like a VBAC mom pushes.” In this episode, we chat about premature rupture of membranes (PROM) with Noel, a stay-at-home mom from Texas, as she shares her personal experiences and successful VBAC story. We dive deep into the importance of finding a supportive provider and the realities of induction. Noel was never able to fully dilate during her first birth. She and Meagan talk about the impact of meaningful milestones (like reaching 10 centimeters!) during a VBAC labor. Also, it’s never too early to hire your doula! Premature Rupture of Membranes Preterm and Term Prelabor Rupture of Membranes Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is March which means it is my second C-section baby's birth month. I love March so much because it's also when the sun starts feeling a little bit warmer, and you start hearing some birds chirp. We're kind of getting to that spring season, depending on where you are. Let's be honest, I'm in Utah, so it's still probably snowing every day in March. But I love March so much. And we're kicking it off with a really great episode. We have our friend, Noel. Hello, Noel. Noel: Hi. Meagan: I am so excited for her to be on today. She is actually in Texas, and tell us where again in Texas. Noel: The Woodlands, Texas. It's right near Houston. Meagan: Okay, perfect. And this is where you had your baby? Noel: No, so I actually had my baby in Dallas. That's where we were living at the time. Meagan: You were in Dallas. It says it right here on your little form. Okay, so she was in Dallas, you guys. So Dallas peeps or really just Texas peeps or really anybody. We know people travel for support and things like that. This is definitely a story to listen to. And then we are going to be talking a little bit about PROM. If you haven't ever heard about PROM, PROM is P-R-O-M and that means premature rupture of membranes, which means your water breaks, but labor doesn't really start, so it breaks prematurely to labor beginning. There's also PPROM, premature rupture of membranes, which means your baby is preterm. So we're going to dive into that in just a minute. But I wanted to tell you a little bit more about Noel. She is a stay-at-home mom with two boys. One is 3.5 and one is 5, so it's been a little bit since she had her baby. She actually su
Wed, February 26, 2025
Episode 382 Alice's Safe HBAC After Healing From an Abusive Relationship + Domestic Violence Support
In this powerful episode, we hear the story of Alice, who shares her brave journey through two contrasting pregnancies and the impact of intimate partner violence on her mental health. Co-host Sarah joins as one of our VBAC Link certified doulas to discuss the importance of mental health awareness, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. This episode dives into the significance of having a strong support system and the need for open conversations about postpartum mood disorders and trauma-informed care. Alice is a beautiful example of resilience, healing, and the strength that women possess. National Domestic Violence Hotline Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of Strength. Hello. How are you doing? I hope you are having an amazing week. We have another story coming your way today, and we actually have a co-host today, my friend Sarah. Hello, Sarah. Sarah: Hi. Meagan: Thank you so much for being here today. Sarah: Yeah, I'm super excited to be here. Meagan: I love having our VBAC Link doulas on the podcast here and there. It's fun to not only share you with the world and let people know who you are and where you are, but really just to hear from you guys and hear your educational pieces and just have you guys in the story and giving your input, and I just love it. So thank you so much for being here. Sarah: Absolutely. Meagan: Guys, today, like I said, we have an HBAC coming your way. But I did want to let you know that today's episode may have mention of partner abuse and suicide. I really, really, really think it is so important to really not mask stories and share the rawness of people's stories because I think the rawness and the real story is what makes us who we are today and really creates the story to be true. I just wanted to give you guys a heads-up. But I'm going to turn the time over to Sarah. She is in replace of our review today doing an educational piece and actually talking about mental health. Sarah: Yeah. Hi. So again, I'm super excited to be here. I'm Sarah Marie Bilder. I'm located in the upstate South Carolina area and I do birth and postpartum doula work. I really just wanted to cover the topic of mental health because in the story that we're gonna hear today, it's pretty relevant and it's one of those things that aren't often talked about. I don't wanna say that that's not ta
Mon, February 24, 2025
Episode 381 Colleen's VBAC + Gestational Diabetes, Shoulder Dystocia, and Bait & Switch
“I am not a TOLAC patient. I am a VBAC!” Julie sits down with Colleen, a mother from Long Island, New York, who shares her journey towards achieving a successful VBAC despite facing challenges such as gestational diabetes. Colleen recounts her traumatic first birth experience and the uphill battle she faced with her second pregnancy. She was bombarded with messages that her baby would suffer permanent nerve damage from shoulder dystocia, but her intuition told her otherwise. Though her baby’s weight was predicted to be off the charts, Colleen’s daughter was born weighing just 7 pounds, 15 ounces. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding your options, having a supportive team, and trusting your instincts during birth. The VBAC Link Blog: The Facts About Shoulder Dystocia Evidence Based Birth® - The Evidence on Big Babies Evidence Based Birth® - The Evidence on Induction for Big Babies CODE VBAC20 @ COTERIE https://www.coterie.com/products/the-diaper?utm_source=VBACLINK&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Diaper How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: All right. Good morning, Women of Strength. It is Julie Francom here with you today. I am super excited that we have with us Colleen here today. Colleen is going to share her story about her VBAC with gestational diabetes and the struggle that she had working towards her VBAC. Now I am really excited to introduce Colleen to you. She is from Long Island, New York. I do not have a Review of the Week. I forgot to pull that up, so we are going to just do a little fun fact about birth preparation instead of a review because I forgot to look at the review. So sorry, Meagan. I think probably the best thing that you can do to prepare for any type of birth is to find out what all of your options are. I feel like that's like such a good tip for first-time moms or going in for a VBAC or even if you want to schedule a repeat C-section or even an initial C-section. I think that one of the biggest disservices we can do to ourselves is not knowing the options that a
Wed, February 19, 2025
Episode 380 Kelsey's VBA2C with Polyhydramnios & Big Baby + Staying Strong With Unsupportive Providers
If you are looking for VBAC inspiration, Kelsey’s episode is a MUST-LISTEN. Kelsey is a VBA2C mom and speech-language pathologist living in Erie, Pennsylvania. You will feel literal full-body chills as she tells her birth stories on the podcast today. As a first-time mom, Kelsey chose a Cesarean over physiological birth thinking it was the safer, easier route. But after experiencing the reality of two C-sections, she went from fearing vaginal birth to trusting in the labor process even more than her providers did. With her VBA2C, Kelsey got just about every type of pushback in the books. She was coerced, persuaded, questioned, and fear-mongered by multiple providers. Yet Kelsey was able to ground herself by listening to VBAC stories on The VBAC Link Podcast, seeking refuge in her doula and Webster-certified chiropractor, and connecting with other VBAC moms. Kelsey knew her body could do it. She just wanted a chance. Going up against a hospital practice that was saturated with skepticism, Kelsey’s labor was beautifully textbook. Her labor progressed quickly, and her biggest baby yet came out in two pushes– “like butter” as described by her doula! VBAC-Certified Doula, Tara Van Dyke’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have another amazing story for you today. And actually, it's stories. We have a VBA2C mama coming your way. And as you know, this is a hot topic because lots of people want to know if vaginal birth after two Cesareans is possible. So Kelsey will be sharing her stories with us today. But guess what, you guys, I have a co-host today and it's Tara. Hello, Tara Van Dyke. Tara: Hello. Hello. Meagan: She is one of our VBAC link doulas. As you probably heard back in 2024, we are going to randomly be having co-hosts from our VBAC Link doulas. I think it's so awesome to have them on. I love hearing the topics and things that they want to suggest to talk to you guys about because again, just like we talked about years ago, we just in Salt Lake City, Utah, can't share enough. And so we want other doulas from all over the world to share as well. So Tara, tell us more about where you're from and then your topic on partners and being prepared. Tara: Yes. So thank you for having me here with you. This is so fun to hear a story live. I'm a doula working in the Chicagoland suburbs. I've been doing that for 20 years and now moving to more of childbirth education a
Mon, February 17, 2025
Episode 379 Lily Wyn's 66-Hour Redemptive Hospital Water Birth VBAC
Lily’s VBAC birth story episode is finally here!!! You know and love her just like we do. She not only manages the social media content here at The VBAC Link but also spends so much time connecting with you personally. She has the biggest heart for VBAC and champions all types of empowered birth. Lily walks us through her experiences with ectopic pregnancy, loss, her traumatic Cesarean, and how she persisted through a 66-hour long labor without an epidural to achieve her hospital water birth VBAC. If you followed her pregnancy journey, you saw that Lily was incredibly proactive during her pregnancy. She built the strongest team of birth and body workers. She was specific in her desires, yet remained open-minded. This served her so well in labor and made all the difference during her birth! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. You guys, today is a very exciting day. We have recently had two of our VBAC Link team members have their babies. Paige was one with the first Maternal Assisted Cesarean in Korea, and today is the second with Lily. Oh my gosh. If you guys have been on our social media, you have seen our cute Lily. She is just so amazing. She's so fun. She's in the DMs on Instagram literally every day chatting with you. I just absolutely adore her. She's so incredible. Lily is a born and raised Colorado-- I don't even know how to actually say this. Lily is a born and raised Coloradoan. I think that is how you say it. She's from Colorado, living in northern Colorado with her husband, son, and daughter. She is a kinesiologist who works in community health and a dual-certified fitness instructor passionate about movement and wellness. After an unexpected Cesarean two and a half years ago, Lily found The VBAC Link and began planning her VBAC and is excited to share her story today. I cannot wait for you to hear it. This was actually the first time that I got to hear it in its entirety. It's just amazing, and I'm excited for you to hear it. Like I mentioned, Lily is also our social media assistant at The VBAC Link and is truly honored to empower and hold space for all the Women of Strength in our community. You guys, she is absolutely amazing. We love her so, so, so, so much. We do have a review that we're going to share, and then we are going to turn the time over to our sweet Lily to share her stories. This review is by Savannah, and it says, "Started listening to The VBAC Link P
Wed, February 12, 2025
Episode 378 Susan's Empowering CBA3C + The Benefits of Laboring
Join Susan on our podcast today as she shares her journey to a beautifully empowering CBA3C! Susan had three C-sections that didn't have anything to do with her body. They just happened to be circumstantial. All three of her births had been traumatic emotionally and did not go how she wanted at all. As far as making decisions for herself and doing what she really wanted to do, that was not present. But with her fourth baby, Susan had a lot of firsts. It was the first time that she was really able to voice what she wanted. She was able to make decisions out of peace and being educated instead of making decisions out of fear and being told what to do. That was the first truly empowering step in her process. Our mission at The VBAC Link is to make all births after difficult Cesareans better, and Susan’s episode shows exactly that. Coterie Diaper Products, Code VBAC20 for 20% Discount How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is Megan, and I am joining you with my friend Susan. Hello, Susan. How are you? Susan: Hi Meagan. I'm doing great. How are you doing? Meagan: I am so great. You are from South Carolina, and at the time we're recording, even though this is now going to be in February, South Carolina has had crazy weather. How has everything been with you guys? Susan: Everything has been great. We're actually extremely blessed with the area that we are in. Initially, I thought it was something to talk about because I had a tree fall in the back of my house, but once I saw everything else going on in the area and just seeing the devastation that people had gone through, we are incredibly blessed with, the minimal damage with it just being a tree. Meagan: And this was Hurricane Helene? Susan: Hurricane Helene. Yeah. So all of our neighbors are pretty rough right now, so keep them in your prayers and help out where you can. Meagan: Seriously? Oh, we will be. We're actually recording right now in October, and today is the day that Florida is scheduled to be hit with another really crazy hurricane. So, yes. Susan: I've been thinking of Florida non-stop too. Meagan: Seriously, if you guys are listening, even though this is in February, oh my goodness, I hope all is well and everybody is okay. We do have our Review of the Week, so I definitely want to get into that before you share your four CBAC stories. We have people question, "Why is it called The VBAC Link, but then
Mon, February 10, 2025
Episode 377 Melanie's Induced VBAC Turned CBAC + Controlling What You Can + How to Heal Birth Trauma
We have two beautiful CBAC stories for you on the podcast this week! Today’s episode is with our friend, Melanie. Her first unexpected Cesarean was in April 2020 at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a very lonely and traumatic experience. Melanie found healing through a birth trauma therapist who helped her process her story and prepare for her second birth with a strong mindset. She took charge of what she could while making peace with what she couldn’t control. Unfortunately, many things out of her control did happen, and Melanie faced another Cesarean. All of the healing work paid off though, as Melanie was not traumatized but empowered instead. “Birth stays with you forever. It’s not something you ‘move on from’. My first birth was 5 years ago and still barrels me over from time to time. Likewise, the pride I feel in how I advocated for myself during my second birth continually gives me strength.” IMG_6660 (1) - Melanie Doyle.jpg CBAC Support - The VBAC Link Community Birth Story Medicine Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: This is actually the week that we are kicking off CBAC week. This week you'll hear two CBAC stories. If you haven't caught on yet, every month we have one week with a couple episodes that is a more specialized episode. So if you're looking for CBAC stories, this is your week, and we have our friend, Melanie, with us today. Hello everybody, it's Meagan. I have my friend, Melanie, with us today. Melanie is a 31-year-old mama of two who had two C-sections. While she struggles with birth trauma from her second birth, an emergency C section, it was still quite healing, she said. I love that you're talking about that. You still struggled with this, but it can still be healing. That was how I was. I wanted a VBAC with my second birth. I really, really, really wanted a VBAC, but it didn't happen. It didn't go as planned, and I had a CBAC. I walked down to that or and I had that second C-section, and it was not what I wanted. There was still trauma involved and lots of feelings, but it was still one of the most healing experiences for me. Weirdly enough, I think it's what he needed. I needed that to help me heal from birth one and bi
Wed, February 05, 2025
Episode 376 Chrissie's Healing CBA2C + Researching Birth Rights & Applying Them
Chrissie always dreamed that the birth of her babies would be the happiest days of her life. But with her first two births, they were among the worst. In today’s episode, Chrissie expresses the heartbreak she felt after doing everything to prepare for a VBAC and not get it. Though she wasn’t sure how her third birth would go, the healing, research, and advocacy she did made all the difference in her experience. She called the shots, listened to her intuition, and ultimately saved her baby’s life by being so in tune with herself and her body. And finally, the birth of her third baby was the most beautiful, joyful, and happiest day. Coterie Diapers Use code VBAC20 at checkout for 20% off your first order of $40 or more. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have a CBAC after two Cesareans story coming your way today. This is a story that we felt we should share because it is so important to document our CBAC stories as well. Even though there are a lot of things that are going to unfold within our guest, Chrissie’s story, it’s so important to see how much she has grown and healed over each experience. Listening to her, a few things came up in my mind as I was listening. It was intuition. We’ve said it for years, honestly since 2018 when this podcast began. Intuition is so powerful, and sometimes it’s hard to turn into and understand what your intuition is or what fear is, but I challenge you right now to start tuning into that. When you’re getting the feelings, is it your intuition? Really, really connect with that intuition because it is so powerful. Another thing that I felt was a big takeaway from her story was how much she researched and gained knowledge of her own rights and her own ability to say no or to say, “Not now, not yet. No, thank you.” Women of Strength, I know it’s hard, and it’s really hard when we’re in labor. I know it. But you always have the right to say no. You can always say no. Chrissie really did such a good job at researching and educating herself and arming herself up with the knowledge that she needed to so she could confidently say no when she needed to but also confidently say, “Hey, this is something that needs to change,” and stand up for herself in that time. I do
Mon, February 03, 2025
Episode 375 Dr. Darrell Martin Shares His Journey as an OB/GYN + Can a Midwife Support VBAC?
Dr. Darrell Martin is an OB/GYN with four decades of expertise in women’s health and the author of the bestselling memoir “In Good Hands: A Doctor’s Story of Breaking Barriers for Midwifery and Birth Rights.” In this episode, Dr. Martin and Meagan walk down memory lane talking about differences in birth from when he started practicing to when he retired. He even testified before Congress to fight for the rights of Certified Nurse Midwives and for patients' freedom to select their healthcare providers! Dr. Martin also touches on the important role of doulas and why midwifery observation is a huge asset during a VBAC. Dr. Martin's TikTok In Good Hands: A Doctor's Story of Breaking Barriers for Midwifery and Birth Rights Dr. Martin's Website Coterie Diapers Use code VBAC20 at checkout for 20% off your first order of $40 or more. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. We have Dr. Darrell Martin joining us today. Dr. Martin hasn’t really been in the OB world as of recently, but has years and years and over 5000 babies of experience. He wrote a book called, “In Good Hands: A Doctor’s Story of Breaking Barriers for Midwifery and Birth Rights.” We wanted to have him on and talk just a little bit more about this book and his history. That is exactly what he did. He walked us down memory lane, told us lots of crazy stories, and good stories, and things they did along the way to really advocate for birth rights and midwives in their area. Dr. Darrell Martin is a gynecologist, a dedicated healthcare advocate with four decades of expertise in women’s health, and the author of the bestselling memoir, “In Good Hands: A Doctor’s Story of Breaking Barriers for Midwifery and Birth Rights.” His dedication to patient care and choice propelled him to testify before Congress, championing the rights of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and advocating for patients' freedom to select their healthcare providers. A standout moment in his career was his fervent support for nurse-midwifery in Nashville, Tennessee, showcasing his commitment to advancing the profession. Additionally, Dr. Martin takes great pride in having played a pivotal role,
Wed, January 29, 2025
Episode 374 Julia's HBAC with Labor Beginning at Almost 43 Weeks + The Evidence on Postdates
Julia knew something was off during her first pregnancy and birth experience. She knew she didn’t feel right about consenting to a Cesarean, but it wasn’t until she started diving into research that she realized how much her care lacked informed consent. She discovered options that should have been offered to her that never were. Julia’s research led her to choosing the midwifery model of care in a home birth setting. She felt in control of her experience and free to birth the way she felt she needed to. Meagan and Julia discuss stats on uterine rupture, stillbirth, continuous fetal monitoring, induction, due dates, and how our birthing culture can highly influence what we think is safe versus what scientific evidence actually tells us. Evidence-Based Birth: The Evidence on Due Dates The Business of Being Born Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello. Women of Strength I am so excited for today's guest. Our friend, Julia, is from Texas. She is a wife and a stay-at-home mother living in, it Spring, Texas, Julia? Julia: Spring, Texas. Meagan: Close to Houston, yes, with her two sons. And she has had a Cesarean and then an HBAC. We get a lot of questions in our inbox every day, but a really common question is dates. "Hey, I'm 40 weeks. My doctor is telling me I had to have my baby by tomorrow or even approaching 39 weeks." People are being told they have to have their babies or really bad things will happen. And Julia's story is proof that you don't have to have a baby by 40 weeks or 41 weeks, would you say? Almost 42 weeks is what you were. So we are excited to hear this story. And I know if you are one that goes past your due date and you're getting that pressure, you're definitely gonna wanna listen. Julia: Thank you so much for having me, Meagan, I'm really, really happy to be here. Meagan: I'm so happy that you are here. I would just love to have you share your stories. Julia: Okay, so my firstborn, he came during the height of the COVID pandemic. It was August 2020. I just saw my OB who I had been seeing for regular gynecology visits. And from the very first appointment, it just, I just kind of got an off feeling. She had seen a small subchorionic hematoma on my ultrasound a
Mon, January 27, 2025
Episode 373 Brielle's VBAC Homebirth Transfer in the Dominican Republic + Tools to Prepare for Birth
Brielle Brasil is a mama’s coach, breathwork facilitator, and somatic trauma resolution therapist. She shares her two birth stories as a foreigner living in the Dominican Republic. Brielle’s first birth was an unexpected, traumatic C-section. After putting in the work to heal, Brielle felt ready to explore birth options that she thought were unattainable. She was creative and intuitive throughout the entire process. Julie and Brielle also dive deeper into how trauma is stored in the body, how somatic trauma resolution can help, and why it’s important not to try to heal trauma on your own. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details COTERIE: Code VBAC20 - https://www.coterie.com/products/the-diaper?utm_source=VBACLINK&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Diaper https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-370-sheryls-2vbacs-the-unpredictability-of-birth/id1394742573?i=1000684059728 Julie: All right, Women of Strength. You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast. This is Julie and I am here with a very special guest today, Brielle. I am really excited to hear her stories. She gave birth in the Dominican Republic twice, both her C-section and her VBAC. We were just talking about that because my previous guest who I just recorded with in episode 370 also lived in the Dominican Republic. She had her babies back in the States. She flew back to the States. It was just such a coincidence. I am mind-blown. What are the chances? Brielle: So wild. Julie: I know. Brielle had both of her babies there. I’m so excited to hear about her stories and her experience, but before we do that, I am going to read a Review of the Week that Meagan texted me this morning if I can find it in all of our text messages. Okay, here it is. This review is on Apple Podcasts from janaerachelle . She says, “I am so happy I found this incredible podcast. After having two prior C-sections, I was convinced I would have to have another C-section for my birth this November. I feel empowered, educated, and hopeful I can do this. Thank you for all of the true facts in a safe space where we can all talk about our birth trauma in a space where we don’t sound ‘crazy’ for doing something that God created our bodies to do.” </
Wed, January 22, 2025
Episode 372 Ali’s VBAC + Fear Release and Advocacy (166 REBROADCAST)
We are so excited to be joined today by our friend, Ali Levine. You will instantly feel her bright energy as she shares her awesome VBAC story with us. A celebrity stylist and TV personality, Ali is no stranger to being in the limelight. With her first pregnancy, she had glamorous photoshoots, went to flashy events, and made a dreamy birth plan. When the natural water birth of her dreams quickly turned into a traumatic and invasive C-section, Ali was left confused, disappointed, and depressed. Ali drastically changed her approach to birth with her second pregnancy. Once she began researching VBAC, Ali was determined, intentional, and never looked back. Ali’s VBAC journey is one of a life-changing, spiritual awakening that we absolutely love and know you will love too. You can also listen to Ali’s HBAC story on Episode 264! Additional links Ali’s Podcast: Everything with Ali Levine How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast and we are so excited. We have been chitchatting with Ali today and she has a really amazing birth story to tell. We cannot wait for you to hear it. I am sitting here in my dentist’s parking lot. I literally just got done getting a filling. I had to rush out so that I could be on the call to listen to Ali’s story today. And so before we do that, Meagan is going to go ahead and give us a Review of the Week. Meagan: Yes, I am. Oh my gosh, you guys are in for a treat. Ali is so fun. We have just been talking to her for like, five minutes and I am just already giddy to hear her story. She has got such a fun, live personality to her. It’s going to be awesome. This review is from jovannaf1 and in parentheses, it says “Germany.” So, I am wondering if she is either in Germany or her name is German. Julie: Ooh, that would be fun. Meagan: I know, right? Her title is “Love it.” This is from Apple Podcasts . It says, “Thank you so much for spreading such an important message, ladies. I am currently pregnant with my third child and your podcast has given me so much help and resources to know that VBA2C is possible. I find women’s stories so inspiring. Thank you.
Mon, January 20, 2025
Episode 371 Aisha's Special Scar VBA2C After "Failure to Progress" + Uterine Dehiscence
Aisha’s episode is full of wisdom and inspiration! With her first two births, Aisha worked so hard to deliver vaginally, but ultimately had two undesired Cesareans. She was told in the operating room that she had uterine dehiscence, was given a special scar, and should never try to deliver vaginally. But her intuition was telling her a different story. She dove into research. She found a community and listened to podcasts like The VBAC Link. She knew a VBA2C was possible, and she knew she had to try. Aisha’s VBA2C journey involved interacting with supportive and very unsupportive providers, hiring a fantastic doula, being proactive with labor comfort measures, planning for the unexpected, staying firm in her desires, asynclitic positioning, and pushing her baby boy out in just 45 minutes with a nuchal hand! Aisha's Website The VBAC Link Blog: VBA2C Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It’s The VBAC Link, and we have a VBA2C story coming your way. Have you ever wondered what VBA2C means? If you haven’t noticed, in the VBAC world, there are a lot of acronyms. VBA2C is one of them. That means vaginal birth after two Cesareans, meaning that you have had two Cesareans and want to go for a vaginal birth. Big question, what are the chances of having a vaginal birth after two Cesareans? Is it possible? The answer is simply, yes. It is totally possible. Myself and Aisha are living proof today that it is possible. In fact, your chances of a successful VBA2C are similar to those of just a VBAC with one Cesarean. ACOG recommends that VBA2C is a safe option, so today, I want to quickly go over a little bit more instead of a review about some education on vaginal birth after two Cesareans and share a little bit more of our blog. Like I said, ACOG recommends that vaginal birth after two Cesareans is actually a safe option. They say, “It is reasonable to consider women with two previous low transverse Cesarean deliveries to be candidates for TOLAC.” Now, again, there’s another one of those acronyms. TOLAC- trial of labor after a Cesarean. I know that is triggering for some. It is pretty much just the medical term of saying that you are having a trial of labor after a Cesarean, so try not to let it impact you too much. But, “for TOLAC and to counsel them based off of the combination of other factors that affect their probability of achieving a VBAC.” There are lots of things that people might go
Wed, January 15, 2025
Episode 370 Sheryl's 2VBACs + The Unpredictability of Birth
Sheryl’s first baby was five days late. Her second baby was five days early. From the first contraction to a surprise car birth, Sheryl’s third baby was under an hour! Not only were the methods of delivery very different with each baby, but Sheryl’s life circumstances were too. Julie and Sheryl chat about preparing yourself not only for the long, marathon labors, but also for the possibility of the fast and furious ones! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents COTERIE CODE VBAC20 https://www.coterie.com/products/the-diaper?utm_source=VBACLINK&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Diaper Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: All right. Good morning, Women of Strength. This is Julie Francom, and I am so excited to be here with you today to share with you a very exciting story. One of my favorite types of birth stories, people might think I’m crazy, but– oh, do you know what? I’m not going to tell you what the story is, but if you have been listening for a minute, you might know when I say what my favorite type of story is, but I’m going to leave it to be a surprise. We are going to go ahead and read a Review of the Week really quickly, then I’ll introduce my guest of the day. Okay, let’s see. This review is from Apple Podcasts. It’s from ccm57 , and she says, “I am so thankful I came across this podcast and know it was an invaluable tool when educating myself regarding VBACs and the birthing process in general. My first son was born via Cesarean due to his stubbornness and refusing to turn from his breech presentation. Leading up to his C-section, I was devastated that I wouldn’t be able to experience the natural birthing process I had always wanted. “I am in the medical world. I knew about VBACs, and it was never even a thought I wouldn’t try for one in my next pregnancy. I found The VBAC Link halfway through my second pregnancy, and it was so addicting. I listened to every episode, sometimes multiple times a day, until my delivery. Every woman’s story was amazing and truly helpful to me personally. “Thank you, Meagan, for being as passionate about VBACs and educating women all over the world. I can excitedly say that God was so gracious, and I had my beautiful VBAC this past August. Thank you to every woman who have shared your story on the podcast and for all of the women who are listening and expecting a sweet baby, I am cheering you on.” I am so excited to hear sto
Mon, January 13, 2025
Episode 369 Abigail's Healing VBAC with Gestational Diabetes After a Traumatic C-Section
Abigail’s first pregnancy turned into a life-threatening birth experience with undetected gestational diabetes and a traumatic ICU stay. On top of that, she unexpectedly had to move homes just two weeks postpartum. Abigail quickly developed intense postpartum depression and struggled to make sense of what happened to her. She was sure she would never have kids again, but after therapy and healing, she and her husband found themselves wanting another baby three years later. Abigail became pregnant right away, and she knew this time would be different. This time, things would be better. From the meticulous monitoring to the candid conversations, Abigail felt heard and supported throughout her entire pregnancy. Her gestational diabetes was detected and very controlled. While a scheduled C-section seemed to be a logical choice, she knew her heart wanted a VBAC. She was able to go into spontaneous labor and pushed her baby girl out in just 13 minutes! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to the show, everybody. We have our friend, Abigail, from California with us today. She is a 27-year-old stay-at-home mom with a 4-year-old daughter and a 7-month-old son. She experienced a very unfortunate, traumatic experience with her first which really left her not really sure that she wanted any more kids. She’s going to dive more into her wild experience, but she had a COVID pregnancy. She had a lot of different stresses through the pregnancy, especially at the beginning– gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and so many things with her first that really taught her a lot, and had a wild birth experience. Then the second time, she ended up getting gestational diabetes again, but did a lot of different things to improve her outcome like hiring a doula, getting a supportive provider, and all of that. We are going to turn the time over to her in just one moment, but I do want to quickly in place of the review share a couple of tips for gestational diabetes. If you guys have not heard about it so far, check out Real Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols. It is absolutely incredible. It is less than 200 pages long. It is a fantastic read and filled with a lot of really great information and studies. She also talks about prenatals, so I wanted to remind everybody that we have a partnership with Needed who we just love and adore. We do have a promo code for 20% off. You can get your 20% off by using code VBAC20. Definitely check that out. Then we are going to be including a lot of things in our blog today like third-trimester ultrasounds, siz
Wed, January 08, 2025
Episode 368 Gesa's HBAC with PROM + Differences Between OBGYN & Home Birth Midwifery Care
What are the typical differences between hospital OB care and home birth midwifery care? Throughout her VBAC prep, Gesa was able to directly compare the two side by side. She was planning a home birth with a midwife but continued to see her OB at the hospital for the insurance benefits. Some differences she noted: Her OB used ultrasound to determine baby’s position. Her midwife palpated her belly. Her midwife ran a blood test to check iron levels, and then suggested an iron supplement. Her OB did not track iron. OB visits were typically a few minutes long. Visits with her midwife were an hour or longer in her home. The hospital required cervical checks, laboring in a mask, continuous monitoring, and only allowed one support person. The way Gesa navigated her care is so inspiring. Her midwife was hands-on during pregnancy in all of the best ways and just as hands-off during birth to let the physiological process take over. Gesa’s story is exactly why we love HBAC so much! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Good morning, Women of Strength. I am really excited to be back here with you. This is Julie, and it is my first official episode back doing regular episodes. Just like we talked about a couple of weeks ago, I’m going to be doing– or was it last week? I can’t remember what week it is. But we are going to be doing every other episode alternating between me and Meagan for the most part. I’m really excited to be back here. We have a really special guest with us today. But before we get into that, I want to say that I just got back from South Korea two weeks ago. No, two days ago. If you haven’t listened to Paige’s episode for her maternal assisted C-section, go listen to the episode that launched on December 2nd. I do believe it was maybe episode 357. Me and Paige are talking and sharing her story. I am literally so jet-lagged right now. It is going to be a morning for me for sure. If I’m a little clunkier than usual or my brain doesn’t work just right, just be a little patient with me, please, because the jet lag is absolutely real. Before we do get started though and introduce our guest, I want to read a review. Meagan sent me a review this morning, and I think it’s really interesting because she sent me this review this morning. It’s a 1-star review, and you might be curious as to why I’m choosing to read a 1-star review, but I’ll tell you a little bit more afterward why I picked that. </s
Mon, January 06, 2025
Episode 367 Katie's Unmedicated Breech VBAC
Katie has had a Cesarean (failure to progress), a VBAC, and most recently, an unmedicated breech VBAC! She talks about the power of mom and baby working together during labor. She is 4’10” and attributes so much of her first successful VBAC to movement. Katie’s most recent baby was frank breech throughout her entire pregnancy. After multiple ECV attempts, she exhausted all options to seek out a vaginal breech provider. She was able to work with providers while still advocating for what felt right to her. Though there were some wild twists and turns, this breech vaginal birth showed Katie, yet again, just what her body is capable of! The VBAC Link Blog: Why Babies Go Breech & 5 Things You Can Do About It The VBAC Link Blog: ECV and Breech How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details COTERIE CODE VBAC20 Julie: Welcome, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast. This is Julie Francom here with you today. I’m super excited to be sharing some episodes with you guys this year and helping out Meagan a little bit and keeping things rocking and rolling here at The VBAC Link. I am excited to be back, and I am especially excited to be joined by Katie today who has a really, really incredible story about her three births. Her first was a C-section. Her second was a VBAC, and her third was an unmedicated breech VBAC. I absolutely love hearing stories about vaginal breech birth because I feel like it’s something that we need to bring back. It’s only fair to offer people options when we have a breech baby. I don’t think it should just be an automatic C-section. I’m excited to hear her story. I’m excited to hear her journey to find support in that regard. But first, I’m going to read a review. This review is actually from our VBAC Prep course. If you didn’t know, we do have a course preparing you all about all of the things you need to know to get ready for birth after Cesarean. You can find that on our website at thevbaclink.com. But this review on the course is from Heather. She says, “This course was so helpful especially with helping to educate my husband on the safety of VBAC as he had previously been nervous about my choice. We watched all of the videos already, but will also be reviewing the workbook again right before birth. I highly recommend.” I absolute
Wed, January 01, 2025
Episode 366 HAPPY NEW YEAR! Meagan & Julie + How to Prepare for VBAC
Happy New Year, Women of Strength! Meagan and Julie share an exciting announcement about the podcast that you don’t want to miss. While they chat about topics to look forward to this year, they also jump right in and share stats about cervical checks and duration between pregnancies. We can’t wait to help you prepare for your VBAC this year! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Ready? Meagan: Happy New– Julie: Oh, are we supposed to say it together? Oh, sorry. Okay, I’m ready. Let’s go again. Meagan: No, you were just saying okay, but let’s do it together. Okay, ready? Remember I did this last time? Julie: Okay, 1, 2, 3– Meagan and Julie: Happy New Year! Julie: No, it was not right. Meagan: Well, we’re going to leave it. You guys, we’ve been trying to say Happy New Year at the same time. There is a delay, I’m sure, on both sides, but Happy New Year, you guys. Welcome to The VBAC Link. It is 2025, and we are excited for this year. Oh my goodness. Obviously, you have probably caught on that there is another voice with me today. Julie: Hello. Meagan: I have Julie. You guys, I brought Julie on today because we have a special announcement. I didn’t let her get away for too long. I didn’t want her to go. I couldn’t. If you haven’t noticed, I’ve been bringing her on. I’m like, “Can you do this episode with me? Do you want to do this episode with me? Do you want to do this episode with me?” And now, at least for the next little bit, she’s going to be doing her own episodes. She is helping me out. Julie: Yeah. Meagan: We have been doing two episodes a week for almost a year now, and it’s a lot. It’s a lot. Julie: You have been such a champ. Meagan: Oh my goodness. So that’s what we’ve been up to. I decided that Julie needed to help me. She was so gracious to say, “Yeah, I’ll do it.” Get this, you guys. She was nervous the first time. Julie: I was like, “I don’t know what I’m doing.” Meagan: But she totally does know what she’s doing. But yeah, so you will be hearing every so often Julie’s voice solo. She is going to be hosting the show solo, so you will be hearing a little bit of a new intro with her and I where we are both talking so you don’t get confused, but I don’t think it is very confusing. Julie has been with us since the very beginning because her and I created the company. It’s been so fun to have her here
Mon, December 30, 2024
Episode 365 Goodbye to 2024 + VBAC Prep Info From This Year + Plans for The VBAC Link in 2025
We can’t believe we have arrived at the last episode of 2024! This year has brought so many incredible and empowering births. We loved hearing how each of you fought for your birth goals, magnified your voices, and showed your strength. In today’s episode, Meagan sums up The VBAC Link’s 2024 achievements and shares some of the exciting things she has in store for 2025. The VBAC Link Supportive Provider List The VBAC Link Doula Directory How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey guys, it’s Meagan. Guess what? Today is our last 2024 episode. I cannot believe it is the end of the year. I absolutely cannot believe it. It feels like just yesterday that we started doing two episodes a week, and here we are 11 months later. We started in February. You guys, it has been such a great year. We have had so many incredible episodes from placental abruption, faith over fear, breech VBACs, post-dates, what hospital policies mean,and National Midwifery Week. One of my favorites, well actually, two of my favorites because he came on twice, was Dr. Fox. We had Dr. Fox a couple of times. We’ve had doula tips from VBAC episodes. We’ve had some fun episodes where we’ve had some VBAC Link-certified doulas as cohosts. Oh my gosh, so many great things. I don’t know if you noticed, but in October, we started doing a themed week. Every two episodes in one month was a theme. For October, we had midwifery. It was National Midwifery Week so we talked about midwives and the stats about midwives. We had CNM Paige come on with our very own Lily who talked more about midwifery care, what does it look like, how to choose, can a midwife support VBAC, and all of that fun, fun stuff. And then in November, it was Veteran’s Day so we had some military mamas on there and more about how to navigate that. We talked a little bit about Tricare and tips about navigating birth as a servicemember or as a significant other. That was really, really fun. This month, we touched on uterine abnormalities. We had Flannery talking about her bicornuate uterus and more about specific types of uteruses and what that means. It’s so weird to think, but there are different types of uteruses, you guys. That doesn’t mean that if you have a different type of uterus that you can’t VBAC. It may mean that you may be faced with some challenges like a breech baby or something like that, but we wanted t
Wed, December 25, 2024
Episode 364 Georyana's Surprise Breech HBAC + Postpartum Anxiety
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Women of Strength! We have another beautiful VBAC birth story for you today from our friend, Georyana. Georyana shares how she went from having an unplanned Cesarean with her first birth to a planned HBAC but unexpected breech delivery! During her first postpartum period, Georyana experienced postpartum preeclampsia, depression, and anxiety. She and Meagan dive into coping tools and resources available for anyone else going through the same. While prepping for her VBAC, Georyana also talks about the power she felt while listening to other stories on The VBAC Link Podcast. She knew she had to give her body the chance to show what it was capable of. “If it could happen for her, it could happen for me. Why disqualify myself? Why disqualify my body?” Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. Merry Christmas to you. It’s so fun to be recording today. It’s actually not even October. It’s September when we are recording, but it’s so fun to think how close we are to Christmas. I hope you guys are having an amazing day, and if you are listening the day after Christmas, I hope you had an amazing Christmas. We have our friend, Georyana, with us today, and she is from Florida. Hello, love. How are you? Georyana: I’m doing well. How are you? Meagan: I am so, so great. I was going to say that as you may hear, she’s got her little one on board, so we may hear all of the little baby coos and noises. What is your baby’s name? Georyana: Her name is Sophia Victoria. Meagan: Sophia Victoria. I love it. I’m so happy she’s here. I actually love when we have babies because I don’t really hear those noises anymore. I hear them as a doula for a minute, but I miss those little coos. It’s so fun. Okay, like I was saying, she is from Florida. She’s a stay-at-home mom of two beautiful babies, a three-year-old and this one-month-old that she’s got with us. She works part-time remotely and is a Christian and serves as a worship leader for the youth group worship team. Is that correct? Georyana: Yes. Meagan: Awesome. I love that. She says that she’s officially started homeschooling her toddler this year which is super exciting. That is exciting. We’ve had so many moms on the podcast lately who are like, “I’ve quit my job
Mon, December 23, 2024
Episode 363 Aubrey's Induced VBAC with ICP (Cholestasis)
Aubrey shares her three birth stories that tell of resilience, healing, trust, and miracles. She has had a vaginal birth, a crash Cesarean, and a VBAC– all of which presented cholestasis. Aubrey’s first birth was a long but routine induction. Her second birth was a traumatic whirlwind including a complete placental abruption, general anesthesia, and her baby miraculously surviving 15 minutes without oxygen. Though her third pregnancy had many complications, the open and honest relationship Aubrey had with her provider is what ultimately led to her TOLAC and successful VBAC at 37 weeks and 6 days after another medically necessary induction. Aubrey is proof that no two births are the same, and miracles happen even when circumstances threaten to say otherwise. **Aubrey also wanted to mention that after her VBAC, she was readmitted to the hospital for postpartum preeclampsia. She had a headache every day, decided to eventually buy a blood pressure machine, and it was through the roof. She took herself to L&D, and they put her on magnesium. Aubrey had no idea it was even possible to get it postpartum and wanted to share! Managing Cholestasis Symptoms How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. It is almost Christmas, and I am so excited to bring another story your way. This is a VBAC story from a mama who is from Louisiana. She had quite a few roadblocks within her pregnancies that could have easily stopped her from having a VBAC, but she really established a good relationship with her provider even though her provider wasn’t actually as gung-ho or excited about the VBAC specifically because she was nervous, together they communicated their feelings and understood where each other were, and came up with a plan to ultimately have a VBAC. I just respect that so much. It’s important to know. We talk about providers all of the time. Providers are so important, and they make such a big impact on our outcome, but this provider, even though she wasn’t really comfortable with VBAC, she truly believed in our guest, Aubrey, today. You’ll have to hear it from her own words. It’s awesome to hear how everything unfolded. We also have a topic today that maybe isn’t shared a ton. It’s called ICP or cholestasis that we are talking about. It is a liver condition that can occur during pregnancy and cause a range of symptoms. A lot of the times, it is baby being born that is the thing to end cholestasis. We are going to talk a little bit more about that, but I wanted to go over some of the symptoms. We’ve g
Wed, December 18, 2024
Episode 362 Marlene's VBA3C + Fighting for Healing
Marlene joins us from California sharing her journey to a VBAC after three C-sections. She was a teenager with her first, and her doctor suggested scheduling an elective C-section for convenience. Marlene didn’t even know what a C-section was. She became more educated with each birth experience. Still, when it came time to advocate for her physiological VBA3C birth, there were no hospitals, doctors, midwives, or doulas who would support her. Marlene decided to free birth at home with her husband. During labor, she made the call to transfer to the hospital. She arrived at 9.5 centimeters dilated and pushed her healthy baby out in just two pushes. Though she experienced resistance all along the way, Marlene kept fighting for the vaginal birth she knew she could achieve! Marlene's Doula Website: Designed to Birth How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We are a week away from Christmas. I just cannot get over how fast this year has gone and how many incredible stories we have heard. I cannot wait to hear more stories next year. Today’s story is a VBA3C story. These are stories that we get requests for daily. On Instagram, we get people writing us saying, “I need more stories of VBAC after multiple Cesareans. Is VBAC after two Cesareans possible?” Yes. The answer is yes. We have Marlene here with us. Hello, Marlene. Marlene: Hello. Meagan: She’s going to be sharing her story just showing you how possible birth is. We have a Review of the Week. We’re going to get into that, then we are going to turn the time over to Marlene. This review is by Rachel, and it says, “11 out of 10. Would be best friends with these ladies.” I love that. You guys, we feel like we are best friends, too. Even though we haven’t met half of you, we just love this community so much. We feel like we are best friends. It says, “Amazingly knowledgeable doulas with a passion for compassion and birth. Funny, kind, smart. Specialized in VBAC. If humans are exiting your body, you want them by your side.” I love that. That is such a fun review. Thank you so much for your review You guys, if you have not yet, please help us kick off the 2025 season with some new reviews. You can go to Google and just type in “The VBAC Link” and you can leave us a review there, or you can leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Meagan: Okay, Marlene. Welcome to the show. <span
Mon, December 16, 2024
Episode 361 VBAC Prep with Meagan & Julie + What do the Facts Say?
In this episode, Meagan and Julie tackle hot topics like the VBAC calculator, epidurals, and uterine rupture. What does the evidence actually say? And why do providers give such drastically different statistics from one practice to the next? When you know the facts, you are equipped to take charge of your VBAC journey! VBAC Calculator ACOG: Deciding Between a VBAC and a Repeat Cesarean VBAC Calculator Online Library Epidural Side Effects VBA2C PubMed Article Evidence Based BirthⓇ: The Evidence on VBAC Uterine Rupture How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Welcome, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast, and guess what? We have a special guest for you today, and that is me. It’s Julie Francom. I am here today with Meagan, and I am joining her for a really cool information-packed episode debunking some common misunderstandings about VBAC and showing you what the evidence is and where you can find more evidence-based information about VBAC. Without further ado, your host, Meagan. How was that? Meagan: Oh my gosh. Thanks Julie for the amazing welcome. Oh, so fun. It’s so fun. Yes. I am so excited for this episode because it’s one of the last episodes with you and I. No, it’s not one of the last episodes. It is the last episode of you and I of the year which is so crazy. It is so crazy. Julie: This year has flown. Time is wild. Time is wild. Meagan: It’s so strange to me, but that’s okay. We will welcome in 2025, and we will say goodbye to 2024.
Wed, December 11, 2024
Episode 360 Meagan Shares More on Uterine Abnormalities
Listen to today’s episode to hear Meagan talk all about bicornuate, unicornuate, arcuate, and septate uteruses, uterine didelphys, and more. Though there can be complications, research is limited, and vaginal birth is often possible. Chat with your provider about your birthing desires, and don’t be afraid to get multiple opinions! A Case of Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Delivery in a Patient with Uterine Didelphys Uterine Differences Successful Vaginal Delivery after External Cephalic Version in a Woman with a Large Partial Uterine Septum Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan, and I am solo today. We will not be sharing a VBAC or CBAC story, but we’re going to focus on our topic of the week. That is uterine abnormalities. So if you haven’t listened to Flannery’s episode last week, or I should say earlier this week, go check it out. Flannery has a bicornuate uterus, and we talked a little bit about the different types of uteruses, and her journey, and what happened or what was most common with her bicornuate uterus. But today, I wanted to talk a little bit more about the different types of uteruses. It’s kind of weird to think about, but we do. We have multiple shapes of our uteruses. I don’t think it’s really talked about a lot, so I thought it would be cool to jump on today and talk a little bit more about the uteruses. But, we do have a Review of the Week, so I wanted to jump on and share this review. It says, “I now recommend this podcast to every mom who will listen, even first-time moms. I tell them this is the podcast I wish I would have listened to before our first traumatic birth. It helped me process, learn, and heal so much after my son’s birth. Two years later, pouring into numerous books, online courses, and more, we are preparing for our October VBAC. Their podcast has by far been the most favorite resource hands down. Thanks, Julie and Meagan, so much for what you do.” Thank you guys for your review. That review was left on Google, so if you wouldn’t mind, press pause in just one moment, and go leave us a review. Your reviews help other Women of Strength come and fin
Mon, December 09, 2024
Episode 359 Flannery's VBAC with a Bicornuate Uterus + Types of Uterine Abnormalities
Flannery joins us today from Connecticut sharing her story of an unexpected C-section at 35 weeks due to oligohydramnios, breech presentation, and concerns with her baby’s kidney functions. She was also transferred to an unfamiliar hospital for its surgical capabilities. Though she was terrified, her anesthesiologist was calm and reassuring. The toughest memory of Flannery’s birth was not being able to kiss her baby before he was swept away to the NICU. She was determined to do everything in her power not to have that happen again the second time. Knowing she had a bicornuate uterus, she worked hard to keep her baby’s head down from the very beginning of her second pregnancy. She switched to a midwife practice, carried her baby past her due date, went into spontaneous labor, and had an intensely beautiful unmedicated hospital VBAC! NICU Free Parking Types of Uterine Shapes AFI Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. We have our friend from Connecticut. And you know what? I didn’t ask. How do you say your name? Flannery: It’s Flannery. Meagan: That’s how I was going to say it. Flannery: Yes, good job. Meagan: We have our friend, Flannery, here from Connecticut and she has a bicornuate uterus. This week’s focus is on different shaped uteruses or uterine abnormalities as I’m air quoting. We know that people have them. People have different-shaped uteruses. Sometimes that can impact things like breech babies or even a provider’s ability to support– I don’t want to say ability. It’s their willingness to support, especially in VBAC. We’re going to be diving into that. She’s also a NICU mama so for other NICU mamas, she might have some tips for you along the way. She just told me before this that she was a labor and delivery nurse before she had her first. Flannery: Yep, and then I switched over. Meagan: Now she switched over to postpartum. She knows the field, so we might talk a little bit about labor and delivery nursing and the postpartum world
Wed, December 04, 2024
Episode 358 Labor & Delivery Nurse Kerri’s Positive CBAC
“Whatever happens, I just want it to be peaceful, and I want to be present.” Kerri is a labor and delivery nurse born and raised in Kentucky. The only thing on her first birth plan was not to have a C-section, yet it became her reality. We know many of you can relate. She had a medically necessary induction at 36 weeks due to preeclampsia. Kerri describes her experience with getting magnesium, aka a “flu in a bag”, seeing double and going in for a C-section. Her surgery was straightforward, but Kerri felt very out of it and disconnected. Kerri was very intentional about her plans for a VBAC. Her birth team was on board and supported her requests. Throughout her pregnancy, Kerri’s greatest desire was to feel present for the moment of birth no matter the outcome. When labor stalled and baby had a hard time engaging, Kerri felt peaceful about requesting a second C-section. With things happening on her terms, Kerri’s birth was the peaceful and healing experience she hoped it would be. Evidence Based BirthⓇ - The Evidence on VBAC Evidence Based Birth Ⓡ - COVID Resources Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have a CBAC story coming your way today. If you did not know what CBAC means, that is Cesarean Birth After Cesarean. This is a topic that a lot of people avoid. I don’t know, tell me, Kerri, who is sharing her story today. Do you feel like CBAC stories are sometimes avoided when you are preparing for a VBAC? Kerri: I think so. I know I avoided that as I prepared for my own attempted VBAC. Meagan: Yeah. Kerri: Yeah. I think that CBAC is something that we try to avoid because we all hope for that VBAC. Meagan: Yeah. We overlook it and it actually breaks my heart. I encourage everyone to listen, especially if they are wanting to VBAC, every VBAC story, but as well as every CBAC story for a lot of reasons. One, understanding maybe what led
Mon, December 02, 2024
Episode 357 Paige's Maternal Assisted Cesarean in South Korea
One of our team members, Paige, joins us today to share our first maternal assisted Cesarean story on the podcast! Our favorite Julie joins too sharing her perspective as Paige’s birth photographer. Paige tried three times to have the vaginal birth of her dreams. Each time ended in emergency Cesareans due to nonreassuring fetal heart tones. Each time, she missed the golden hour that she so desperately craved. Each time, she learned more and more about birth. With her fourth baby, she exchanged her VBAC dream for a new one. After hearing about maternal assisted Cesareans, she decided to do all she could to pursue one fully knowing it may not happen. But when it did, it was everything she hoped it would be and more. Paige's Full Birth Video Houm Clinic Dayana Harrison Birth Services Julie Francom Birth Photography YouTube Video: Maternal Assisted Caesarean Section - The Birth of Betty Mae The VBAC Link Podcast Episode 220: Dr. Natalie Elphinstone & MACs The Birth Hour Episode 875: Nicole's Maternal Assisted Cesarean in Michigan Baby Baking & Kid Raising Podcast Episode 6: MACs with Lauren Brenton Australian Birth Stories Podcast: All Maternal Assisted Cesarean Episodes YouTube Video: Nottingham University Hospitals Maternity Gentle C-section CBAC Support Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Oh my gosh, you guys. Today is a very special day. It’s a very, very special day. We have our own team member, Paige. If you guys haven’t already seen the video floating around, go to Instagram today and w
Wed, November 27, 2024
Episode 356 Jessica's VBAC + Switching Doctors at 37 Weeks + Bait & Switch + Our Supportive Provider List
“In that moment, I knew that was the last time I would see her. I didn’t know what I was going to do, but I knew I could not go back to her.” How do you feel when you meet with your provider? Are you excited for your appointments? How does your body react? Are you tense or calm and relaxed? Jessica’s first birth began with an induction that she consented to but didn’t really want. Her waters were artificially broken, and her baby just was not in a great position. After over 4 hours of pushing and multiple vacuum attempts, Jessica consented to a Cesarean. Listen to Jessica’s VBAC story to find out what she did when she realized at 37 weeks that her provider was NOT actually VBAC-supportive. Sometimes difficult situations actually work out even better than we hoped! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, Jessica, to the show. I am so excited that you are here and excited to hear your stories and actually talk a little bit more about what you do. Do you do it for a living, or is this just your passion project or whatever they call it? Is it your side job? Jessica: It’s on the side. It’s volunteer. My main job is a stay-at-home mom right now. Meagan: Yes. You’re homeschooling, right? Jessica: I am. Meagan: Oh my gosh. One of my best friends homeschools. I just praise you guys. Homeschooling is legit. It is very hard. That seems so hard. Jessica: It’s definitely a lifestyle. It’s different. It’s not for everybody, but it’s definitely for us. My daughter is only 5 so we are just getting used to it. Meagan: So Kindergarten? Jessica: She just turned 5 a couple of weeks ago, so we are technically doing 4-K right now. We are just getting into it. I’m still wondering every day, “Am I doing everything I should be?” I know as it goes on, I will get more comfortable and confident with it. Meagan: Yes, you will. That’s what I’ve seen with my friend. She was like, “This is what feels right. This is what we are going to do.” It took a little bit of a learning curve, then each kid added in, but she kills it. Yes, you are just a stay-at-home mom, but a full-time teacher. Holy cow. That’s amazing. Then yeah, you are doing La Leche League. Jessica: Yes. I have been a leader now for 2.5 years, just over that. I became certified. I think it was on my due date. I was trying to g
Mon, November 25, 2024
Episode 355 Alma's Precipitous VBAC After an Induced Labor for Gestational Diabetes Turned to a Cesarean
Alma’s first birth was an emergency Cesarean after an induction at 40 weeks due to gestational diabetes. Due to COVID-19 policies, Alma’s husband was not allowed into the OR. She did not expect the induction process to end the way that it did, and felt robbed of the positive birth experience she hoped to have. Alma made sure to educate herself on all of her options for her second birth. She was very proactive about her health and did not have gestational diabetes the second time. She went into labor earlier than she expected at 38 weeks. She woke up in the middle of the night to her water breaking, and intense contractions began. Within minutes, Alma knew she had to go to the hospital immediately. Alma felt pushy as they made the 45-minute drive. She was admitted to a room, and her beautiful baby was born just two pushes later! Evidence Based BirthⓇ: Induction for Gestational Diabetes The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC with Gestational Diabetes Birth Ball Amazon Link Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. It is almost the end of November. It is crazy to think that the year is coming to an end. But guess what, you guys? We still have so many amazing stories coming your way. Today’s story is from our friend, Alma. I’m already messing it up. It looks like Alma, but you say it. Tell me how to say it correctly. Alma: Alma, but any way you say it is fine. Meagan: Perfect. I want to say it correctly though. She is sharing her stories today. Now, you are in New Jersey now, but you weren’t in New Jersey when you had your VBAC. Is that correct? Alma: When I had the C-section, I was in New Jersey, so we just zigzagged a little bit. Meagan: So she’s in New Jersey, but the VBAC wasn’t in New Jersey. I know a lot of people when they are listening are like, “Where was this VBAC?” We will talk a little bit more about that when we get into the story, but let’s give them a little teaser of what your episode is going to be. Your first C-section, I feel like was the steps. It was the steps or the cascade, and then a little bit of what you went through. Tell us a little bit of a teaser before we get into the episode. Alm
Wed, November 20, 2024
Episode 354 Meagan & Julie + Hospital Policies Surrounding VBAC
“ Hospital Policy means the principles, rules, and guidelines adopted by the Hospital, which may be amended, changed, or superseded from time to time.” Julie and Meagan break down hospital policies today, especially common ones you’ll hear when it comes to VBAC. They chat all about VBAC agreement forms and policies surrounding continuous fetal monitoring, induction, and epidurals. Women of Strength, hospital policies are not law. They vary drastically from hospital to hospital. Some are evidence-based. Some are convenience-based. Do your research now to make sure you are not surprised by policies you are not comfortable with during labor! Defining Hospital Policy Birth Rights Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, everybody. We are going to be talking about policies today. What do they mean? Why are they created? And when do we have the right to say no or do we have the right to say no? And I have Julie discussing this with me today. Hey. Julie: You know I’m a policy fighter. Meagan: Yes, we do. We do. The longer I have gone– in the beginning, I was not a policy fighter. I really wasn’t. I was a go-with-the-flow, sure, okay, let’s do it, you know best. That’s really how I was. Julie: A lot of people are. Meagan: That’s true. I think a lot of the time, it’s because we don’t know what our options are. We just don’t know, so I’m really excited to get into this with you today. I always love it because we kind of get into this spicy mood sometimes when we have topics like this that we are very passionate about. We are going to be talking about policies today. I do have a Review of the Week, and this is actually a very recent review which is so fun. We just posted on our social media for Google reviews. We were specifically looking for Google reviews and podcast reviews. These are so, so important for us but also for other people to find this platform. We want people to hear these stories. We want people to feel inspired and get educated and know their
Mon, November 18, 2024
Episode 353 Ashley's Premature VBAC After Possible Placental Abruption + Advice From a NICU Mom
“Getting that VBAC meant everything to me. It helped so much with the trauma of it all.” At 36 weeks along with her first, Ashley started to have intense carpal tunnel pain. At 38 weeks, it was unbearable. Her provider said that delivery would be the only way to find relief and recommended a 39-week induction. Ashley had a difficult labor and pushing experience. Her provider recommended a C-section due to a cervical lip and no progress after just an hour and a half. Ashley consented and felt defeated. She started her VBAC prep the day she got home from the hospital. At 29 weeks with her second, Ashley had plans for a beautiful trip to Saint Thomas with her husband and toddler. She began contracting the night before her flight but didn’t think much of it and made it to their gate– while still contracting. As the plane was boarding, she passed a blood clot in the airport. She knew she needed to go to the hospital. In spite of many interventions trying to stop labor, Ashley birthed her baby via VBAC just hours later. She later learned that she had a possible placental abruption that wasn’t detected until her doctor examined her placenta after delivery. Though Ashley’s postpartum experience was tough balancing life with a newborn in the NICU for 8 weeks while having a toddler at home, the victory of having a VBAC carried her through. The power of a positive birth experience is real and worth fighting for! Pregnancy-Related Carpal Tunnel Article How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is Meagan with my friend, Ashley. Hello, Ashley. Ashley: Hi. Meagan: How are you today? Ashley: I am good. How are you doing? Meagan: I am doing great. I’m loving all of the stories we are recording and so excited to hear yours. You have a more unique VBAC in the sense that it was a very premature VBAC. Ashley: Mhmm, yep. Meagan: Yes. We are going to talk a little bit more about that. You’re going to share information for NICU moms because your baby did go to the NICU. You are a mom of two and a children’s therapist. Can you tell us a little bit more about what you do for work? Ashley: Yeah. I work with kids ages 4-18. Right now, I’m Telehealth only. I actually work in Tooele, Utah, but I live in North Carolina. Everything is Telehealth. It happened with COVID. I was out there during COVID. We moved and continued to do Telehealth since I’ve moved. I reall
Wed, November 13, 2024
Episode 352 Anni's VBAC at a Military Hospital + Navigating Pregnancy & Birth as a Servicemember or Military Spouse
Anni is a mom of two young girls living in Okinawa, Japan where her husband is stationed with the Marine Corps. In addition to her work as a non-profit grant writer, she volunteers with the Military Birth Resource Network and Postpartum Coalition and hosts their podcast, Military Birth Talk. A big challenge for military parents is creating care plans for older children during birth. They often live far away from family or have recently moved and don’t have a village yet. Anni’s care plan was shaken up as her induction kept getting pushed back and conflicted with her family’s travels. Though her plans changed, Anni was able to go into spontaneous labor and avoid the induction she didn’t really want! Her VBAC was powerful and all went smoothly. She was amazed at the difference in her recovery. Another fun part of Anni’s episode– she connected and met up with two other VBAC mamas living in Okinawa through our VBAC Link Facebook Community! We love hearing how TVL has helped you build virtual and in-person villages. Military Birth Resource Network and Postpartum Coalition How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link, and I am with my friend, Anni, today sharing her stories. Anni is one of our military mamas. This is the final episode of the week of military episodes. So even though it is a little bit after Veteran’s Day, that’s okay. We are celebrating our military mamas today. Welcome to the show, Anni. Anni: Thank you so much. I’m so excited to be here this week. Meagan: Me too. I also can’t believe that you are here right now. We were just chatting before the podcast about time. You guys, it is 4:50 AM where she is at. I just can’t even believe it. You’re in Japan. Anni: Yeah. We live in Okinawa, so I’ve got to do stuff at weird times if I want to stay in touch with anybody in the States. It’s the military thing. Meagan: Oh my goodness. Yes. She is in Japan. She is a mom of two young girls and like she said, she is living in Okinawa, Japan where her husband is stationed with the Marine Corps. Her personal values are community, joy, purpose, and creativity which all drive how she spends her time. In addition to her work as a non-profit grant writer, she also volunteers with the Military Birth Resource Network and hosts their podcast, Military Birth Talk. So mamas, if you are a military mom, and I’m sure a lot o
Mon, November 11, 2024
Episode 351 Nicole's Precipitous VBAC with a Nuchal Hand After Moving Overseas
Nicole is a military spouse who had her VBAC in England. She shares what it was like to unexpectedly move overseas during pregnancy, how she navigated not receiving her household goods in time, and how she made the choice to deliver on base versus off. Nicole’s first birth was a Cesarean during the height of COVID. During pushing, she was required to pause, take a COVID test, and wait an hour for the results or risk being separated from her baby after birth. Labor had gone smoothly up until that point, and Nicole knew something had changed after the pause. Things felt different, progress stalled, and ultimately Nicole consented to the Cesarean. Her VBAC was a surprisingly wild precipitous birth with only 2 hours between her first contraction and pushing the baby out! Meagan and Nicole discuss the unique challenges of precipitous births and how important it is to hold space for every birth experience. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello. Welcome to The VBAC Link. Today is Veteran’s Day. If you are just joining us this month for the very first time, then welcome to your first specialized episode week. I don’t even know what to call it. What would you call this, Nicole? I don’t even know. Nicole: A one-of-a-kind situation. Meagan: Last month in October, we had Midwifery Week and now we have Veterans. Nicole is the wife of a Servicemember and she definitely and experience that I think a lot of military members and moms experience and people don’t think about it. I don’t think about that. When I was having my baby, it was like, Which hospital should I go to? There are 10-15 right around me. Then you’re like, “Oh, hey. I’m pregnant and now I’m moving overseas.” You know? I think it’s something that we just don’t think about. It’s fun to have it be Veteran’s Day and to have a Servicemember’s wife sharing your story today. We might even talk a little bit about navigating the military healthcare system and what choices you made. We learned a little bit about that before we started recording. We’ve got her amazing story today. Where are you right now? Nicole: I’m in England right now. Meagan: You are in England, okay. And that’s where you had your baby. Nicole: Yes. Meagan: Awesome. So England mamas, definitely listen up for sure. All mamas, really. We do have a Review of the Week so I’m going to
Wed, November 06, 2024
Episode 350 Wyn's VBAC with a Unicornuate Uterus + Follow Your Intuition
After having an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) due to infertility, Wyn was diagnosed with having a left-sided unicornuate uterus. A unicornuate uterus is a rare condition in which the uterus is smaller than normal and only has one fallopian tube. Common complications from a unicornuate uterus include infertility, IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction), and preterm labor. Wyn had two unsuccessful IVF treatments followed by two miraculous natural pregnancies! Her first pregnancy ended in an unexpected Cesarean due to a fever and tachycardia in her baby. Her placenta was difficult to remove during the surgery and she was told she had placenta accreta. The OB who performed her surgery also said she had “very interesting reproductive anatomy”. Wyn deeply longed for the opportunity to try for a VBAC and experience physiological birth. Her original midwife supported her decision to VBAC and Wyn made sure to prepare physically and emotionally. At 41 weeks and 1 day, she went into spontaneous labor, declined cervical checks and other interventions she wasn’t comfortable with, consented to the things she felt good about, and pushed her baby out soon after arriving at the hospital. Wyn also shares her experience with taking Needed products during her pregnancy and postpartum period this time around. Her strongest advice for other women preparing for VBAC is to find a supportive team and really listen to what your intuition is telling you to do. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to the show. We have our friend, Wyn, from Alaska with us today. She’s going to be sharing her VBAC story and Wyn has a pretty unique– and maybe Wyn, you can tell me more. Maybe it’s not as unique as it feels but a pretty unique situation where you had a diagnosis of a unicornuate uterus. Tell us a little bit more about that. I feel like we hear some uterine abnormalities. I’m quoting it where it’s bicornuate and all of these different things and people say, “Oh, you can’t have a vaginal delivery with this type of uterus or this shape of uterus,” but tell us more about what it means for you and what it meant for you back then. Wyn: Yeah, so they found it through an HSG test where they shoot dye up through your uterus and through your fallopian tubes. Basically, just one-half of my uterus formed. I guess when the uterus is forming, it’s two tubes that connect and open up so just the one half formed so I have a left-sided with a left fallopian tube. I have both ovaries so you can still conceive but th
Mon, November 04, 2024
Episode 349 Prepping for a VBAC? How to Obtain Your OP Reports with Meagan
Meagan records a short and sweet episode for you today talking all about OP reports. What are they and why do you need them for your VBAC prep? How do you request them? If you have a hard time interpreting your OP reports, try reaching out to your provider for clarification. You can also send us an email at info@thevbaclink.com where you can schedule a one-on-one consultation with Meagan for extra help and encouragement! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everyone. It is Meagan today. We are going to be talking about OP reports. What is an OP report? Why do we want to get an OP report? How do we get an OP report and how long are OP reports available before they go away? We do have a Review of the Week so we are going to get into that and then I’m going to go over OP reports. This review is from Brittanyhenley9478. She says, “Such an amazing resource.” Her review says, “I am pregnant with my second baby and will try for a VBAC in 4 months. Since finding this podcast, I have learned so much and gained a lot of confidence in my decisions. I’m so thankful for the podcast, their Instagram, and the website. I can’t wait to come back and share my successful VBAC story with them later this year.” Brittany, if you are still listening to us and you are still with us, let us know how your birth went. I hope that it was amazing and thank you so much for your review. You guys, I say it every single week multiple times a week now, we love your reviews. I seriously love them so much. It makes me smile. It makes my heart so warm so if you have not yet left a review, would you mind doing that for me? I would love it and appreciate it so much. You can go to wherever you listen to your podcasts and leave us either a rating or a review. I know Apple Podcasts and Spotify actually I believe, allows you to do a written review or you can Google “The VBAC Link”. Remember VBAC is V-B-A-C, and then you can leave us a review there. That also helps people find the podcast, find the website, the blog, and even our Instagram account. As a reminder you guys, if you are just listening to the podcast, hello. Welcome. I am so glad that you are here but I also don’t want you to miss out on all of the other amazing resources that we have. We have our Instagram account and Facebook account. We have a private Facebook group. You can look that up at The VBAC Link Community on Facebook. You do have to answer some questions so answer those questions and then we can let you in. It is such a beautiful space with people who are really in the same place as you– wanting to know their options, wanting to know the evidence, and
Wed, October 30, 2024
Episode 348 Rebekah's Birth Center VBAC After an Unexpected Breech Cesarean
Rebekah’s first Cesarean was a birth center transfer after her baby boy unexpectedly flipped breech during labor. Though she was confident in her decision to consent to a Cesarean, she was devastated and left with a lot to process. Right away, Rebekah’s midwives instilled confidence that she was a great VBAC candidate and introduced her to The VBAC Link. Rebekah thoroughly researched and prepped for her VBAC knowing it was the path she wanted to take. She decided to stay with the same birth center as she felt so loved and supported by them. Her second pregnancy was filled with physical, mental, and spiritual preparation for her VBAC. Rebekah developed a deep connection with her baby girl and shares precious stories during both her pregnancy and labor when she knew just what her baby was trying to communicate. Rebekah’s VBAC was healing in so many ways. It was particularly special to birth in the same suite that she labored in with her first and have such a different outcome. All of Rebekah’s intentional work paid off to help her have a very sacred birth and postpartum experience! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to The VBAC Link. We have our friend, Rebekah, here today and she is local to me here in Utah so it’s always so fun to hear a Utah story especially because I usually know the provider and the location and things like that or I’ve served with them so it’s fun to hear the stories that I have served with the people who are serving these amazing VBAC mamas. We have our friend, Rebekah, like I said and she is a mama of two. She is a stay-at-home mom and is in Spanish Fork. She is passionate about birth and hopes to one day pursue birth work. She hired one of our VBAC Link certified doulas so just as a reminder, if you guys are looking for a doula, let me just tell you that our doulas are amazing. These doulas truly love birth and love VBAC and are all certified in VBAC so you can check that out at thevbaclink.com/findadoula if you are looking for a doula. Rebekah left us a note. It says, “The after-birth high doesn’t always happen. I have heard so many stories of women who experienced it and I was expecting to feel that. I however did not.” She says, “Don’t feel robbed of it.” She was confused why she didn’t feel it but she is going to talk a little bit more in her story. I love that message because I didn’t feel the birth high with some of my kids either and it is weird. I remember sitting there thinking, Wait, a
Mon, October 28, 2024
Episode 347 Colleen's VBAC After Fertility Challenges & Navigating Trauma + MTHFR & Velamentous Cord Insertion
Colleen’s first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage at 6 weeks. At 12 weeks along with her second pregnancy, Colleen and her husband found out that their daughter would be born with a genetic condition called Trisomy 18. Colleen shares her experiences with Trisomy 18 and how she found the right support to help her navigate through it all. Due to IUGR and other medical concerns, Colleen had her daughter via Cesarean with an 85-day NICU stay afterward. To her surprise, Colleen had a third pregnancy just 6 months after her daughter’s delivery which ended in a heartbreaking second-trimester miscarriage. After discussing her pregnancy and birth histories at an appointment, Colleen’s doctor referred her to be screened for a MTHFR gene mutation for which she came back positive. MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a gene that impacts your ability to process and absorb folate. It can be responsible for complications during pregnancy and is detected through a simple blood test. Colleen and Meagan talk more about what MTHFR means, and what Colleen was able to do to have a fourth uncomplicated pregnancy and a beautiful, smooth VBAC delivery! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to the show, everybody. We have our friend, Colleen, on with us today sharing her stories and navigating through this amazing journey that we call birth. Birth is such a journey, wouldn’t you agree, Colleen? Colleen: Absolutely. Meagan: One of the most unique things about it is obviously through the stories we all hear. They are all unique and individual to us and even one birth that you’ve given doesn’t mean the next birth is the same. So we’re going to be talking today about navigating through birth and we know that a lot of the times through these journeys whether it be because of a Cesarean or because of how we were treated or because of how our body responded or whatever it may be, sometimes and a lot of the times, we experience trauma. Trauma is viewed differently from everybody and processed differently. We are going to be talking about navigating through trauma. Then Colleen is actually going to share some of her fertility journey as well. I think that’s also a really important thing because we have so many mamas out there– we know. We know. We see it. They have to navigate through fertility challenges. We’re going to be talking about that along with a VBAC. Let’s get into that here in just a minute. We do ha
Wed, October 23, 2024
Episode 346 Katie's Placental Abruption with Twins + VBAC After Four Membrane Sweeps + IVF & Retained Placenta
Katie is a newborn and family photographer based out of Chicago. After going through IVF, Katie was surprised to find out that her first pregnancy was with identical twins. At 33 weeks, she had an unexpected bleed and then another at 35 weeks. Because of placental abruption, she went straight to a Cesarean and her babies were in the NICU for 7 days. Katie wanted to know what a singleton pregnancy and VBAC birth could be like. She found a supportive midwife group through her local ICAN chapter that had around a 90% VBAC success rate! She also hired a doula. As her due date approached, Katie decided to opt for membrane sweeps to avoid a medical induction starting at 38+6 weeks. After four membrane sweeps over the course of two weeks, spontaneous labor began. She arrived at the hospital and her sweet baby was born vaginally just 5 hours later! Though she said she has a low pain tolerance, Katie's VBAC was unmedicated and she also shares her experience with a retained placenta and a second-degree tear. Katie, that is no small feat-- we know you are an absolute warrior and woman of strength! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to the show, Katie. Thank you so much for being here with us. You guys, Katie is from Chicago, right? Chicago. Katie: Yep. Meagan: She is an IVF mama. She’s got three girls. She is a girl mom and two identical twins and then a baby girl. How old is your baby girl now? Katie: She’s going to be 3 months tomorrow. Meagan: 3 months so still little tiny. Oh my gosh. I love it. So yeah, and then you guys, when she’s not doing the mom thing with all of her girls, she is also a newborn and family photographer which is awesome. Can you share with us your handle so we can come follow you? Katie: Yeah. On Instagram, I’m at katiemichellestudios. Meagan: Okay, katiemichellestudios and we are going to make sure to have that in the show notes so you can go follow her and follow her amazing work. And if you’re in Chicago and you need newborn or family photos, hit her up. Is there a specific– Chicago is big. Is there a specific area that you serve? Katie: I’m in the northwest suburbs but I do in-home sessions wherever. I use a studio in Oak Park. Meagan: Okay, awesome. Then with your stories today, we’ve got a couple of highlights. We have IVF, placental abruption, and sticky placenta. I’m excited to talk about sticky placenta for sure because
Mon, October 21, 2024
Episode 345 Rachel's VBAC After the Unexpected + Back Labor + Strategies for Improving Your VBAC Chances After a Complicated Birth
Rachel is a professor, an author, and a VBAC mom who is here to share her story from a traumatic C-section birth through a VBAC. This episode really dives deep into how picking the right provider is key to improving your chances for a VBAC. They give practical questions to ask your providers, more than just yes or no, to really get to know their birth philosophy and what qualifications and experiences your provider might have that would make them a better fit for VBAC chances. Rachel and Meagan also give a lot of validation and advice on how to start the process of overcoming birth trauma; it’s reality and to not be ashamed of it. You’re not alone. Through the many important messages of this episode, they both mention many times to trust your intuition. If something feels off, listen to that. And if a change in provider is necessary…it is never ever too late to change. Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section How to Naturally Induce Labor How to Turn Prodromal Labor into Active Labor Membrane Sweeps for VBAC How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello everybody! Welcome to the show! I am so honored to have Rachel Somerstein on with us today. She is a friend of ours from New York. She is a writer and an associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz. She is an author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section. And her writing has also appeared in the Boston Globe, The Guardian, The Washington Post, and Women’s Health. She lives in Hudson Valley, NY with her husband and her two children and is here to share her stories with you today. Rachel had an unplanned Xesarean section with her first child and the experience was anything but routine. I know that there are many of us who have been through this journey and on this podcast, maybe listening today, that also had an unexpected experience and it may have left us with trauma, or doubt, or fear, or all the feelings, right? And so she is going to be talking to us today about her experiences, but then also we’re going to talk about some guidance on how to find peace and to offer ourselves grace and to set ourselves up for a much better experience next time. </spa
Wed, October 16, 2024
Episode 344 Advice for First-time Moms: How to Avoid a C-section From the Get-go
We hear SO many of our listeners say things like, “I wish every first-time mom listened to these stories” or “I wish as a first-time mom I heard these stories because I truly believe it could have helped me avoid my Cesarean.” First-time moms, we want to educate you to make informed decisions during your birth. We want your first birth to be an empowering experience, no matter the outcome. And if possible, we want to help you avoid an unnecessary Cesarean. Meagan shares some of her best tips for first-time moms regarding induction, big babies, ultrasounds, and more. We also asked members of our VBAC Link Community to send in their best tips for first-time moms. We hope this episode becomes a great starting point for you to then go on and listen to the powerful stories shared in our other episodes! VBAC Link Supportive Provider List Evidence-Based Birth: Evidence on Inducing Labor The VBAC Link Blog: The ARRIVE Trial Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. This is Meagan and you are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast. I am so happy that you are here. Normally, we have episodes that are filled with VBAC stories, CBAC stories, and guests sharing educational pieces on VBAC. However, today, I’m going to a quick episode for our first-time mamas out there. For years, we have had people write in a review saying things like, “Oh my gosh, I wish every first-time mom listened to these stories. This is not only for VBAC moms or VBAC-hopeful parents. This is for anyone who is giving birth,” or again, going back to the first-time mom, people saying, “I wish as a first-time mom I heard these stories and learned this education because I truly believe it could have helped me avoid my Cesarean.” Women of Strength, if you know someone who is expecting or if you are a first-time mama, listening on how to avoid unnecessary and undesired C-sections, listen up. This is going to be an episode specifically for you. As always, I have a Review of the Week so I’d like to dive into that but then get back into what f
Mon, October 14, 2024
Episode 343 Melanie's VBAC With a Big Baby + Ways to Avoid PROM
“Inhale peace, exhale tension.” Did you know that the cascade of interventions can not only contribute to a Cesarean but may cause one? Melanie believes that was the case with her first birth. Her difficult recovery included going to EMDR therapy to help with her PTSD. Her OB/GYN did mention that she would be a great VBAC candidate. Not knowing VBAC was a thing, Melanie’s research began. Cue The VBAC Link! Melanie vigorously dove into VBAC prep before she was pregnant again. Her journey is one that shows just how powerful intuition and manifestation can be. Melanie went from having PROM with her first to arriving at the birth center at 7 centimeters and even being able to reach down to feel her bulging bag of waters as her baby began to emerge en caul! Other talking points in this episode include: Achieving a VBAC without a doula Husband support Birth affirmations Recommended podcasts and books Specific ways to avoid PROM Hypnobirthing by Siobhan Miller The VBAC Link Blog: 9 VBAC Books We Recommend The Birth Hour Down to Birth Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Happy VBAC Link Podcast day, whatever day it is that you are listening. We are so happy that you are here. We have our friend, Melanie, from Texas. Texas, is that where you are? That’s where my mind is thinking. Melanie: Yep. Yep. Wiley, Texas just outside Dallas. Meagan: Perfect and did you have your VBAC in Texas? Melanie: Yes. In Dallas. Meagan: In Dallas, okay. We have her sharing her stories with us today you guys. At the end, we’re going to be talking about PROM. Right before we got recording, I was talking about how important I think talking about PROM is which if you haven’t heard lately what PROM means, there are all of these acronyms all over the place when it comes to VBAC birth, but it’s premature rupture of membranes. We are both PROM moms here and so we are very passionate about the topic. If you have had your water break before labor really started and got going in the past, definitely hang on in the end because we are going to be talking more about that and maybe some ways that could or maybe not, we are hoping these are the ways that helped us avoid premature rupture of membranes. </
Wed, October 09, 2024
Episode 342 CNM Paige Boran + What Midwifery Care Looks Like + How Can a Midwife Impact our VBAC?
“Labor is supposed to happen naturally. It’s not this big medical intervention that occasionally happens naturally. It’s this natural process that occasionally needs medical intervention.” Paige Boran is a certified nurse-midwife from Fort Collins, Colorado. She and her colleague, Jess, practice independently at A Woman’s Place. They have rights to deliver babies at the hospital but are not employed through the hospital system so they are not subject to physician oversight. Their patients benefit from a low-intervention environment within a hospital setting but without the restriction of hospital policies. Lily Wyn, our Content Creator and Social Media Admin, joins us today as well! Lily shares why she chose Paige to support her through her current VBAC pregnancy. Lily is a beautiful example of how to diligently interview providers, keep an open mind, process past fears with the provider you choose, and what developing a relationship looks like to create an empowering birthing experience. Paige shows us just how valuable midwifery care can be, especially when going for a VBAC. If you’re looking for a truly VBAC-supportive provider, this is a great episode on how to do it! The VBAC Link’s VBAC Supportive Provider List A Woman's Place How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Paige: Yeah, so I’m a certified nurse-midwife. I work in northern Colorado in Fort Collins at A Woman’s Place. We’re a small midwifery-owned practice. Right now, there are just two CNMs. That’s the whole practice. It’s just me and my colleague, Jess, who owns it which is really cool because we get to push the boundaries because we are not really locked into the hospital system. We are able to catch babies there but we are not actually employed through the bigger hospital systems which is nice because we don’t have that physician oversight and stuff like that. I think we are able to do a lot more and honor that midwifery care model which is really cool. Sometimes people feel locked into policies and their overseeing physician and things like that but when it’s just two midwives, we get to do what we want and what feels best for the patient. I really like that. That was a big thing when I first got into the certified nurse midwifery world. I was like, where do I want to work? I had offers from bigger hospital systems and it just didn’t feel like the right fit so working at a small, privately-owned practice felt like the right answer for me so I was able to practice in a
Mon, October 07, 2024
Episode 341 National Midwifery Week + Meagan & Julie Talk All About Midwives
Happy National Midwifery Week! We are so thankful for and in awe of all midwives do. Great midwives can literally make all the difference. Statistical evidence shows that they can help you have both better birth experiences and outcomes. Meagan and Julie break down the different types of midwives including CNMs, CPM, DEMs, and LPM as well as the settings in which you can find them. They talk about the pros and cons of choosing midwifery care within a hospital or outside of a hospital either at home or in a birth center. We encourage you to interview all types of providers in all types of settings. You may be surprised where your intuition leads you and where you feel is the safest place for you to rock your birth! Midwifery-led Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Evidence-Based Birth Article: The Evidence on Midwives Article: Planning a VBAC with Midwifery Care in Australia The VBAC Link Supportive Provider List Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, hey, hey. You guys, we’re talking about midwives today, and when I say we, I mean me and Julie. I have Julie on with us today. Hello, my darling. Julie: Hello! You know, sometimes you’ve just got to unmute yourself. Meagan: Her headphones were muted, you guys. Julie: Yeah. That’s amazing. Meagan: I’m like, “I can’t hear you.” You guys, guess what? This is our first month at The VBAC Link where I’m bringing a special subject. Every month we are going to have a week and it’s usually going to be the second week of the month where we are going to have a specific topic for those episodes of the week and this is the very first one. It is National Midwives’ Week so I thought it would be really fun this week to talk about midwives. We love midwives. We love them. We love them and we are so grateful for them. We want to talk more about the impact that they leave when it comes to our overall experience. </p
Wed, October 02, 2024
Episode 340 Denise's VBA2C + Pediatric Physical Therapy + VBAC Doula Gina Shares About the Microbiome
Dr. Denise DeRosa is a Pediatric Physical Therapist from New York City. She had two Cesareans and was confident that those would be her only birth stories. But when she unexpectedly became pregnant with her third, Denise started looking into her options. She researched VBAC, found The VBAC Link, and felt that she could have a VBA2C. Having worked in the hospital where she planned to give birth, Denise knew she would face pushback. She knew they were skeptical and she knew they would try to meddle. She worked hard with her doula to get her mind solid, her body strong, and to prepare for any situation or anything that would be thrown at her. Ultimately, she believed in herself. So with an unsupportive provider in an unsupportive hospital with an apprehensive family, Denise’s preparation paid off! She labored hard, advocated for herself, and vaginally birthed a 9-pound, 5-ounce baby. Gina, one of our VBAC-certified doulas from California, co-hosts today’s episode and shares information about how C-sections affect an infant’s gut microbiome. She also mentions things we can do to help mimic the benefits of birthing vaginally if a Cesarean is necessary. Dr. Denise DeRosa's Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to the show. We have our friend, Denise, from New York City with us today. Hello, Denise. Denise: Hi. Meagan: I’m so excited for you to be sharing your stories. You are a VBA2C mama just like myself. Denise: Yes, I am. That’s right. Meagan: Yes and when we were talking about the C-section aspect of things, it reminded me a little bit of myself. Didn’t dilate, baby didn’t come down. What do we know? We know that this is a very common, common thing. In addition to Denise, we have a very special co-host today and her name is Gina Benson. Hello, Gina. Gina: Hi. Meagan: She is one of our VBAC doulas. Tell us where you’re at, Gina. Gina: I am in the Sacramento area of California based in Roseville. Meagan: Okay, all right. Then we‘re going to make sure that she has her website and everything so if you guys are in her area looking for a doula, go check her out for sure. She is going to do a Review of the Week for us today. So I’ll turn the time over to you. Gina: All right. “I’ve waited and
Mon, September 30, 2024
Episode 339 Caitlin's VBAC with Preeclampsia + Signing an AMA & Switching Providers
Joining us from Texas today is Caitlin and it is her birthday! Caitlin’s first baby was born at 34 weeks via an emergency C-section due to elevated blood pressure and fetal distress. Though she was scared, it was not a traumatic experience and her recovery went well. She just knew that moving forward for future births, she wanted to experience labor and she wanted something different. Caitlin talks about the importance of knowing not just your provider’s general stance on VBAC, but their specific policies surrounding it. At 39 weeks, she went to the hospital with preeclamptic symptoms. Still counting on her provider to support her VBAC, Caitlin started to face things she wasn’t comfortable with. Her symptoms were under control, but she could tell that her baby wasn’t yet ready to come. She knew she needed to sign an AMA and go home. When the time came, Caitlin was able to advocate for the birth she wanted, declined the interventions she knew she didn’t truly need, and leaned on those who felt safe in her space. “Having the VBAC made me so proud and confident in myself and any future births that I’m blessed with.” Happy Birthday, Caitlin!! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. You guys, I am so excited for today’s episode. We have our friend, Caitlin, from– are you from Texas? Where are you from? Caitlin: I’m from Texas, yes. Meagan: Texas. Yes. I wanted to say that then I started questioning myself. She is from Texas and we just went over a quick rough draft of all the things that happened in her birth and there are so many points I feel like to her birth. One, she’s a VBAC. She had preeclampsia with her first and her second. This is her second baby during her VBAC and with her first, she signed an AMA so we are going to talk about that and what that looks like. We’re going to talk more about preeclampsia. We’re going to talk about switching providers. One, switching providers but two, maybe trying to set ourselves up to not have to switch in the future and setting up ourselves to have a supportive provider from the beginning because she definitely had that and so much more. I’m really, really excited to get into the story. I do have a Review of the Week. This review is– I don’t actually know how to say the name. Sidsie , maybe? It says, “Such an amazing resource for VBAC-hopeful mamas and others preparing for birth who haven’t had a previous Cesarean. Their po
Wed, September 25, 2024
Episode 338 Sabina's Healing FBA2C After HELLP Syndrome + Lack of VBAC Support
Sabina is one of our VBAC-certified doulas from Canada and is sharing her peaceful FBA2C today. While free birth comes with its own risks and benefits, we know that many women feel drawn to this option when they have no support or do not feel safe birthing any other way as Sabina did. We want to share all types of births after Cesarean and honor all stories! The way Sabina trusted in her body and in the physiological birth process after a traumatic experience with HELLP syndrome is truly inspiring. Among the many important messages from this episode, Meagan says: “If you are a provider listening and you perform C-sections, please, please hear what we are saying today. What you say to us while we are on the table in the most vulnerable position… impacts us. Every word that comes out of your mouth, please think about it. Please think about it because it impacts us…I’m getting emotional because I remember my provider talking crap like that and saying things like that. It impacts us longer than you will ever, ever know and it will impact us for every future birth. Please, providers. Please, please, please from the bottom of my heart, I beg of you. Watch what you say to people.” The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC with Preeclampsia Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. It is Meagan and I’m so excited to be recording wtih you today. You’ve probably been listening all summer but I’ve actually not been in the recording studio all summer. I record up until May until my kids get out of school then I take June and July off so I can be with my kids and save you guys from the screaming and the dog barking and all of that in the background. It’s August and we are back in the studio and we have our friend, Sabina. Hello. Sabina: Hello. Meagan: I’m so excited to have her on today. You guys, she is one of our VBAC-certified doulas which is so exciting. She is also a mama of three. She is a FBA2C. Okay, you guys. F is a new one. We haven’t been sharing a lot of F. We’ve had H and V and breech B so what does F stand for? Sabina: F stands for free birth which means I did not have any kind of provider with me during my pregnancy or during my birth. I just did it all by myself. Meagan: Yep, you did. Sometimes I feel like it’s a mother-led pregnancy. Sabina: Yes. Yes. Meagan: This is something. We’ve talked about this a little bit before we got recording. T
Mon, September 23, 2024
Episode 337 Lauren's Surprise Unassisted HBA2C with a Special Scar & Gestational Diabetes
Lauren joins us today from Australia sharing her two Cesarean stories and her surprise unassisted HBA2C story! Lauren’s first birth was a crash Cesarean under general anesthesia at 40+1 due to nonreassuring fetal heart tones. Her second birth was a TOLAC going into spontaneous labor at 40+3 under the midwifery model of care. She labored naturally, had an artificial rupture of membranes at 6 centimeters, baby was posterior, and didn’t descend. She pushed for an hour then had a spinal given to help baby manually rotate. Lauren’s birth ended in a CBAC which she later learned included a special scar along with the diagnosis of CPD (Cephalopelvic Disproportion). Two years later, Lauren was vigorously planning for a VBA2C. She had her birth team picked out and was ready to go to the hospital for when baby would come at what she thought would be 40 weeks again or later. At 38 weeks and 2 days, her husband went on a work trip 3 hours away and her mom, who was planning on caring for her boys during the birth, was an hour away on a day trip. Lauren’s labor began in the evening while she was alone with her two boys and ramped up extremely fast. With the help of her doula and paramedics supervising, Lauren labored and gave birth to her baby on the bathroom floor in just 2 hours from start to finish! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. You guys, we have another story coming from Australia for you today. We just recently had an Australian mama and I love our Australian episodes because I cannot get enough of your accent. I love listening to you guys. We’re so excited. We have our friend, Lauren, and we have our little baby. Lauren: Yes. Little Wren’s awake and joining us. Meagan: It’s 11:00 PM there so she stayed up extra late to record with us today. We are going to get into her stories. You guys, she had two C-sections. Lauren: Yes, two Cesareans. Meagan: And then a surprise. I feel like you really had very unique things. You had an OB and you were under general– Lauren: For my first. Meagan: Then you were with midwifery care and then a surprise which you are going to be sharing here in a second. You guys, I’m really excited to hear her stories. We do have a Review of the Week and it’s called, “So Grateful I Found This Podcast” by shinefortheworldtosee . It says, “After having an emergency C-sectio
Wed, September 18, 2024
Episode 336 Katie's 2VBAC After a Breech Baby + Induction at 41 Weeks
As a first-time mom, Katie was struggling with potty training and feeling like she didn’t know what she was doing. She later became a potty training consultant to help other struggling moms and now hosts the Burnt Pancakes podcast. Katie’s first birth was a scheduled breech Cesarean. Her second birth was a spontaneous 36-hour labor at 39 weeks and 1 day with 1.5 hours of pushing and a tough recovery from a 3rd-degree tear and labial adhesions. Katie wanted to go for a VBAC again with her third. Though she thought she would go into labor at 39 weeks spontaneously again, she actually ended up getting induced at 41 weeks. She got an epidural right at the end of her labor, but was able to push her third son out in just two pushes! Meagan and Katie talk about how pelvic floor physical therapy is necessary for both Cesarean and vaginal birth recoveries. No matter how long it’s been since you gave birth, it can still be a game-changer! Katie's Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, welcome everybody. We have our friend, Katie, with us today sharing her 2VBAC stories and before we got started, we were talking about once you have that C-section and you’re contemplating having a VBAC and you talk to people and they’re like, “Wait, you can’t do that. Doctors won’t let you do that.” Right? Katie: Mhmm, yep. Meagan: But what have we learned? What have we learned over all the years? Yes, we can. Yes, you can. Women of Strength, if you are listening and you have had one C-section and you are wanting to know your options, we are going to share two stories today. Okay, so Katie– you guys, she is the host of a podcast. Is it Burnt Pancakes? Katie: Burnt Pancakes, yep. Meagan: Tell us more about that. Katie: Okay. So when I became a mom, my oldest son was potty training and it was an absolute disaster. That’s probably the point in motherhood I felt the absolute worst. He had a tendency to poop his pants whenever we were in my friend’s backyard running around and playing. One day, he had this awful mess. I was cleaning it up. I was frustrated. I was like, “Oh my gosh. He’s never going to get it.” My friend looked at me and was like, “Katie, don’t worry about it.” Everyone burns their first pancake. I was like, “That just made me feel so validated as a mom.” Fast forward about 8 years and I dec
Mon, September 16, 2024
Episode 335 Meg's 41+3 VBAC & Babies Born 17 Months Apart
In today’s episode, Meg from Nebraska shares her Cesarean and VBAC story. Meg’s first birth was an unexpected Cesarean after an almost 40-hour induced labor at 41 weeks and 3 days due to failure to descend. Her pain was not managed well during her surgery and her experience was much more difficult than expected. Meg surprisingly found out she was pregnant just 9 months after her Cesarean. Though she was anxious, Meg decided to go for a VBAC. She found The VBAC Link, prepared her body and mind more than before, found a supportive provider, and hired a doula. At 41+3, Meg went in for a gentle induction. She trusted the outcome would be different and it was. With the help of her doula, Meg was able to move much more, and with the encouragement of her midwife, pushing was a much more successful experience this time around. Meg says that bringing her 9-pound, 14-ounce baby up to her chest was the sweetest and best moment. Asynclitic Babies How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello everybody. Welcome to The VBAC Link. Today we are going to be sharing our friend, Meg’s, story. She is a stay-at-home mom in Omaha, Nebraska and she has a two-year-old daughter who was born after a post-date induction and almost 40-hour labor that ended in a Cesarean. Just 9 months later, she was blindsided by a positive pregnancy test and spent the duration of her pregnancy preparing mentally, spiritually, and physically for the birth of her son. She had a VBAC and she is here today to share her story with you. Some of the things along the way through her story that I thought stood out were one, post-dates. Obviously, this is something that we– if you have been here at The VBAC Link, you’ll know that we talk about this. Post-dates– we have seen such a shift over the last few years, well really since the ARRIVE trials in dates and we really see that now the 39-week mark is more true to a 40-week mark. The 40-week mark is more treated like a 41-week mark and it’s really starting to become rare to even have people go to that 41-week mark and especially past it. She’s going to be sharing her story with you today actually with both births that went past 41 weeks. They were actually both induced so we have an induction that turned Cesarean and an induction that ended in a VBAC. She also has that close duration– that 9 months later, 17 months apart. So if you are listening and you are one of those mamas who may have been pregnant by surprise or chosen to ge
Wed, September 11, 2024
Episode 334 Susana’s VBA5C Story
We have received so many messages and emails from you requesting more VBAMC stories and today, we are giving you just that. Susana joins us from Mexico sharing her VBAC story after five Cesareans! Each of Susana’s Cesarean experiences was unique in their own way, but the dream of a vaginal birth never left her heart. When she found a supportive midwife and doctor during her VBA5C pregnancy, Susana knew this was her chance to finally achieve that goal. With her husband by her side encouraging and supporting her, Susana powerfully pushed her baby out. The hospital staff and community buzzed with shock and amazement over what she had achieved! “That moment was unlike any other moment in my life.” ACOG Article: Dr. Angelica Glover Evidence-Based Birth: The Evidence on VBAC Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of Strength, this is the moment so many of you have been waiting for. We have a VBA5C so for anyone who doesn’t know what that means, it is a VBAC after 5 Cesarean story for you today. This has been requested so much. We received emails in our personal email. We have gotten it on social media saying, “Please, can we get some stories that have VBAC after more than 3 Cesareans?” We know so many people out there don’t know that this is an option or they know it’s an option but they don’t find the support or they can’t find the support. They are few and far between but we have our friend Susana today who is going to be sharing her VBA5C story. Welcome, Susana. How are you? Susana: Hi. Thank you so much for inviting me. I’m so excited. Meagan: Oh my gosh. I am so excited. Yes. I am so excited and you are in Mexico, correct? Is that where your VBAC was? Susana: I’m sorry? Meagan: Was your VBAC in Mexico? Susana: Yeah, but it was a very, very hard way. I’m going to share what I did. First of all, I can’t separate this way from my faith because I prayed so much for this and I trusted so much and also, I trusted so much in the process and in the body and those things But okay, I’m going to tell you what happen
Mon, September 09, 2024
Episode 333 Shelby's HBAC after Placental Abruption + Faith Over Fear + Defining True Physiological Birth
“My birth stories are my testimony…I have never trusted God more with any situation in my entire life other than with the lives of my children and bringing them into this world.” Shelby’s story is one of faith, trust, and surrendering. Shelby joins us today from Indiana sharing her wildly traumatic Cesarean story due to a placental abruption and her peaceful, healing home birth. Shelby was on vacation at a cabin in New York at 34 weeks when she woke up to regular contractions and heavy bleeding. She rushed to the nearest hospital, was put under general anesthesia for her Cesarean, was transferred via a separate ambulance from her baby to a hospital 3 hours away, and had a 23-day NICU stay in the height of COVID 800 miles away from her family and community. She and her husband were certain they would not have any more children. But as they fought for healing through faith-based counseling, their hearts yearned for another baby and a chance at a healing birth experience. She completely surrendered, found holistic prenatal care, and created a birth space for herself where she knew she felt safe. She was brave and vulnerable, and her second birth was everything she hoped it would be. As Meagan says at the end of this episode, “Get educated. Love yourself. Have faith in you and your body and your baby. You are amazing. You are a true Woman of Strength.” How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of Strength, we have our friend, Shelby, here with us today sharing her HBAC story. In addition to her HBAC story, she’s got some other unique things that I think are going to be important for us to talk about today. One is placental abruption. That is something that is definitely a reason for a Cesarean and one of those absolute needed reasons for a Cesarean. We are going to talk a little bit more about that and then we are going to talk about faith and how faith in whatever faith looks like to you, it’s so important to cling onto that. Shelby has some messages about that. Then we really want to talk about physiological birth. We hear it. We see it online. I mean, if you go on Instagram and you go into the birth world, you’re going to see it almost 100% guaranteed but what does that really mean? We’re going to be diving in with that today. Shelby, you are in– where did it say, Indiana? Shelby: Indiana, yeah. Meagan: I have to look at my notes. Indianapolis, Indiana. She’s in Indiana so Women of Strength, if you are coming from her area, definitely listen up as well. Okay, so we have a Review of the week and this is by birthing confident. It says, “Inval
Wed, September 04, 2024
Episode 332 What The VBAC Link Offers & What is Important to Know with Meagan Heaton, VBAC Link Owner
Women of Strength, so many things are important to know during your VBAC. Meagan Heaton is flying solo today telling you how to get the most out of what The VBAC Link offers. She goes through all of the resources from the Parents’ Course to the Doula Training to The VBAC Link Community and CBAC Community Facebook groups to blogs, newsletter emails, Instagram Q&As, and more. What do you need to know to have a better birth after an unexpected or difficult Cesarean? What is included in The VBAC Link Parents’ Course? While all of the information can be compiled and found through our hundreds of podcast episodes, blogs, and social media posts, the course is concise and comprehensive to have quick access to it all including: The history of Cesarean and VBAC Preparing your mind and body for VBAC Evidence-based stats on uterine rupture and more How to find a supportive provider How to choose between a repeat Cesarean and a VBAC VBAC after multiple Cesareans Coping tools during labor Family-centered Cesareans Risks, benefits, and alternatives of interventions How to avoid an unnecessary Cesarean When a Cesarean is necessary The VBAC Link Doula Directory The VBAC Link Community Facebook Group CBAC Support Facebook Group How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Doula Training Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey guys, this is Meagan today and I am solo. I don’t have a VBAC story coming your way today but I wanted to talk a little bit more about VBAC and what we need to know and what we need to do to prepare. If you’ve heard my own personal stories on the episodes a while ago, I think they are number two, go check it out. If you haven’t heard my VBA2C story, go check it out but during my journey, I’ve talked about how I felt alone in my journey. I had a couple of people within my space who were definitely cheering me on and my rocks, but the majority of the people in my life were very, very skeptical or judgmental or honestly just ignored me. That’s what would happen. I could tell people didn’t support or like the idea of
Mon, September 02, 2024
Episode 331 Lauren's 2VBACs + A Frank Breech Vaginal Delivery
In this episode of “The VBAC Link Podcast,” Meagan is joined by Lauren from Alabama. Lauren’s first birth was a Cesarean due to breech presentation where she really wasn’t given any alternative options. Her second was a VBAC with a head-down baby, and her third was a breech VBAC with a provider who was not only supportive but advocated on her behalf! Though each of her births had twists and turns including PROM, the urge to push before complete, frequent contractions early on, and NICU time, Lauren is a great example of the power that comes from being an active decision maker in birth. She evaluated pros and cons and assumed the risks she was comfortable with. Thank you, Lauren, for your courage and vulnerability in sharing not only your birth stories with us but also your incredible birth video! Lauren's YouTube Channel Cleveland Clinic Breech Article The VBAC Link Blog: ECV Explained Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. If you have ever wondered if a breech vaginal birth or a breech VBAC is possible, let me just tell you right now, the answer is yes and our friend Lauren today is going to share her story to confirm that it is 100% possible. Obviously, we do have some breech VBAC stories on the podcast but they are few and far between. I mean, Lauren, when you were going through it, did you hear a lot of breech births in general let alone VBAC? Did you hear a lot of people having those? Lauren: No. I had heard a few on The VBAC Link but that was really it. I did a lot of research. Meagan: Yes and it’s so unfortunate. This story is a double VBAC story but also a breech VBAC which we know a lot of people seek the stories for this because as she just said, there is not a lot of support out there when it comes to breech birth in general. We have a client right now who was just told that her baby was breech and they’ve already said, “We’re going to try to flip this baby but if not, it’s a C-section.” They didn’t even talk about breech vaginal birth being an option and it makes me so sad. I’m really, really excited to get into your episode. You are in Alabama. Is that correct? Lauren: I
Wed, August 28, 2024
Episode 329 Ashley's VBAC + Inverted T Scar & Extension + “You Will Never Have a Vaginal Birth
Women of Strength, we have a truly inspiring story for you today! Ashley joins us from the Liverpool/Sydney area in Australia and shares her VBAC with an inverted T special scar and extension story. During her first Cesarean, Ashley’s OB mentioned that she had only performed that kind of incision one other time in her entire career and that Ashley would never have a vaginal birth. Ashley did not find out the actual circumstances around her first Cesarean until she requested her operative notes during her second pregnancy. In spite of what she was told, her heart longed for a VBAC. She committed to doing all she could to try and find a VBAC-supportive provider as long as it was medically safe to do so. Ashley went into spontaneous labor and utilized the tools available to help her baby rotate from a posterior position. She and her provider both stayed patient, trusted the process, and after pushing for 20 minutes, her baby girl was earthside! Special Scars, Special Hope Facebook Group The VBAC Link Blog: Special Scars, Special Hope How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. How are you today? I hope you are doing amazing. We have our friend, Ashley, with us today and you guys, she is from Australia. It has been so crazy. I don’t know why I cannot understand time. We were talking about how we literally had to Google, “What time will it be in Australia if it’s this time in Utah?” It was such a challenge to get this scheduled but I’m so grateful for Ashley for taking the time out of her Monday morning recording with us today so welcome, Ashley. Thank you for being here. Ashley: Thank you so much for having me on. Like I was saying to you before, The VBAC Link was so invaluable to me with all of the research and the statistics and just trying to hear other people’s stories to help me change my mindset to get through it so I’m really excited to add to that with my story as well. Meagan: Me too. Your story has a little extra tidbit to it. Something that we know happens because we’ve got lots of stories on them as well. We actually haven’t had one for a few minutes and yours is a special scar. You had an inverted T with an extension. Do you want to share with our listeners exactly what that means? We’ve had some J scars. There are all different special scars. An extension we know goes past the initial cut or incision. But tell us about the T. Ashley: Yeah, so I actually o
Wed, August 28, 2024
Episode 330 Grace's VBAC With the Odds Stacked Against Her
Grace found The VBAC Link Podcast while still in the hospital after her first unexpected C-section. Her recovery was brutal and she knew she never wanted to experience that again. Grace is a labor and delivery nurse located on the Wisconsin/Illinois border. She shares what it was like preparing for her VBAC while working at a hospital that didn’t support VBAC. Though she found a supportive practice, Grace faced unexpected pressure for interventions at the end of her pregnancy. Ultimately, she advocated her VBAC wishes and they continued to support her. When she contracted a fever and her baby had prolonged heart decels at 10 centimeters, Grace was prepped and wheeled to the OR. She mentally surrendered to the idea of another C-section. But when baby’s heart recovered, she was encouraged to keep pushing! Her baby boy came out in just four pushes and Grace was able to achieve the VBAC she so deeply desired. The VBAC Link Blog: Finding a VBAC-supportive Provider The VBAC Link Blog: 10 Signs to Switch Your Provider The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC vs Repeat C-section How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of Strength, we’ve got a VBAC story coming your way today. We’ve got our friend, Grace. Where are you? Illinois? Grace: Yep. I’m right in between Milwaukee and Chicago right on the Wisconsin/Illinois border. Meagan: Okay, awesome. Well welcome to the show and she does have a little babe right now with her. How old is your baby? Grace: He just turned a month old yesterday. Meagan: A month old and this is your VBAC baby. Grace: Yep. There he is. The man himself. Meagan: This is so fresh. Oh my gosh. I love when we get fresh stories. I feel like you’re probably still even processing as you tell your story. Grace: Yep. I am. I practiced a couple times to make sure I didn’t leave out important details. Meagan: Well, we are so excited to have you on the show. We do have a Review of the Week and then we’re going to get into your stories and then we’re going to talk a little bit about when the odds are stacked against you at the end and then spoiler alert, Grace is a lab
Wed, August 21, 2024
Episode 328 Amy's VBAC + Meeting Your Provider in the Middle + Breathing Tips from our VBAC Link Doula Desiree
With her first birth, Amy hired a doula and planned to birth at a birth center. During labor, her baby kept having late heart decels which led to transferring to the hospital. At the hospital, Amy stalled at 9.5 centimeters. Baby was having a hard time descending and continued having decels. Amy chose to have a Cesarean and while she was at peace with the experience, she knew she wanted another chance at a vaginal birth. Amy proactively prepared for her VBAC by educating herself and working with her provider to find common ground. Her labor progressed well, Amy coped beautifully, and was able to push out her 10-pound baby! Amy talks about how recovering from birth can be difficult no matter what type of birth you have. Our VBAC Link Doula, Desiree, joins as Meagan’s co-host and touches on the importance of breathwork. As a licensed therapist, Amy also talks about how she uses breathwork with her own clients. “Practice it before you are in labor because then it’s easier to do while you’re in labor.” Desiree's Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, Women of Strength. It is an amazing day to listen to another VBAC story. We have our friend, Amy, from Massachusetts coming your way sharing her VBAC story with you. Then we have one of our VBAC Link doulas, Desiree, with us as well. Welcome, ladies. Desiree: Hi. Amy: Thank you. Meagan: Hello. Thank you so much for being with me today. We do have that Review of the Week so I’m going to actually turn the time over to Desiree and read that. Desiree: Yeah, so the Review of the Week this week is provided by Ashley on the VBAC Doula course which I am very familiar with. I am so excited to read this one. Ashley says, “TOLAC/VBACs should be treated just like any other birthing person but there is certain preparation and information that needs to be offered to them. Your course covered that. The value is held in your careful recognition of how to best support our clients who are doing a TOLAC. I cannot praise you two enough for the fear-release activity. Honestly, it is something I can apply to even myself before and after birth and even in life in general. Thank you for that. It has already helped three of my VBAC clients.” Meagan: Oh, that’s amazing. That just gave me the chills. I love that. Fear release is so important. Women of Strength, if you are listening, we have that in our course because we truly believe in it. I think fear
Mon, August 19, 2024
Episode 327 Adriana's HBAC + What Does the Science Say About VBAC?
Adriana is a scientist and professor at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. During her first pregnancy, Adriana was faced with the possibility of her baby having a severe genetic disease. She became so involved in researching the details of it that she didn’t consider the need to research her birthing options as intensely. However, after a long and difficult induction process which ultimately ended in a Cesarean, Adriana was left feeling like she failed as a scientist. She was determined to take charge of her next birth and apply her years of research skills to learning everything about VBAC. Adriana went on to have a peaceful home birth surrounded by a big support system and empowered by her research. She also gives listeners tips on how to interpret published articles on VBAC and explains terms like abstracts, confidence levels, and p-values. “I just found the data is so strong in showing that VBAC is super safe for non-high-risk individuals. Again, having a previous Cesarean does not automatically make you high risk…I had three high-risk factors if you will and still, with those factors counted in, I knew that VBAC was really safe for me just based on the data that I found.” Dr. Adriana L. Romero-Olivares' Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of Strength, we have another amazing VBAC story for you today. This VBAC story follows a C-section that was unplanned which let’s be honest, most of ours are, and it had a lot of interventions. We have our friend– oh my gosh. I can’t speak today. Adriana, hello. Adriana: Hi. I’m so excited to be here. Meagan: Oh my gosh. I’m so excited for you to be here. Tell me. Okay, so you’re currently in Mexico. Where were you when you had your VBAC? Adriana: I’m in New Mexico, so the U.S. Meagan: Oh, you’re in New Mexico. Adriana: Yes, exactly. In New Mexico in the U.S. and I had both my unplanned Cesarean and VBAC here in New Mexico. Meagan: Oh, you did? Very good to know. You guys, she is a scientist and a professor. She spent many years researching microbes which is really cool. Do you say fungi? Is that how you say it? Adriana: You can say it fungi, fungi, fungi. People say it in different ways and they are all correct. Meagan: It’s like fungus
Wed, August 14, 2024
Episode 326 Jolie's HBA2C + Finding the Right Provider + Surprise Big Baby
“I leaned back in the tub and I think what I said was just, ‘I’ve never held one of my babies after they were born before.’ It was interesting how there was an element that was sort of mundane about it but I liked that. It was just the normalcy of it all that shocked me if that makes sense.” Since her only experiences with her previous births were in a sterile, surgical, hospital environment, the simplicity and freedom of a home birth felt shockingly normal in all the best ways! Jolie shares her first C-section, her planned home birth turned CBAC, followed by a 15-hour home birth at 43 weeks to an almost 11-pound baby with her third. She gives invaluable advice on how to REALLY know if you have the right provider for you and how it may not always be the VBAC-supportive provider everyone recommends. Jolie's Photography and Coaching Contact Info Transforming Birth Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It’s Meagan here. We have another VBAC story for you today and we have our friend, Jolie. Hello, Jolie. Jolie: Hey, Meagan. Meagan: How are you today? Jolie: I’m good. How are you? Meagan: I am so great. I am so excited to record your story. There were a whole bunch of little snippets through your story that I’m like, Oh, I want to talk about that. But I wanted to tell everybody that I’ve been starting to do this. I don’t know if you’ve been noticing but we get a lot of emails of, Hey, where was this person located? What state was that? I’m curious if it was my state so I can try to find that provider. We are going to have her providers and stuff tagged in today’s post but you say you are in North Georgia, correct? Jolie: Yes. Meagan: Is that just where your VBAC was or is that where you are residing now? Jolie: Nope, this is where my VBAC was, in North Georgia. Meagan: Okay, so North Georgia people, listen up. This is going to be a great story. I’ll tell you guys a little bit more. Okay, so you’re a birth worker and a photographer. Are you a doula? Jolie: Yes. Yep. I was trained as a doula
Mon, August 12, 2024
Episode 325 Failure to Progress: What It Isn’t and What It Is...
Women of Strength, how many of you have “failure to progress” on your operative report as the reason for your Cesarean(s)? Meagan and Julie talk ALL about failure to progress today– how it led to their own Cesareans and how after breaking it down, they both realized that neither of them actually qualified for that label. When is it failure to progress and when is it failure to wait? What does failure to progress actually mean? This is an episode you will want to listen to over and over again. From learning all of the ways a cervix changes other than just dilation to all of the possible positions you can try during a lull in labor, Meagan and Julie share invaluable current research and personal experiences on this hot topic! ACOG Article: Limiting Interventions During Labor and Birth AJOG Article: Safe Prevention of a Primary Cesarean Delivery The Journal of Perinatal Education: Preventing a Primary Cesarean OBG Project Article The VBAC Link Blog: Failure to Progress How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello. I am with Julie today and we are going to be talking about failure to progress. If you have been diagnosed with failure to progress– and I say diagnosed because they actually put them on our op reports like it’s a diagnosis of failure of progress meaning our cervix does not know what to do. It cannot make it to 10 centimeters or it hasn’t or it will not in the future, then I am telling you right now that this is definitely a great episode for you. Even if you haven’t been told, it’s going to be a great episode because we are going to talk about some other great things in the end about what to do in labor position-wise and all of the things. So we’re going to get going, but Julie apparently has a Review of the Week. We weren’t going to do one, but she says she has a Review of the Week. So, Julie? I will turn the time over to you. Julie: This is my review. Are you ready?
Wed, August 07, 2024
Episode 324 Hannah's VBAC with Thrombocytopenia + Partial Placenta Previa + Marginal Cord Insertion
Hannah is a VBAC mom and doula with Ebb and Flow Birth Co. located in Indiana. Hannah’s first labor began very intensely. Her platelet levels were high enough for her to be able to get an epidural which she requested right away. She dilated to complete quickly, but after about 4 hours of pushing, baby just kept coming down and going back up with no progress. Hannah was exhausted and consented to a Cesarean. Unfortunately, her very effective epidural was not as effective during her surgery. It was painful. She required higher doses of medicine, hemorrhaged, and was so out of it that she remembers very little about her baby’s actual birth. After the birth of her son, Hannah researched birth options and did all she could do ensure she’d never have another Cesarean. Her VBAC pregnancy included thrombocytopenia again, partial placenta previa (which completely resolved!), marginal cord insertion, and she was GBS+. With a great team and supportive provider, Hannah was able to stay focused on her VBAC goal even with the curveballs thrown at her. She went into labor spontaneously, progressed quickly, and though her pushing stage mimicked the same patterns, with the help of her doula’s tips and freedom to move without an epidural, baby was able to descend and come right out! Hannah's Doula Website What is Thrombocytopenia? ACH Publications Platelet Transfusions Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, welcome. I hope you guys are having an incredible day. We have a guest today who has a VBAC story with a whole bunch of different things added to her journey. She has thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia, I always say that wrong, which means low platelet count. That is definitely something that is more unique. It’s a little bit more rare, but if you’ve ever been told that you have low platelet counts or thrombocytopenia, this is definitely going to be an episode for you to listen to. She also had partial placenta previa and even marginal cord insertion. I am so excited for her to be sharing her story today. We
Mon, August 05, 2024
Episode 323 Lauren's 2VBAC + Special J Scar
Lauren has had three very different births. She had a peaceful C-section due to breech presentation with a difficult recovery, a wild, unmedicated VBAC, and a calm, medicated 2VBAC. Due to her baby’s large size, she had to have an extra incision made during her Cesarean leaving her with a special J scar. Though her provider was hesitant to support a TOLAC with a special scar, Lauren advocated for herself by creating a special relationship with her OB and they were able to move forward together to help Lauren achieve both of her VBACs. Lauren talks about the importance of having an open mind toward interventions as she was firmly against many of the things that ended up making her second VBAC the most redemptive and healing experience of all. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, hey everybody. Guess what? We have our friend Lauren and her 11-day-old baby. Is that right? Lauren: Yeah. Meagan: 11 days old. You guys, I actually didn’t even know that this baby existed until we popped up on the Zoom and she was holding this precious little newborn. She was like, “Surprise! I had another VBAC.” So we will be sharing, well she will be sharing her two VBACs so 2VBAC and something kind of unique about Lauren is that she has a special scar, a special J scar, correct? Lauren: Yep. Meagan: Yeah, so that happened in her first C-section. If you are listening and you have a special scar or have been told that you have a special scar, this is definitely an episode that you are going to want to put on repeat and save because I know that there are so many people out there who are told that they have a special scar and that they should never or can never VBAC again. I know we’re not even getting into the story quite yet, Lauren, but did you have any flack with that? Did anyone talk about your special scar at all? Lauren: Yes. Advocating for the VBAC is probably the overarching theme of my VBAC because I really had to go to bat for myself for that without switching providers. Meagan: Yeah. We know that’s so common. We see it a lot in our community just in general trying to get a VBAC let alone a VBAC with a special scar. We are going to get into her story but I have a review and I didn’t even know that this was a review. It was left in a Baby Bump Canada group on Reddit actually so that was kind of fun to find. It’s really nice. It says, “Seriously, I’m addicted. I find them so healing. I had an unplanned and very much unwan
Wed, July 31, 2024
Episode 322 Emily's 2VBA2C With an Induction
During her first labor, Emily experienced a hyperactive uterus where she had constant squeezing with no breaks and minimal dilation. She was at a birth center but after exhausting all coping options decided to transfer to the hospital. After receiving an epidural and Pitocin, then detecting meconium, Emily was ready to consent to a Cesarean. Emily’s second birth was a planned Cesarean, then her third and fourth births were both VBACs. Emily describes how even though her provider was the same for both vaginal deliveries, her experiences were so different. With her third, Emily had a beautiful pushing stage and easy recovery. However, pushing with her fourth felt rushed and she experienced a fourth-degree tear. Meagan and Emily share the importance of making your preferences known in every aspect of labor and delivery so your support team can speak up when you are not able to. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have a 2VBA2C story for you today. We were just talking about it before we started recording all of the acronyms. I was like, “Oh, you’re a VBAC after two C-sections story.” And your baby is 8– wait, did I see that right? 8 months? Emily: He’s 9 months now. Meagan: 9 months. Emily: He’s almost a year. 8 months, 9 months, 10 months, somewhere around there. Meagan: Still very little, still very fresh so I’m excited for you to share his story and your other babies’ stories. We have Emily by the way. This is Emily. Hello, Emily. Emily: Hi. Meagan: Remind me. Where are you located? Emily: I’m in Texas. Meagan: Okay, you’re in Texas. Awesome. Okay you guys, we’re going to share her stories. We do have a Review of the Week so I want to hurry and get into that and then we’ll jump into Emily’s stories. This Review is from Rachel and it says, “Thanks for giving me the confidence to have a VBAC. I am glad I found this amazing podcast when I was newly pregnant with baby number two. After a long, traumatic experience that ended in a C-section, I was cautiously hopeful that I would have a VBAC. Using information that I learned from hearing other people’s stories on The VBAC Link, I felt confident and prepared for the birth of my son. On October 9, 2020” so that was four years ago, “I had a beautifully redemptive VBAC and welcomed our boy into the world. Thank you so much for helping me achieve my dream.” Women of Strength, that review is for you. You and your stories and your participation in the communi
Mon, July 29, 2024
Episode 321 Jacqueline's VBAC with FSHD Muscular Dystrophy
Jacqueline’s symptoms of FSHD muscular dystrophy began at 16 years old. She shares with us today how she manages chronic pain and what that looked like throughout her pregnancy and birth journeys. Jacqueline is also a sexual violence trauma survivor and went through three pregnancy losses. Through her nonprofit organization and as a birth doula, she is a strong advocate for trauma-informed care for all women. Jacqueline shares inspiration and advice throughout the episode for women who also have a history of trauma as well as those who are trying to navigate birth with a neuromuscular condition. Her proactive approach to caring for her body and heart allowed Jacqueline to have a beautiful, empowering, and healing VBAC, especially after enduring so much. Anesthetic Management for Dystrophy Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. Today’s episode is a VBAC episode, but it has an extra topic that is a first for the entire podcast life. In 320-something episodes, we have never talked about this specific topic. The other day on social media, I had a couple of spots so I reached out and I am so grateful for Jacqueline. Are you in Canada? Jacqueline: Yes. Meagan: Yes. She’s from Canada and she reached out and was like, “Hey, this is something about my story.” And I was like, “Yes, let’s do that because this would be amazing.” One of the things that we are going to be talking about today is FSHD muscular dystrophy. Jacqueline: Dystrophy. Dystrophy. Meagan: Okay, yes. We are going to be talking about that a little bit more and the challenges that you have had to go through with all of this. If you wouldn’t mind before we get to the review, will you tell us a little bit more about FSHD and one, what is it? Two, what are the things that we are told because you have it and how you had to birth if you were told? Jacqueline: Yeah, absolutely. FSHD is a form of muscular dystrophy. It’s quite rare and it essentially affects the muscles in my shoulders and in my facial muscles as well. For everyone with FSHD, your symptoms present quite differently. Of all of the types of muscular dystrophy, it is one of the more common forms, but in the big scheme of conditions that you can live with, it definitely is still considered to be rare. I was diagnosed in 2018 officially th
Wed, July 24, 2024
Episode 320 Cord Blood Banking with Diane from Cryo-Cell
“With cord blood, hope really knows no bounds.” Diane Paradise is living proof that cord blood transplants cure the incurable. Diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin Lymphoma at only 24 years old, Diane fought an extremely hard fight as it returned five more times before age 42. It had now become stage 4B and metastasized to her bone marrow. With no other options, Diane was given hope through a clinical trial. She eradicated all of her sick marrow through aggressive chemotherapy and then was given a new blood type through a cord blood transplant from two different donors. 24 days later, after almost two decades, Diane was cured. She has just celebrated her 10th year of being cancer-free and has committed her life’s work to spreading education about the hope behind what banking your baby’s cord blood after birth can do for your family. Meagan and Diane talk about what cord blood banking is, how to enroll, how much it costs, and where you can find all of the information you need about this lifesaving procedure. July is Cord Blood Awareness Month and Cryo-Cell is offering a free seminar on Wednesday, July 31 2024 at 1:00 PM EST. Register at https://lp.cryo-cell.com/fuller-paradise-seminar . Cryo-Cell's Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, hey everybody. Today’s episode is a little different from the norm. We are actually going to be talking about cord blood banking. We have my friend Diane on the podcast. Hello, Diane. Diane: Hello, hello. Meagan: It’s so good to see you again. She and I met for the first time actually in January of this year, 2024 at a doula retreat and she was there speaking at this retreat about cord blood banking. Cord blood banking for me wasn’t actually a new topic because I had spoken to another company a little while ago about it but there was something extra unique and extra special about Diane and Cryo-Cell is the company that she works with that I was like, We need to share more about this. First of all, her story which I’m sure she’ll share a little bit more about, is incredible. So today, we actually normally would do a review, but I really want to soak up the time with Diane because I know her time is so precious. After the intro, we are going to dive right into what
Mon, July 22, 2024
Episode 319 Caylee's 2VBACs with Preterm Inductions + Cholestasis
Caylee joins us from Canada sharing her experience with two VBACs after a twin Cesarean birth. She also shares what it was like having cholestasis in all three pregnancies. Cholestasis is a liver condition that slows or stalls the flow of bile. Meagan and Caylee discuss in greater detail what cholestasis means during pregnancy, what symptoms can look like, and how it is diagnosed. One of Caylee’s most intense symptoms was incessant itching. She talks about how it affected her not only physically but mentally as well. While all three of her pregnancies were preterm births and her two VBACs were medically necessary inductions, Caylee advocated throughout her entire labors and was able to stay the course to achieve the vaginal births she knew she was capable of. Cleveland Clinic Article: Cholestasis of Pregnancy American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Article: Risk of Stillbirth in U.S. Patients with Cholestasis How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to the show. We have our friend, Caylee, with us and her little wee, tiny little newborn. Caylee: Hi everyone. Meagan: Oh my gosh. Welcome to the show. How old is your baby? Caylee: He just turned 3 months. He was born a month early though. Meagan: Okay, 3 months and a month early. We are going to talk about why he was born a month early. You guys, today we are going to be sharing some stores and talking a little bit about cholestasis. This is something that we actually don’t have a lot about on the show. When you were listening, Caylee, did you? Caylee: I don’t think I’ve heard a single episode, yeah. Meagan: Did you hear about it in general on other platforms? Was it talked about? Caylee: Not really, no. I found it online on Facebook. I’m in the ICP Care Facebook group and that’s super helpful. They are amazing in there and super knowledgeable, but yeah. It’s not very common. It’s quite rare. I think it’s 1 in 1000 women who end up getting it. Meagan: Yeah. Caylee: So yeah. It’s not very well known about and even with providers, providers don’t know about it very well either. Meagan: Yeah. I think
Wed, July 17, 2024
Episode 318 BadassMotherBirther + How to Make Change
“Let’s change the narrative.” From how to be an active participate in your care to how to help get your partner on board with your birth goals, Flor Cruz and Meagan talk about it all. Flor Cruz is the founder of BadassMotherBirther and a long-time friend of The VBAC Link. A two-time VBAC mom herself, Flor is passionate about equipping all moms with the education they need to feel empowered in their birth space. Meagan and Flor share the importance of paying attention to red flags and how to recognize them even within your body. They talk about how feeling safe in your birth environment and being able to acclimate can literally change your birth outcome. These two ladies have been where you are. They know how overwhelming it can be trying to prepare for an empowering and healing birth after tough ones. But Women of Strength, you are not alone. Together, we truly can make birth after Cesarean better. Flor’s Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome to The VBAC Link. Today’s episode is with one of my absolute favorite people. Even though I actually haven’t met her personally, I’ve been following her forever and we’ve been doing things and connecting back and forth for years. I am just so stinking excited to have the one and only Flor Cruz from BadassMotherBirther on the show today. We’re going to get into the nitty gritty and really talk about some feelings so be prepared for that. If you don’t know who Flor Cruz is yet, I highly suggest checking out BadassMotherBirther. She is the creator of BadassMotherBirther. She is a doula, a birth and human rights advocate, a childbirth educator, and also a mom of 5 and two-time VBACer. You guys, I’m so stinking excited to have her on the show. We do have a Review of the Week and then we are going to jump right into our episode. Today’s review is by mamaofboys0326 . It says, “The Best Podcast About Birth and VBACs”. It says, “I had my first baby after a very unexpected C-section. I had done everything right to try and have a natural birth and things did not go as planned. When I got pregnant again only 6 months after him, I knew I wanted a VBAC but didn’t know where to go for information and support. This podcast was exactly what I needed. The birth stories and education, information, and inspiration that is provided is amazing. It helped me know the facts about VBAC and
Mon, July 15, 2024
Episode 317 Brittany's HBA2C + VBAC Education, Big Babies, Provider Support, Preterm Birth & More
“The 9 lb 2 oz baby that they said I could never push out and could never have had her vaginally– I ended up going on to have a 10 lb 10 oz baby girl.” Brittany first gave birth to twins via Cesarean at 34 weeks and 1 day. She didn’t get to meet her babies until 36 hours after delivery and they had to stay in the NICU for 10 days. While Brittany was so thankful it was not a longer NICU stay and the babies got to come home at the same time, she grieved the introduction into motherhood that she thought she would have. Brittany’s next birth ended in a difficult CBAC under general anesthesia. Once again, she was not able to hold her baby right after birth like she so badly wanted. Her physical and mental recoveries were intense and tough. Not long after her third baby was born, Brittany felt called to understand more about her births. She wanted to learn why things happened to her the way they did and if there was a way to help prevent other women from going through the same things. She became a doula with Joyful Beginnings Doula Care and absolutely loves it! With her fourth baby, home birth was on Brittany’s heart. With the education from doula work and her own births, Brittany set herself up for success by surrounding herself with a beautifully supportive birth team. Her HBA2C was quick, uncomplicated, redemptive, and empowering! Brittany’s Website The VBAC Link Blog: Preterm Cesareans TVL Blog: Everything You Need For Your HBAC TVL Blog: Provider Red Flags TVL Blog: VBAC/HBAC Preparation TVL Blog: VBAC Midwife TVL Blog: Big Babies How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have our friend, Brittany, today with us sharing her HBAC. If you have not been with us very long or are still unsure about all of the crazy terms in the VBAC world, HBAC is home birth after Cesarean but she is a home birth after two Cesareans so HBA2C so similar to what I am. I am a VBAC but I was in a birth center, not a home. </
Wed, July 10, 2024
Episode 316 Lynn Schulte Returns Talking About the Pelvic Floor and More
Lynn Schulte, the founder of the Institute for Birth Healing, was featured on The VBAC Link Podcast Episode 123 back in 2020 and today she is back! So many of you loved her information about Cesarean scar massage and know her insight about pelvic assessment, movement restriction, and balancing uterine ligaments will be just as valuable to you. Lynn gives tips on how to tell during pregnancy if you need pelvic assessment and also the three signs to watch for to know if scar tissue is interfering with your quality of life. Through the Institute of Birth Healing, Lynn has trained hundreds of practitioners all over the world to be able to assess more women for pelvic restriction and to know just what to do about it. She shares how to find one of her practitioners in your area. While pelvic floor physical therapy may require investing more in yourself both from your time and finances, the benefits can last for years to come and are so, so worth it. Lynn's Educational Platform Clinical Practice Website Institute for Birth Healing Directory Blog: Preparing the Pregnant Body Blog: Supporting Pregnant Clients YouTube: How to Massage Your C-section Scar Lynn's Live Course Schedule Institute for Birth Healing: All Courses Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have a returning guest with us today and her name is Lynn Schulte. She is with the Institute for Birth Healing and she was with us, I don’t know, 3 or 4 years ago talking about scar massage, and today she is going to be talking with us more about pelvic floor health and the cervix and failure to progress and so much more. Today, I am so excited to share with you guys again Lynn. Before we get started, I wanted to tell you a little bit more about her. Lynn Schulte is a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist for over 30 years. She is the principle instructor and
Mon, July 08, 2024
Episode 315 Emmy's Empowering HBAC After Failure to Descend
“It was perfect. It really was. I would do it again and I would do it the exact same way. I felt safe and I felt respected and I felt like there was never a moment in it that I was scared.” Emmy’s first birth was a medicated hospital birth turned C-section after two hours of unsuccessful pushing. Her greatest trauma was being so out of it that her first thoughts after her baby was born were, “ I don’t care.” Her multiple failed epidural/spinal placements caused intense postpartum spinal headaches. Overall, Emmy’s difficult experiences were a recipe for postpartum depression and anxiety. After finding The VBAC Link, Julie and Meagan became Emmy’s virtual friends helping her through tough postpartum days. When she became pregnant again, Emmy knew that Julie Francom needed to be on her team. Emmy shares how she made the choice to switch from planning a hospital VBAC to an HBAC and how home birth relates to cows! Her birth was powerful, intuitive, and healing. After her husband caught their baby and Emmy pulled her up to her chest, she shares the most healing moment of all. “I wasn’t thinking in my head, ‘ I don’t care’. I was thinking that I had this beautiful little baby in my arms. It was what I had dreamed of. “ CDC Article The VBAC Link Doula Directory The VBAC Link Facebook Community Down to Birth Podcast Dr. Stu's Website The VBAC Link Blog: Choosing Between Home Birth or VBAC Birth Becomes You Birth Photographer Directory How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Hello, hello. Surprise! It’s Julie here and I’m super excited to be here with you guys today. I always love coming on the podcast with Meagan you guys know. I love to get a little bit salty and a little bit straight-up talk on the podcast. I quite enjoy my time here but I am a little extra excited and a little bit less spicy and salty because I have a client of mine. Her name is Emmy and she just had a VBAC about 3 weeks or 4 weeks ago. Has it already been 4 weeks? Oh shoot, I owe you your gallery already. It’ll be done in a few days. But I
Wed, July 03, 2024
Episode 314 Amanda's Joyful VBAC + Building a Team with The VBAC Link's Resources
“It was just such a redemptive, wonderful experience. I am so grateful to The VBAC Link for seeing me through it, for giving me the information, and just the inspiration to even take this on because if I had never found you, I don’t know for sure if I ever would have gone through with it. So, thank you so much for that.” Amanda’s episode will warm your heart, give you chills, and bring tears to your eyes. Her birth stories include a rough induction at 36 weeks due to preeclampsia with an 11-day NICU stay and not getting to hold her baby for 32 hours. When she found The VBAC Link, Amanda was given hope that she could have another baby and that her experience could be very different. Equipped with information and drive, she was able to do just that. Amanda’s VBAC birth was spiritual and powerful! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Episode Topics: Review of the Week Amanda’s stories Monitoring for preeclampsia Cervadil, Magnesium, and Cytotec Consenting to a Cesarean Throwing up during the C-section Waiting 32 hours to hold her baby Finding The VBAC Link Praying for a baby Scared or scarred Signs of wavering provider support Physical and mental preparation Contractions begin Advocating during labor The night nurse “It is done.” Importance of lactation support Meagan: Hello, everybody. How are you doing? I hope you are doing great. Right now, I can just tell you that my face is already hurting from smiling just from talking to our guest for 5 seconds. We have our friend, Amanda. Hello, Amanda. Amanda: Hello. Meagan: Oh my goodness. She has just been the sweetest thing just pouring on the sugar and sweetening me up. I mean really, she is saying just the nicest things about The VBAC Link and it has just been so fun to hear how The VBAC Link was part of her life. You guys, I love this so much. Thank you for supporting this podcast. Thank you for supporting us on Instagram and Facebook and all of the places. I truly from the bottom of my heart love you. I know I haven’t always met you but I love you and I love this community and I love what we are doing here. I am so grateful for the opportunity. I just wanted to say that it really wouldn’t happen without all of you so really from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Review of the Week Meagan: We do have a Review of the Week so I want to jump into that and then we are going to get into Amanda’s stories and maybe even som
Mon, July 01, 2024
Episode 313 Happy Birthday to Meagan’s VBA2C Babe + Walking Down Memory Lane with her Husband, Ric
“Trust your partner. Trust the mom. They know things better than you do.” Meagan’s husband, Ric, joins the podcast today as they celebrate their VBA2C baby’s 8th birthday! Ric gives the perspective from the partner’s side of things as they both share details of Webster’s birth story. He talks about some not-so-proud moments and is the first to admit how little he knew about how to support a VBA2C labor– especially one that went over 40 hours! But through it all, Ric came to understand the importance of doulas and how magical it can be to have not one but five doulas! He agrees that the births of each of their children ultimately was a special journey and brought the two of them closer together. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:17 Review of the Week 04:10 Deciding to birth out of the hospital 06:35 Agreeing on a birth center 10:57 PROM for the third time 15:05 Laboring loudly 20:23 Relying on the doulas 28:33 Navigating doubt and transition on the toilet 34:25 Pushing Webb out in three pushes 37:08 Passing out after birth 40:37 It takes a village 42:45 Ric’s advice to other dads Meagan: Today is my VBAC baby’s birthday. I cannot believe that it has been 8 years since that little boy joined our family and today I wanted to share or reshare his story. I know I’ve done it in the past, but I invited my husband, Ric, to share the story again for you and maybe I might just give him a couple of questions and see how he felt about it from his perspective. When we were going through pregnancy and preparing for me, it was just like, This is what I want to do. This is what I want to do. I would always go and say, “Hey, these are my thoughts”, and to be honest, I don’t know if I even gave him a ton of opportunity to share his exact thoughts because I was so driven and just wanted to get this. We are going to dive more into his thoughts and his perspective on the birth because we know so many dads out there are also a little hesitant when it comes to the idea of VBAC because the world as we know it talks about VBAC in a very poor manner and it can be a very scary thought. So we will be diving into that today in just one moment. 01:17 Review of the Week Meagan: We have a Re
Wed, June 26, 2024
Episode 312 VBAC Basics with Meagan & Julie
This episode goes back to the basics and is a great place to start on your VBAC journey! Julie joins Meagan today as they talk about many common questions beginning with reasons why providers tell women they can’t go for a VBAC. Topics today include: Nuchal cords Big babies Small pelvises Arrest of descent Third-trimester ultrasounds Cervical dilation Induction Due dates The ARRIVE Trial Why there is so much contradicting VBAC info Pregnancy intervals Epidurals Meagan and Julie also reflect on how their perspective toward each of these topics have changed over the years. Allowing for nuance is so necessary when approaching birth. Know that you always have options and never feel pressured to make a decision that doesn’t feel right for you. The VBAC Link Blog: Pregnancy Intervals Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 04:24 Review of the Week 07:48 Intro to the basics 09:53 Nuchal cords 13:30 Big babies, small pelvises, fluid levels, and third-trimester ultrasounds 17:08 How will this change my care? 18:47 Cervical dilation 25:54 Due dates 28:18 Vulnerability and the ARRIVE trial 30:44 Inducing a VBAC 36:15 Julie’s social media story 38:29 Contradicting information 41:36 Pregnancy intervals 46:38 Epidurals 54:13 Allowing for nuance Meagan: What’s up, everybody? This is Meagan. We have Ms. Julie with us today and we are going to be talking to you about what we need you to know about VBAC. We obviously like to talk about different topics but Julie and I decided this morning as we were getting ready to record that we need to do an episode on just the basics again. Don’t you feel like it’s the basics? It’s not to shame anyone for not knowing the information. It’s honestly to– I don’t even want to say the word shame– but providers are not educating their patients. They are just not. We see it time and time and time again where people just don’t know. We saw a post,
Mon, June 24, 2024
Episode 311 Sami's VBAC After an Unexpected Breech Cesarean
Upon arriving at the hospital during her first labor, Sami was told that her baby’s heart rate wasn’t stable, Pitocin was necessary, and a C-section was most likely going to be the safest mode of delivery. After laboring for a while, she was wheeled to the OR but the anesthesiologist was running behind schedule. Sami was checked and discovered she was complete! She pushed like her life depended on it and with the assistance of a vacuum and forceps, was able to vaginally deliver her baby in the OR. Sami was thankful to have had a vaginal delivery, but it wasn’t the empowering experience she hoped for and she knew she wanted something different the next time around. But when her second baby flipped breech during labor, Sami unexpectedly consented to a Cesarean. During her third pregnancy, Sami did everything in her power to set herself up for a VBAC. She found out her baby was breech and exhausted all options to try to flip her. A few weeks after a successful ECV, Sami had a precipitous VBAC, pushing her baby out within one hour of arriving at the hospital! Sami's Fitness Account How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:23 Review of the Week 04:26 Sami’s first pregnancy 06:41 A vaginal birth in the OR 07:55 Second pregnancy and switching providers 11:00 Flipping breech during labor 13:10 Sami’s C-section and feeling invalidated 16:50 Third pregnancy 24:19 A successful ECV 29:38 Going into labor 32:38 Pushing her baby out within one hour of arriving at the hospital Meagan: Hey, hey everybody. We have another VBAC story for you today from our friend, Sami. She is actually local to me here in Utah. Hi, how are you? Sami: Hi, I’m good. I’m so excited to be here. Meagan: So excited to share these stories. I was going over your story and it’s just crazy to think how things can twist and turn and the unexpected can happen. I love that about stories sometimes and then I don’t love that it happens but I also love the uniqueness of that. Does that make sense? Sami: Yeah. Yeah. I feel like literally and figuratively, my babies twist and turns happen. Meagan: Yes. It’s important to know that going into birth even though we are planning one way, sometimes twists and turns can happen and then it’s up to us to figure out how to navigate through that space and it’s not always easy. It’s okay to not always have it be easy and then sometimes it is easy. That’s another thing I wanted to talk about too is pointing out that to some, a twist and a turn might be no big deal to s
Wed, June 19, 2024
Episode 310 Kristen's Healing VBAC with a Special Scar
Every pregnancy and birth experience is different. That is true for everyone, but especially for Kristen. Kristen joins us from Provo, Utah, and shares her experiences with an initial vaginal birth, a diagnosis of omphacele with a Cesarean and infant loss with her second that left her with a special scar, an induced, medicated hospital VBAC with her third, and she is currently expecting twins! Kristen’s journey has not been easy, but she has learned and grown so much. She talks about how a safe and supportive birth team truly makes all the difference. Your intuition will help guide you to the best provider for you. When you know, you know! Meagan concludes the episode by touching on some myths and facts about doulas. The VBAC Link Blog: Myths and Facts About Doulas The VBAC Link Blog: Special Scars Special Scars, Special Hope Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:50 Review of the Week 04:02 Kristen’s first vaginal birth 09:41 Coping with grief and hospital communication issues 15:17 A low transverse incision with a J extension 19:59 Finding VBAC support in Salt Lake 23:10 Foley induction at 41.5 weeks 29:29 Changing plans 30:37 Myths about doulas 38:55 Facts about doulas 41:05 Kristen’s advice to other women with special scars 43:26 Listening to your intuition when choosing a provider Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. Thank you for joining us for another amazing episode here at The VBAC Link. Today’s story is from someone who is local to me which I think is always kind of fun to have someone who when they are telling the story, I know the birthing place, I know the provider, and here I even know the doula so that is super exciting. Welcome, Kristen to the show. Kristen: Thank you, Meagan. Meagan: Thank you so much for being here and I’m excited for you to share your stories. I would like to get into a review really quickly so then we can do that. Kristen: Sure. 01:50 Review of the Week Meag
Mon, June 17, 2024
Episode 309 How to Tell if the VBAC/HBAC Information You See is Real or Fake
Julie Francom joins Meagan on the podcast to talk about checking the validity of the information you see surrounding VBAC. There is so much information out there and so much misinformation that we want to help you figure out what is actually evidence-based! Julie and Meagan draw on their personal experiences with making corrections to information they understood and have shared. They talk about how the structure, size, and date of a study can influence the statistics. Julie shares why Cochrane reviews are her favorite. The VBAC Link is committed to helping you have the most evidence-based and truthful information as you make your birthing decisions. We promise to update you with all of the new information as we receive it! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:30 Checking the validity of social media posts 08:01 Our corrected post about VBA2C 12:56 The production behind a statistic or article 18:37 Cochrane reviews 19:06 Checking the dates of studies and emailing us for verification 23:29 Nuchal cords 25:21 Julie’s sleep training story 29:45 Information at your fingertips Meagan: Hey, hey everybody. Guess what? We have Julie today on the podcast. Julie: Hey. Meagan: Hey. We’re going to be doing a short but sweet, maybe also a little sassy because as Julie has said, she likes to get sassy these days. We’re going to do a short but sweet episode on how to tell if VBAC or HBAC or really just anything– Julie: Any. Meagan: Yeah, any information you see online is real or fake. Now, if you’re following along on our social media, you likely have seen a lot of our myth and fact posts. I think we share them probably once a week honestly because there really are so many things out there that are myths and things that are facts, but on a whole other side and a whole addition to myth and fact is really what should we be believing? What should we be resharing? Right, Julie? I think that this definitely is something that is close to our hearts at least I’m going to say is close to my heart. I think it’s close to Julie’s heart. Julie: Oh, for sure. Meagan: We want to protect this community and we want this community to find the real information, and not the false information. We know. You can Google anything. Julie: So much false information. Meagan: You can Google anything and find the real and false information but when it comes to VBAC, like she said, so much false information. We’re not even going to do a Review of the Week. We are going to jump right in in just a s
Wed, June 12, 2024
Episode 308 Shannon's VBA3C + Doubt From Her Delivery Team
“I did it. They said I couldn’t, but I did it.” When planning for her VBA3C, Shannon got just about as much kickback as someone can get. She was ambushed. She was coerced. She was given the scariest information. Shannon joins us from England today and talks about how each of her four births brought her to where she is today. By the time she was pregnant with her fourth, she was ready to advocate. She was ready to fight for something she had never gotten to experience. Though none of her providers were supportive, Shannon stayed grounded. She made her desires known and stood by them. Shannon labored unmedicated for just over 14 hours. Then to everyone’s surprise, she pushed her fourth baby girl out vaginally in 14 minutes! The VBAC Link Blog: Is VBA3C Right for You? The VBAC Link Blog: VBAMC How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 04:04 First pregnancy and birth 08:31 Second pregnancy and scheduled repeat Cesarean 10:56 Third pregnancy 14:04 A heartbreaking third Cesarean 17:42 Postpartum during COVID 19:55 Fourth pregnancy 24:37 Getting ambushed 28:40 Shannon’s VBA3C birth 36:32 “We are all so proud.” 38:30 VBAC after three Cesareans Meagan: Hello, hello. You are listening to The VBAC Link. We have our friend, Shannon. Are you from England? Where are you? Shannon: England, yeah. New Cambridge. Meagan: Okay, see? I’m so glad my mind is remembering. You are in England and you guys, she is recording. It is quite late there. She is such a gem to stay up and record and share her VBAC after three C-sections. Shannon: Three. Meagan: Yes. Her fourth was a vaginal birth. Uno, dos, tres. I can’t even say. I can’t even pretend that I know Spanish. Let’s be honest. So three, you guys. After three Cesareans and we know in our community that this is definitely something that people want to hear. People want to hear these stories because it is harder to find the support. They want to hear what people are doing, how they are navigating through, where they are finding support, and what they are doing to have their vaginal birth after multiple Cesareans. We are excited, Shannon, for you t
Mon, June 10, 2024
Episode 307 Dr. Christina Pinnock + High-Risk Situations & What They Mean for TOLAC
Dr. Christina Pinnock is a Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist/Perinatologist based in California and creator of the ZerotoFour Podcast. She is here to help us tackle topics like what constitutes a high-risk pregnancy, lupus, preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, gestational diabetes, fibroids, and bicornuate uteruses and how they relate to VBAC. The overarching theme of this episode is that all pregnancies are individual experiences. If you are hoping to achieve a VBAC and you have pregnancy complications, find a provider whose goals align with yours. By ensuring that your comfort levels are a good match, you are on your way to a safe and empowering birth experience! Dr. Pinnock’s Website and Podcast Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 00:58 Review of the Week 03:13 Dr. Christina Pinnock 03:56 Importance of a VBAC-supportive provider 06:36 High-risk pregnancies 11:02 Lupus and TOLAC 14:31 Preeclampsia 17:19 Varying ranges of preeclampsia 20:46 HELLP Syndrome 26:36 Other High-risk situations 27:54 Gestational Diabetes 35:00 Inductions with gestational diabetes 42:25 Fibroids 46:33 Do fibroids tend to grow during pregnancy? 51:20 Bicornuate Uterus Meagan: Have you ever been told that you were high risk, so you’ll be unable to TOLAC? Or maybe you can totally TOLAC assuming nothing high-risk comes into play? What does high risk mean? We often get questions in our inbox asking if having your previous cesarean makes them high risk. Or questions about topics like preeclampsiaclampsia, gestational diabetes, bicornuate uterus, fibroids, and more. I am so excited to have board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Christina Pinnock on the show today. She is a high-risk pregnancy doctor passionate about educating women along their pregnancy journeys so they can be more informed and comfortable during their pregnancy. She is located in California and has a podcast of her own called “ZerotoFour” where she talks about topics that will help first-time moms prepare for, thrive, and recover from pregnancy as well as shares evidence-based information and answers everyday questions like we are going to discuss today. 00:58 Review of the Week Meagan: We do have a Review of the Week, so I'm go
Wed, June 05, 2024
Episode 306 Kelsey's Birth Center VBAC + Talk About Forceps
Our friend, Kelsey, shares with us today what giving birth is like in Canada. From moving and traveling between provinces, Kelsey had experienced different models of care and when it came time to prepare for her VBAC, she was very proactive about choosing a birth environment where she felt safest. From a scary Cesarean under general anesthesia to an empowering unmedicated VBAC in a birth center, Kelsey’s journey is entertaining, beautiful, and powerful. We love hearing the unique details of her story including giving birth at the same time as her doula just in the next room over! The personalized care she was given during her VBAC is so endearing and heartwarming. As her husband mentioned, it should be the gold standard of care and we agree! The VBAC Link Blog: Assisted Delivery Fetal Tachycardia in the Delivery Room Is There Still a Place for Forceps in Modern Obstetrics? Forceps Delivery Complications Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 07:36 Review of the Week 09:27 Kelsey’s stories 11:47 Logistics of giving birth in Canada 14:38 A normal pregnancy 17:50 Arriving at the hospital 21:37 Stalling at 7 centimeters 26:22 Asynclitic and OP positioning 29:31 Kelsey’s Cesarean under general anesthesia 34:50 Second pregnancy and VBAC prep 41:07 Switching to midwives 46:14 Beginning of labor 51:07 Driving to the birth center 54:49 Pushing baby out in two pushes 1:00:24 Differences in care 1:02:11 Enterovirus 1:08:02 Risk factors for forceps and vacuum deliveries Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have our friend, Kelsey, from Canada. Is that correct? Kelsey: Yes. Yeah. Meagan: She’s sharing her story with you guys today. Something about her first story of her C-section that stood out to me was that she had a forceps attempt that didn’t work out. Sometimes that happens. I want to talk a little bit abo
Mon, June 03, 2024
Episode 305 Perinatal Fitness with Gina Conley from MamasteFit
The amazing Gina Conley from MamasteFit joins Meagan today to answer your questions all about perinatal fitness! Gina is a birth doula, perinatal fitness trainer, and founder of MamasteFit. In partnership with her sister, Roxanne, who is a labor and delivery nurse and student-midwife, MamasteFit is a place for women to find education courses and fitness programs to be their strongest selves during each stage of motherhood. Gina shares her expertise on how exercise affects babies during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. She also touches on topics like when to start prenatal exercise, what to do if you didn’t exercise before pregnancy, how late into pregnancy you can exercise, weightlifting, and which movements to incorporate to create more space in the pelvis. Gina’s comprehensive prenatal fitness book, Training for Two, will be released in September 2024. It is a fantastic resource for all pregnant women! Link to Gina's Book: Training for Two MamasteFit Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:00 Review of the Week 03:59 Is it bad to exercise during pregnancy? 09:00 How will exercise affect my baby’s development? 13:40 Better pregnancies, better birth outcomes 16:23 What do I do if I wasn’t active before pregnancy? 19:30 Movements to incorporate 20:59 Three pelvic levels 23:19 The mid-pelvis and outlet 25:56 Being told that your pelvis is too small 30:36 How late in pregnancy is okay to work out? 32:31 When is it too late to start exercising during pregnancy? 34:43 Postpartum fitness 39:20 Weightlifting and pregnancy 45:51 Training for Two Meagan: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the show. We are going to be talking about prenatal fitness today with the one and only Gina Conley. Gina is the founder of MamasteFit, a prenatal fitness training company based out in North Carolina. Gina is a fitness trainer specializing in pre and post-natal fitness and a birth doula. She combines her expertise in both to prepare her clients for a strong pregnancy and birth. Fitness in general is
Wed, May 29, 2024
Episode 304 Aisha's Surprise Breech HBAC
Aisha’s first baby was a scheduled Cesarean for a breech presentation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though she was symptom-free, Aisha tested positive for COVID and was not able to be with her husband or her baby right after birth. Her surgery was routine and uneventful, but the isolation left her devastated. Aisha moved and was living in Oregon during her second pregnancy. She deeply desired a home birth and found a midwife to support her who also happened to be trained in vaginal breech delivery. Aisha went into labor sooner than expected but handled it beautifully. When it was time to push, surprisingly, feet started coming out first! Her team stayed calm and ultimately brought her baby earthside safely. Aisha is so proud of what she accomplished! Evidence-Based Birth Article The VBAC Link Blog: ECV Explained The VBAC Link Blog: How to Turn a Breech Baby The VBAC Link Podcast: Chelsey's 2VBA2C Breech Babies Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:31 Review of the Week 06:10 Aisha’s first birth 11:16 A COVID-positive Cesarean 14:38 Third pregnancy 20:02 Planning for a home birth 22:51 Breech workshop with Dr. Stu 24:57 Labor begins 31:25 Pushing out an unexpectedly breech baby 35:29 Reviving baby 40:53 Vaginal breech birth is possible 49:39 Adding to the supportive provider list Meagan: Hey, hey everybody. Guess what? We have a breech VBAC, actually, it’s a breech HBAC coming your way today. We have our friend, Aisha, with us and she is going to be sharing her amazing journeys. We know that when it comes to breech, it is difficult to find support. It is difficult to find the evidence in that and this is one of the number one reasons for Cesareans in the first place. If you have gone through our podcast, we have over 300 episodes at this point, you will probably hear quite a bit that, “Oh, my baby was breech. We tried an ECV and it didn’t work so I had a C-section,” or “My provider didn’t even offer that and I had a C-section.” This is one of the number-one leading reasons for a C-section and it doesn’t always have to be that way. Aisha is living proof of t
Mon, May 27, 2024
Episode 303 Kristen's 2VBAC Stories with Preeclampsia
Kristen joins us today to share her tough C-section and two beautiful VBAC stories! After a 41-week elective induction that turned into a C-section and a 2.5-week NICU stay due to meconium and heart decelerations, Kristen was very nervous about giving birth again. She found The VBAC Link Podcast and found hope. Through her VBAC research, she gained the determination and confidence she needed to try again. When she was showing symptoms of preeclampsia, Kristen accepted the reality of a medically necessary induction. She was nervous but knew things would be different. She labored well and had moments of discouragement, but she used the tools available and achieved her VBAC. Kristen also had some preeclampsia symptoms but was able to avoid induction, labored almost completely at home, and caught her baby in a wheelchair at the hospital waiting for the elevator! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:11 Review of the Week 04:23 Kristen’s first pregnancy 06:20 Agreeing to induction 08:27 Emergency C-section and NICU stay 12:55 Gaining confidence to VBAC and getting pregnant again 17:28 39-week induction 21:18 Feeling discouraged 27:15 Getting the epidural and pushing for less than an hour 30:58 Third pregnancy 34:41 Forced to find a new provider at 36 weeks 40:45 Labor begins 46:11 Rushing to the hospital 48:06 Delivering her own baby in a wheelchair 51:27 Preeclampsia article and calibrating your blood pressure cuff Meagan: Hey everybody, welcome to the show. We have our friend, Kristen with us today. Hello, Kristen. Kristen: Hi. Meagan: We have her and her little baby as well so you can hear those little cute coos in the background. You can just smile. I love when we have little babies on the podcast or kids. The other day, we had a little toddler. It was so fun. It makes my heart so happy. How old is your little baby now? Kristen: She is over a month. Just over a month. Meagan: Just little little. This is a VBAC baby. Kristen: Yes, she is. Meagan: We were just talking before we got recording. Kristen had a C-section and then a VBAC and with that VBAC, she had preeclampsia. We are going to talk a little bit more of what that looked like, but that has definitely been one of the themes that our listeners have been asking about. Is VBAC possible with lab-positive preeclampsia? The answer is yes. It is. We will talk a little bit more about that and then she has a surprise. 01:11 Review of the Week Meagan: We are going to read a review and then we are going t
Wed, May 22, 2024
Episode 302 Emily's CBAC + How Views Can Change
Emily’s first birth experience was a home birth turned hospital transfer which ended in a C-section and then a birth center VBAC ending in hospital transfer and another C-section with her second. She found herself feeling alone, frustrated, and surrounded by people who just didn't get it as she worked to process the trauma and grief of not one but two back-to-back traumatic births and C-sections. Throughout her journey, Emily took charge of what she could, learned about her options, and made the right decisions even when they were disappointing. Emily has been proactive about physical and emotional healing. She has been open to new perspectives. Emily is grateful to share her story and all that she has learned for other mamas who have found themselves in similar situations. And we are so grateful that we can feel of her strength! The VBAC Link Blog: How to Cope When You Don't Get Your VBAC The VBAC Link Blog: Deciding on VBAC vs Repeat Cesarean NPR Article Spinning Babies: What to Do When... Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 05:02 Review of the Week 09:10 Emily’s first pregnancy and labor 14:59 First C-section 17:47 Second pregnancy 21:16 Moving and switching providers 33:20 Pushing for 5 hours 35:45 Transferring 37:47 C-section 41:29 Tips for adhesions 44:20 Hospital births are beautiful 49:09 All about transferring Meagan: Hello, everybody. It is Meagan and we have our friend, Emily, with us from Texas today. Hello, Emily. How are you? Emily: I’m good. How are you? Meagan: I am wonderful. I am so wonderful. I love recording these stories if you can’t tell. We are producing them a lot because I love recording. I love hearing these stories and sharing these stories. Your story is a CBAC story which I th
Mon, May 20, 2024
Episode 301 Janelle's Beautiful VBAC + Signs of PPD + What is Vaginal Cleansing?
Today’s episode is full of love. Meagan’s doula partner, Christin Carlson, joins as co-host today to hear their client, Janelle, share her beautiful VBAC story. Janelle’s first baby was determined to stay frank breech even after two ECV attempts. Her water broke on its own before her scheduled date. In prep for her surgery, Janelle unexpectedly experienced vaginal cleansing. Though the surgery went well, it was not the introduction to motherhood Janelle was hoping for. She was also hit hard with postpartum depression. Janelle shares how she found The VBAC Link and became obsessed with all things VBAC prep. Surrounded by the most loving and empowering team, they helped her stay steady when labor was most intense. Even though it was harder than she imagined it would be, Janelle was able to dig deep and achieve the unmedicated VBAC she desired. Vaginal Cleansing Article Postpartum Depression Article How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:40 Janelle’s PPD experience 07:25 Janelle’s stories 12:06 Arriving at the hospital 14:05 Janelle’s C-section 17:00 VBAC preparation 19:24 Appendicitis and second pregnancy 24:22 Going into labor 27:35 Laboring at the hospital 30:30 Transition 34:21 Achieving her VBAC 38:47 The power of a supportive partner 43:53 What is vaginal cleansing? 50:26 Symptoms of postpartum depression Meagan: Hello, everybody. You guys, today I have a very special episode to my heart because this is one of our own doula clients here in Utah and another even more special thing is that this is my partner, Kristen who ended up attending her birth, is co-hosting. Hello, Christin and Janelle. Janelle: Hello. Christin: Hi. Meagan: How are you guys today? Janelle: So good, so good. Meagan: Before we started recording, we started talking about time and how fast things are going. You guys, I mean I think you probably know if you are pregnant or have a newborn in your arms how
Wed, May 15, 2024
Episode 300 with Meagan & Julie + Where We Started & Where We Are Now
We can hardly believe that we have recorded 300 episodes! Meagan brings Julie on the podcast today to take a look back at how The VBAC Link Podcast started, the growth they have both experienced along the way and where they are now. Since 2018, we have shared laughter, tears, heartache, and joy through your stories. Thank you to all of our listeners and guests for your support. Together, we are changing the birth world for the better through all of our ripple effects! Meagan promises to continue the journey and bring you more powerful stories. It’s been quite the ride and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon! Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:11 Review of the Week 04:05 How the podcast started 12:09 How the podcast has grown 16:40 Changes in birth 22:11 Celebrating differences within the birth community 28:45 Challenges bring growth 35:35 Julie’s photography Meagan: Hello, you guys. Today is a very, very exciting– for me at least and I’m sure for Julie– episode because it’s the 300th episode. 300 and Julie is here with me because I couldn’t share this exciting episode without her. Julie: I cannot believe it. I seriously cannot believe it. So wild. Meagan: It’s so crazy. 300 episodes and we’ve had so many other crazy things like special episodes so it might even be more than 300, but it is the 300th on my form and I’m really, really excited. We want to share more about where we are today but also recap a little bit about where The VBAC Link started. I know we have a lot of listeners who have joined us in more recent years. We started in 2018. 2018, is that right? Julie: Yeah. Meagan: So we have a lot of new listeners who maybe don’t know our full story and know what we are and what we’re doing and all of the things. 01:11 Review of the Week Meagan: So we are going to be talking about that, but we do have a Review of the Week. I’m going to share that. It is from Michelle. She listed this on Google and it says, “Thank you so much for inspiring and informing me through the journeys of VBAC mamas. As I prepare for my VBAC in October after a recent traumatic Cesarean, I feel empowered, motivated, and healed knowing that there are so many women who are out there preparing in the same way that I am. I recommend this podcast to al
Mon, May 13, 2024
Episode 299 Katie's Healing VBAC + Home Birth Transfer
Katie joins us today to tell us about her two birth experiences in Germany. Although she strongly advocated for herself during her first birth, Katie was extremely mistreated. Her labor and horrible C-section experience left her with intense PTSD straining her relationship with both her baby and her husband. Katie knew that if she wanted to have another baby, she had to plan for an out-of-hospital birth. She continued to advocate for herself by not only learning the evidence but by showing it to providers and defending it. Though she wasn’t able to find a supportive backup hospital, Katie labored beautifully at home with her husband, doula, and midwife until she knew it was time to transfer. When she transferred, Katie was able to go to the hospital she wanted to go to and was finally treated with respect. Her wishes were honored and she felt heard. Though this labor was also over 40 hours and had its own unexpected twists, Katie experienced so much healing from her VBAC. She was able to achieve the glorious feeling she hoped she would have from a home birth even in the hospital. TOLAC in Germany Article Evidence-Based Birth Blog: Friedman Curve Informed Pregnancy - code: vbaclink424 Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 04:41 Review of the Week 07:27 Katie’s stories 11:14 Start of labor 16:55 Going to the hospital 20:22 Interventions 29:44 Katie’s C-section 32:06 Preparing for VBAC 34:34 Second pregnancy 42:01 Labor begins 47:11 Getting support from her birth team 50:12 Transferring to the hospital 53:32 Feeling intense scar pain 56:23 Asking for the vacuum 58:42 Katie’s advice for listeners 1:01:47 The Friedman Curve 1:06:16 Trusting your intuition 1:08:56 Doula support Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength! We have a story for you today where a mama gave birth in Germany. So I love, love, love when we have ou
Wed, May 08, 2024
Episode 298 Jenny's VBAC After Baby Was Breech + Intense Travel
Jenny’s story is one of pure gratitude and joy. She is so grateful to be a mother, for the miracle of her pregnancies, for a breech baby who flipped late in her second pregnancy, for the chance to experience labor, and for a beautiful, successful VBAC. Jenny talks about all of the ways she prepped and how she even had to travel over a mountain pass during a snowstorm while in labor to get to her VBAC-supportive provider. Meagan shares some statistics about breech birth and why we so badly need more providers trained in vaginal breech delivery. A long-time listener of The VBAC Link Podcast, Jenny shares her story with so much joy hoping to inspire other Women of Strength just as she was inspired by so many others. PubMed Article: Risk of Vaginal Breech Birth vs. Planned Cesarean Heads Up Documentary Informed Pregnancy - code: vbaclink424 Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:58 Jenny’s first pregnancy with gestational diabetes 06:10 Low amniotic fluid, breech presentation, and a C-section 10:22 Healing in different ways 14:16 Getting pregnant again and doing all of the VBAC prep 22:52 Gestational diabetes test 27:59 Breech at 34 weeks 32:33 A head-down baby 35:11 Traveling the mountain pass in a snowstorm 39:43 Checking into the hospital 45:42 Fetal ejection reflex 49:20 Pushing out baby and postpartum blood loss 57:10 Jenny’s advice for breech mamas 1:00:22 Statistics on vaginal birth versus planned Cesarean for breech Meagan: Hey, hey. You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast and we have another amazing episode for you today. We have our friend, Jenny. Hello, Jenny. Jenny: Hi. Meagan: How are you today? Jenny: I’m good. I’m so excited. This is just– I am reeling actually that this is actually happening today. Meagan: I am so excited that it is. You know, it’s so fun to get submissions in and then when
Mon, May 06, 2024
Episode 297 Macy's Amazing HBA2C + What Does the Evidence Show for VBA2C?
Macy’s first birth was a scheduled C-section due to breech presentation that required follow-up exploratory surgery due to an unknown cause of internal bleeding. Unfortunately, her surgeon had accidentally nicked an ab muscle. Macy’s recovery was very difficult. With her second, doctors were nervous about her chances of VBAC and would only let her try if she showed up in active labor before 39 weeks. Otherwise, she would go in for a scheduled C-section. Macy agreed and her birth ended in another Cesarean. Her birth was beautiful and her recovery was smooth, but it still wasn’t the empowering experience she hoped for. Macy hit the ground running during her third pregnancy. When doctors were not supportive of a VBA2C, she knew home birth was her best option. She found a midwife who was willing to take Macy on as her first VBA2C client! We know you will absolutely love listening to this birth story. Like Meagan said, “It is so beautiful. It is so peaceful. It sounds like one of those births where you close your eyes and you envision birth and how peaceful, beautiful, and calm it really can be.” The VBAC Link Blog: VBA2C Practice Bulletin - VBAC Informed Pregnancy - code: vbaclink424 Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:44 First C-section with internal bleeding and a follow-up exploratory surgery 09:04 Second pregnancy 11:37 Scheduled C-section and getting pregnant again shortly after 18:44 Finding a supportive home birth midwife 23:24 VBA2C prep during pregnancy 27:46 Labor begins 32:42 Breaking her own water and pushing for 17 minutes 36:47 ACOG’s statement on VBA2C Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. We are so excited to be sharing an HBA2C story and if you don’t know yet what HBAC means, that’s home birth after Cesarean and then HBA2C is home birth after two Cesareans. I feel like that’s kind of funny. It’s never really a term I used because I wasn’t at the hospital and I wasn’t at home, but I also kind of feel like I sort of had an HBAC. It was at a birth center. Ma
Wed, May 01, 2024
Episode 296 Brooke's VBAC with a Subchorionic Hematoma
“Control what you can control.” Brooke’s birth experiences have not been without challenges. She first had an extremely difficult miscarriage during COVID followed by intense bleeding due to massive subchorionic hemorrhages during her other two pregnancies. Her first delivery was a very traumatic C-section from not being completely anesthetized. After that, Brooke committed to doing everything in her power not to have that experience ever again and to do everything she could to avoid a C-section. Along with another subchorionic hemorrhage, her third pregnancy presented another challenge when she found out her baby had a bowel obstruction and would need surgery along with a NICU stay immediately after birth. Brooke was disheartened learning that she needed a medically necessary induction, but she was still committed to doing everything she could to achieve her VBAC. Her efforts to surround herself with a powerful team paid off. Everyone around her championed her VBAC. Brooke was able to go from the most traumatic birth imaginable to the most beautiful, empowering, and healing birth she literally dreamed about. Brooke’s Website Informed Pregnancy - code: vbaclink424 Needed Website - code: vbac20 How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 04:36 Review of the Week 07:19 Brooke’s first pregnancy 11:18 Miscarriage 15:01 Brooke’s dream 17:20 Second pregnancy 21:26 Going into labor and getting admitted 28:06 An extremely traumatic C-section 32:53 Third pregnancy 38:17 Bleeding again 43:09 Finding a bowel obstruction in baby 46:57 Switching providers the day before her scheduled induction 50:57 Progressing to complete dilation 54:54 Getting an epidural and pushing for three hours 59:40 15 tips for birth 1:04:22 Control what you can control Meagan: Good morning, good afternoon, good evening– whatever time it is that you are listening to this episode, I hope that you are doing great. We are excited to get into another VBAC story today from our friend. Okay, so I’m trying to think. Remind me. Are you in North Car
Mon, April 29, 2024
Episode 295 Dr. Kendra's Empowering HBAC + Tips From a VBAC Doula
Today’s episode has a wealth of information you won’t want to miss! Dr. Kendra Ohora is a Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Therapist and also a VBAC mom. From being told she would never have children to currently expecting her third baby boy, Kendra shares how prioritizing her mental health helped her through some really tough years. Kendra’s first birth was a planned breech home birth with an empowering labor. But when baby was not descending after hours of pushing, she felt at peace transferring to the hospital. Unfortunately, Kendra’s hospital experience was traumatic and resulted in a C-section under anesthesia. Through processing and healing, Kendra was able to prepare for and achieve the home birth she hoped for the first time with her second baby who was born only 14 months after her first. Tia, a VBAC doula from the Chicago area, joins Meagan as her cohost today and finishes the episode with the top three pieces of advice that she gives to all of her clients. Kendra's Website Tia's Website Informed Pregnancy - code: vbaclink424 Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:24 Review of the Week 06:07 Kendra’s professional background 09:00 Kendra’s surprise pregnancy 10:54 First birth 13:14 Surrendering 16:15 Surprise baby number two 21:00 Kendra’s VBAC 29:30 Processing births 33:31 Erin’s e-courses 36:16 Benefits of therapy 41:39 Short interval between pregnancies 45:51 Tia’s top three tips 48:54 Hire a great support team 51:38 Prepare your mind Meagan: Hello, hello. We have another amazing episode for you guys today and guess what? We did this a couple of weeks ago and I thought it would be fun to do it again. We have a co-host with us today. It’s not Julie, but it is Tia. Hello, Tia. Tia: Hi. Thank you so much for having me. Meagan: Absolutely. Tia is amazing and she is actually one of our VBAC certified doulas. I want to turn the time a little bit over to you and tell us where can people find you. What is your business name? All of that. Tia: Yeah. I am in the Chicagoland area so I serve a wide radius about an hour from my hometown of Mount Prospect. My business is Chicagoland Birth and Baby. Most people can fi
Wed, April 24, 2024
Episode 294 Hannah's Induced VBAC due to Preeclampsia + More on the Pelvic Floor with Co-host Rebecca
Meagan has a new co-host today! Rebecca, a pelvic floor physical therapist and a VBAC Link doula located in Georgia joins Meagan while our friend Hannah from North Carolina shares her birth stories. This episode stresses again the true importance of not just a supportive provider, but of a supportive practice including hospital policies, the team of rotating providers, and the nurses. Hannah shows how her borderline preeclamptic symptoms were treated very differently between her first and second births. Her first practice had many red flags she didn’t notice until her second practice showed green flag after green flag throughout her entire journey. Rebecca also shares her expertise surrounding pelvic floor PT– who needs it and how it can impact birth outcomes. She also debunks myths about small pelvises and talks in depth about scar tissue. Both women share such valuable tips that we know you will love! Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:11 Review of the Week 05:13 Hannah’s stories 08:17 Higher blood pressure readings and induction 10:26 Induction due to high blood pressure readings 11:52 Interventions and not being able to move during labor 16:50 Hannah’s C-section 19:36 Rebecca’s thoughts about pelvic bone structure 22:42 Second pregnancy 29:01 A medically necessary induction 33:27 Ending the first full day of induction 38:03 Pushing for 20 minutes 39:59 Hannah’s advice to listeners - provider support and nutrition 44:17 Small pelvises and scar tissue 50:13 Other scar tissue that can affect positioning Meagan: Hey, hey Women of Strength. It is Meagan and guess what? We have a cohost today, a new cohost who has never been with us and we are so excited that she is joining us. We have Rebecca Goldberg on our podcast today. Hello, Rebecca. Rebecca: Hello. Meagan: Thank you for taking the time and being with us. Rebecca: Yeah. I really love the resources and the community and I’m just thrilled to be here. Meagan: Well, we are excited and for anyone wondering who Rebecca
Mon, April 22, 2024
Episode 293 Heidi's VBAC + Gestational Diabetes, GBS & Advanced Maternal Age
It can be difficult to find VBAC support with gestational diabetes and most who are supportive of VBAC highly recommend a 39-week induction. Heidi’s first pregnancy/birth included gestational diabetes with daily insulin injections, a 39-week induction, Penicillin during labor for GBS, pushing for five hours, and a C-section for arrest of descent due to OP presentation. Heidi wasn’t sure if she wanted to go through another birth after her first traumatic experience, but she found a very supportive practice that made her feel safe to go for it again. Though many practices would have risked her out of going for a VBAC due to her age and subsequent gestational diabetes diagnosis, her new practice was so reassuring, calm, and supportive of how Heidi wanted to birth. Heidi knew she wanted to go into spontaneous labor and try for an unmedicated VBAC. With the safety and support of her team, she was able to do just that. At just over 40 weeks, Heidi went into labor spontaneously and labored beautifully. Instead of pushing for over five hours, Heidi only pushed for 30 minutes! It was exactly the dreamy birth she hoped it would be. Thrombocytopenia Real Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols Informed Pregnancy Plus Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 05:50 Review of the Week 08:04 Heidi’s first pregnancy with gestational diabetes 12:05 Taking insulin 18:08 39-week induction 20:59 Pushing 24:29 Arrest of descent and opting for a C-section 27:06 Researching providers before second pregnancy 38:04 Discussions around induction 41:45 NSTs twice a week 47:10 Testing for preeclampsia 54:53 Spontaneous labor 57:43 Going to the hospital 1:02:03 Laboring in the tub 1:06:22 Pushing for 30 minutes Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is Meagan and we have a friend from New Hampshire. Her name is Heidi. Hello, how are you? Heidi: I’m doing great. How are you?</
Wed, April 17, 2024
Episode 292 Jayne’s Business Birth Story + Becoming a Sleep Consultant
Today we welcome Jayne Havens, the founder of the Snooze Fest sleep training course and The Center for Pediatric Sleep Management™ sleep consultant certification program. Just like how Meagan’s birth experiences led her to become a doula and VBAC advocate, Jayne talks about how the knowledge she gained by teaching healthy sleep habits to her own children helped her create a passionate career. Jayne answers Meagan’s questions about sleep consulting in general, how to help children feel safe in their bedrooms, ways to effectively communicate, developmental milestones in both babies and children that can affect sleep, how to become a sleep consultant, where to find them, and even earning potential from a career as a sleep consultant! Jayne's Course - Use code VBACLINK for a discount! Becoming a Sleep Consultant Facebook Group Becoming a Sleep Consultant Podcast Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:24 Review of the Week 05:35 Jayne’s journey to sleep consulting 13:35 How can a sleep consultant help? 19:43 What to do when a child feels unsafe in their room 21:08 The life of a sleep consultant 25:17 Sleep consultant qualifications 30:36 Ages covered in Jayne’s course 36:00 How to find a sleep consultant 40:59 Cost to hire a sleep consultant and potential earnings as a sleep consultant 46:57 Where to find “Becoming a Sleep Consultant” Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is Meagan and we have my friend, Jayne Havens on the podcast today. Hello, Jayne. Jayne: Thank you so much for having me. I’m so excited to be here. Meagan: Thank you. Me too. We actually just met this year, 2024 in January and we met at a business doula retreat. Jayne is actually not a doula. She is a mom and a successful business owner. When we connected, I just felt so much that our stories related in different ways but very much in the same ways and I was like, “I want you on the podcast.” So today, we’re not sharing a VBAC birth story, but we’re sharing a business birth story and some tips on sleep and how to help your babies sleep because we know as mamas with newborn babies, we don’t get a lot of that sometimes and it doesn
Mon, April 15, 2024
Episode 291 Meg & Julie + What is Cesarean Awareness Month?
“If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any!” April is Cesarean Awareness Month and we hope this month is one of information, empowerment, and love from us here at The VBAC Link to you. Referring to the amazing resources provided by the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN), Meagan and Julie break down the mission of Cesarean Awareness Month. Whether you are a first-time mom, VBAC mom, CBAC, or RCS mom, there is space for all of you! This month is meant to not only reduce Cesarean rates overall. It is also meant to inform everyone about birthing options, hospital rights, and ways to make Cesarean births better. We need all of our experiences to make positive changes in the birthing world for future generations! ICAN's Website Cesarean Awareness Month Toolkit Infant Mortality Statistics from 2022 Informed Pregnancy Plus Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 07:03 Review of the Week 09:29 Why we need Cesarean Awareness Month 13:12 ICAN’s Cesarean Awareness Month toolkit 16:00 Ways to make Cesarean births better 21:20 Common reasons for Cesareans 25:59 Your hospital rights 32:10 The safety of home birth 36:52 Lower Cesarean rates = lower infant/maternal mortality rates 40:38 A message to the CBAC community Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. It is Meagan and I have Julie with us today. I always get so happy. Julie: Hello, hello. Meagan: We are going to be talking about International Cesarean Awareness Month. Now, this is sensitive. It’s sensitive. It can be sensitive. It’s a month, a whole 30 days or 29 days. I don’t actually know how long April is. Julie: April is not 29 days you crazy. That’s just February once every four years. Meagan: That’s just February. Maybe 30, maybe 31. I don’t know. Julie: April is 30 days always every year. Meagan: Is it? I don’t know my months apparently. Julie: Apparently. Meagan: It can
Wed, April 10, 2024
Episode 290 Hayley's Unmedicated VBAC + Epidural and Prolapse Talk
Hayley joins the show today sharing her breech Cesarean and unmedicated hospital VBAC stories. Meagan and Hayley dive deep into the pros and cons of getting an epidural and why providers tell women so many different things when it comes to epidurals and VBAC! While Hayley had the dreamiest birth she could have imagined and everything went according to plan, her postpartum experience with prolapse was not something she was prepared for. Hayley shares her symptoms, what she wished she knew, and what she has done since to recover and feel like herself again. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:47 Just-in-case epidural 04:16 Dr. McGuire’s insight on epidurals 08:42 Using an epidural as a tool 10:44 Hayley’s first pregnancy and birth 12:00 Doing VBAC research before pregnancy 13:51 Hayley’s second pregnancy 18:15 Labor begins 20:16 Going to the hospital 24:20 Pushing 27:05 Hayley’s prolapse experience 32:01 Symptoms of uterine prolapse 35:29 Prolapse can happen Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. You guys, I am excited about today’s episode. I love talking about VBAC obviously, but specifically, we are going to talk a little bit about unmedicated versus medicated. Our friend, Hayley, from North Carolina has had a beautiful unmedicated hospital VBAC so I want to also talk about the opposite side of that and talk about medicated VBAC. We have so many people in our community that I see type, “I want a VBAC, but I don’t want to go unmedicated and my doctor says I have to. I can’t have an epidural” or the total flipside of that where, “I really want an unmedicated VBAC, but my doctor says I can’t go unmedicated. I have to have the epidural.” Did I just say that correctly, Hayley? Hayley: Yes, yeah. Meagan: It’s either one or the other. We’ve got providers telling people they can’t have an epidural or they have to have an epidural. So I wanted to just talk a little bit today before we get going on those two topics. First of all, let’s talk about unmedicated birth. Hayley and I are living proof today. We are on this episode that unmedicated VBAC is 100% possible, achievable, and safe. A lot of those providers come out and say that they can’t go unmedicated because they say it’s not safe. In the rare chance, we know that uterine rupt
Mon, April 08, 2024
Episode 289 Karen's VBAC After Navigating an Unsupportive Provider
Though Karen did research and took birthing classes before her first baby, she didn’t realize how much advocating for herself could change the course of her birth. She wanted to be the “good” patient and told herself she could do without the things her body told her she needed during labor. Karen ended up pushing for over four hours and consenting to what she was told was an emergency C-section, even though the actual surgery didn’t happen until hours later. Karen had some serious postpartum symptoms of swelling and difficulty breathing that were dismissed and even laughed at until things came to a point where she knew something was very wrong. She was diagnosed with postpartum cardiomyopathy, admitted to the ICU, and transferred to cardiac care. Doctors told Karen very different things about her condition. She went from being told not to have any more children to hearing that VBAC was absolutely safe. Karen discusses how her gestational hypertension came into play with the different advice as well. Karen found her voice. She advocated for herself. She knew what her body was saying and what it was capable of. Her labor was so smooth and she WAS able to birth vaginally! Informed Pregnancy Plus Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 3:46 Review of the Week 06:27 Karen’s stories 08:50 First labor 10:47 Pushing for four hours 15:11 Karen’s C-section 17:43 Postpartum swelling and difficulty breathing 21:03 Fluid in her lungs 23:52 Moving to Florida and getting answers 25:13 Getting pregnant again 29:53 Advocating for a VBAC 32:14 A spiritual dream 34:34 Gestational hypertension 39:36 Signing an AMA 41:31 Going to the hospital 45:20 Pushing for 20 minutes 47:30 White coat syndrome 51:59 Symptoms of hypertension and preeclampsia 54:52 Tips for hypertension and preeclampsia 56:55 Karen’s final tips Meagan: Hello, hello. We are getting into almost our 300th episode, you guys. Every single time I’m recording and I’m looking at these numbers, I am blown away. I cannot believe that we have almost put out 300 episodes. Oh my goodness. I am so glad that you are here. I have th
Wed, April 03, 2024
Episode 288 Jennifer's HBA3C + Getting Pregnant After Tubal Ligation
Jennifer joins us today sharing her HBA3C story! Each birth was a stepping stone that gave her more education and wisdom which ultimately led to her home birth after three Cesareans. Jennifer’s first Cesarean was due to meconium in the water, slow progress, and heart rate issues. Her other two Cesareans were scheduled, but her third was particularly difficult because in her heart, Jennifer really wanted a VBAC. After regretting her decision to get her tubes tied during her third Cesarean, Jennifer opted for a reversal and it worked! Once pregnant with her fourth, she traveled two hours each way across state lines to find a home birth midwife. When labor began, Jennifer booked an Airbnb, called in her team, and had the beautiful home birth she knew she was capable of. Jennifer’s Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:20 Review of the Week 05:02 First C-section 06:48 Second C-section 08:02 Third C-section during COVID 10:09 Getting her tubes tied and reversal 13:38 Fourth pregnancy 16:39 Finding a home birth midwife in another state 19:02 Going into labor and reserving an Airbnb 24:04 Complete dilation 26:37 Pushing and catching her baby 31:24 You are worth it Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. This is Meagan, your host here at The VBAC Link and we have our friend, Jennifer. Hi Jennifer. Jennifer: Hi. Meagan: You guys, her story– we were just talking about this before the episode. It has a lot of surprises like, “Oh, I didn’t expect that. Whoa.” So I’m so excited to– I’ve read a summary of her story and am now excited to hear it in her own words. I also thought it was kind of fun. She was just saying her kids are excited to hear her story because they know The VBAC Link podcast too. Jennifer: Yep. It was part of our preparation for the birth just having them hear stuff and hear how births are because obviously, they’d never had any experience. Meagan: Yes, so how old are your kids? Jennifer: 11. 9, 3 and now newborn. Meagan: And now newborn. We have very similar-aged kids. 11 and 9 and then I have an 8-year-old this year. And then we jump. That is so exciting. I’m excited to get into your HBAC after thre
Mon, April 01, 2024
Episode 287 Suzzie's HBAC + A Note From a Childbirth Educator
"She was in my arms while she took her first breath and she was just so calm and beautiful. It feels like time just stops at that moment. It was so, so special to me." From turning down the opportunity to take a childbirth class during her first pregnancy to now passionately teaching her own classes (She Births Bravely) as a childbirth educator and attending births as a doula, Suzzie shares how birth has changed her. Located in Seattle, Suzzie talks about how her birth team created a safe place for her to have a peaceful home birth that was still very intense but didn’t feel that way. Meagan and Suzzie discuss pushing, continuous care, the importance of education, and their best tips on what to do during pregnancy to have an empowering birth experience no matter the outcome. Suzzie’s Childbirth Class Suzzie’s Website What Does Your Birth Plan Say About Your Personality Quiz Real Food For Pregnancy Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:28 Review of the Week 03:53 Suzzie’s molar pregnancy 06:27 Beginning labor with fear and doubt 09:01 “It has been over 24 hours. It’s time for you to have a C-section.” 10:51 Making friends with a student-midwife 14:41 Suzzie’s second pregnancy and labor 18:50 Baby Hazel’s birth 27:06 OBs attending home births 30:40 Continuous care during home birth 36:23 Birth preparation tips 43:29 Knowing what questions to ask 48:18 Waters being broken for 24 hours 50:31 Checking in if labor stalls <
Wed, March 27, 2024
Episode 286 Alexis' Peaceful CBAC
Cesareans can be peaceful, beautiful, and so healing. Though Alexis didn’t have the VBAC she planned for, she still had the euphoric birth she dreamed of. Alexis unexpectedly experienced PPROM and preeclampsia at 36 weeks with her first baby. Trying to labor and push under the effects of magnesium and all of the other interventions was incredibly exhausting. When baby started having decels, she knew it was time for the Cesarean. After a rough NICU stay and having to exclusively pump, Alexis knew she needed to be proactive about healing from her birth PTSD. She went to EMDR therapy and found the healing her heart needed. Alexis shares all of the ways her second birth was different from the first. She went into labor spontaneously. She progressed quickly and felt strong. But when baby flipped breech mid-labor, Alexis knew it was time for another Cesarean. Her team took their time honoring every wish Alexis had and truly gave her the birth of her dreams! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:05 Review of the Week 05:29 Alexis’ first pregnancy during COVID 09:41 PPROM and preeclampsia 13:27 Pushing turned emergent Cesarean 16:54 NICU stay and exclusive pumping 20:45 EMDR therapy and postpartum healing 22:24 Second pregnancy 26:21 Beginning of labor 29:47 A picture-perfect labor 31:26 Baby flipping breech and going for a C-section 38:03 The game changer 40:56 A euphoric birth 43:45 Ways to have a gentle Cesarean 46:36 Music, skin-to-skin, clear drapes, mirrors, conversation, and maternal-assisted Cesareans 50:32 Vaginal seeding, advocacy, and backward dilation 52:29 Swelling in pregnancy and nutrition Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. Today’s episode is one that I am actually really excited to hear and share. I think a lot of the time when we are listening to The VBAC Link, we are looking for empowering VBAC stories, positive VBAC stories, and sometimes when we are sharing these stories, it is accompanied by traumatic Cesareans. We know that through all of these stories, I have personal experiences that a lot of these Cesareans are traumatic, and a lot of the time they are traumatic because they are undesired or they are pushed really hard or people feel like they are backed in a corner or so many interventions come into play that they happen in a traumatic manner. But today’s story is going to talk a little bit about how Cesarean doesn’t have to be traumatic and it can be peaceful. I relate personally to it because my second C-section, I didn’t want actually. I didn’t want it at all. It wasn’t what I planned on, but I still found so much healing thr
Mon, March 25, 2024
Episode 285 Selah's 48-hour VBA2C + Changing Providers in Late Pregnancy
During her first pregnancy, Selah’s doctor predicted that her baby would be over 10 pounds. She insisted that it was not safe to deliver vaginally. Selah went right into her first Cesarean. She didn’t even have the chance to try. Her baby went to the NICU shortly after birth due to lung and blood sugar complications. When her fluid levels were low with her second pregnancy, Selah consented to another scheduled Cesarean remembering how her first one went pretty smoothly. Unfortunately, a turn of events resulted in an emergent situation, another NICU stay, and once again, Selah was not able to bond with her baby like she thought she would. Selah’s journey to her VBA2C included discovering The VBAC Link, building her supportive community, prenatal chiropractic care, and relentlessly educating herself to make sure she was set up for success. Though her labor was MUCH longer than expected, the spiritual, emotional, and physical transformation she experienced was completely worth it. Selah had a beautiful, empowering VBA2C with no complications. The best part– she got to hold that sweet baby immediately and for as looong as she wanted. Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:04 Review of the Week 04:08 Selah’s first pregnancy 07:25 First C-section 09:36 NICU 11:10 Second pregnancy 13:02 Low fluids 16:29 Scheduled Cesarean turned emergent 21:39 Surprise third pregnancy 27:33 Changing providers 36:33 Going into labor 39:20 Going to the hospital 44:54 Pitocin 48:35 The final hours 56:47 A crack in the catheter 1:00:00 The best feeling Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link and this is Meagan, your host. We have our friend, Selah, today. Hi, Selah. Selah: Hi. Hello. Meagan: Thank you so much for being here with us. I feel like there are so many parts of your story that truly are things that people are going to relate to. We’re going to be talking about bigger babies. We’re going to talk a little bit about that. We’re going to talk about changing a provider really late in pregnancy. I actually love this topic because I did it myself and it’s one that is scary sometimes to do. Selah: Yeah. Meagan: It’s intimidating. We’ll ta
Wed, March 20, 2024
Episode 284 Kara's VBA2C With Unexpected Twists
Kara joins us today from the Los Angeles area sharing her VBA2C story! Kara’s first birth was a scary and chaotic emergency Cesarean. Though her second planned Cesarean went smoothly, Kara did not love how her birth felt like such a medical procedure. After experiencing a miscarriage during her third pregnancy, Kara experienced heartache and grief, but also shares how she gained a deep reverence for her body throughout the process. She just knew that her body was capable of having a vaginal birth. Kara pulled out all of the stops with her VBA2C prep. She built a birth team she felt great about. She prepared physically. She processed past fears and trauma. Though her birth had some intense twists, Kara was able to achieve the VBA2C she fought so hard for. She took the leap of faith, trusted her body, and saw what it could do. Kara’s Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:45 Review of the Week 05:09 Kara’s first pregnancy 08:17 Kara’s second pregnancy and planned Cesarean 10:57 Miscarriage 16:45 Fourth pregnancy and VBA2C prep 22:30 Beginning of labor 25:08 Thoughts about the hospital system 28:49 Breaking waters 32:28 Pushing, hemorrhaging, and the NICU Megan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. It is Meagan and we have got a VBAC after two C-sections story. Of course, I love VBA2C stories because I’m a VBAC after two C-sections mama. Her name is Kara and she is amazing. I’m just going to read your bio because you are just amazing. It says, “She is an award-winning creative marketer and mother of three. She is in LA.” If you have been listening for a little bit, she actually was on the show quite a few months ago at this point of being aired with her OB. Kara: Oh yes, with Dr. Brock. Oh my gosh, when I was pregnant. I don’t know why I forgot about that, but we interviewed my practitioner, Dr. Barry Brock, together who is a very VBAC-supportive provider. That was a really fun conversation. I think I was 4 or 5 months pregnant at that point. Meagan: Yeah. We really wanted to ask him some questions about VBAC. He was with you along your journey and he was so gracious to come on and talk with us. So yeah. She has worked on so many amazing t
Mon, March 18, 2024
Episode 283 Danielle From Sakara Life's HBAC + Fill Your Soul With Inspiration
Danielle Duboise, the co-founder of Sakara Life, has changed millions of lives through her advocacy for wellness and nourishment both of the body and the soul. Danielle is also an HBAC mama and shares with us the valuable lessons she has learned from both of her births about the mother-baby connection, surrendering, and the true meaning of an empowered birth. Danielle and Meagan have just the sweetest conversation that we know will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. Danielle encourages birthing women especially to care for themselves on the deepest levels. Her words align so perfectly with all of the things that are important to us at The VBAC Link. Meagan had chills throughout the entire episode as Danielle spoke and we know you will too! Sakara Life Website Danielle’s Podcast Eat Clean, Play Dirty Spirit Babies Book Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 03:51 Sharing your birth plans with others 9:13 Danielle’s first pregnancy with vasa previa 11:29 A humbling birth experience 14:09 Going into labor 17:06 Danielle’s C-section 23:31 Connecting with your baby 32:26 Surrendering 36:06 Choices in birth 39:14 The ripple effect of birth 42:34 Ways to release fear 53:02 Which risks are you willing to take? 56:07 Nutrition and nourishment Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have an amazing guest for you today. Her name is Danielle and she is the co-founder of Sakara Life. It is a wellness company providing the tools to achieve optimal health and vitality. If you haven’t caught on already listening to our Needed ads and other episodes, health is so important, and optimal health and getting the nutrients and the things that you need in your life is so important in how we handle life. She is a true pioneer in the health industry and launched the brand in 2012 with her best friend, Whitney. Creating their unique nutrition philosophy which merges modern science with ancient healing wisdom. Since its conception, Sakara has transformed millions of lives through its signature program, functional products, and supple
Wed, March 13, 2024
Episode 282 What You Need to Know About Assessing Risk
Hearing about risk is hard. Interpreting risk is even harder, but deciding which risks are comfortable for you is an essential part of birth! Meagan and Julie discuss how to tell the difference between relative and absolute risk, and what kind of conversations to have with your provider to help you better understand what the numbers mean. They also quote many stats and risk percentages around topics like blood transfusions, uterine rupture, eating during labor, epidurals, Pitocin, AROM, and episiotomies. And if you don’t feel comfortable with accepting a certain risk, that is OKAY. We support your birthing in the way that feels best to you! Risk of Uterine Rupture with Vaginal Birth after Cesarean in Twin Gestations Journal of Perinatal Education Article What are the chances of being struck by lightning? Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 02:52 Review of the Week 06:08 Determining acceptable risk for you and your provider 08:00 Absolute versus relative risk 15:21 More conversations need to happen 25:29 Risk of blood transfusion in VBAC, second C-section, and third C-section 30:37 Understanding the meaning of statistical significance 32:05 “The United States is intervention intensive” 36:27 Eating during labor and the risk of aspiration under anesthesia 43:03 Epidurals, Pitocin, AROM, episiotomies, and C-section percentages 44:43 The perspective of birth doulas and birth photographers Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. Guess who I have today? Julie! Julie: Hello. Meagan: Hello. It’s so good to have you on today. Julie: Of course. It’s always fun to be here. Meagan: It really is. It’s so fun. When we sit and chat before, it just feels so comfortable like that is the norm still for me even though it has been a while, it just feels so normal and I love it. I miss you and I love you and I am so excited to be he
Mon, March 11, 2024
Episode 281 Emily Shares Her Preeclampsia Story + How to Shift Gears
“Your diagnosis of preeclampsia is not forever. It will pass. You will get through it. You can do it.” Meagan invites her dear friend and doula client, Emily, on the podcast today to share her two very different birth stories and what she has learned along the way. During her first pregnancy, Emily was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia at 27 weeks and 6 days. She talks about specific symptoms to watch for and explains why she advises every pregnant woman to have their own blood pressure cuff. Emily had to shift her home birth plans to focus on staying pregnant as long as she safely could. Six weeks later, Emily shares her daughter’s wild birth story and tough NICU experience. Having preeclampsia the first time around does not mean it will come back in the future. Emily talks about the nutrition and lifestyle changes she made during her second pregnancy and how preeclampsia was not an issue at all with her second delivery. Emily was able to have a beautiful home birth and a big, healthy baby boy! Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:52 Review of the Week 04:02 Emily’s first pregnancy 10:25 Preeclampsia diagnosis 14:48 34-week induction 21:26 Giving birth 29:25 Learning about and knowing your body 34:37 Second pregnancy 46:16 Working through trauma 53:36 Shifting plans Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is Meagan, and I am so excited to dive into today's episode with you. The episode that we have today, or the guest, I should say, that we have today is someone so near and dear to my heart. And I'm just gonna kind of give a little bit of a spoil alert. She is not a VBAC mama so this is not going to be a VBAC story but our guest today is someone that I think is going to leave you guys with a wealth of knowledge through her experiences and so I want to welcome my own personal friend and doula client, Emily. Welcome to the show. Emily: Hi. Meagan: Hi, you guys were going to be talking a little bit, well, a little bit about a lot of things, but we're gonna be talking a little bit about preeclampsia. We're gonna be talking about shifting gears from our birth desires and birth plans and so much more. I wanted her to be on the show because you guys, seriously, she really needs to write a book. She can talk all day to me
Wed, March 06, 2024
Episode 280 Arianna's VBA2C + Far Travel, PPROM, Short Interval & Gestational Diabetes
“Birth is birth and we just want our babies here safe, but I also think that we all deserve to be empowered to have the birth that feels right.” One night, a few months after her second C-section, Arianna had a dream that she was giving birth vaginally to a sweet baby boy and pulled him right up to her chest. The next morning, she took a pregnancy test and it was surprisingly positive. Coming from a small town in Wyoming, she already knew from her second pregnancy that VBAC was not allowed locally. But at that moment, Arianna knew she was going to do whatever it took to have her VBA2C. Arianna traveled 2.5 hours each way for routine midwife and OB appointments in Montana to have VBAC-supportive providers. She faced many roadblocks including a short pregnancy interval, gestational diabetes, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), a medical induction, other interventions she wasn’t planning for, and slow progress. But her team was patient and encouraging, Arianna felt divinely watched over, and her VBA2C dream literally came true! The VBAC Link Blog: What to do When Your Water Breaks The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC With Gestational Diabetes The VBAC Link Facebook Community Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details 01:44 Review of the Week 03:52 Arianna’s first birth story 07:04 Requesting a C-section 08:34 Arianna’s second birth 11:36 VBAC preparation 15:37 Signs of preterm labor 20:34 Going to the hospital 24:04 First cervical check 27:10 Slow effacement 31:05 Catching her baby 33:59 Importance of support 36:35 Dual care tips 44:56 Traveling tips Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We are on episode two of the week and I am just so excited that we are doing this. It is so fun to bring double doses of VBAC, CBAC, and educational stories to inspire and encourage you during your journey. Today, we have our friend, Arianna, and she is from Wyoming. Is that correct? Arianna: Yep. Meagan: Yes, Wyoming. Where in Wyoming? Arianna: Buffalo. It
Mon, March 04, 2024
Episode 279 What are the chances if…?
We know that unique circumstances in pregnancy can make a VBAC feel farther out of reach. Do your chances of having a VBAC go down if you had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy or your current one? What if you have a special scar? What are the chances of having a VBAC if you were diagnosed with “failure to progress”? What about fibroids or gestational diabetes? Julie Francom joins Meagan on today’s episode discussing evidence-based research around all of these topics. They share personal experiences as birth workers and overall takeaways that can help you confidently navigate your VBAC journey no matter what complications arise during your pregnancy. Additional Links Special Scars Studies The VBAC Link Blog: Why Failure to Progress in Labor is Usually Failure to Wait AJOG Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Timestamp Topics 02:54 Review of the Week 5:51 Preeclampsia 08:57 Ask questions 12:51 Special scars 17:58 Failure to progress 26:15 Fibroids 27:54 Gestational Diabetes 35:06 Find a supportive provider, ask questions, and educate yourself Transcript Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. We are getting out of winter and maybe into some spring weather, hopefully. I always hope for spring weather in March because it’s my daughter’s birthday and she always wants sunshine, not snow for her birthday. So I’m crossing my fingers that this is the month we have sunshine, not snow. I hope you guys are having a wonderful beginning– well, I guess it’s not actually spring, but I hope you’re having a wonderful beginning of March. We are kicking off our very first Monday episode for 2024. You guys, we have a little surprise for you. We are going to be sending out two, not just one, but two episodes a week. Make sure to tune in on Mondays and Wednesdays for stories and information. Today, we are kicking it off with Julie. Hello. Julie: Hey. I’m so happy to be here and yes, I’m hoping it’s warm or getting there because I am just a popsicle permanently from November to March so let’s just thaw out a little bit, please. Meagan: Just a little bit. Even if we just get some little sprinkles, let’s have April showers in March. Julie: Yeah. Meagan: You guys, I am so excited for today’s ep
Wed, February 28, 2024
Episode 278 Rebecca's CBAC + What To Do With a Swollen Cervix
We love hearing stories of how our Women of Strength navigate birth in an empowered way, no matter the outcome. Rebecca’s story shows how she carefully selected the most supportive homebirth midwife, created a safe birth space in her home, labored hard and beautifully with her husband, took time to process information, assessed her situation, and consented to her second Cesarean when the time felt right to her. Meagan also talks about the different types of positioning and some signs that your baby might be in a less-than-ideal position. Rebecca and Meagan discuss tips and tricks to help prevent a swollen cervix and what options you have if that happens to you! Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Timestamp Topics 01:54 Review of the Week 04:31 Rebecca’s first pregnancy 07:25 Consenting to an unexpected C-section for breech presentation 8:53 Fertility Fridays 11:02 Sparked interest in VBAC and getting pregnant again 13:53 Planning for a HBAC 18:00 Tachycardia and GBS positive 21:27 Early labor 24:18 Calling the team 30:10 Laboring through the night 39:02 Making the decision to transfer 44:53 Consenting to a C-section 46:43 Tips for when things don’t go as planned 50:43 Signs of wonky positioning 53:31 What to do 57:00 Why you shouldn’t skip the repeat Cesarean stories Meagan: Hello, hello. It is Meagan with another amazing story on The VBAC Link podcast. Thank you so much for listening to us, you guys. I love this community. I know I talk about it. I know it’s weird that I don’t even know you, but I love you. I love you so much and I’m so glad that you are here with us today. We have our guest today from, let’s see, Virginia. I think it’s Virginia. That’s what my mind is saying. Rebecca: Yep. Meagan: This is Rebecca, so welcome, Rebecca. Rebecca: Thank you. Thank you for having me. I’m really excited. Meagan: Absolutely. Me too. Her story, you guys, today is a repeat Cesarean story so if you didn’t know on The VBAC Link, we do share repeat Cesarean stories because they are important to share as well. I’m excited for you to share more about
Wed, February 21, 2024
Episode 277 Clair's VBA3C + PPROM + Close Pregnancy Duration
Happy podcast Wednesday, Women of Strength! You do NOT want to miss today’s episode. Clair shares her beautiful journey to a VBA3C. After fully dilating and pushing for hours but ultimately ending in C-sections with her first three babies, Clair finally had the vaginal birth she so badly hoped for with her fourth! Clair shows just how powerful birth can be when a woman’s intuition is combined with informed consent and an open-minded birth team. There were unfortunately some technical difficulties during this episode and part of Clair’s third birth story was not recorded. Clair graciously submitted this written account below. 24:08 “With my third baby (attempted VBA2C), I dilated quickly and smoothly, baby was descending beautifully, and I started feeling like it was time to push. I pushed for a long time - a couple of hours - and he was coming down, but slowly. We tried many different positions, moving around, etc… but it was taking a while. Looking back, I was having some back labor and it’s likely that when my water broke on its own, he dropped into a posterior position. After several more hours, we could see his head! I thought a VBAC might really happen! But baby’s heart rate started having decels and having a hard time coming back up, so we decided to transfer to the hospital for monitoring. I was pretty exhausted by that point, so I was hoping that IV fluids would help me regain strength and keep going. When we got to the hospital, however, they would only let me labor in the operating room because I was a VBAC patient, so I was very limited in mobility and my options. Baby seemed stable, but they were basically prepping for surgery from the moment I walked in the door and wouldn’t tell me baby’s stats. We eventually called it, opting for a C-section on our terms so we could have delayed cord clamping and a calm environment. Baby boy was almost 10 pounds and had very healthy APGAR scores! I was disappointed I didn’t have a VBAC, but I felt respected by my midwife the whole way through. Postpartum physical recovery was difficult, but emotionally this birth was much less traumatic because I had a supportive birth team. I also took two intentional weeks to do nothing but be with the baby and rest, which I hadn’t done with my previous two births, and that made a huge difference in my mental health and bonding with my baby!” Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Time Stamp Topics 01:56 Review of the Week 04:30 Clair’s first pregnancy and birth 07:50 Recovering from a C-sectio
Wed, February 14, 2024
Episode 276 Samantha's VBAC with a Special Scar & Gestational Diabetes
We are following up on last week’s informative episode on gestational diabetes with a gestational diabetes VBAC story! Samantha’s first labor ended in a traumatic Cesarean with her first baby, but she didn’t find out many details of what happened to her until she requested her operative report months later. Samantha found out that she had a lateral scar extension. Despite this and other odds that felt stacked against her (i.e. her gestational diabetes diagnosis!), Samantha was determined to do absolutely everything in her power to put her in the best position to achieve her VBAC. And she DID! Additional Links Leslee Flannery’s Instagram Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Timestamp Topics 2:18 Review of the Week 6:32 Samantha’s first birth story 9:37 Scheduled induction 13:04 Complete dilation, pushing, and stalling 15:49 C-section 22:15 Official reason for C-section 25:15 Recovery 26:57 Second pregnancy 42:46 Labor 52:34 Feeling pushy 55:42 “You’re not going to need a C-section today.” 1:02:39 Finding supportive providers 1:05:53 Prep tips for listeners Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. It is likely a cold winter morning or afternoon. At least here in Utah, it’s February and I don’t know. It’s not something that was intentional, but it seems like this month we are talking about gestational diabetes. We talked about it last week and coincidentally enough, the story today that we are recording talks about gestational diabetes today. So I’m excited to dive more into that and talk a little bit more about that. We were talking about this just before we started recording. It’s becoming more common but it’s not talked about enough so it’s probably fitting that we are doing two episodes this month on gestational diabetes. We have a really great story for you today. We have a C-section that was begun with an induction then she got a double-whammy with an asynclitic and a posterior baby. I’m really excited to hear what your diagnosis was on that, Samantha, because I always get so curious when we know we had fetal positioning if we get that CPD diagnosis and things like that. </
Wed, February 07, 2024
Episode 275 Lily Nichols + All About Gestational Diabetes
We have an incredibly special episode for you today with the one and only Lily Nichols! She is a registered dietitian nutritionist and the author of two books (soon to be three!)-- Real Food for Pregnancy and Real Food for Gestational Diabetes. Lily is truly a pregnancy nutrition expert providing women with access to the most current evidence-based information regarding food. Lily specializes in helping women with gestational diabetes feel empowered with options to help their blood sugar stay diet-controlled. This important work is helping women with gestational diabetes have healthier pregnancies and more birthing options when so much of the conversation around it becomes limiting and fear-based. Whether you have gestational diabetes in your pregnancy, are pregnant, preparing to be pregnant, or just want more nutrition education, this episode is for you!! Additional Links Lily’s Website Real Food for Gestational Diabetes Real Food for Pregnancy How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Timestamp Topics 09:28 What is gestational diabetes? 11:15 Are there preexisting signs and ways to prevent it? 13:59 What can we do? 17:00 How much protein you should get in pregnancy 19:11 Best sources of protein 22:04 Getting enough protein on a meatless diet 26:17 Fats & Gestational Diabetes 31:14 Do we have to have a baby at 38 weeks with gestational diabetes? 32:28 The problem with the standard gestational diabetes guidelines 40:20 PCOS and gestational diabetes Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. This is The VBAC Link and we have a very special episode for you today. This is a topic that if I were to show you in the inbox, you would be like, “Whoa. I didn’t realize
Wed, January 31, 2024
Episode 274 "I Don't Know Who Needs to Hear This, But..."
I don’t know who needs to hear this, but… You do NOT have to be induced at 39 weeks to have a vaginal birth. You CAN have an induced VBAC. Your cervix DOESN’T have to dilate by 40 weeks. Home birth is just as SAFE as hospital birth, even for VBAC. Your pelvis is PERFECT. You are capable of doing MORE than you even know. Tune in to today’s hot episode to hear Meagan and Julie dive deeper into these topics and many, many more! Additional Links The ARRIVE Trial and What it Means for VBAC Home Birth and VBAC Brittany Sharpe McCollum - Pelvic Biodynamics Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. We are already a month into 2024 and we are ending the month off with a nice, spicy episode. I think it will be a little spicy. Julie is with me today. Hey, Julie. Julie: The bringer of the spice. Meagan: The bringer of the spice. You know, ever since you stopped doing doula work as well, you have picked it up a notch in your spice. Julie: Because I’m tired of watching people get railroaded by the system. Meagan: I know. Julie: I have picked it up a little bit, yeah. Meagan: I know. Julie: You have to deal with the backlash by yourself if there is some backlash. Meagan: Seriously. No, this episode is going to be a good one. Women of Strength, I think that this episode is going to be very empowering. Yes, it is going to be spicy. We are going to have passion because if you haven’t noticed over all of the years of Julie and I recording, we have passion. When it comes to like Julie was saying, people not being railroaded by the system or not taken advantage of and really knowing what information is true and not, we are pretty passionate about it. So today, we have an episode for you that is going to be amazing. It’s titled, “I Don’t Know Who Needs to Hear This, But…” We are going to be telling you all of the amazing things. <sp
Wed, January 24, 2024
Episode 273 Amina's Incredible VBAC + Dialing in & Following Your Heart
Amina’s story shows the true POWER of a supportive provider. Both of her birth stories had similar interventions (but given in very different ways) with very different provider reactions and a very different outcome! “That was the biggest change for me. It’s not like the second birth was just smooth. There were moments when there was blood. There were moments when her heart rate was in distress, but there was that confidence that this woman could do this. This baby is safe and we are doing this together.” - Amina Amina also shares a very special story about visualization during pregnancy and how that can come into play during birth. Her story is a perfect example of listening to the heart, mind, and body in all stages of childbirth. Additional Links Needed Website Amina’s App How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We are in mid-January and we have an amazing story for you today. We have our friend, Amina. She and I were talking before we started recording. She was like, “You are changing lives. You are inspiring. You are changing people’s pregnancies,” and I just want to talk on that. One, it’s absolutely an honor to even hear those words, and is so touching, but two, I’d like to counteract that even and say you guys, you, Women of Strength, you, Amina, you– every single person that has been on this podcast, is who is changing lives and these Women of Strength wanting to VBAC and know their options. I’m just here creating the platform. I’m so grateful to do this. It really, really is so amazing to hear story after story, to hear journeys, to hear how people overcome fear and anxiety and doubt. You know, we’re not here to prove people wrong, but I do love a good proving someone wrong story when it’s like, “Yeah, you tell me my pelvis is too small. I’m going to show you.” No, but really, it’s just such an honor to be here. I’ve been on the podcast now for a year solo without my partner in crime, Julie, and it’s been really hard without her because I just loved being with her, but I’m still so grateful to be with you guys today. Like I said, our friend, Amina, has a VBAC story. I just want to tell you a little bit about her. She is an International Yoga Teacher. If you haven’t checked out her page, you definitely need to. She’s a mother of two and the founder of Honey Studio and of the Movement and Mindfulness App. We know mindfulness, breathwork, and movement are all t
Wed, January 17, 2024
Episode 272 Grace's Traumatic Cesarean & Beautiful VBAC + Warning Signs for ALL Birthing Moms
Grace: “'If you are COVID-positive as the mother, you are not allowed to do skin-to-skin, you are not allowed to breastfeed your baby, and you are only allowed to hold your baby two times a day for 15 minutes.'” Meagan: "That’s what they told you?" Grace: "That’s what they did. That was their policy." Today’s episode is a must-listen for everyone in the birthing community. We know 2020 was an especially tough year to give birth and Grace’s first birth story shows exactly why. Grace unexpectedly tested positive for COVID upon arriving at the hospital for a recommended induction after providers were worried about her baby’s size. She was immediately subject to the hospital’s policies for that day. Grace felt like her birthing autonomy was slipping farther away with every intervention. She ultimately consented to a C-section for failure to progress. Her lowest point was watching a nurse feed her new baby a bottle in her hospital room while she felt perfectly fine and capable of doing it herself. Grace was a compliant and obedient patient, but her heart was broken. Though she went through so much, Grace’s positivity and commitment to a redemptive second birth experience are so inspiring. Grace is sharing all of the warning signs she wishes she recognized before along with so many helpful VBAC preparation tips. While we wish Grace didn’t have to go through what she did, we are SO very proud of her resilience and strength! Additional Links The VBAC Link Blog: 10+ Signs to Switch Your Provider The VBAC Link Blog: How to Find a Truly Supportive VBAC Provider Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. I am bringing another VBAC to you for you today. I always do that. To you, for you. It is for you today. We have our friend, Grace, and she is actually from New York, right? Yes. Grace: Yes. Meagan: New York. Yes. That too, is something I want to start highlighting on the podcast because we have a lot of people being like, “Well, where are they from? I want that provider. How possible is it for me to get that provider?” She is from New York, everybody, so if you are from New York, definitely listen up extra sharp on this one. Yeah. She is going to share her traumatic C-section story and her healing VBAC. It just tickled me so much when she said in the beginning when we were chatting that this podca
Wed, January 10, 2024
Episode 271 Dr. Nathan Fox Returns Sharing Evidence on Uterine Rupture, Induction, Cervical Exams & More
“I think that’s why there is so much discussion about this because it is not the numbers. It is the attitudes. It’s the opinions. It’s just trying to make sure that you have an aligned vision with your provider and with your hospital.” One of the most important things you can do during pregnancy is to find a provider who loves and believes in VBAC. Dr. Fox is back today giving more tips on how to know if an OB is VBAC-supportive and why there is so much variation out there in how practices feel about it. Dr. Fox answers questions like: Why do some providers refuse to induce VBACs? Why do some providers require it? Are routine cervical exams necessary for VBAC? Does a uterine window in my operative report mean my uterus will rupture during my VBAC? Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, guys. This is The VBAC Link. Welcome back or if you are new to the show, welcome. We are so happy that you are here. My name is Meagan and I am so excited to have a returning guest with us today. We have Dr. Nathan Fox who is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with a sub-specialty in maternal-fetal medicine. He is here answering your guys’ questions. This community is amazing and every time we reach out and say, “Hey, what are your VBAC questions?” We do. We get a ton. I love bringing on guests, especially within the medical world, OBs and midwives talking about these things with you and what they are seeing and what the evidence says. It’s always fun to get a different provider’s perspective and get a better idea on what really the research is showing. Review of the Week So welcome back, Dr. Nathan Fox. But of course, we have a Review of the Week so I wanted to quickly get into that and then get into these amazing questions. By the way, they are questions about induction– when or is it really necessary? Can I be induced with a VBAC? We are going to talk a little bit more about uterine rupture and the risk which is, of course, a burning question that everyone always has. We are going to talk about maybe if a provider has told you that they have seen something like a uterine window, dehiscence, or even a niche. We are going to talk a little bit more about those so definitely stay with us because this is going to be a really great episode. This review is by Elizabeth Herrera. Hopefully, I did not botch that. She act
Wed, January 03, 2024
Episode 270 Crystal Nightingale Returns + Postpartum & Lactation Tips
Crystal Nightingale from The Mama Coach joined us a few months ago and is back again today diving deeper into postpartum and breastfeeding than we’ve ever gone before! Did you know that new research is showing that cold compresses are more effective in helping clogged ducts than warm compresses or showers? Crystal shares her valuable insight gained as a registered nurse and IBCLC of over 10 years. Meagan and Crystal discuss everything from appropriate newborn weight loss to all types of infant feeding to how to have a successful breastfeeding journey starting even before birth. As we kick off 2024, we promise to bring new topics, deeper discussions, and exciting changes that will empower you even more to continue to have better birth AND postpartum experiences. Additional Links Crystal’s Website The Mama Coach The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. It’s 2024. I cannot believe that 2023 went so stinking fast and we’re already here. I think the new year is super fun because I think about all of the exciting things that we want to do for the year and we have this extra motivation. Today, we’re actually going to be talking about something that we don’t talk about a lot on the podcast. This is going to be postpartum. I’m excited to talk about postpartum because, with The VBAC Link, we are all Women of Strength. You are all preparing for birth. You’re all preparing for pregnancy sometimes. We’re so focused on the birth, but we forget about what comes after the birth. So we have our friend, our dear, dear friend, Crystal. Hello, Crystal. Crystal: Hello, good morning. Happy New Year. Meagan: Good morning. I am so excited to have you on today. Crystal: I’m excited. Thank you. Meagan: Yes. You are a registered nurse, an international board-certified lactation consultant which is an IBCLC and for everyone who has never seen an IBCLC, you guys, I have three babies and I breastfed with all three of them. I’ve seen an IBCLC with each baby because I’ve found that each baby is so different. Crystal: Yes. Meagan: If you haven’t seen an IBCLC before, I would highly suggest it. They can help s
Wed, January 03, 2024
Episode 269 The Most Common Questions of 2023
Meagan finishes out this year of podcasting by answering some of your most common questions! Topics range from the time between births, gentle induction methods, gestational diabetes, “just-in-case” epidurals, home birth, tips for having a successful VBAC, and how to cope if you don’t get your VBAC. “Women of Strength, I just want to thank you so much for all of your continued support. We love your support and we are so grateful that you are here. I love you. I feel so passionate about helping you as an individual find the best path for you. I want to help you walk through this journey and feel loved, supported, and educated.” Additional Links Real Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Welcome to The VBAC Link. If you have been with us all year, I just want to say thank you and if you are new to joining The VBAC Link, I’d like to say welcome. Welcome to the show. This is the last episode of 2023 and it’s kind of hard to believe honestly. I went through all of our episodes and we have seriously so many incredible episodes. I am so honored for those who have come and shared their expertise and given us their time. I am so excited today to share this last episode of the year with the most common 2023 questions. We have some pretty common questions, but we have so many others as well. So of course, we have a Review of the Week. I want to dive into that really quickly before I get into those questions. Review of the Week This is from cristab . It says, “I am a birth and postpartum doula who is always on the search for a birthy podcast to listen to in my car. I was so excited when I found The VBAC Link so I could listen to these amazing stories from women all over the world who have reached their goals through becoming educated thanks to Meagan and Julie. I’ve recently certified with The VBAC Link and as well, I’m so impressed with the thorough delivery in which their knowledge was shared in their training. I’m super excited to move into this next chapter of my career and I’m thrilled to do so with the amazing community and support.” Thank you so much and thank you for joining our family. Doulas, birth workers, birth photographers, if you love birth and you are wanting to learn more about VBAC and how you can support people out there who are wanting t
Wed, December 20, 2023
Episode 268 Radical Acceptance Part Two
“I feel that what I would like to add to this radical acceptance part two episode is that yes, it is so important to feel all of the feelings, not judge them, and give them space to exist so that you can work through them and move on, but it is also equally important for you to not live there. You cannot live with those feelings 100% of the time, 24/7. You have to allow yourself space to get out of that funk, go enjoy life, and feel happiness, light, and joy.” Women of Strength, we love you. We are proud of your healing journeys. We wish all the light and joy for you in this difficult, wonderful, exhausting, and rewarding season of motherhood. We are here for you! Additional Links The VBAC Link Podcast: Episode 251 Radical Acceptance Part One Julie’s Website The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link and guess what? Julie is with me today. Hi Julie. Julie: Hi. Meagan: She’s actually looking right now for a message. We are going to do a Part Two of Radical Acceptance because we got so many messages on our social media and in our inbox and then even actually, some people who have my personal cell phone texted me about it and was like, “This episode did so much for me.” We are excited to have a little follow-up. Julie did get a message in her business inbox, right? Julie: Yeah. Meagan: We are going to read a little bit about that. Julie: Yes, so if you are coming in hot right now for the radical acceptance part two, you should go listen to the radial acceptance part one if you haven’t already. It’s episode 251, so go back, and yeah. It was such a good one. I got a couple of people reaching out to me as well on my business Instagram sharing about it and how much it touched them or helped them. I’m going to read this review that somebody– well, it’s not a review. It’s a message that somebody sent to me. Meagan: It’s a message and it’s in place of a Review of the Week. We are reading one of the messages that Julie got on her account. Julie: Yeah, since we are doing Radical Acceptance Part Two, we want to read a message from Radical Acceptance Part One. S
Mon, December 18, 2023
Episode 267 Caitlin & Chrisie from The Lactation Network + All About Breastfeeding
Here at The VBAC Link, we want to empower you with better birth experiences AND better postpartum experiences. The Lactation Network does just that. Caitlin McNeily is Vice President of Consultant Relations at The Lactation Network, working closely with thousands of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants in all 50 states. Her background in medical device sales led to the creation of Ashland Breast Pumps. It was through this work– connecting with new parents desperate for help– that led to The Lactation Network. Chrisie Rosenthal is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Director of Lactation Content and Programming at The Lactation Network. She has helped more than 7,000 families through her successful private practice, The Land of Milk and Mommy. She's worked alongside large pediatric practices in Los Angeles and as a hospital-based IBCLC. In addition, Chrisie is the author of two best-selling breastfeeding books: Lactivate!: A User’s Guide to Breastfeeding published in 2019 and The First-Time Mom’s Breastfeeding Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide from First Latch to Weaning published in 2020. Caitlin and Chrisie are both moms who had breastfeeding struggles of their own. They are passionate about helping other moms have the care and advice they wish they had! Additional Links The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have an amazing episode today for you with our friends, Caitlin and Chrisie. They are from our favorite, The Lactation Network, and are IBCLCs with The Lactation Network. We are going to get into the topic of how The Lactation Network came about but also, all of the questions and what it means to work with The Lactation Network and an IBCLC. We talk so much about preparing for birth and then birth. We talk a little bit about postpartum. We are starting to get more into postpartum because it is a really important topic, but this is a topic that is near and dear to my heart because I have had three babies and three pretty different experiences. I’ve had some challenges along the way, so we are excited to welcome our guests today talking about breastfeeding and pumping and going back to work and all of the things and what it looks like to work with an IBCLC through The Lactation Network. So, welcome ladies. Caitlin: Thank you. We are so excited to be here. Chrisie: Thanks, Meagan. <s
Fri, December 15, 2023
Episode 266 Sabrina's VBAC + Operative Vaginal Delivery
Sabrina’s first birth was a traumatic crash Cesarean. She and her baby were thankfully perfectly healthy, but Sabrina was left with no desire to have any more kids. She didn’t realize how much her birth experience played into those feelings until she became pregnant with her second. Sabrina found The VBAC Link through another birth podcast and listened every day on her way to work starting at four weeks pregnant! The beautiful stories from Women of Strength gave her the encouragement to go for it. And Sabrina absolutely proved the fight that was within her. After two weeks of prodromal labor, over 48 hours of labor, and listening to her intuition as plans changed during labor which included some help with forceps, Sabrina achieved the VBAC she was fighting for. Even though her labor and birth were physically brutal, Sabrina immediately felt like she could do it all again. Additional Links Needed Website The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to The VBAC Link everybody. I am just so happy. I love reviews so much and want to encourage anyone who has maybe been with us for a while or has been listening to let us know your thoughts. Tell us what you think about The VBAC Link. Today, before we get into this review, I wanted to introduce our guest today. Her name is Sabrina. Hello. Sabrina: Hi. Meagan: It’s so fun to be here with you today. She jumped on and was like, “Oh, it’s so crazy. You were in my ear and now we’re here.” Sabrina: Yeah. It is crazy. Meagan: It’s so awesome though. I love when our guests come on and they are like, “I’ve literally been listening to you for so many years. This is so surreal.” It’s so fun. It’s just such an honor to have you guys sharing your stories because I want you to know that you guys are the reason why this podcast is amazing. Just saying. These storytellers are the reason why The VBAC Link is incredible and all of these professionals come on. They make this podcast what it is. Review of the Week I’ll get into this review and then we’ll get into your story. This is from aliaholland . This was back in 2023 and it says, “Love the host.” Oh, that makes my heart sing. Sing and smile, apparently, my heart does a lot of things. It says, “I’m 35 weeks pregnant and planning an al
Wed, December 13, 2023
Episode 265 Amy's HBA2C + Cervical Exams
We have another follow-up story on the podcast this week! We love hearing from our previous guests and today, we get to follow up with our friend, Amy. Amy was on the podcast for episode 102 sharing her VBA2C story and now we get to hear her HBA2C story! Amy talks about her journey to embracing home birth with her fourth baby, how she found the right team, and how she worked through her fears. When labor began, Amy was steady and strong. She was ready and so was her team. Then everything completely stopped. Instead of giving in to discouragement, Amy trusted the process. Her team went home and she knew she needed rest. 10 hours later, labor kicked in HARD. Amy birthed her baby shortly after! Meagan and Amy discuss the pros and cons of cervical exams before and during labor. Women of Strength, you do not have to have a cervical exam if you do not want one! Additional Links The VBAC Link Episode 102: Amy’s VBA2C ICAN of Summit County The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. We only have a couple of weeks left of 2023 and it is blowing my mind. I cannot believe how fast the year has gone and how much has happened. I hope that you have had an amazing year and are gearing up for the holidays. I definitely have had a good year and am not ready for the holidays. I’m never ready for the holidays. It is always a crazy hustle and bustle. But I am always ready for a new episode and story to share. Today we have a special episode. I feel like this is a fun one because we like follow-ups. It’s really fun to sometimes have follow-ups. We have an HBAC after two Cesarean births to share with you today. I’m going to let our guest tell you more about her births and I’ll give you a little bit of a preview, but Amy, is it 102 what you said? It’s 102. Amy: Yes. It’s 102. Meagan: So episode 102. If you want to go and hear more, she’s got four babies you guys. If you want to hear more of the other babies’ stories, definitely go check out episode 102. Review of the Week But of course, we have a Review of the Week so we want to get into that. This is by meganlindsayyy</
Wed, December 06, 2023
Episode 264 Ali Levine’s HBAC + The Practice of Breathwork
“Feel it to heal it.” Ali Levine is back with us today sharing her HBAC story! Ali was first with us on Episode 166 where she shared the details of her transformational VBAC. Ali and Meagan reflect on the growth they both have experienced since they last chatted. Ali is now a certified breathwork practitioner and intuitive stylist. She talks about how through regulating the breath, we can better surrender and allow our true selves to shine through. Ali experienced this firsthand as focused breath helped her stay calm through her baby’s shoulder dystocia and allowed her to surrender to the guidance of her midwife. She was able to achieve the home birth she knew she could have! Ali shares how important breathwork is in allowing us to release fear, anxiety, trauma, stress, or any other negativity that our bodies hold. And it’s a process! By giving our bodies lots of opportunities to breathe, relax, and release, we allow beautiful healing to take place. Additional Links The VBAC Link Podcast Episode 166 Ali’s Website Awakening with Ali Podcast Ali’s Breathwork App The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. You guys, it’s December. How are we at the end of 2023? I cannot believe it, but I am so excited to be kicking the month off with our friend, Ali. She has been with us before, so welcome, Ali. Ali: Thank you. Meagan: Yes, I’m so excited to have you on the show again. She shared her C-section and VBAC journey a while ago because she is Episode 166 and we are now at 264 so almost 100 episodes ago. Ali: Wow. Meagan: So crazy. She’s back today to share her HBAC story, but not just that amazing part, she’s also going to talk to us about breathwork and her journey to become certified as a breathwork practitioner. She is a breathwork practitioner, intuitive stylist, and transformation expert. What exactly is a breathwork practitioner and transformation expert? Can you tell us a little bit more about that? Ali: Yeah. Well, I’m just so excited to be back here with y
Wed, November 29, 2023
Episode 263 Petra's VBA3C + Reclaiming the Power You Already Possess
Petra joins us today from Modesto, California sharing her unmedicated, hospital VBA3C story! Petra learned and grew from each of her three C-section births which paved the way for her to manifest the birth of her dreams with her fourth. Though she had very little support around her, Petra stayed steady. She continued to prepare her heart, mind, and body for the physiological birth she knew she could have. She tuned out the negativity. She trusted the path she knew she was supposed to take. Petra was thrilled to experience labor when the time came. She knew what to do. Her education and preparation paid off. She labored hard at home and went to the hospital when it felt right. Two hours later, Petra was crying tears of joy with a sweet baby on her chest. Petra is forever changed by her empowering birth experience and has now dedicated her heart’s work to helping other women do the same. Additional Links Petra’s Website The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC After 3 C-sections Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. I hope you guys had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We are back with another story for you. Today we have a VBAC-after-multiple-Cesareans story. In fact, it is a VBAC after three which is a little bit harder to find information on and to find support for. We have our friend, Petra– look, I almost did it. Petra. I asked her before the episode. Pay-tra? Petra? I had a neighbor, so in my head, it just went, “Pay-tra”. Anyway, hello, hello. Welcome. Petra: Thank you. I’m so happy to be here. Meagan: Yes, so happy. You are from California. Is that correct? Petra: I am, yes. Meagan: Was your VBAC after three C-sections in California? Petra: Yes. Meagan: I feel like especially when we have VBAMC, we have so many people writing in saying, “Where did this person go and where are they located? Because if they are in my area, I need to find that provider or I need to research.” It sucks, but we don’t get the support after multiple Cesareans more often than not. Of course, through your episode, feel free to share and name-blast anyone in a positive way of course. Send those names out to the audience because I’m sure that they will want to research your provider. Review of the Week Okay, so as always, we have a quick review. This is b
Wed, November 22, 2023
Episode 262 Becky's HBAC + Changing Providers Late-term + Asynclitic/Posterior Positioning
“It’s very fitting that this is going to come out just before Thanksgiving because I feel very, very fortunate.” Becky’s two babies were both posterior and asynclitic. They weighed exactly the same at birth, but their deliveries were very different. Becky shares her sweet experience going from skepticism around home birth to fully embracing all that it has to offer. Her first birth included residual trauma which made for a very difficult postpartum period. Her second birth was full of safety, peace, and healing which left Becky feeling so joyful, so strong, and so thankful. Happy Thanksgiving week to all of our listeners. We are thankful for your stories. We are thankful for your love for us and for each other within our VBAC Link community. Your commitment to healing, education, and better birth experiences lifts us all and makes the birth world a better place. We are thankful for YOU, Women of Strength! With love, The VBAC Link Team Additional Links The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Welcome to The VBAC Link. You guys, this is my first episode back from taking a really big break through the summer. You guys have still had episodes, but I recorded up through May right before my kids went to school and then took the summer off so I could have fun and spend time with them. I’ve got a middle schooler who went back to school today for the first time in middle school. It was bittersweet then I’ve got a fourth grader and a second grader. So they are back to school today and I figured, “All right, let’s get back to school today.” We’ve got Rebecca with us. Welcome, Rebecca. Becky: Hi. Meagan: Hi. Thank you so much for being here with us today. Rebecca is from Seattle, correct? The suburbs of Seattle? Becky: East side, yeah. Meagan: She is going to be sharing her VBAC story with us today. Her VBAC– we were just talking about this before we pressed record. It has a lot of things. We’ve got– okay. Do you want me to name it or do you want to go through it? Becky: I can name it. There was a late-term transfer to home birth with a sort of faux dual care that ended up not being dual care just before I went into labor and pushed on my back and a posterior and asynclitic baby. Meagan: Yes. Right there, posterior and asynclitic– those two together are like, whoa. It’s awesome because a lot of the time, that is a reason for a C-section. Asynclitic or posterior, but when we have an asynclitic and posterio
Wed, November 15, 2023
Episode 261 Dr. Nathan Fox + Scar Thickness, Uterine Rupture, Due Dates & More
Dr. Nathan Fox is a practicing OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine provider in New York City. Two of his children were also VBAC babies! He joins Meagan on the podcast today where they discuss topics in depth to help listeners make more informed decisions about their VBACs. Topics today include where to find evidence-based information, how to interpret it, the risks of uterine rupture, VBAC and COVID-19, induction, scar thickness, due dates, and third-trimester ultrasounds. Additional Links Healthful Woman Website MFM, High-Risk Pregnancy New York City Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. You guys, it’s November. How are we at the end of 2023? It is crazy how fast this year has gone. We have a special guest today. It’s Dr. Nathan S. Fox. He is so amazing to come on today to talk to us about a couple of topics that I don’t know if we’ve actually ever talked about on the podcast. We’re going to be talking about scar thickness. We’re going to talk about third-trimester ultrasounds. We’re going to be talking a little bit about COVID and is it really best to induce at 39 weeks? We’ve had COVID. What does it mean with our placenta? We know we’ve been hearing it out there where our placentas are not doing well. So you guys, get ready. Buckle up. It’s going to be great. I want to tell you a little bit about Nathan Fox first. He is a board-certified OB/GYN and he is also certified in MFM which is Maternal Fetal Medicine. In his clinic, he sees a lot of higher risk and unique situations. He did his residency at Mount Sinai. He has an amazing podcast that really dials in on helping people know the evidence and then also understanding the evidence in English because if you are like me, you’ll know that it is kind of hard to break down some of these studies sometimes and it’s hard to understand what the evidence is even saying and then how to apply it. He has this podcast and it is Healthful Woman. We are going to make sure that it is linked. You guys, he has so many incredible guests on there talking about a wide range of things. It’s not VBAC-specific, but it definitely has a wide range of topics and things that you’re probably going to love. Definitely check that out. We’ll have it in the show notes. Dr. Fox, seriously, we are so grateful for you today. We can’t wait to have you on. We’ll be right back. <s
Thu, November 09, 2023
TVL BONUS EPISODE: Postpartum with Crystal Nightingale
Crystal Nightingale is The Mama Coach. Her mission is “to guide families through every stage of their parenting journey by providing evidence-informed education infused with nonjudgmental support, compassion, and empathy.” Crystal chats with Meagan today about some of the many resources available to women who are in the postpartum stages of motherhood. While we spend a lot of time preparing for our births, we sometimes don’t know how to really prepare for postpartum. Crystal talks about how to recognize postpartum depression, preparing for going back to work, tips on birth control after a baby, and lactation advice. We are so thankful for the work Crystal does to help families thrive with their new babies! Additional Links Crystal’s Website - The Mama Coach Postpartum Support International The Lactation Network Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. You are listening to The VBAC Link and I am with my friend today, Crystal. Crystal Nightingale is with The Mama Coach. Right? I’m saying that correctly. She’s amazing. I feel like we connected on social media and I just madly fell in love with her. I feel like I could talk to her for hours postpartum and just the journey of what things look like after we have our babies. It’s a topic that we don’t talk about enough in today’s world and honestly, it’s a topic that isn’t focused on. It’s not only not talked about, but it’s not focused on, in my opinion, enough. We have babies and are told to come back six weeks later but a whole load of things happen in that six-week period. There are things from recovering from birth and sometimes we have different types of birth. Maybe we had an easy birth and that’s super great, but sometimes we have a C-section or a vaginal or an assisted vaginal and we have extra tearing. Maybe we’re having a really hard lactation journey and feeding our babies emotionally. There is so much that is packed into postpartum and we just don’t put enough focus on it, in my opinion, in the medical world. So today’s episode is with Crystal and she’s going to be talking more about postpartum. What does it look like? What to expect? All of the things. We’re diving deep into it. We’re going to be talking about baby blues and postpartum and mood disorders and hormonal dips and l
Wed, November 08, 2023
Episode 260 Jessica's Precipitous HBAC After Vasa Previa
The chances of having vasa previa in a spontaneous pregnancy is about 1 in 2500. Our friend, Jessica, shares her experience with vasa previa during her first pregnancy which led to a scheduled Cesarean. While Jessica’s Cesarean experience was difficult and traumatic, she knows it is what her intuition was telling her to do. Meagan gives important advice about listening to that intuition with every pregnancy. When the anatomy scan results showed that Jessica’s second pregnancy was completely normal, she went all in to achieve the HBAC she deeply desired. Jessica didn’t expect her birth to be so painfully intense and wildly fast as it was, but now she says that she “would love to do it again!” Additional Links The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. This is Meagan and today I am recording in a very different spot. Normally, I am in my office at my home, but today, I am recording from my car. We have our friend, Jessica, and she is from California. She is going to be sharing her HBAC story with you guys today. If you don’t know what HBAC is, if you’re new to all of the terms, it’s a home birth after a Cesarean. She has a unique situation with her first C-section so I am excited to talk a little bit about that and have her share more information and then with her home birth, it was precipitous. Jessica, was it a planned home birth? Remind me, or was it so precipitous that it ended up being a home birth? Jessica: It was definitely planned. Meagan: Definitely planned. Review of the Week Meagan: She will be sharing that story but of course, we have a Review of the Week. This review is by Ashley and it’s actually on our doula course. So birth workers, if you’re listening, if you didn’t know, we have a birth worker course to become certified in VBAC. It says, “TOLAC/VBAC should be treated just like any other birthing person, but there is a certain preparation and information that needs to be offered to them. Your course covered that. The value is held in your careful recognition of how best to support our client who is doing a TOLAC. I cannot praise you two enough for the fear-release activity. Honestly, it is something I can apply to even myself before and after birth and even in life in general. Thank you for that. It has already helped me with three of my VBAC clients.” That is so awesome. That is one of the biggest things we do in our course
Wed, November 01, 2023
Episode 259 LIVE: Meg and Julie Answer Your Questions in The VBAC Link Community
Meagan and Julie went Live in The VBAC Link Community Facebook Group answering your questions. They recorded the conversation to share with you on the podcast today. Topics include: Risks of VBAC, Repeat Cesarean, and CBAC Cook versus Foley Catheters Cervical lips Membrane sweeps VBA2C and VBAMC CPD Thank you for sending in your questions! An educated birth is an empowered one. You’ve got this, Women of Strength! Additional Links The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC vs Repeat Cesarean Cook versus Foley Catheter Study EBB 151: Updated Evidence on the Pros and Cons of Membrane Sweeping ACOG Article: VBAC The VBAC Link Blog: VBA2C Needed Website Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, hey everybody! Guess what? It’s November which is one of my favorite months because it is my birthday month. I have forever and ever loved birthday months so this is going to be a great month because it is my birthday month. Today we are kicking it off with questions and answers with myself and Julie. Hey, Julie. Julie: Hey, I’m so excited to be here. Meagan: Welcome back. We’re going to get right into this review and get some of these great questions answered. We know you guys have so many questions. This review is from bunnyfolife777. It says, “So much hope.” It says, “I’m 16 weeks pregnant and shooting for my VBAC. I’ve been in The VBAC Link group on Facebook for over a year, but I’ve only just started listening to the podcast. I don’t know why I waited. I’m bawling now just two episodes in. The statistics and advice you share are golden. I’m going to listen to it again and take notes this time. I’m scared about having to advocate for myself living abroad where most doctors push for C-sections so I’m thankful I can arm myself with the knowledge through The VBAC Link. Thank you.” Oh, that makes me so happy. We’re going to be talking about statistics on this podcast episode today. Julie: You know I l
Wed, October 25, 2023
Episode 258 Hannah's VBAC + Giving Birth in Different Locations
Meagan is joined today by our friend, Hannah, who has been through so much during her motherhood journey. Hannah’s experiences include a blissful first birth at a birth center, multiple twin pregnancies, miscarriages, a difficult C-section, infant loss, and a redemptive VBAC. Hannah shares her unexpectedly traumatic experiences with pregnancy, birth, and grief while living in Argentina. Yet even with all that she’s been through, you can feel Hannah’s strength, positivity, and light. Hannah wasn’t sure if she wanted another baby, but learning about the possibility of a VBAC restored hope in her heart. Hannah spent years researching providers and birthing locations in preparation for her move back to the US. When she became pregnant, Hannah was able to feel safe in the providers she chose. Her VBAC birth was everything she hoped it would be and Hannah was able to find so much joy and healing through her experience. Additional Links The Lactation Network How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, hey you guys! We have another episode for you today and we are sharing stories from our friend, Hannah. Welcome, Hannah. Hannah: Hi. Thanks for having me. Meagan: Thanks for being here. We are always excited to be sharing new stories. Just a little bit about cute Hannah here– we were just chatting right before we pushed record and she’s had three babies. She has had three babies in three different states which is kind of cool. You kind of know how the birth world looks in a few different areas. Would you say they are very similar? Would you say they are vastly different? How would you rate having babies in three different places? Hannah: Right. Well, I would say from my experience that they were very different but more so having a baby out of the country. I’ve had one in South Carolina and then I’ve had one in Argentina, and then one in Texas. They are very different places and have different levels of care. Meagan: Yes. I think if I were to choose to do anything with my free time– I mean there are a lot of things– but one of the things in the birth world that I’d like to do is teleport to all of the different areas, just be a fly on the wall, and witness birth all around the world, truly. I would love to see the differences between them. As a doula, I’ve only seen birth live here in Utah. I think that would be really interesting. Well, like I said, her last baby was born in Texas so if you
Wed, October 18, 2023
Episode 257 Windsar's Birth Center VBAC After Twin B’s Cesarean Birth
“There was no fear. There was nothing traumatic about it. It was just healing and it was so empowering to know that my body could do that. It was an out-of-this-world experience.” Windsar has had three pregnancies and four wildly different deliveries. Her first birth was a medicated, vaginal delivery in a hospital. About 18 months later, Windsar became pregnant with identical twins. Shortly after twin A was born vaginally at 32 weeks, Windsar experienced a cord prolapse, and twin B was then born via emergency Cesarean. Windsar knew her next birth needed to be healing and redemptive. She did all she could to achieve an unmedicated VBAC and finally get the golden hour she never had with her three other babies. Her VBAC birth story is intense, empowering, and absolutely beautiful. Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome, welcome to The VBAC Link. I am excited to be talking to you today with our friend, Windsar. Hello, Windsar. Welcome to the show. Windsar: Hello. Thanks for having me. Meagan: Absolutely. She has a story that is not something that we hear very often. We do have one person on the show that has had a similar scenario but actually, it was just her first two babies. Of course, it’s a VBAC, but it’s a twin birth where twin A is vaginal and twin B is Cesarean, then she went on to have a VBAC. So yeah, it’s not something that we hear about a ton or talk about but Windsar was just telling me something that I had heard but didn’t know if it was true, so I’m going to take it because she was told and had a twin birth. When they are identical, there is a higher chance, correct? Windsar: A higher chance of what specifically happened to me which was cord prolapse. Meagan: Right. Yep. I was going to say a higher chance of having this happen which would lead to a Cesarean and that’s cord prolapse. So when baby A came out, there was a whole bunch of room that was created. Baby B came, but the cord came first. Windsar: Mhmm. Review of the Week Meagan: That is a very valid reason to have a Cesarean and get baby out. So we’re going to share your stories and your VBAC but of course, we have a Review of the Week. This review is from Janellemb142018. It says, “Perfect combination of data and stories.” It says, “I’m g
Thu, October 12, 2023
Episode 256 Anneke's Cesareans + Advocating, Trusting, & Finding Success
Anneke is a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist from Oregon who is a long-time VBAC Link Podcast listener. During her first pregnancy, she would listen to 5+ hours of episodes commuting back and forth from work! Anneke was more than committed to having a vaginal birth with each of her pregnancies, but what she has learned from her births about advocacy, trust, and defining success are beautiful lessons that have changed her forever. At The VBAC Link, we are here to help you achieve your goals of a vaginal birth. But even more importantly, we are here to advocate for empowered decision-making in the birth space. Anneke is an inspiring example of being educated, strong, and finding healing within circumstances that were out of her control. “Since my first birth, I’ve asked, ‘Why? Why not me? Why does this keep happening and why can’t I just be like so many others on the podcast and so many others across the country? Why can’t I just will it into being?’ From these questions, I’m starting to believe that my story actually might begin at the end. I’ve realized that maybe my story isn’t about the mechanism of birth at all, but what it birthed in me which was the ability to see my own strength.” Additional Links The Lactation Network Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Wherever you are listening from, welcome to The VBAC Link. We have three beautiful stories for you today. They are all unique. They all have certain things along the way that add some unique factors. We have our friend Anneke. I keep questioning that, but it’s Anneke and she has had three Cesareans. Her Cesareans really all have been a little bit different and for different reasons. We’ve got IVF. We’ve got low fluid and we have breech presentation. I’m excited to share your stories or have you share your stories today, but as always, we love starting our podcast out with a review. Review of the Week Today’s reviewer is from a girl named Megan. It says, “Great resource.” It says, “Such a great resource for VBAC mamas to come and listen to women’s stories and get great evidence-based practice information. I do wish these ladies would do a little less interrupting of the storytellers.” Well, I’m so sorry, Megan. We definitely do jump in so hopefully, Anneke, you don’t feel too interrupted. But we do like to be a part of your story as well because we want you to share your story, but we are listening and we are listening for the first time. We are reacting as if someone else would react the first time they are listening, right? So yeah. Thank you, Megan,
Wed, October 11, 2023
Episode 256 Anneke's Cesareans + Advocating, Trusting & Finding Success
Anneke is a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist from Oregon who is a long-time VBAC Link Podcast listener. During her first pregnancy, she would listen to 5+ hours of episodes commuting back and forth from work! Anneke was more than committed to having a vaginal birth with each of her pregnancies, but what she has learned from her births about advocacy, trust, and defining success are beautiful lessons that have changed her forever. At The VBAC Link, we are here to help you achieve your goals of a vaginal birth. But even more importantly, we are here to advocate for empowered decision-making in the birth space. Anneke is an inspiring example of being educated, strong, and finding healing within circumstances that were out of her control. “Since my first birth, I’ve asked, ‘Why? Why not me? Why does this keep happening and why can’t I just be like so many others on the podcast and so many others across the country? Why can’t I just will it into being?’ From these questions, I’m starting to believe that my story actually might begin at the end. I’ve realized that maybe my story isn’t about the mechanism of birth at all, but what it birthed in me which was the ability to see my own strength.” Additional Links The Lactation Network Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Wherever you are listening from, welcome to The VBAC Link. We have three beautiful stories for you today. They are all unique. They all have certain things along the way that add some unique factors. We have our friend Anneke. I keep questioning that, but it’s Anneke and she has had three Cesareans. Her Cesareans really all have been a little bit different and for different reasons. We’ve got IVF. We’ve got low fluid and we have breech presentation. I’m excited to share your stories or have you share your stories today, but as always, we love starting our podcast out with a review. Review of the Week Today’s reviewer is from a girl named Megan. It says, “Great resource.” It says, “Such a great resource for VBAC mamas to come and listen to women’s stories and get great evidence-based practice information. I do wish these ladies would do a little less interrupting of the storytellers.” Well, I’m so sorry, Megan. We definitely do jump in so hopefully, Anneke, you don’t feel too interrupted. But we do like to be a part of your story as well because we want you to share your story, but we are listening and we are listening for the first time. We are reacting as if someone else would react the first time they are listening, right? So yeah. T
Wed, October 04, 2023
Episode 255 Wendy's VBAC with an 11-pound Baby
After 24 hours of laboring with broken waters, dilating to 10 centimeters, and pushing, Wendy’s first baby was still not descending. She was exhausted and consented to a C-section. When her baby came out at 11 pounds, 3 ounces, the entire medical team told Wendy that her baby would have never come out vaginally due to his size. Wendy’s second baby was ALSO 11 pounds, 3 ounces, and was indeed born vaginally. We are inspired by all of the obstacles that Wendy overcame to achieve the birth she wanted and love how she is already inspiring those around her to fight for their rights in the birth space too! Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. This is Meagan. I have an episode. Well, we– I should say– me and my friend, Wendy. We have an episode for you today that’s all about big babies, and not all about babies. We’re going to be talking about induction and things like that but big babies, you guys. This is one of the most frustrating things to me. I’m sure, Wendy, maybe it would be to you because you did have larger-sized babies so maybe you heard it and felt it, but I remember when I was pregnant with my first. I definitely gained more than I anticipated. I swelled on top of that. I remember going to work and my coworker– I was going to the kitchen to get something. I don’t even know. He was like, “Whoa. Do you need a wheelbarrow?” I was like, “Jeez Louise.” He was like, “You’ve got a really big kid inside of ya.” I was just like, “Wow. Thank you so much as I am 7 months pregnant and you are telling me that I am ginormous.” Right? I just know that through doula work, we have clients all the time being told, “You’re probably going to have a big baby.” They start the big baby fear really early on. So in our minds, it’s like, “Well, am I going to have a big baby? Do I not want to have a big baby? What do I do to not have a big baby?” Our minds just spiral and it’s not healthy for us to be stressing over the size of our baby but we do find ourselves being stressed. We find ourselves being stressed without being told that we have a big baby, and then when we are constantly told, “You might have a big baby,” that can be daunting or scary. If you were told or if you believe or are being told that they believe that you have a big baby today, this is an episode for you for sure. We talk about big babies and we’re going to talk a little bit more about what would be considered a big baby
Wed, September 27, 2023
Episode 254 Q&A With Prenatal-Focused Chiropractor Dr. Elliot Berlin
“We are pieces of an important puzzle and there are a lot of pieces. Working together, we can effect a lot of change.” Joining Meagan on the podcast today is Dr. Elliot Berlin, a renowned prenatal chiropractor based out of Los Angeles who is making a huge impact on the birth community. Dr. Berlin is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in holistic birth preparation and advocacy. He is a birth doula, hosts the Informed Pregnancy Podcast, and his most recent project is the Informed Pregnancy Plus streaming service where birth documentaries and other educational videos can be found on one online platform. Dr. Berlin and Meagan discuss TONS of topics that come from your questions! Topics include: What happens during an adjustment When to start prenatal chiropractic care Bodywork Adjustments during labor CPD Breech Presentation Pubic Symphysis Support at home Breastfeeding Additional Links Dr. Berlin’s Website Informed Pregnancy Plus Pediatric Chiropractic Search Website Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. You guys, we have a very special episode for you today. We have Dr. Elliot Berlin with us today and he’s actually live with me so that’s pretty cool that I actually get to see his face live via Zoom. Dr. Berlin: It feels like we are in the same room. I’ll be honest. Meagan: Right? As live as you can get through a computer. I feel like this is our new norm these days. This is how live works. Dr. Berlin: Yeah. And you know, we got used to it. Meagan: Yeah, we did. We got used to it pretty dang fast actually. We’re so excited to have you on today and we have so many amazing questions that our listeners and followers have asked. But I first want to just talk a little bit about you and who you are so if anyone doesn’t know who Dr. Elliot Berlin is, you need to know and you need to go follow his page right now. Push pause unless you are driving. You can do that later and go follow @doctorberlin on Instagram because he’s amazing and has so many incredible things and has done—I mean, for years—so many incredible things in the birthing community. Dr. Berlin is an award-winning pregnancy-focused chiropractor. If you don’t know yet, on this podcast, we love chiropractic care. He’s a certified birth doula an
Wed, September 20, 2023
Episode 253 Sarah's VBAC with a Family Doctor
Today on the podcast, Sarah joins us from Minnesota. Sarah got COVID-19 very early on in her first pregnancy during the height of the pandemic. The protocol at her practice was to recommend a precautionary 39-week induction. Sarah trusted her doctor and consented to the induction along with other interventions that were suggested. Her birth ended in a Cesarean under general anesthesia. During recovery, Sarah’s knees would buckle to the point where she needed assistance walking and fell until the problem slowly resolved. When she achieved her VBAC, Sarah was able to immediately walk unassisted. She wasn’t groggy from just having had anesthesia. Her throat didn’t hurt. She got the immediate skin-to-skin she missed the first time. Sarah is such an amazing example of how powerful a VBAC birth can be, especially with the right prep and the right team. We just love how hands-off and supportive her doctor was. Sarah went into her birth mentally and physically strong. She labored hard, stayed calm, and pushed her baby boy out in 20 minutes! Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to The VBAC Link. We have a story for you today coming from Minnesota. We have our friend, Sarah. And Sarah, tell me. Did you have your babies both in Minnesota or have you moved since then? Sarah: Yes, both in Minnesota. Meagan: Both in Minnesota. All right, so Minnesota parents, listen up. This is a wonderful episode in your area. Review of the Week As always, we have a Review of the week but first I want to talk a little bit about COVID-19. Sarah and I were just talking about how we have seen so many COVID-19 stories coming through. They had their C-section through COVID-19 or even had their VBAC during COVID-19 and then now they have gone on to VBAC. There is definitely a trend of situations that we are seeing so I’m just so curious today. Go comment on today’s episode and let us know if you have any relation, but a lot of providers are wanting to induce if you have the virus, COVID-19. Sarah, that was kind of the case with you, right? They wanted to induce because you had COVID-19. Sarah: Yes. That was kind of the standard of care at that point. Meagan: Yes, which is kind of interesting to think about the new standard of care. I really am curious to see one day what the Cesarean rates did during COVID-19. You know, there is some e
Wed, September 13, 2023
Episode 252 Brittani’s HBAC After a Hospital Transfer VBAC
Women of Strength, believe in yourselves! Brittani shares her inspiring two VBAC stories with us today-- one where she mostly prepared physically and one where she focused on intense mental preparation. While all three of her birth stories are wildly different, each taught Brittani valuable lessons. The image of Brittani standing in her bathroom being held up by her husband and doula while she pushes out her baby girl is absolutely unforgettable. We are so proud of you, Brittani! Additional Links Brittani's Clothing Website - Nunuy Apparel How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. We have another VBAC story. We actually have two VBAC stories for you today. We have our friend, Brittani and she is in Oregon. She has had two VBACs. Brittani, tell me. You grew up in Florida. Did you have your babies in Florida or were you in Oregon when you had your babies? Brittani: All three babies here in Oregon. I lived in Florida until I was 21-22. Meagan: Okay, all right. So all three babies in Oregon, so Oregon parents. Brittani: We are. Meagan: Listen up here. We have some VBAC stories for you. I don’t know if you will share along the way but feel free to share where you gave birth. We have a lot of people a lot of the time write in and say, “Oh my gosh. I heard this story. I am in the same area. I would love to find a provider. Do you know their provider?” So if you feel that you want to share, feel free in your story to share. Brittani: I am happy to give shoutouts, yes. Meagan: Perfect. Perfect. Well, Brittani is a stay-at-home mom with her three children. They are all under the age of four, right? Brittani: Four and under, right? Our oldest will be five at the end of June. Meagan: Yay. Oh my gosh. You are busy. Brittani: Yes, we are. Meagan: Not only are you busy with three beautiful children, but you have created an amazing business. I just want you to share a little bit about this because I think a lot of people will for sure want to go check you out and make sure to know that if you guys miss it while you’re driving or something, the link for all of her stuff will be in the show notes. So yeah, Brittani. Tell us a little bit about your clothing line. Brittani: That’s so kind. Thanks, Meagan. I don’t know if it’ll come up in conversation but I had a really, really tough go at breastfeeding. All three babies, but especially with my first, I was really self-conscious about nursing in public. I got really into sewing at home and just had the inspiratio
Wed, September 06, 2023
Episode 251 Meagan and Julie + What is Radical Acceptance?
Have you heard of radical acceptance? Julie Francom leads our episode today alongside Meagan as they discuss what this concept is and how it is helping them process their births even now, years later. Meagan gets especially vulnerable today as she shares a part of her VBA2C birth story that has never before been shared on the podcast. Women of Strength, birth can be all of the things– empowering, euphoric, intense, and traumatic. We want you to know that we are processing and healing right along with you. We all have work to do and we are all in this together. Has radical acceptance helped you process your births? We would love to hear your experiences! Additional Links Accepting Reality Using DBT Skills Article How to Embrace Radical Acceptance Article Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Heyo, it’s Julie here, your co-host for the day of The VBAC Link Podcast. I am joined by Meagan Heaton, the ever-wonderful, always amazing, always uplifting and inspiring. Man, did I already say your name? I forget. I went on a tangent. Meagan: You did. Hello, everybody. It’s so fun. When we were just talking about it, I was like, “Julie, you lead the episode today.” Julie: I’m out of rhythm. Meagan: It’s great. You did a great job. Julie: We are here today. We were just hashing over topics that we could talk about something that I am working through always in my life and different things that we could possibly introduce today and we landed on the topic of radial acceptance. I think we’re going to tell you about why we chose that topic here in just a little bit, but I’m really excited today because birth is complicated. I feel like everyone coming here in this space with us has probably had a complicated birth or witnessed a complicated birth. Hello, birth workers. Review of the Week We’re going to talk a little bit about that and what happens when you just can’t get over it or overcome it. But before we do any of that and before I ramble on my merry little way today, Meagan’s going to read a review for us. Meagan: Yes. Okay, so we have this review from Apple Podcasts. This is from our friend, Tiffany. She said, “V
Wed, August 30, 2023
Episode 250 Charlotte's VBAC with Gestational Diabetes + Is it Possible?
You don’t hear VBAC stories with gestational diabetes very often, but we want to change that! Charlotte joins Meagan on the podcast today sharing her experience with gestational diabetes and a surprise preterm delivery at 32 weeks. Though she had some pretty significant curveballs thrown at her, Charlotte’s commitment to controlling what she could along with an amazingly supportive team allowed her to have an empowering birth experience. Charlotte knew she wanted a VBAC for an easier recovery. What she didn’t know was truly how much of a blessing in disguise it became during the intense weeks she spent as a NICU mama. Additional Links Real Food for Gestational Diabetes by Lily Nichols Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. You are listening to The VBAC Link and I am excited to be sharing a story with you today that we have gotten a lot of requests about. It’s something that we don’t see very often and my question is why? I don’t really know why we don’t see these stories popping up. Even in the community, I’ve had to search through our VBAC Link Community on Facebook to find these stories. There are three I think. So I’m excited to talk about this story today because I know that it’s very much requested. We’re going to be talking about gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes again, is something that we don’t see but it’s actually pretty common. Crazy enough, we’re seeing a rise in fact. Last year, in 2022, there was an article published talking about the actual rise that we’re seeing. They said, “The new analysis of 3.25 million birth records follow a string of studies that suggest gestational diabetes has become increasingly prevalent over the last three decades,” which is kind of crazy. Every year anywhere from 2-10% of women will be diagnosed with gest
Wed, August 23, 2023
Episode 249 Ashley's VBA2C + Postdates + Releasing Fears
“This is going to change the course of your life forever.” Ashley’s first Cesarean was after a 48-hour labor at almost 42 weeks. She deeply desired and prepared for a VBAC with her second baby, but consented to a second Cesarean after another 48-hour labor at just over 41 weeks. With her third baby, Ashley pulled out all of the stops. She was committed to having a VBA2C in all the ways she knew and didn’t know before. Perhaps the most impactful part of her preparation was processing fears more intentionally than ever before. She proactively went to therapy to heal from her previous births and to preemptively combat postpartum depression. She released the weight of failure and inadequacy that she didn’t realize she was carrying. With exciting twists and turns, Ashley achieved everything she hoped she would in her third birth. She says that this VBAC experience has forever changed her and her belief in what she is capable of. Additional Links Baby Bird Birth and Doula Services How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. We are at the end of August. I hope you guys have had a wonderful summer and that it’s still great weather wherever you are listening from. We have our friend, Ashley, today and we are going to be sharing her stories. Something that we had requested or asked on Instagram is “What kind of episodes are you wanting to hear?” It seems that every time we ask that, a lot of people are saying, “VBAC after two Cesareans” and even extended to that, VBAC after three or even four multiple Cesareans. So today we have a VBAC after two Cesarean story. As always, we’ve got to get into a review but I am really wanting to talk because there is something about Ashley that she wrote in her bio. She said, “Her birth experiences have given her the passion for all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum and have even led her to be a doula.” I just resonate so much with that because that’s exactly how I became a doula, Ashley. I think that’s how a lot of us in the birth world find that passion and that drive to support and help. So congratulations on becoming a doula and finding your passion through all of these experiences. Ashley: Thank you. Meagan: I full-on believe but I sometimes say that we experience these not-so-desired birth outcomes, right? Not-so-desired birth outcomes, but sometimes I think that we have those because we are meant to do something more and meant to experience those to help inspire and encourage and empower someone in the future. So congratulations on all of t
Wed, August 16, 2023
Episode 248 Henci Goer + Let's Talk Uterine Rupture
We are so honored to have today’s guest, Henci Goer, joining Meagan today. Henci has made it her life’s work to help women make informed decisions about their care in the birth space. She has written multiple books, received countless awards, and has made current obstetric research more accessible to women worldwide. Henci defines uterine scar separation and talks about what factors may contribute to or help prevent this from happening. Meagan and Henci talk extensively about VBAC, VBA2C, birth plans, induction, and epidurals all using evidence-based research. We love that Henci’s mission is to empower women and families to make the choices that are best for them. Here at The VBAC Link, our mission is the same! Additional Links Henci’s Blog: Is VBAC Safe? Henci’s Website Labor Pain: What’s Your Best Strategy? By Henci Goer Optimal Care in Childbirth: The Case for a Physiologic Approach Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan and you guys, we have an amazing, amazing, amazing episode for you today. This episode has actually been kind of a long time coming. We have our friend, Henci Goer. She is just a wealth of knowledge. You’re going to absolutely pick this episode apart. I know it. You’re actually probably going to want a notebook so if you’re one of the listeners that goes on walks or is driving, you might want to press pause or listen to it and come back with a notebook because I know you’re going to want to write these stats down. We’re talking about uterine scar giveaway, you guys. I know that this is something huge. All of our listeners, every single one of our listeners that has had a VBAC is aware of uterine scar separation so this is going to be a really great episode filled with wonderful evidence and all of the things for you. So buckle up. It’s going to be amazing. Review of the Week But of course, we have a Review of the Week so I am going to quickly share that with you. This review today is actually on our How to VBAC: The Ultimate Parents Course . This is from Rosie. It says, “As someone who had
Wed, August 09, 2023
Episode 247 Meagan & Julie + Does a 39-week Induction Actually Reduce Your Chances of a Cesarean?
Meagan and Julie talk about the ARRIVE trial and compare those findings with new research released from a retrospective study conducted at the University of Michigan. Many first-time moms and VBAC moms are being told by their providers that an elective induction at 39 weeks will reduce their chances of a C-section. Is this really true? Meagan and Julie will empower you with information about elective inductions to help you make decisions about your birth that are right for YOU. Additional Links University of Michigan Study The VBAC Link Blog: The ARRIVE Trial ARRIVE Trial How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. Guess what? Julie is on today. I have kind of, well not kind of, really missed Julie. I reached out to her a month or so ago and was like, “Hey, would you like to come on with me and we can do episodes?” And she said, “Yes!” Julie: Yes. Meagan: I should have brought chocolate cake. Instead of her proposing to me with chocolate cake, I proposed to her with my smile. I don’t know what I’m trying to say. I don’t know. I don’t know. But she said yes and I’m so glad that she said yes this time. So welcome, Julie. Welcome, welcome. Julie: Welcome. It’s good to be here. Meagan: Yeah. It’s good to have you here. It’s good to see your face. Julie and I are going to be talking about the ARRIVE trial today. That is something that if you’re not familiar with, it was done in 2018, and I think it was published in 2019. Does that sound right, Julie? Julie: Yeah, I think the final analysis was published in 2020. Meagan: Yeah. Julie: The study was completed in 2018. Meagan: Yeah. Yeah. It is where they did a trial to see if elective induction at 39 weeks reduced a lot of things. Not just Cesarean, but because we are in the Cesarean world, it was definitely, I would say, one of the most important topics. Does it reduce Cesarean? But also, does it reduce the chances of preeclampsia, hypertension, and other things? But the big question was does it reduce the chances of Cesarean? So we are going to talk about that today. We have a blog on it today, but there is actually an update. That was done in May of 2023 so we are going to talk about that. Review of the Week But of co
Wed, August 02, 2023
Episode 246 Jaime's Precipitous HBAC + Protecting Your Space
After finding wonderfully supportive midwives who were willing to deliver a breech baby at home, Jaime was sure that her first delivery would be peaceful and empowering. Things quickly turned traumatic, however, when she developed a fever and was rushed to the hospital where she was treated poorly and sent straight to the OR. It took seven years for Jaime to finally get to a peaceful place where she felt ready to birth again. Jaime shares her different approaches to this birth and how she found the courage to prepare for another home birth. Jaime was able to stay grounded, present, and in control during her labor and delivery, allowing her to achieve the beautiful HBAC she desired! Additional Links Birthing From Within by Pam England and Rob Horowitz Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage by Rachel Reed How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. It is another day for another amazing story. We have our friend, Jaime, here and she is from Nashville, Tennessee so if you are from Nashville, Tennessee, you’re going to want to listen up. I know that people have been wanting to know where some of our listeners are coming from because they are looking for providers and hospitals and all of the things like that in their area. So today is coming from Tennessee. She had kind of a traumatic birth which a lot of us do and then was able to set a good path and redeem her story with a VBAC. We are so excited to be sharing this story with you guys today from Jaime but of course, we have a Review of the Week. We could never go without sharing one of these amazing reviews, you guys. Review of the Week This is from Apple Podcasts and it’s from erind39 . The subject is, “Planning Second VBAC with Confidence.” It says, “I am planning my second VBAC in July and I’m so happy that this podcast is back.” This was actually left in 2022 so last year when we came back. That was awesome. It says, “The VBAC Link is a great resource for anyone considering a VBAC. The stories are empowering and the data presented is affirming. I feel like I am so well-prepared for my second VBAC and have this podcast to thank
Wed, July 26, 2023
Episode 245 Kelsey's VBAC + GBS Positive + Ruptured Membranes for 24+ Hours
Kelsey would title her VBAC story, “When Everything Goes Wrong”. This episode is a must-listen as she shares her VBAC birth after testing positive for Group B Strep. Kelsey’s first provider: Pushed a scheduled C-section due to a possible big baby Chose elective C-sections for all of her own births Kelsey’s second provider: Wasn’t concerned about Kelsey’s blood clotting disorder Didn’t push for induction upon borderline amniotic fluid levels Limited cervical checks Suggested a Cook’s Catheter at 0 centimeters dilated with ruptured membranes Didn’t push for C-section after 24 hours of ruptured membranes with GBS We are incredibly grateful for all of those VBAC-supportive providers out there! They make ALL the difference. Additional Links The VBAC Link Blog: Group B Strep Prevention and Your Options for GBS+ Birth How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. Welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan, your host of The VBAC Link. We have a story for you today that has been something that we’ve been seeing trickling in our inbox a lot. So I went onto our VBAC Link Community on Facebook and said, “Hey, I’m looking for some stories with this specific topic.” That specific topic is GBS, so Group B Strep if you don’t know what GBS means. That is something that we’ve been seeing in our inbox of people being told they cannot have a vaginal birth if they test positive for GBS which we all know, I hope through listening to these episodes that you’d know by now, is false. If you are told that you absolutely cannot have a TOLAC, a trial of labor after Cesarean because you have Group B Strep, that is not true. That is just simply not true. We have our friend Kelsey today from outside of Dallas, Texas is that right? Kelsey: Yes. Yes, yeah that’s right. Meagan: Yes and she is going to share her story just proving that. Another fun twist to her story is that she had a rupture of membranes. One of the things providers fear more or worry most about is GBS and rupture of membranes and the longevity of the membranes being ruptured increasing risk of infection. So a lot of providers will say, “If you have G
Wed, July 19, 2023
Episode 244 Nurul's VBAC in Singapore
“Because of that VBAC, it has opened a new me. I did not birth my daughter. I had a rebirth of myself, a stronger self." Nurul joins Meagan on the podcast today all the way from Singapore! She shares how finding The VBAC Link gave her the hope she needed to believe a redemptive birth could be possible after a traumatic C-section experience. After interviewing 11 doulas and many doctors, Nurul fought to build a safe, supportive birth team which made all the difference in the end. We are SO proud of how Nurul achieved her VBAC and found a safe, supportive team with limited resources. We know you will be inspired by Nurul and her beautiful family just like we are!! Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello VBAC Link listeners. This is your host, Meagan and I am so honored to be here today with our guest, Nurul. Am I saying that right? I always feel like I say it Nurul. You guys, she is in Singapore and right now, it’s 11:00 PM her time. She was so gracious to stay up super late and record her story. We have an amazing story. I know they are all amazing, but I think that this is a story that a lot of people are going to connect to because we know sometimes how hard it is in the VBAC world to find and really get the support that we deserve. So make sure to buckle up because this episode is going to be so wonderful and Nurul, I’m so, so grateful for you to be here with us today. Nurul: I think, like I started this journey, honestly I started with The VBAC Link. The moment I found out I was pregnant, I’m like, “I’ve got to find something that understands how I feel inside,” so I went straight to finding something. I found you on Instagram and was like, “Oh god, they have a podcast.” I went straight to Spotify and I’m like, “Okay. I’ve got to listen to this.” I’m hitting play and playing and playing. I listened to episodes all the way down to the day before I gave birth. Meagan: Oh my gosh. I love it. So all of these stories carried you through your whole pregnancy journey and inspired you. Now here you are going to record your story and inspire someone else in the same way. Nurul: Yes. I definitely wanted to come here so bad because I do not know how many of you know how so important it is, but I’m sure you’ve watched Crazy Rich Asians knowing that Singapore literally is a dot on the map. It is so tiny but i
Wed, July 12, 2023
Episode 243 Dr. Kimberly Spair's VBACs + Postpartum Depletion
Dr. Kimberly Spair does it all! She holds a Ph.D. in Holistic Natural Health and Nutrition along with lots of additional certifications and degrees, all of which have helped her create an amazing career around helping others find holistic healing. Dr. Spair specifically helps postpartum women find ways to naturally combat symptoms like anxiety, exhaustion, and overall depletion. She is a VBAC mama herself and knows personally what kind of support birthing women deserve. Dr. Spair is so lovely and gracious. We know you will love this episode like we do! Additional Links Dr. Kimberly Spair's Website Free Postpartum Recipes Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. We have a special episode for you today. We have our friend, Dr. Kimberly Spair. Is that correct? Did I say it correctly? Dr. Spair: That’s correct. Yep. Meagan: Okay. That’s how I say it in my head. Sometimes I say it and it’s totally wrong. Dr. Spair: Yep. You’ve got it. Nope. Meagan: I said your name wrong like three times. Kimberly. Let me start sounding it out. Dr. Spair: You’ve got it. Meagan: You guys, she’s amazing. I was really drawn to her page a while ago because of something I had seen. I think it was a post about nutrition. Nutrition is something that is huge for me. I saw such a change when I dialed in on my nutrition, especially for my VBAC. I really dialed deeply into nutrition for my VBAC. I do believe that it helped me so much. So as I started digging into her and following her posts more, I was like, “I love her. She’s amazing.” So it is so awesome to have you today on the podcast. Dr. Spair: I am so excited and I love looking at your pages because you’ve got all of the statistics to give moms that home. The moms, and the resources like, “Oh, I had a C-section? Guess what, I can still have a vaginal birth.” I love it. I’ve been quoting you left and right in my posts so I’m glad we’re here today. Meagan: Well, thank you. We actually just shared one of your posts which was amazing. So you guys, definitely want to check her o
Mon, July 10, 2023
*SE10 Learn more about prenatal vitamins with Julie Sawaya + Needed
We have a very special guest on the podcast today, Julie Sawaya, who is one of the co-founders of Needed, a company that focuses on providing women with the highest quality of vitamins needed during the entire perinatal period. Julie shares with Meagan the research behind Needed's prenatal vitamins and supplements. She talks about why you need a prenatal vitamin in the first place, the optimal dosage and forms of specific vitamins in pregnancy, how supplementing proper nutrition in the best ways can positively impact your entire birth experience, and so much more! Use the code VBAC20 to receive 20% off at www.thisisneeded.com Additional Links Needed Website What to Look for in a Prenatal Vitamin Folate vs Folic Acid. What's the Difference? Ryann Kipping: The Prenatal Nutritionist Real Food for Pregnancy: The Science and Wisdom of Optimal Prenatal Nutrition How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have a very, very special episode for you today. We have our friend, Julie Sawaya, and she is the co-founder of Needed. If you haven’t heard us talking about Needed yet, go listen to the other episodes and get on Instagram. You guys, Needed is incredible. She is a mama of two young girls. We were just talking before the episode and her youngest is nine months. She is a lifelong nutrition nerd. I love that she calls herself this, a nutrition nerd. I’m a birth nerd. When we find ourselves passionate about something, we just nerd out, right? It’s so amazing. Julie grew up in a family of medical doctors and learned at a young age the power of nutrition and how it can influence or help. Julie went on to study the issue of nutritional access in college and got her Master’s in business from Stanford where she met her Needed co-founder, Ryan Of the most nutritionally aware of their friends, Julie and Ryan were shocked to realize that through nutrient testing, they were seriously major deficient in key nutrients. We don’t think about it, Julie. We just don’t think about this, I think, enough. We think we’re taking something and we think that we’re good. </p
Wed, July 05, 2023
Episode 242 Q&A with Dr. Barry Brock, "The King of VBAC"
We are joined today by Dr. Barry Brock, aka “The King of VBAC” along with one of his VBAC-hopeful patients, Kara. Kara and Meagan ask Dr. Brock VBAC-related questions similarly to how we hope you interview your providers during your VBAC preparation. Dr. Brock touches on topics such as gestational diabetes, big babies, preparing for your VBAC, induction, placenta previa, preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, VBAC after multiple Cesareans, and vaginal breech delivery. Additional Links Needed Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, everybody. Welcome, welcome. We have a really cool episode for you today, an episode that we have been really anxiously waiting for and so honored to be having. We love having birth professionals on the podcast and today we are so honored to have Dr. Barry Brock chatting with us today about birth and VBAC and all of the things. And then we have an extra special cohost today, Kara Sutton, who is actually one of Dr. Brock’s patients. Hello! Kara: Hi guys. I’m so excited to be here. Meagan: So excited to have you guys. I just wanted to share a little bit about the amazing Barry Brock before we get going into all of these amazing questions that this community has asked. Dr. Barry Brock has been a doctor for over 30 years and has experience in obstetrics and gynecology. He has been attending as a doctor at Cedars and I believe Dr. Barry Brock, you had your residency there, right? Dr. Brock: I did. Meagan: That’s really cool so you’ve been there for a while. Dr. Brock is amazing and takes pride in giving quality care to all of his patients. Seriously, one of the coolest things—I mean there are a lot of cool things—but especially with me in the VBAC world, one of the coolest things to me is that you have an outstanding Cesarean rate. It’s very low. I think that’s one of the things that you are very well known for along with helping people have vaginal breech deliveries which we know is kind of trickling out in the world and vaginal twin deliveries and of course, VBACs. So welcome, Dr. Brock, and thank you so much for being here with us. Dr. Brock: It’s my pleasure. Meagan: Oh my gosh. Yes, and as I mentioned, we’ve got Kara who is a patient of Dr. Brock. Kara, tell us how it is to be a patient. Kara: I am a mom of two. I had an emergency and I had a planned C-section due to PTSD from that first emergency C-section. Now I am four months pregnant with my third baby girl
Wed, June 28, 2023
Episode 241 Why You Need a Doula and How to Pay for One + Kaitlin with Be Her Village
“Doulas are great. How do I get one?” ‘Hope you’re rich, bye!’ “Wait, now I can’t have one?” We are so happy to be joined once again by our friend, Kaitlin McGreyes with Be Her Village. Meagan and Kaitlin talk all about the benefits of doulas and what they love most about being doulas themselves. Not only that– they also talk about how to actually afford one. Every mama deserves continuous support during her labor and birth. Kaitlin has created the platform to make it a reality. Additional Links Be Her Village Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. It is Meagan from The VBAC Link and guess what? We have our friend, Kaitlin from Be Her Village, back. I am so excited to have you, Kaitlin. Kaitlin: I am so excited to be here, Meagan. Thank you so much for having me. I love this little friendship that has burst out of our VBAC love and our desire to get everybody their VBAC. Meagan: I know. Our passion around birth. It’s just so cool to see how people from different parts of the world can connect so deeply. I just adore you and love you and I do hope that I get to meet you one day soon in person. Kaitlin: Oh, for sure. We’re going to make that happen. Meagan: Oh my gosh. Last time we shared her VBAC story and this time we are going to be talking about doulas. So if you didn’t know, we are both doulas. Obviously, we are very passionate and heavily involved in the birth world. We are going to talk about, okay great. That’s wonderful. We know about doulas. Now what do we do? We are going to talk about that today so if you are wanting to know more about doulas, the stats around doulas, and how to pay for a doula, you want to hold on and listen to this episode. Review of the Week But of course, I have a Review of the Week so we are going to get into that and then we are going to talk all about wonderful doulas. This review is from txliberty92 and it was in 2020 and it says, “From Fear to Confidence.” It says, “When I found out that I was pregnant for the second time, I instantly felt so confused about how to birth this baby. I had heard so much conflicting advice about repeat cesareans and just wanted to hear the facts and he
Wed, June 21, 2023
Episode 240 Abby's VBAC + Choosing Your Birthing Location
Abby Inman is a pelvic floor therapist, a soon-to-be mother of four, and one of the authors of the book Baby Got VBAC: An Inspiring Collection of Wisdom for Better Births After Cesarean . Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Abby is advocating for hospital policies to make pelvic floor therapy more accessible to all birthing women. As a VBAC mom herself, Abby talks with Meagan about why every woman should have a pelvic floor physical therapy consult in the hospital before going home. Abby also tells us some obvious as well as more commonly missed signs indicating that you could benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy. Additional Links Baby Got VBAC: An Inspiring Collection of Wisdom for Better Births After Cesarean Abby’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link. I apologize that I sound a little hoarse today. I have totally caught a darn bug. I have been trying to get away from it all year not getting sick and apparently, I couldn’t get away with it. So here I am. I sound kind of froggy today but that’s okay. We’re still going to carry on. You guys, we have our friend, Abby, with us today and I’m really, really excited because I was just telling her before we started recording, she is just a big ball of everything. She’s got a lot of amazing things to talk about and share so it is such an honor, Abby, to have you on our podcast. Abby: I am so excited to be here. Meagan: Yes. Oh my gosh. I just want to talk a little bit even before we jump into the review. I don’t want to talk too much about your story because I want to give you all of the time but have you guys heard, Baby Got VBAC ? Have you guys heard of that book? If you haven’t, go check our highlights or on our blog because we have it on there and it is such an incredible, uplifting book. And guess what, Abby? I don’t know if you know this. I don’t know if you were actually the one that contacted us, but forever ago, someone contacted Julie and me about being in this. We had so much going on. We were in our course and we were like, “We can’t take anything more on,” and we declined the opportunity and now we are kicking ourselves in the pants. We’re like, “Dang it. We should have been in this incredible book.” It has so many incredible people and stories and in
Wed, June 14, 2023
Episode 239 Sarah From Made Mindful + Preparing For Birth
“Labor is an event of the mind, the body, and the soul. We have to make sure that we are preparing in each of those elements so that we can then know at the end of the day that we are true to ourselves.” Sarah, one of the founders of Birth Made Mindful, joins Meagan on the podcast today to talk about how to mindfully approach motherhood in the way that is best for you, your body, your baby, and your family. She also shares her Cesarean and two VBAC stories! Sarah and her sisters created the Made Mindful platform to help women find their own innate power from within. All VBAC Link listeners will receive 30% off any of their courses by using the code “vbaclink” at checkout on www.birthmademindful.com. Additional Links Birth Made Mindful Website Sarah’s YouTube Sarah’s TikTok How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Receive 20% off on Needed Products The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey mommas have you ever looked at the back of your prenatal vitamin and wondered if you are truly getting everything you need? I know I didn't when I was pregnant. Well today I wanted to share with you the #1 prenatal I suggest to all my doula clients, friends, family, and YOU women of strength. It's by a company called Needed. I honestly don't think I was the only one that didn't really understand just how important certain nutrients were for myself or or my growing baby. And that is why i love needed. They have gone above and beyond to create solid products not only that have the key nutrients but also have the optimal amount. Don't be overwhelmed picking a prenatal. Check out all Needes products, including their prenatals, pre/pro biotics, immune support and more at thisisneeded.com enjoy 20% off by using code VBAC20Meagan: Hello, hello Women of Strength. It is Wednesday and we have another great episode for you. Normally we have VBAC stories, but today we are going to be chatting about a lot of topics actually. We have our friend, Sarah. She is actually a VBAC mom and she has been on the podcast before so welcome, Sarah.
Wed, June 07, 2023
Episode 238 Kaitlyn's Viral Hospital Birth + What You Need to Know
A few months ago we posted a video clip from Kaitlyn’s birth taken by Danielle Wilstead at Wild Oak Birth Photography and it went viral! We have Kaitlyn and Danielle with us on the podcast today sharing the backstory behind her inspiring video. In the video, a nurse is asking questions incessantly and Kaitlyn is advocating for herself while literally pushing out her baby! Kaitlyn shares the power of trusting that your body will tell you what it needs and listening to it when it does so. Additional Links Kaitlyn’s Photography Website Danielle’s Photography Website Emma’s Birth Story How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. Guys, this is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have such a fun episode for you today. It’s actually not a VBAC mom. I’m just going to put that flag right out there right now. She is a mama. I’m sure you will recall if you are following us on social media that went viral after her birth photographer posted a very incredible little snippet of a story of her birth. We posted it back in February and we will probably post it today. If you have not seen it, definitely go today to go watch this video. Her birth photographer, Danielle at Wild Oak, posted this video and it immediately gave me chills. Immediately. I want to say that she is not a VBAC mom but the episode today is going to be sharing her story and then also sharing more about how to really truly advocate for yourself and even make decisions that might be hard or sound weird to someone else. This mama has a history where she actually birthed out of the hospital and then with this baby, she birthed in the hospital. A lot of people would be like, “What? Why would you go back?” so we are going to talk a little bit about that. I want to welcome Kaitlyn and Danielle to the episode today. Ladies, thank you. Danielle: Thank you for having us. Kaitlyn: Mhmm, thank you. Emma and I are here together. Hello. Review of the Week Meagan: I love when babies are on the episode. I love it, love it, love it. Okay, so before we get into the story, I do want to turn the time over to Danielle becau
Wed, May 31, 2023
Episode 237 Morgan's Surprise HBAC + AFI
Today we are joined by a truly amazing woman of strength, Morgan. She recently retired after 25 years of active duty service in the Coast Guard and is a mama to two boys and one girl, each with their own very unique birth stories. Morgan’s first baby was born vaginally. Her second was a lifesaving crash Cesarean. Her third was a surprise HBAC born en caul! The high of this empowering birth carried her through a difficult postbirth hospital experience in which she almost lost her uterus. Meagan and Morgan share facts and insight regarding the amniotic fluid index. Morgan also gives tips on how to have necessary conversations with your provider to advocate for the birth experience you deserve. Additional Links Bridget’s Website (Morgan’s Doula) How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. Happy Wednesday, women of strength. We are bringing another story to you. You are listening to The VBAC Link and we have our friend, Morgan, here today sharing her stories. I’m really excited because just before we started recording, we talked about how Morgan said that she is a numbers girl. She’s like, “I love numbers.” It’s something that I love too but never have ever retained as well as Julie did. I’d be like, “Okay, I’m trying to remember. Is it this or that?” and she’d be like, “It’s this.” I remember names and stuff like that and she remembers numbers. That has been something that I have really missed without Julie being here so I’m excited to talk about numbers with you today, Morgan. We’re going to talk specifically maybe about amniotic fluid and percentages and things like that. But yeah. I’m excited to get into some numbers. If you’re looking for some numbers on the chances of VBAC, we’re going to talk about amniotic fluid. What really is a scary number and when do we really need to induce a labor? Stay tuned. Review of the Week Of course, we have a Review of the Week so before I turn the time over to Morgan, we will read Britjl14 . That is their review today. The subject is “Tears of Joy.” It says, “I literally got teary-eyed when I saw that your podcast was coming back. You gave me the courage to have my VBAC after two Cesarean baby, 9 pounds, 15 ounces, in late August. Such an uplifting and informative podcast. I tell everyone who mentions wanting a VBAC to look this up. So excited for more to come.”
Wed, May 24, 2023
Episode 236 Carlise's VBAC + Signing an AMA
When the empowering VBAC experience she envisioned took a hostile and combative turn, Carlise knew she needed to change birth locations immediately. Though signing an AMA was not something she thought she would ever have to do, Carlise found the strength to fight for the birth she deserved. Her thorough research and supportive husband and doula gave her the confidence to not tolerate a doctor’s inappropriate behavior. Meagan shares the pros and cons regarding AMA forms to help you feel educated if you find yourself in a situation similar to Carlise. While it was extremely difficult, leaving that first hospital during labor was ultimately what allowed Carlise to have her beautiful, unmedicated VBAC! Additional Links Carlise’s Instagram AMA Article How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. You are listening to The VBAC Link and we have another story for you today. We have our friend Carlise and she is from all over the place but she is in Texas currently. This is where you had your VBAC. In Texas? Carlise: Yeah, so both of my pregnancies have been here in El Paso, Texas. Meagan: Perfect. She had a VBAC in Texas and she had a wild journey kind of similar to a month or two ago, I want to say maybe it was Morgan where she had to sign an AMA and leave while in active labor. We are going to talk a little bit about AMAs today as well in addition to her VBAC because it’s something that we don’t talk about a ton. If you don’t know what AMA is, it’s against medical advice. That is a form that we would have to sign to pretty much say that we are leaving against medical advice but sometimes we are put in situations– and I’ll share a story that I’ve been to as a doula– where we feel that we have to sign these AMAs. Review of the Week In this situation, you signed the AMA and went on to another hospital and had a VBAC and a different experience. So we’ll talk a little bit about AMAs but first, we have a Review of the Week as always. Just a reminder, if you haven’t left a review, we would love your review. You can leave it on Apple Podcasts or on Google. You can just searc
Wed, May 17, 2023
Episode 235 Brittany's VBA2C + Foley Induction with Zero Dilation
Brittany’s first C-section came after a long and exhausting pushing phase with no progress. Her second C-section came after providers gave her a 50/50 chance of VBAC success due to the VBAC calculator. Brittany chose a repeat Cesarean for the comfort of a controlled environment following multiple traumatic pregnancy losses beforehand. She did not expect another horrible recovery with an elective Cesarean, but it was even worse than the first. Brittany immediately began devouring all information about VBAC after two Cesareans even before her third pregnancy. When she became pregnant, she found an extremely supportive provider 2.5 hours away which proved to be the best decision she could have made. Her VBA2C was everything she hoped it would be– raw, difficult, beautiful, redemptive, and empowering. Right after that birth, she wanted to do it all again! Additional Links Brittany’s Instagram How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast and this is your host, Meagan. I am always honored to be on this podcast with you. I love the listeners. I love the storytellers. I love the reviewers. We just love everything about this community and I am excited to bring a VBA2C– I’m not even going to be bringing it actually. Our friend Brittany is going to be bringing it. We are having a VBAC after two Cesareans story. Our most requested podcast topic is VBAC after multiple Cesareans, specifically two. We know how hard it is to find providers to support a VBAC after multiple Cesareans even though ACOG themselves says that VBAC after two Cesareans is totally acceptable and reasonable to go for. It’s really hard and it’s frustrating. I know as a VBA2C mom myself that it’s so frustrating. It’s so frustrating, right Brittany, to feel total defeat over and over again, being told that you cannot, you should not, and being filled with horror stories. I mean, all of the things. It’s so frustrating and this is why we are here. We are sharing these stories. We are letting you know that you can. It is possible. It might not be easy along the way and you’re going to hear today in Brittany’s story that it’s not easy but it is possible. So we have our friend Brittany like I mentioned. She is from southern Minnesota. She has been through quite the journey which she is going to share with you. If you want to know what some takeaways will be from this episode, on
Wed, May 10, 2023
Episode 234 Sydney's VBAC + Do We Really Have to Have a Baby by 40 Weeks?
Sydney joins Meagan on the podcast today to share her VBAC story and talk about her experiences going past 42 weeks for both of her pregnancies. Meagan shares a story about one of her doula clients who went past 43 weeks! Sydney and Meagan discuss how due dates are calculated and the flaws behind the method that is so widely used. Meagan shares evidence-based information about the risks involved with being pregnant longer than 42 weeks as well as risks surrounding the choice to induce earlier. Having multiple sources of information along with your personal experiences and feelings will help you feel more empowered to make the right decisions surrounding when to birth your baby! Additional Links Birthful Podcast Episode on Due Dates EBB: Evidence on Due Dates Blog How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello! It is The VBAC Link. My name is Meagan and we have another VBAC story for you today. In addition to the VBAC story, we’re going to be talking about postdates. This is a really hot topic especially in the VBAC world because we have a lot of people, I don’t want to say forced necessarily, but pressed to induce their labor. I think after the ARRIVE trial came out, it’s become even more pressing to have a baby by 39 weeks. I feel like the way we view the new due dates is that 40 weeks is 41. 39 is 40. 38 is 39. I feel like in a lot of areas in the world, that is how our mental state has shifted and we don’t really hear 41 weeks or 42 weeks as much anymore. Today, we have Sydney, and guess what you guys? She had 42 weeks and 5 days, right? Is that right Sydney with your first? Sydney: Mhmm, that’s right. Yes. Meagan: And then 42 weeks and 3 days with the second. So you are one of those mamas that carry further along than a lot of people. We’re going to actually make sure to have it here in the show notes but the Birthful Podcast, I don’t know if you guys listen to Birthful Podcast but I love it. I’m not even expecting anymore. I’m done having kids but I still love listening to it because the guests that she has on there are just filled with information. I want to say the guest she had, her name was Gayle I want to say. Don’t quote me on that. But she has an episode all about due dates and talking about how the body carries. Review of the Week </h
Wed, May 03, 2023
Episode 233 Morgan's Empowering VBAC + The Power of Doulas
Morgan’s story is full of so much joy! You will be smiling ear to ear when you finish listening to Morgan tell her VBAC story alongside her VBAC Link Doula, Jennie. She is a beautiful example of why The VBAC Link Podcast exists. We want these stories to inspire you to heal from past birth experiences so that you can view your future births with all the light and love you deserve. Morgan worked so hard to heal from her first birth and prepared for her second in every way. She created a team where she could feel 100% safe in her vulnerability. She knew that she could fully trust them through any wild twists and turns of birth. And they definitely happened! But even with the extreme intensity, Morgan walked away from her VBAC with absolute gratitude and joy. Additional Links Morgan’s Website Jennie’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, women of strength. We have an amazing episode for you today but first I want to talk to you just a little bit about postpartum depression. Studies show that 1 in 7 new mamas will develop postpartum depression. It’s scary and a topic that doesn’t really get discussed a lot. So before we jump into today’s episode, I wanted to share a little bit about our podcast sponsor and partner, Happiest Baby. As you guys know from listening to The VBAC Link, this podcast means so much to me. I love every single one of you. I know that’s hard to believe because I don’t personally know every single one of you, but it is true. I love this community so much and it means so much to me that Dr. Harvey Karp and his company Happiest Baby are such big supporters of VBAC and are supporting our mission. One of their biggest products that people may know or have heard of is called the Snoo. The Snoo is an amazing baby bed that can truly help many mams out there during their postpartum journey, especially if you were like me and have a husband or partner that has to go right back to work and is left with these amazing, cute, snuggly babies but also exhausted. Whether you had a C-section or a vaginal birth, for those few days and let’s be honest, probably months, you’re just exhausted. I was in pure survival mode. So many people refer to the Snoo as “the mama helper” who's there to help soothe your baby so you can just get a few more hours of sleep. They even have a rental program which I think is pretty awesome so you don’t actually have to buy the bassinet
Wed, April 26, 2023
Episode 232 Rachel's VBAC + Placenta Previa + C-Sections & Dental Health
Rachel is a pediatric dentist who owns her own practice in Pensacola, Florida. She fought for an empowering second birth experience even with an initial diagnosis of complete placenta previa. When her placenta thankfully moved, Rachel was cleared to go for her VBAC and she was all in! Rachel drove six hours to be able to birth with the provider she knew would best support her VBAC. With her doula and supportive family by her side, Rachel achieved the beautiful birth she envisioned. Additional Links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Women of strength, you are listening to The VBAC Link and I cannot wait for today’s story. Reading this story, there are so many twists. Not even twists I should say, but factors to this story. We have our friend Rachel telling it from Florida so welcome, Rachel. Rachel: Thank you so much. I’m so, so honored to be on this podcast. I can’t believe I’m actually getting to share this amazing journey with you guys so thank you for having me. Meagan: We are honored that you are here with us. Yeah. I feel like there are quite a few things within your story. Things like baby’s position, placenta previa which we are going to talk a lot about at the end, even dental stuff, close duration, so there are a lot of things where I feel like people can relate to this story. Review of the Week I will read a review and then we will get right into your beautiful story. Today’s reviewer is haley222222 . It says, “I can’t recommend enough. I found this podcast shortly after my C-section in 2019 with my first and it has helped me so much. My doctor had told me that I was only going to be able to have four children because I was going to have C-sections from here on out. This podcast opened my eyes to the possibilities I didn’t have a clue about and I had options.” Oh, I just scrolled, and okay. Here we go. It says, “I was able to find providers that I trusted and who actually believed in me. I prepared for my VBAC and unfortunately, my first VBAC was a stillborn at 26 weeks, second baby boy in October of 2022.” So sorry to hear that, Haley. It says, “Although it was heartbreaking, it was truly an amazing experience and I can’t wait to have another vaginal birth hopefully with a better outcome and a baby we can bring home. I am pregnant with my third now and
Mon, April 24, 2023
CAM #3 Blyss Young Answers Your Questions
Blyss Young is a seasoned home birth midwife who has so much knowledge, experience, and a special heart for VBAC. Blyss hosts her own podcast, Birthing Instincts, alongside her cohost Dr. Stuart Fischbein where they normalize physiologic birth outside of the hospital. We asked our VBAC community what questions you have for a midwife who supports home births after Cesarean and Blyss has answers! You will leave feeling inspired, educated, supported, and loved for whatever your birthing choices may be after listening to this beautiful discussion. We absolutely adore Blyss and know you will too! Additional Links Blyss’ Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello women of strength. It is Wednesday. Actually, it’s Monday the day of this episode and we are coming at you with another Cesarean Awareness Episode. I am so excited to be doing extra episodes this month. Today we have our friend Blyss Young. You guys, if you don’t follow her and her podcast with Dr. Stu, you need to do that right now. Push pause and go find them because they are amazing. They are a wealth of knowledge. They just make me smile. I feel like every time I’m done listening to an episode, my face hurts because I’ve just been smiling. Really, though. I remember I fell in love with Blyss and Stu years and years ago. We’ve been so fortunate to have them on the podcast before and Blyss agreed today to be on the podcast blessing you again with her wealth of knowledge and answering some of your questions. We put out in The VBAC Link Community, “What questions do you have for a midwife?” and we got quite a few surrounding home birth. I know this might sound like a really heavy month of talking about home birth because Julie and I got a little salt at the beginning of April talking about a home birth but it’s just such an important topic that a lot of people don’t know is an option. Review of the Week So we’re excited to dive into today’s episode with cute Blyss but of course, I have a review of the week that I would like to read. The title says, “Thank You” and it’s from cara05 . It says, “I just wanted to drop a review and say thank you. Because of listening to some of your podcasts, I felt empowered to talk to my OBGYN about skipping the repeat Cesarean in the event that I go past my due date. This was something I had in my head that I really wanted. O
Wed, April 19, 2023
Episode 231 Janelle's Unmedicated Hospital VBAC + It's Okay to Say No!
Janelle is such an inspiration. You can feel her beautiful spirit as she shares her birth stories with us today. She talks about how it’s okay if your life circumstances don’t allow for the perfect birth setup. Janelle was able to adapt and make peace with where she needed to let go. She was able to achieve the unmedicated VBAC she desired in a hospital setting. She found ways to strongly advocate for herself which also worked with her kind personality. Janelle has such a heart for women as she shares relatable advice about how to create a special experience throughout all of the unknowns of pregnancy and birth. Additional Links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, women of strength. We have an amazing episode for you today but first I want to talk to you just a little bit about postpartum depression. Studies show that 1 in 7 new mamas will develop postpartum depression. It’s scary and a topic that doesn’t really get discussed about a lot. So before we jump into today’s episode, I wanted to share a little bit about our podcast sponsor and partner, Happiest Baby. As you guys know from listening to The VBAC Link, this podcast means so much to me. I love every single one of you. I know that’s hard to believe because I don’t personally know every single one of you, but it is true. I love this community so much and it means so much to me that Dr. Harvey Karp and his company Happiest Baby are such big supporters of VBAC and are supporting our mission. One of their biggest products that people may know or have heard of is called the Snoo. The Snoo is an amazing baby bed that can truly help many mams out there during their postpartum journey, especially if you were like me and have a husband or partner that has to go right back to work and is left with these amazing, cute, snuggly babies but also exhausted. Whether you had a C-section or a vaginal birth, for those few days and let’s be honest, probably months, you’re just exhausted. I was in pure survival mode. So many people refer to the Snoo as “the mama helper” whose there to help soothe your baby so you can just get a few more hours of sleep. They even have a rental program which I think is pretty awesome so you don’t actually have to buy the bassinet. As I started to learn more about Dr. Karp and his mission, I just loved learning that he is so passionate about reducing postpartum depression in parents. They even got FDA appr
Wed, April 12, 2023
Episode 230 Riley's VBAC + Length Between Pregnancies
Riley shares valuable lessons learned as a first-time mama not knowing what to advocate for or how to advocate for herself during labor. Something as small as bringing your own gown to the hospital can make all the difference in finding your power. Riley mentions some of the shocking things her first provider did which drove her to immediately switch as soon as she became pregnant again. Meagan and Riley discuss how key a VBAC-supportive provider is especially during short birthing intervals. Opinions on the ideal length between pregnancies vary dramatically among providers! Additional Links The VBAC Link Blog: Length Between Pregnancies How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello. It is Wednesday and we have another VBAC story for you today. Our VBAC storyteller is Riley so welcome, Riley, to the show. Riley: Thank you. Meagan: Yes. She is from Alabama so if there are any Alabama listeners out there, listen up because she definitely has a great story. I feel like there is something special about her, or I should say unique, about her story and that is the time between birth and pregnancy. That is something that’s really big in the VBAC world. We get a lot of questions about it. Unfortunately, we have a lot of providers naysaying VBAC when there is a close duration. I’m sure, Riley, you are going to tell us all about what types of stuff people said to you. We are going to talk about that at the end as well because we do have a lot of people who have a close duration between birth and pregnancy. Yeah, so we are going to be talking about that. Review of the Week Meagan: But of course, we have a Review of the Week so I want to make sure to read that review. This review is on Apple Podcasts and it’s from RokFray . It says, “Getting VBAC Ready. This podcast has been inspiring and motivational to me as I prepare for a VBAC with my fourth baby.” Oh, that’s awesome. “Listening to each of these stories and realizing that through listening, I am learning how to advocate for myself and my family. It’s been a true blessing. Thank you.” Well thank you, RokFray, and I am with you. I feel like one of the best things about this podcast is truly learning how to advocate f
Mon, April 10, 2023
CAM #2 Kaitlin McGreyes + Be Her Village + Intentional Choices
We are so excited to have Kaitlin McGreyes from Be Her Village here with us today! Kaitlin began Be Her Village as an avenue for women to register for birth services instead of typical baby shower gifts to help support their transition to motherhood. Kaitlin shares how through her Cesarean and VBAC stories, she learned how to become an empowered and active participant during birth. Kaitlin and Meagan also answer a burning question. What is the real formula for how to have a successful birth outcome? Research, research, research, then trust yourself to make choices that are best for YOU! Additional Links Kaitlin’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. It is Wednesday or maybe Friday or Thursday or Tuesday, whatever day it is that you are listening, today is Wednesday when we are recording The VBAC Link Podcast. I’ve been a little giddy for this episode because we have our friend Kaitlin. She and I connected. She is with Be Her Village and we actually connected two weeks ago. Maybe a week ago, a little bit ago. We got off the phone and we both felt the same feeling, this energy. Can we just be best friends? That’s what you were saying. We’re best friends. It’s just so fun. We definitely have very similar passions and drives for the birth community and VBAC and all the things. She has a story of her own today that truly led her to where she is right now which I think is one of the biggest things that relates the two of us because my journeys led me to where I am right now at my desk recording this podcast and serving this VBAC community. So I’m going to introduce her a little bit more in just a moment, but we do have a Review of the Week. Review of the Week This was actually sent via email as well. We got two emails back to back about reviews. Just a reminder, if you have not had a moment to leave a review, please do so. We love them. They mean the world. Our team loves reading them. You can leave them on podcast apps like Apple or Google. You can send us a social media message on Facebook or Instagram or you can be like Daria did and she sent it to us via email. That is so wonderful as well. She says, “I just wanted to leave a review of my favorite podcast. It’s almost an obsession at this point. I had a C-section with my twins almost two years ago and am cur
Wed, April 05, 2023
Episode 229 Nicole's VBAC + Induction
Nicole joins us today from Canada. She has had an induced Cesarean birth, an induced VBAC, and is now pregnant with her third baby! Nicole shares her journey with IVF before pregnancy as well as what it’s like to have a subglottic stenosis during pregnancy. Meagan gives tips about the best types of induction for VBAC. You can be induced and still confidently achieve your VBAC! Additional Links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello and welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan and we have our friend Nicole with you today. She is from Canada and she has a VBAC story which is awesome. One of the things I wanted to talk about today within her VBAC story and her Cesarean story is induction. Induction is a hot topic, especially in the VBAC world. A lot of providers out there will not induce or they’ll tell people they can’t have a VBAC because of an induction needing to take place or people are scared of induction. I find that a lot of our followers are scared of induction. So at the end, I want to talk a little bit more about induction. Review of the Week Meagan: We are going to get into our review so cute Nicole can share her stories. Today’s review is, let’s see if I can get this to pull up. My computer’s slow here. It’s by Rucca the Silly Frenchie . I love that name. Lucathesillyfrenchie. The title is, “An essential resource if you are VBAC hopeful.” It says, “Writing this review from Columbus, Ohio. I’m a VBAC hopeful with my second daughter due on September 4, 2021.” So Rucca the Silly Frenchie if you are still listening, let us know how things went. It says, “After my first daughter was born via Cesarean due to a footling breech position, I knew TOLAC was in my future. This podcast has been beyond educational and inspiring. Be prepared to be addicted to listening to all of the powerful and unique birth stories from strong women around the country. Regardless of what happens with my upcoming labor, I feel empowered knowing I took a more empowered and educated approach with this pregnancy. Thank you, Julie and Meagan.” Thank you, Rucca the Silly Frenchie for your review. I would love to know how everything went. If you guys have not had a chance to leave us a review, please drop us one. We love them and we love reading them on this podcast. You can leave them wherever you listen to your podcasts. Hi birth workers, this one’s for you. In an ideal world, VBAC parents would be treated just like other birthing parents. In today’s wo
Mon, April 03, 2023
Cesarean Awareness Month #1 Meagan & Julie + The Hospital System
We are bringing you extra episodes all month long in honor of Cesarean Awareness Month! Meagan and Julie kick off the conversation with a passionate discussion about the realities of birthing in a hospital setting. Doulas are birth workers who uniquely experience births in all settings. Meagan and Julie share what they have seen and how it has formed the strong opinions they have now. Additional Links Julie’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Julie: Welcome, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast. This is your cohost for the day, Julie Francom. I’ve missed you guys so much. It’s so fun to be back here but I am also here with Meagan Heaton, the cofounder with me of The VBAC Link. We are so excited to be on a really special episode with you today. We were actually having lunch together the other day and talking about life, birth, and everything. We just decided that it would be better if we recorded the conversation so that’s what we’re going to do today. We’re going to record our conversations about birth, VBAC, and everything in between. Review of the Week Before we get into it though, Meagan has a review for us. Meagan: Yay, yes I do. It’s always so fun to have you on Julie. I am excited to have our conversation that we were having the other day only recording it because it is definitely a great conversation to be had and to be heard. If you guys didn’t know, April is Cesarean Awareness Month. This month, we’re going to be kicking off with some extra episodes in addition to our stories. Here is number one for you. As Julie said, I do have a review of the week. This is from mathletic and it says, “Empowering and Addicting.” It says, “This may be my second time leaving a review, but it is because I am preparing for my second VBAC and felt that it was necessary. I first found this podcast as I prepped for my VBAC in 2019. I religiously listened to a new episode on the way to and from work daily and am always excited for Wednesday morning’s new episode.” Julie, that is crazy to me that people have been listening since 2019. Julie: Forever. Meagan: It is 2023. It says, “This podcast has given me so much education and strength that I took going into my TOLAC and achieving my successful VBAC in May 2019. I am now preparing for my VBAC as I am 36
Wed, March 29, 2023
Episode 228 Lindsey's HBAC + Paternal Postpartum Depression
“It’s a dream. I am so thankful and just hope I can return the favor to the community because you all have been such a gift in my life. If I can give anything back, I hope that my story helps people.” Lindsey’s episode has SO much to offer! From listening to over 200 VBAC Link birth stories and extensive evidence-based research, and now fresh off of her own HBAC, Lindsey shares her list of helpful VBAC tips. As an active duty Air Force servicemember, Lindsey also shares tips on finding birth support during a military PCS as well as getting a referral to birth outside of the hospital under military insurance. Finally, Lindsey shares her husband’s journey with paternal postpartum anxiety and an update on how his anxiety levels are now– three months after her HBAC. Lindsey’s stories are just as impressive as she is and we are so honored to have her on the podcast today! Additional Links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, you guys. Welcome to The VBAC Link Podcast. We have a story coming to you today from Maryland. We have a mama. Her name is Lindsey and she married her high school sweetheart which I think is so fun. So fun. They have two boys, right? Lindsey: Yes. Meagan: Pretty fresh postpartum. Three months out. Lindsey: Pretty fresh. Meagan: Pretty cool. Your husband is a stay-at-home dad and you are on active duty Air Force and work as a dentist. How? You are a powerhouse. That is awesome. Lindsey: Thank you. Meagan: You are doing a residency and you have lived all over the country and seen so many things and you’ve had a VBAC. Lindsey: I can’t wait to share. Meagan: Yes, I can’t wait to get into this story. You guys, one of the things we are also going to be talking about today is something that I actually don’t know if we’ve ever talked about on the podcast but it is something that I feel like I saw in my husband when I was going to VBAC for the first time with my second birth. I saw what happened and he shut out, so we want to talk about paternal postpartum anxiety a little bit today because it’s something that we don’t focus on highly. We are focused on the mom giving birth and the experience that they have had, but it’s so important not to forget about our significant others or our birth partners, or anybody there that was in the space and witnessed birth. I’m excited to be talking in just a minute with Lindsey about paternal postpartum.
Wed, March 22, 2023
Episode 227 Brenda's VBAC + Heart-Shaped Uterus
Due to a velamentous cord insertion and breech presentation, Brenda decided to schedule a Cesarean for her first birth. It was a peaceful, calm, and beautiful experience. When she became pregnant with her second baby soon after the first, Brenda knew she would be okay with another Cesarean if necessary, but also intuitively felt that this birth experience would be very different. Though she didn’t know exactly what to expect from labor, her body took over and knew exactly what to do…even in the car! Additional Links Brenda’s Website Brenda’s Instagram Brenda’s Facebook How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook Community Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. You’re listening to The VBAC Link. This is your host, Meagan, and you guys, we have a great story for you. A really, really great, exciting story. One of those stories that you see go viral. Brenda, you might have gone viral. They go viral, a lot of these stories, and they’re really fun to listen to. I always remember imagining and being like, “That would be cool if that happened to me,” then I’d be like, “What would I do?” I don’t know what I would do. Our friend, Brenda, is here to share her story with you. You guys, trust me. It’s going to be an amazing one. I’m going to read a review and then we are going to jump right into it. Review of the Week Today’s review is by jess63636 and it says, “Fantastic resource for mamas looking to VBAC.” It says, “I listened to the VBAC podcast in the days leading up to my delivery. I wish I had discovered it sooner. The VBAC Link resource helped me through a successful VBAC induction.” Love it, congratulations. “It was an empowering experience facilitated by the support of The VBAC Link.” Oh, that makes me so happy. It makes me so happy. We have a lot of people that will find us toward the end and they’re like, “Oh, we wish that we knew about you.” I’m like, “I love that you love the podcast in the time that you did have us.” Don’t stop listening because guess what? All of these stories are going to continue and they’re all amazing and have their own special twists. So if you would also like to leave a review if
Wed, March 15, 2023
Episode 226 Pat's VBAC Over 40 + Processing Your Difficult VBAC
Achieving your VBAC is an accomplishment worth celebrating, but it's also important to hold space for processing the difficult moments. Pat joins us today to share how she birthed both of her babies over the age of 40 as well as how she found a supportive team to go for her VBAC. She shares the importance of paying attention to your feelings when choosing a provider even if everyone around you feels differently. Pat experienced some traumatic events during her VBAC which left her feeling grateful for the outcome desired but unexpectedly having to grieve the loss of what she thought would be a dreamy and empowering experience. Additional Links Pat’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey guys, this is Meagan. I’m so excited for another amazing story. We are actually going to be talking about something that I don’t feel like we talk about a ton and it’s going to be pregnancy after 40. Even really 36, right? I feel like in the medical world, 36 is old. I’m doing air quotes because it’s such an annoying thing to be but we are going to talk about that. Pregnancy after 40 and what that looks like and how that may feel for someone. We have our friend, Pat, today from L.A. She’s going to be sharing her stories. She did have a VBAC and we talk about this often on social media and things like that where people may have a vaginal birth after a Cesarean and it’s the most healing, amazing, beautiful experience and then sometimes it’s not. So I’m excited to hear from Pat today and hear more about her experience. Review of the Week But of course, we have a Review of the Week so I’m going to make sure to get into that before Pat starts sharing her story. Just a fair reminder, if you guys have a chance, if you would please leave us a review, we love your reviews as you know. We talk about it all the time but really, they make us smile so much and we love reading them on the podcast. So push pause and go leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. This specific review is from Sarah. She doesn’t have a subject on it but she says, “I am a birth and postpartum doula who is always on the search for a birthy podcast to listen to in my car. I was so excited when I found The VBAC Link so I could listen to these amazing stories from women all around the world who reached their goals through becoming educated thanks to Meagan and Julie. I recently certified with The VBAC Link as well and I’m impressed by the thorough delivery with which their knowledge was shared in the training. I’m super excited to move into the next chapter of my car
Wed, March 08, 2023
Episode 225 Heather's VBAC + Postpartum Depression + Patient Advocacy
“I knew I was having a daughter this time. I was like, ‘I’m going to approach this as the model that I want her to have. I want her to know that she is empowered to make whatever choices she needs to in life and I need to practice that now.’” Though Heather’s two birth outcomes were very different, the most inspiring part is what Heather fought for within herself. Heather went from knowing she had a voice and being afraid to use it to knowing her voice and making sure it was heard. In the depths of depression and anxiety, Heather continued to be proactive and choose healing. Through vulnerability, therapy, patient advocacy, medication, and staying attentive to her needs, Heather’s second postpartum experience was drastically better than the first. Additional Links Heather's Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Welcome to The VBAC Link, guys. This is Meagan, your host, and today we have our friend Heather. She is from Kentucky and she is sharing her amazing story. One of the highlights of her story that we’re going to be talking about is postpartum depression which is something I’m really excited to talk more about because postpartum in general and Heather, maybe you would agree, I feel like it’s even more sometimes in preparing for a VBAC because we’re so hyper-focused on the birth and having this vaginal birth and avoiding a Cesarean and all of the interventions. I mean, really. We’re just so hyper-focused that we forget what comes after. Not just recovery after, but mentally and physically. All of the things, and so I’m really excited that you are going to touch on this today and I already want to thank you for your knowledge because I’m excited to hear what you have to say. Review of the Week Okay, I have a review of the week and then we’re going to go into it. Does that sound good? Heather: Great. Meagan: This is actually a review of The VBAC Link course. This is from Ashley and she says, “TOLAC/VBACs should be treated just like any other birthing person but there is a certain preparation and information that needs to be offered to them and this course covered that. The value is held in your careful recognition of how to best support our clients who are doing a TOLAC.” I’m assuming Ashley is reviewing the doula course in this one. She says, “I cannot praise you two enough for the fear release activity. Honestly, it is something I can apply to even myself before and after birth and even in life in general. Thank you for that. It has already helped three of my VBAC clients.” <p
Wed, March 01, 2023
Episode 224 Abby's VBA2C After a Pulmonary Embolism
Abby has always had a heart for birth. She became doula-certified long before becoming a mother and even introduced her husband to The Business of Being Born on their second date! She knew that undisturbed, physiological birth was the way she wanted to go. But Abby’s birth experiences were filled with wild twists and turns including chorioamnionitis, posterior and breech positioning, pulmonary embolisms, hemorrhaging, multiple miscarriages, an ICU stay, and many blood transfusions. With the odds stacked against her, Abby did not give up the fight. She knew deep in her soul that a VBA2C was something she could do. AND SHE DID! Fresh off of her VBA2C, Abby shares every intense, tender, and raw moment of her journey. We know you’ll love Abby just as much as we do. Additional Links Abby’s Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello, this is Meagan with The VBAC Link and today we have another beautiful story for you. We are so excited to share all of these stories in this beautiful 2023. It’s going to be a great year. That is what I keep saying. It’s going to be a great year. No more weird viruses and all of the things. It’s just going to be a good, positive year and we are starting this week out with a positive VBAC story. We have Abby with us today and she is from North Carolina. Is that correct? Abby: Yes, Charlotte, North Carolina. Meagan: Yes, I love it. We have quite a few doulas in North Carolina as well. Maybe you guys could all connect. She is actually a doula as well. She is not practicing right now because she has a whole bunch of little bodies around, but this birth has totally motivated and boosted her spirits into the day that she does get back into doula work. So Abby, welcome. Review of the Week Meagan: I am going to share a quick review and then we will jump right into your beautiful story. Abby: I can’t wait. Meagan: Me neither. I really can’t wait for your story. This is PaigeBroadway . She shared her review and it was on Apple Podcasts. It says, “Allowing me to believe in myself.” Just that subject right there makes me so happy because that is exactly why The VBAC Link exists is allowing you to believe in yourself. We talk about this all of the time. It’s to believe in yourself to make the decision that is best for you. We don’t always have t
Wed, February 22, 2023
Episode 223 Mikaella's Precipitous VBAC + Overcoming Trauma + JULIE!
We are so excited to be joined by Mikaella as our guest and our dear Julie as a cohost today! Mikaella’s VBAC story is one of redemption, healing, and embracing the unexpected. By allowing herself to recognize that her Cesarean birth was traumatic, Mikaella was able to begin her healing journey and prepare for her VBAC. As her birth progressed, plans changed from a faraway hospital to her local hospital to a fast and furious birth at home! Julie, Mikaella, and Meagan share thoughts on the importance of acknowledging our traumas and how to avoid comparing them to others. Additional Links Mikaella’s Instagram Clark Film and Photo How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Good morning and welcome to The VBAC Link or maybe it’s the afternoon or evening or I don’t even know. Whenever it is that you are listening, welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan, your host, and guess what, you guys? We have Julie today as a cohost! Julie: Yay! Hi. Meagan: It’s always so fun to have Julie on and today is actually one of her own clients which is super fun. I love when we have a doula client on the podcast because you can just connect with the story and people are bouncing back and forth, so it is so fun. She is here from Utah, so we are all Utahns today here on the podcast. Review of the Week We’re going to jump into a review, and then I’m going to tell you more about our guest Mikaella. Julie: Yeah, I’m so excited to be here. I was a little nervous this morning. I’m not going to lie. It’s so strange being on here as a guest instead of a regular host. I don’t know. It’s just this weird little thing, but also I wanted to clarify that Mikaella is actually a birth photography and video client of mine. She had a separate doula, Jenessa who is incredible. But she’s going to go into that more in her story, I’m sure about it. I do have a review and I love this review. It’s incredible. It was by springr and the title of the review is, “Wow, Just Wow.” I love that. She says, “I’m what I like to consider a still pretty new mama, but I’m also a C-section mom. For a while, I really thought that’s what I would always be. I hit some pretty dark places, but this podcast has given me light. I listen to multiple episodes a day and have a long stream of notes on my phone.” Let me add, I’m not
Wed, February 15, 2023
Episode 222 Necey's VBAC + RCS + VBA3C
Our friend Necey joins us with her inspiring five birth stories today! Necey had a scheduled Cesarean for her first birth, a redemptive VBAC for her third, two scheduled C-sections after that, and a VBAC after three Cesareans for her fifth baby. She shares how her VBA3C was a spiritual journey that gave her the strength to advocate among skeptics and have faith in herself to follow the path she knew she needed to take. We are so in awe of Necey’s powerful stories! Additional Links Necey's Family YouTube Channel How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Hello, you guys. It’s February and we have more beautiful stories coming your way. Today we have our friend Necey. Her name is Donice but she goes by Necey. She has a whole bunch of stories. She is unique because she is a VBAC and then a VBAC after two Cesareans. She has five cute kiddos and she had an unexpected Cesarean like a lot of us do, then a VBAC, and then two Cesareans, and then a VBAC. I think it’s cool that you have a VBAC after multiple Cesareans and then you have a VBAC. I’m so excited for her to share her stories today, all five of them. So amazing. Review of the Week But of course, we have a review of the week. I’m going to share it from koggli . Sorry, I always butcher the names. The subject is “The Reason I Got My VBAC.” It says, “I cannot thank these ladies enough for the impact they had on me and my second birth. My first was a 24-hour labor with an emergency C-section. After delivering my precious son, I was sure I never wanted to go through a C-section again. Through their knowledge and resources, I was able to feel much more prepared for my second birth. Because of these ladies and all of the ones who have also shared all of their testimonies, I had a successful VBAC in October 2020 with a little girl.” She had a little boy and then she had a little girl. “Now I am preparing for my second VBAC with another little girl due October 2022” which means at this time of recording, she just had her baby a couple of months ago. So koggli , if you are listening, please write us. Let us know how it went. It says, “Because of them, I became so passionate for VBACs and the beautiful redemption they can bring. Thank you, ladies.” Well, thank you koggli . So excited for you. Congrats on your VBAC. I can’t wait, I hope, to hear about your second VBAC. So as usual, we love reviews from you guys. They are so amazing. They warm my heart. You can leave them in all sorts of different ways. You can do it on Apple
Wed, February 08, 2023
Episode 221 Our VBAC Link Doula Sarah's Beautiful VBAC Story
“If you want to have a VBAC, trying is so empowering. If it’s on your heart, you have to go for it because it’s possible.” We have had her on the pod as a fabulous cohost a few times, but now we get to hear Sarah’s own VBAC story today! After a PROM and stalled long labor, Sarah was told her pelvis was too small. She was labeled as a “failure to progress” and “once a Cesarean, always a Cesarean”. Sarah put in the work to change the way she let outside opinions influence her choices. She didn’t let self-doubt control her thoughts and surrounded herself with positivity. Sarah went all in for her VBAC and everything worked out beautifully! Additional Links Entering Motherhood Podcast Sarah’s Instagram How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Hello, this is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have another VBAC story coming for you. Today is actually kind of a fun episode because we have one of our own VBAC doulas. She’s actually been a cohost on a couple of episodes, so this is really fun to have her be on the other side of things instead of being a cohost, now sharing her story. I am so excited, Sarah, for you to be with us today. She is a mom of two, a wife, and a mechanical engineer. Since entering into motherhood herself, she has become certified in postpartum nutrition and is a birth and postpartum doula which I think is amazing. Postpartum nutrition is such a big factor. We are going to hopefully have a special guest on here sometime maybe in the spring and she’s going to talk about that and how nutrition can play a huge factor in our recovery and how our incisions, like our C-section scars, heal and how it can impact VBAC. It’s amazing, so I love that you are certified in postpartum nutrition. If you have anything that you would like to share at the end of this, please be my guest and definitely share anything. I am so excited for you to be here today. Review of the Week Meagan: I’m going to read a review and then we are going to jump into your amazing story. Sarah: Sounds good. Meagan: Perfect. This is a more recent, August 2022 and it’s from Connor Alyse Hoelle. Sorry, I’m really bad at names obviously. I’m probably butchering it. But the review says, “I was planning on waiting until I give birth to leave a review, but I love this podcast so
Wed, February 01, 2023
Episode 220 Dr. Natalie Elphinstone + Maternal-Assisted Cesareans
“Let’s make every birth the best possible version of that birth that it can be.” Dr. Natalie Elphinstone is a true trailblazer! When one of her patients asked about the possibility of a maternal-assisted Cesarean, she listened intently, took the idea to heart, and advocated for change by creating a new hospital policy to allow this beautiful procedure. Dr. Elphinstone is creating a whole new experience for Cesarean moms as they get to deliver their babies, hold them first, have uninterrupted skin-to-skin time, and feel like birthing women instead of patients on an operating table. Dr. Elphinstone shares how she was able to make this change, how we can implement this procedure in our areas, and even offers some VBAC tips as she is a big VBAC advocate as well! We are SO honored to have her with us today. Additional Links Dr. Elphinstone’s Instagram Dr. Elphinstone’s Introduction Post How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Welcome to The VBAC Link, you guys. This is Meagan, your host, and I am so excited to be here with you today. Today’s guest is an amazing OBGYN in Australia. She has caught over 1500 babies and believes in supporting women and families to make individual choices that feel right for them. You guys, she is making such a big impact in Australia and I am just so excited to pick her brain and hear more of her journey about how she has been changing the norm in Australia. Review of the Week We have a Review of the Week so of course, I’m going to jump into that before we start with Dr. Natalie. Okay, so today’s review is actually pretty short. It’s from Dr. Steven Roushar who is amazing. We actually have him on a podcast probably back in the early one-hundreds. He is a chiropractor and his wife has also had a VBAC. He said, “The VBAC Link is phenomenal. Great podcast content and training for birth workers.” Thank you, Dr. Roushar. We are so happy that you love The VBAC Link. We love you and believe in chiropractic care so much. As usual, if you have not had an opportunity to leave The VBAC Link a review, we would love that. I love getting these reviews. It makes me smile and we love reading them on the podcast. So push pause right now, and head over to Apple on iTunes. You can leave us a review. A 5-star review would be awesome along with a written
Wed, January 25, 2023
Episode 219 Ashley's VBA2C + Special Scar + High BMI
Ashley joins us today from Australia sharing her three birth stories and how she learned to truly trust herself. Driven out of the hospital due to discrimination and not being able to find support from home birth midwives, Ashley decided to go for a free birth. With a special scar, two previous Cesarean surgeries, a big baby, a high BMI, and a history of gestational diabetes, Ashley accepted all of the risks and was able to reap the beautiful benefits of undisturbed home delivery. Ashley shares with us her journey to acceptance when things didn’t go the way she planned, but also how to persevere through to fight for the story she wanted. She now hosts The VBAC Homebirth Stories podcast and is a Homebirth/Freebirth Mindset Coach inspiring other women to have the courage to take back control of their birth stories! Additional Links Ashley’s Instagram The VBAC Homebirth Stories podcast How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Hello, hello. Welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan Heaton and we have Ashley here with you. Can I just tell you? She is amazing and you’re going to want to listen to this episode 5 million times and then when you’re done listening to it 5 million times, you’re going to want to check out her Instagram and watch her videos 5 million more times because she is amazing and such a wealth of knowledge. We reached out and said, “Hey, we want to share your story on the podcast. We think it’s going to be an amazing episode.” I don’t think. I know it’s going to be an amazing episode. Review of the Week Before we do that, I’m going to get a review per usual and remind you that if you would like to leave a review, we are on Google and Apple Podcasts. You can email us. Shoot us a message on Instagram. We love to add your reviews to the queue and read them on the podcast. This specific review is from Ana Neves and it says, “I’ve been preparing for my VBAC ever since my C-section, and listening to the stories in this podcast has not only taught and informed me all about the different options, but also inspired me. I know that when the time comes, I will be prepared and feel the power of the great and courageous people who shared their stories here.” Oh, I love that. “The great and courageous people.” Oh, I love that. I love that so much. Thank you so much for sharing your review and like I said, if you have a review to share and you want us to know how you f
Wed, January 18, 2023
Episode 218 Eve's VBAC + IUGR
Here at The VBAC Link, we often talk about how to VBAC with a big baby, but what about the tiny ones? When Eve received an IUGR diagnosis with her first baby, she was no longer able to birth at her desired birth center. A medically necessary induction occurred soon after which then led to one unwanted intervention after another. Finally, her baby boy was born via an emergency C-section and was admitted to the NICU. Nothing about her first birth experience went as planned. Eve’s second baby was also measuring very small, but she was able to avoid an IUGR diagnosis. Everything about her second birth experience was different than the first…in all of the best ways! Additional Links Eve’s Website Eve’s Instagram: @get.creative.wellness How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Good morning, everybody. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we are here today with our friend, Eve. She is amazing. All of you guys are amazing. We love you all and are excited to hear her story and a little bit more about what she does. I’m kind of excited to pick her brain a little bit about what she does as a profession. She is an art therapist and a mental health counselor. As you know, in the VBAC world, there is a lot of– well in the whole world, there is a lot of mental health. Mental health is a crisis. Eve, I don’t know if you would agree, but I feel like we are in a mental health crisis right now, and sometimes right after birth whether it be the birth that you wanted or not even that you wanted, with both, we can have struggles and we also know that through birth and postpartum and all of the things that mental health is a big, important factor. So I’m excited to talk more with her about that and of course to hear her share her story. Review of the Week Meagan: We have a Review of the Week first and this is from Anne. She says, “These ladies are an absolute joy to listen to on their podcast. I feel so fortunate to have found them on my journey to what will hopefully be 2VBAC” which means a second VBAC “with twins.” That’s awesome. “When I had my first VBAC, I felt educated as I had read through books and websites. Now, I feel empowered thanks to Julie and Meagan. I feel more confident advocating for myself and asking the right questions. I recommend you to
Wed, January 11, 2023
Episode 217 Lizzy's 10 VBAC, HBAC & RCS Stories + Birthing Unconventionally
*Trigger Warning: This episode contains sensitive discussion topics including infant loss, miscarriage, preterm delivery, and hemorrhaging.* Lizzy has a passion for all things birth and babies as reflected in her amazing 10 kiddos! Her birth stories in order are as follows: an emergency C-section, VBAC, RCS, VBAC, HBAC, VBAC, HBAC, RCS, and a twin RCS. Though Lizzy has chosen to birth differently than most, she has always made sure to do what her intuition has felt is best and what she and her husband felt was right for their family. Through the highs and lows, every decision was made from a place of peace, not fear. We want all women to feel confident in the birth decisions they make. The VBAC Link is here to provide you with the education and resources to do just that! Additional Links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Hello, hello. This is still 2023. I cannot believe it. I am sitting here right now recording and we’re just getting into the holiday season thinking that this is going to be airing in 2023 and it’s just crazy to me. I cannot believe that 2023 is here. Today, we have quite the stories for you. And guess what? We have a special cohost and it’s Paige, our transcriber, and a dear VBAC Link family member. So excited to have you with us, Paige. This story is even close to your heart because this is your family. Paige: Yes, this is my sister-in-law, Lizzy. Meagan: Yes, so exciting. You guys, I can’t even tell you. I’m sitting here looking at her notes right here and she has so many stories and they’re all different like, crazy, crazy different. But Paige is going to do the review and then we’ll get started. Review of the Week Paige: Yes, I am. So my review comes from an email sent to us just a few days ago which is so exciting. It’s from molly and she says, “Hi there. My name is Molly Marshall and I just wanted to reach out and send a review of the pod. I’ve been listening for quite some time now since I had my first baby in August of 2020 via C-section. It was absolutely the opposite experience that I was expecting to have mixed with a scary pandemic. “After that, I began listening to your podcast just to hear other women’s stories who had gone through similar experiences. This made me feel a lot less alone. Once we decided to try for a second baby, I began listening to the pod even more frequently on top of lots of other research and such.
Wed, January 04, 2023
Episode 216 Happy New Year! Holly's 2VBAC + Prodromal Labor
Happy New Year! We are kicking off 2023 with a podcast filled with doulas. Meagan is joined by one of our VBAC Link-trained doulas, Sarah, to welcome our guest, Holly. Holly is a wife, mama, RN, doula, and placenta encapsulator. Holly’s first birth was a planned Cesarean due to breech presentation. Her second birth was a hospital VBAC with a long labor. Her most recent birth was a redemptive, quick, and dreamy HBAC (almost in her toilet)! Holly shares her tips on keeping a positive mindset through weeks of prodromal labor and how she was able to fight doubts and fears to achieve her beautiful HBAC. Additional Links Holly’s Doula Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Hello and happy 2023. I cannot believe we are starting a new year off, but I can’t wait to see where this year takes us. Today, we have Sarah. She is back today. She actually was on a little bit ago, but we had some time craziness so we are having her back on for a full episode. So welcome, Sarah. Sarah: Hello, glad to be back. Meagan: So happy to have you back. So fun to be cohosting with our VBAC doulas. If you guys did not know, we have a VBAC doula certification for VBAC and we are going to start hearing from some of our VBAC doulas because I’m going to have them on here and there as cohosts. I’m so excited to have them on, share where they’re at, and of course, have them be a part of this amazing community too. Sharing these stories and hearing these stories on the podcast seriously lights my day up. So on those days where I’m like, “Okay, we’ve got 4 hours of podcasts.” A lot of people might dread 4 hours of work, but I don’t see it as 4 hours of work. I see it as 4 hours of inspiration and motivation for me to keep going on The VBAC Link and to share these stories with you. Review of the Week We have our friend Holly today and she’s going to share her VBAC story but I’m going to have Sarah read a Review of the Week before we do. Sarah: Okay. This review is from Apple Podcasts and I hope I’m saying this username correctly, but it’s Kyeiwaaglover . Meagan: Yeah. When I saw that I was like, “Kyoa?” Sarah: Kyeiwaaglover, I believe, and it says, “As a
Wed, December 21, 2022
Episode 215 Dr. Christine Sterling + Board-Certified OBGYN Answering Your Questions
It’s so hard to believe that 2022 is coming to a close. Today is our last episode of the year! We have had so many inspiring guests on the podcast in 2022 and are so thankful to all of our listeners. No topic is off-limits in today’s Q&A episode. Dr. Christine Sterling is a board-certified OBGYN and founder of Sterling Parents. Meagan is here today asking Dr. Sterling questions sent in by our listeners. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of interviewing multiple providers, researching evidence-based information, and paying attention to how YOU feel about their responses! Additional Links Dr. Sterling’s Instagram: @drsterlingobgyn Sterling Parents Bebo Mia’s Webinar How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Meagan: Hello, hello. You guys, this is our last episode of the year. 2022 has come and gone and I cannot believe it. So many things have changed this year as you know. Julie has left the company and I’ve been solo for a little bit. That was a big, big change for us, but I am doing one of our first, I should say one of my first, episodes with a birth professional Dr. Christine Sterling. I cannot wait for this episode to be aired because it’s going to be amazing. Dr. Sterling is a board-certified OBGYN and a
Mon, December 19, 2022
TVL Holiday Special #3 Stephanie with My Essential Birth + Preparing Physically
For our final holiday special podcast episode, we want to help you feel as physically prepared as possible when going for your VBAC! Stephanie of My Essential Birth joins Meagan to share her wisdom from her own two VBAC births as well as what she has helped women learn through her many years as a birth worker. You will hear tips on how to choose and vet providers, three free exercises that might just make all the difference during your labor, and the secret lesson Stephanie has learned that she wants all of our listeners to know. Additional Links Stephanie's Website and Course Pregnancy and Birth Made Easy Podcast Bebo Mia’s Webinar How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Meagan: Hello, hello you guys. It is the end of the year. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link and I have another holiday edition for you. Today is one that I am so excited about because this is someone that I know personally. She’s a dear friend of mine and we have taken similar journeys through our doula careers, so it’s really fun to be with someone that I already know and that we have the same mindset and goals for all of you out there. This is Stephanie and she is amazing. So amazing. She is a mom and a
Wed, December 14, 2022
Episode 214 Megan's VBAC + Positive Home Birth Transfer
Megan joins us today all the way from England! Megan planned for a home birth after a Cesarean with a wonderful team of midwives. She was well-prepared for any potential outcomes and made sure to secure continuity of care in the case of a hospital transfer. 27 hours after her waters broke with intense contractions and no sleep, Megan was devastated to learn that she wasn’t even dilated at all. She was thankful for the supportive midwife team she had in place at the hospital. As her birth experience presented the unexpected, Megan embraced flexibility. Interventions she didn’t initially plan for brought pain relief, rest, progression, and her VBAC! Our guest cohost and certified VBAC Link doula, Madison, shares her love and wisdom throughout this episode as well. Additional Links Madison's Doula Website Bebo Mia’s Webinar How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Hello, hello. I cannot believe 2022 is almost over. We only have one episode left of the year, but this episode is going to be amazing. We are so happy that you are still with us for 2022 and we can’t wait until 2023 because we’re going to have really fun things coming. I want to share with you, you’ve probably heard it a little bit in the past, that I’ve been having some co-hosts on the show and it’s so fun to have different voices and people from all over the world sharing reviews and being involved in these stories. These are all of our certified birth
Mon, December 12, 2022
TVL Holiday Special #2 Eyla Cuenca + Processing the Past and Preparing for Your Upcoming Birth
Meagan is joined today by the amazing Eyla Cuenca! Eyla’s many years of experience as a birth worker have led her to specialize in holistic birth guidance. She helps women process past birth experiences and prepare for the most optimal future birth experiences. Eyla has so much wisdom and such a beautiful way with words. You will definitely want to take notes and save her advice! “There is no right way to do things. It’s simply what is in alignment with you. That’s what matters at the end of the day.” Additional Links Eyla's Website Bebo Mia’s Webinar How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full Transcript under Episode Details Full Transcript Meagan: Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Meagan: Hello, hello. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have an episode today to bring to you all about preparing, processing, and so many other things. This is something that a lot of people will write us about on our Instagram, our email box, “How do I process my previous births? How do I process what I’m going into and how do I prepare for birth when I’ve never even given birth?” Now, I want to just note on that right there that just because you’ve had a Cesarean does not mean you haven’t given birth. That is just simply not true, so if that is in your headspace, I want you to crinkle it all up and throw it away. You have given birth. You just haven’t maybe labored because I know for me, I hadn’t labored. I hadn’t progressed. I hadn’t dilated, but that left me questioning, “Could I dilate?” e
Wed, December 07, 2022
Episode 213 Jackie's Precipitous VBA2C
Jackie’s first birth was a beautiful, well-informed, planned gentle Cesarean due to breech presentation. After putting everything in place for a VBAC, Jackie was ready for it all. However, after pushing for hours on end with limited support due to the newness of COVID, Jackie consented to another C-section. Surgery didn’t go as smoothly this time around, and Jackie did NOT want to be in that situation ever again. With her third, Jackie found incredible, VBA2C-supportive midwives who validated every birth desire she had. Since her first TOLAC was 48 hours, she knew a 2-hour drive to the hospital was no big deal. Until…labor came fast and furious. Did she make it to the hospital? Additional links Bebo Mia’s Webinar Tara’s Website The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Welcome, welcome. This is Meagan Heaton with The VBAC Link and we have a cohost today. I am so excited to start welcoming in some cohosts. These are actually our VBAC doulas and birth workers. Welcome, Tara. Thank you so much for being with us. Tara: Thank you. It’s awesome to be here. Meagan : It’s su
Mon, December 05, 2022
TVL Holiday Special #1 Olga Leiser’s Breech VBAC + 2VBAC
“We named her Frankie because she was frank breech.” Guess what, Women of Strength? For the month of December, our gift to you is TWO weekly episodes! We are honored to kick off our Holiday Special episodes with our amazingly impressive friend, Olga. Olga shares her birth stories of an unplanned Cesarean, a frank breech VBAC, then ending full circle with an unmedicated VBAC. She has so much wisdom to share and we are here for all of it. She experienced so much personal growth and transformation with each birth. Topics include: AROM checklist Hip Dysplasia Protecting your mental space before birth Freezing colostrum during pregnancy Sibling doulas Happy Holidays, TVL Community! Additional links Bebo Mia’s Webinar The VBAC Link Doula Training Course Informed Pregnancy Podcast VBAC Breech Episode How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Turn your love of babies and bellies into cash. If you love babies and bellies and want to provide care and support to families, then Bebo Mia’s webinar is the right place for you. Get answers to those burning questions like how to be the voice you wish you had at your birth and how babies and families can be supported by doulas. Learn all about the different kinds of doulas. You can work in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, or just enjoy working with those squishy babies. Supporting families by becoming a birth worker, aka doula, is perhaps an option that hasn’t even crossed your mind. That’s why we want you to join this webinar. You can have great earning potential while doing something you love. Bebo Mia is the one-stop shop for education, community, and mentorship. Reserve your spot today at bebomia.com/freewebinar . Hello, hello you guys. This is our very first-ever holiday edition. I decided that in the month of December, we are going to put out two episodes a week. I am so excited today to bring you the first one. This is a good friend of mine. Her name is Olga. You guys, she is amazing. She is a powerhouse mom. That is for sure. She graduated from Harvard. She’s been featured in Forbes magazine with 30 under 30, 40 under 40,
Wed, November 30, 2022
Episode 212 Michelle's VBAC + 5 Tips You Won’t Want to Miss
Michelle’s first birth began with an induction via an artificial rupture of membranes at 42 weeks per the recommendation of her midwives. Looking back, Michelle realizes that many factors contributed to what may have been a preventable Cesarean. Right after the first trimester of her second pregnancy and at the height of COVID, Michelle’s husband deployed. Knowing he wouldn’t be home for her birth, Michelle did everything in her power to fight for the redemptive VBAC she deserved. We are in awe of Michelle’s strength, resilience, and all of her impressive victories along the way! PLUS…as a certified professional midwife, educator, and a monitrice/labor/bereavement doula with a wealth of knowledge and experience, our guest cohost, Katrina, shares her top five tips on how to have your most empowering birth experience. Additional links Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols Katrina’s Website Katrina's Instagram How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Welcome, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link Podcast. This is your host, Meagan and we have a cohost today. This actually is someone I know personally too. She is one of our VBAC doulas and she’s even a midwife now. This is Katrina. Katrina : Hello. Meagan: Thank you so much for being with us today. Katrina: Thanks for having me. Meagan: It’s so fun to have you. She used to live here in Utah and then she moved far away. Not really that far, but you feel so far now. Katrina: Yes, yes. I know, I miss everybody. Meagan : But you are doing amazing things where you are at. You are in California, right? Katrina : I am, yes, here on the central coast, so San Luis Obispo county. Meagan : Perfect. Do you want to tell everyone what you are up to these days? Katrina: Sure, yeah. A lot is going on for me. I am a licensed midwife– a certified professional midwife. I’m an educator. I do placenta encapsulation. I’m a labor and bereavement doula. I have a small and intimate practice here on the central coast in Templeton, California where I offer midwifery services, clinical sneak peek, gen
Wed, November 23, 2022
Episode 211 Taylor's VBAC + Words From a Labor and Delivery Nurse
You will NOT want to miss today’s episode! With her first pregnancy, Taylor was committed to having an unmedicated, vaginal birth. But after a 5-day induction at 37 weeks due to cholestasis and no cervical change or dilation, she knew it was time to consent to a C-section. Taylor knew she would fight for her VBAC even before she became pregnant again. 18 hours after her water broke, Taylor was barely 1 centimeter dilated. Labor continued for hours with transition-like symptoms. She knew she was close. Taylor agreed to a cervical check. She was 2 centimeters dilated. Find out how Taylor’s resilience helped her overcome that HUGE discouragement we feel when labor isn’t progressing the way we think it is. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Welcome, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast. This is your host, Meagan. Guys, I am so excited about this story today. This is Taylor. Taylor, we are so excited to have you on today. I am going to share a little bit about our course. Normally, we dive into reviews before we start the story, but I want to share a little bit more about our course. I wanted to let you guys know. We have a VBAC Prep Course. This prep course is for anybody wanting to explore their options for birth after Cesarean. You may or may not know if VBAC is right for you. This course is going to help you learn the pros and the cons of both VBAC and repeat Cesarean. We are going to dive into the history. We are going to give you tools. We are going to give you things to help you take with you to your provider to help establish a better relationship and help find out if that provider truly is supportive of you. Of course, there are some more stories in there and so much more information. This course is created for any birthing parent looking to know their options. And also, any birth worker wanting to expand their knowledge of VBAC and the history of VBAC and how to support future clients, especially if you are a doula on VBAC. Taylor is a labor and delivery nurse which is super exciting so we are going to talk a little bit more about that. I want to ask her some questions but even labor and delivery nurses, midwives, and birth workers, this course is going to be great for you. Learn more about our course at thevbaclink.com. Taylor’s Story Meagan: Okay, Taylor. I cannot wait for you to share y
Wed, November 16, 2022
Episode 210 Julia's CBAC + How To Cope When You Don't Get Your VBAC
After infertility and an initial C-section due to breech presentation, Julia knew that a VBAC was the redemption she needed. During her VBAC prep, she truly did it all. Julia labored hard, completely dilated, and pushed like a warrior. She was calling the shots and was fully supported every step of the way. But as she pushed, the radiating shoulder pain became hard to ignore. Baby’s heart was decelerating. Yellow-tinged amniotic fluid suggested meconium. Julia wanted to keep pushing, but she also knew something wasn’t right. Julia proved her true strength by listening. She put her body and her baby above her own birth dreams. We are SO proud of Julia’s courage and know you will be inspired by her many victories! Additional links Bloom Nutrition TVL Blog: Understanding Uterine Rupture TVL Blog: How To Cope When You Don’t Get Your VBAC TVL CBAC Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have our friend, Julia, with us today. Julia’s story is going to be a CBAC. I love CBAC stories. I know that here at The VBAC Link, you think, “Oh, it should be all VBAC,” because that’s what we talk about which yes, it is a main focus of VBAC, but we don’t want to forget about our CBAC mamas. I was a CBAC mama myself and it is so important to talk about that as well because just like every first birth may unexpectedly go into a Cesarean, so are those VBAC births. Sometimes those are unexpected. Sometimes they are desired, and so we really like to talk about everything here and share all of the pros and the cons of everything. I am excited about Julia’s story. I feel like in so many ways, even though I have had a VBAC, I can connect to CBACs so deeply as well because I have had a CBAC. That CBAC wasn’t actually something that I desired necessarily, but that CBAC was something that I found a lot of healing through. So I’m excited to go into this story. Review of the Week Meagan: But of course, you know we have a Review of the Week. We are always looking for more reviews so if you haven’t yet, feel free to jump over on Apple or wherever you are listening or email us. Google and send us a review. We would love to know how you f
Wed, November 09, 2022
Episode 209 Author Hazel Keedle, PhD + Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth
We are honored to have Dr. Hazel Keedle join us today all the way from Australia! Hazel is the author of Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth . She has more than 25 years of experience as a clinician both in nursing and midwifery, an educator, and a published researcher. Her work remains rooted in her desire to strengthen and empower women. Hazel tells us how her own VBAC birth journey lit a fire that led to the completion of her doctorate degree and her book. Everything in her book is ESSENTIAL for VBAC-hopeful mamas and is all backed with evidence-based research. We know you will LOVE listening to Hazel. She is so gracious and such an invaluable asset to the birth world. This episode is a must-listen and her book is most definitely a must-read for all! Additional links Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth by Hazel Keedle, PhD Hazel’s Instagram: @hazelkeedle Hazel’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VBACmatters Sarah’s Instagram: @sarah_marie_bilger or @entering_motherhood How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: You guys are listening to The VBAC Link and I’m so excited for today’s episode. We have Hazel Keedle today. She’s in Australia and it’s 1:00 a.m. She stayed up all night just to be with us today on this podcast. So grateful for her. We’re going to be time sensitive so we can make sure to get her tucked into bed at a somewhat reasonable hour, but guess what? Today, we have a co-host. A co-host! I’m so excited to start bringing on some co-hosts here and there. Today, we have Sarah and she is one of our VBAC doulas. I’m so excited to have her with us today. Review of the Week Meagan : Sarah is going to actually do the honors of reading you a review. So go ahead, Sarah. Sarah : Hi, yeah. I’m glad to be here. We have a review from Katelyn Bayless. This one is from google and it says, “I honestly can’t recommend
Wed, November 02, 2022
Episode 208 Camden's VBAC + EMDR Therapy
“Trauma is anything that overwhelms your nervous system’s ability to cope.” On paper, Camden’s first birth went really well. It was an elective, scheduled C-section. There was no emergency. Her physical recovery was smooth. Yet Camden was later able to realize and admit that she was actually carrying significant emotional trauma from her birth. She often felt powerless, helpless, overwhelmed, and robbed of the birth experience her heart truly wanted. EMDR therapy not only helped Camden heal from her first birth, but also gave her the tools to cope during her second delivery through over four hours of pushing, severe postpartum hemorrhaging, and a tough recovery. Though her VBAC was much more dramatic on paper than her C-section, Camden hasn’t felt any emotional trauma this time! Her hard work was all worth it. Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: All About Third Trimester Ultrasounds Find an EMDR Therapist The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Hello Women of Strength Wednesday. It is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have our friend, Camden, here with you today. She is from Tennessee. Camden is amazing. She is a wife and a mother of two. She had a C-section with her first one and then had a VBAC. We’re going to have her story shared today. I’m so excited to have her share her story. She’s got a couple of things that really happen often. One with her first is the third-trimester ultrasound. If you have ever been told, “Hey, we’re going to do a third-trimester ultrasound and see how big your baby is or see what’s going on,” stick with us because that is common and at the end, we are going to go over some information on that. She also has an awesome thing that I think is added to her story. She went through EMDR therapy. I am very fascinated with this, so I cannot wait for her to share more. She’s actually a licensed clinical psychologist. Is that correct Camden? Camden: That’s right. Meagan : Perfect, yes. She has a private practice and is a coach, a writer, and a speaker. She specializes in women’s issues and relationships and faith. She is just a wealth of knowledge. I am so honored to have he
Wed, October 26, 2022
Episode 207 Rachel's HBA3C + Plus Size Birth + Big Babies
For her first three births, doctors refused to allow Rachel to go into labor and pushed for scheduled C-sections. Rachel knew the risks involved with being plus-sized and potentially having large babies, but she just wanted someone to give her a chance. With her fourth pregnancy, Rachel knew she needed to pursue birth on her own terms. She found a supportive community, prepared with extensive research, and hired a very experienced, VBAC-friendly home birth midwife. After weeks of prodromal labor, Rachel was able to deliver her baby girl at home without any complications. She finally felt safe and protected in her birthing space. Rachel found redemption, healing, and confidence both in her body and in herself. Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: Plus Size Birth The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Good morning. Good afternoon. Good evening. Whatever time it is where you are listening, welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan and I just can’t even begin to tell you about this episode that is coming your way. You guys are going to love it. Like, seriously love it. As we were talking a little bit before we started recording, I was dying. I was sitting here taking notes. Let me just tell you, our friend Rachel here has been through so much. Everything. I mean, seriously. There are all of the things. Plus-sized mama, a big baby, VBAC after three C-sections. I should say HBAC after three C-sections. Let’s see. A bait and switch. So many things, oh my gosh. So many things. I’m not going to take too much time right now because I really want to turn the time over to her. Just in the ten minutes that I was talking to her a little bit about her stories, I was dying. I was dying. I was like, “Okay. We have to start her recording because everyone needs to hear this.” Review of the Week Meagan: We are going to dive into it, but of course, I have a Review of the Week. If you have not had a moment to leave us a review, we would love it. We would absolutely love it. You can leave a review on Apple Podcasts and Google Play. I think maybe Spotify . You can email
Wed, October 19, 2022
Episode 206 Ana's VBA2C + Induction
When Ana found The VBAC Link podcast, it was Meagan’s VBA2C that inspired Ana to go for her own! Though VBA2C is thought to be possible only without medical interventions, Ana had a nice, gentle induction, an epidural, and only pushed for 20 minutes! Meagan and Ana discuss different VBA2C induction methods including some non-traditional ways that could be just what you will need. Make sure to listen closely because providers are not likely to offer them unless you ask! Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC Induction Methods The VBAC Link Blog: VBA2C The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Good morning. Good afternoon. Good evening. Whatever time it is where you are listening, welcome to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan Heaton and as always, I’m excited to be with you today and share another story. A couple of months ago when my kids went back to school in August, I asked out on The VBAC Link Facebook and Instagram page what people wanted more of. What that was was vaginal birth after two Cesarean specifically stories. I am going to deliver that to you today. Actually, Ana is going to deliver that to you today. We have a guest sharing her VBA2C story with an induction which is also something that a lot of people don’t know. A VBAC after two C-sections can also be induced. We are excited about her story and so grateful for her for being with us today. She even wants to be a doula here in the future, so I’m so excited to talk with her more about her journey, her story, and her desire to be a doula. Review of the Week Meagan: But of course, we have a review of the week so I don’t want to miss that. Today, we have EmilyRessman and this is from Apple Podcasts. She posted it back in June, so not too long ago. She says, “Prepping for my VBAC in August.” Oh, that’s actually right now when we are recording, guys. “I found this podcast and it is so inspiring. Hearing facts from experienced doulas and successful VBAC mamas has given me the confidence I didn’t know was possible. I now feel comfortable talking to my OBs as well as my family and friends about why I want to VBAC and feel informed about the risks. I also love hearing about th
Wed, October 12, 2022
Episode 205 Zoei's VBAC + Birthing With an Unsupportive Provider
“I decided to start listening to my body instead of the doctor…” In preparation for her VBAC, Zoei found a wonderful midwife and a VBAC Link-trained doula. She did her research and stayed patient as her pregnancy carried on past 41 weeks. Once labor started, she was in it for the long haul. Unfortunately, a hospital shift change brought a new, unsupportive doctor who Zoei had never met. She felt the energy change. She recognized the fear tactics, but stood her ground. You will find yourself both gasping and cheering with Zoei as you listen to her inspiring VBAC story! Zoei ends with her best tips on how to navigate labor when you unexpectedly find yourself under the care of an unsupportive provider. Additional links The VBAC Link Doula Directory The VBAC Link Blog: How to Find a Truly Supportive Provider The VBAC Link Blog: Family-Centered Cesareans How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Hello, Women of Strength. We are so excited to be with you today. I am hoping that it is Wednesday or maybe you’re just listening all over and it’s a Tuesday or a Saturday, but this is Wednesday and we are so excited to be back with you with another amazing story as usual. We have our friend, Zoei, today. She is from Washington and she is going to share her VBAC story with you. We’re going to talk a little bit about unsupportive providers, so if you are finding yourself stuck in that spot of not having a supportive provider, stick around because we are going to be sharing some tips. She’s even got a name to give you if you are in Washington, so hang tight and listen up for that. Review of the Week Meagan : Before we dive into her amazing story, we are going to do, of course, a Review of the Week. This review is on Apple Podcasts and it says, “I got my VBAC. I am four days out from my VBAC. I told my husband today it was the greatest accomplishment of my life thus far. Thank you Julie and Meagan and all of the women of strength who have shared their stories. I cried so many times on my daily walks while listening to this podcast including the day before my TOLAC started. It was truly inspiring and one of my main resources in preparing for my VBAC and I will continue to listen to every new epis
Wed, October 05, 2022
Episode 204 Sarah-Ann's VBA2C + Misconceptions/Reasons for C-Sections
We polled our social media followers asking what more you’d like to see from The VBAC Link. You asked for more stories about vaginal births after multiple Cesareans. Well, today is that day. We LOVE our VBAMC mamas! Sarah-Ann joins us from Canada to share her beautiful journey of healing and empowerment through her two Cesarean birth experiences, lots of research, a supportive community, and The VBAC Link podcast. She gives so many great ideas on how to prepare physically, spiritually, and mentally for a VBA2C. Sarah-Ann defied the doctors who told her that her pelvis was too small and that a VBAC after two C-sections was literally impossible. Sarah-Ann, we applaud your courage and are so proud of you! Additional links The VBAC Link Facebook Community The VBAC Link Blog: Why Failure to Progress is Usually Failure to Wait Five Minute Fear Release Video How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Hello, hello. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link. I still don’t know when it’s going to be normal for me to not have Julie on here with me. It’s still so weird to not say this is Julie and Meagan, but this is Meagan and I’m so excited to be with you guys today. Back when school was starting, I posted on social media and asked people what they would like to see from The VBAC Link now that all of my kids are in school full time. I’m really going to be diving in on The VBAC Link. A lot of people said that they want more stories of vaginal birth after two Cesareans. Today is that day. We have a VBA2C story with you today. We have our friend, Sarah-Ann, and she is going to talk about her journey through her two C-sections and then her VBAC. Before we started recording, we talked about a lot of similarities between her and my history with Cesarean and how crazy it is that if you go through so many people’s journeys, and if you go through all of these episodes, you’re going to find a lot of similarities with misconceptions. Some of those misconceptions are a small pelvis, a big baby, your body can’t dilate, failure to progress, and all of these things. She has similar things like I did in my story, so I’m excited to hear more about what she went through and how she navigated through into a vaginal birth after two C-sections. At the end, we are going to talk a little bit m
Wed, September 28, 2022
Episode 203 Kayana's VBAC + Birth After Preterm C-Section
“It was the most amazing moment of my life. I still get emotional just thinking about that feeling of pushing that baby out of me and being able to have that immediate skin-to-skin that I had wanted so badly and wasn’t able to have with my daughter. I had waited and waited so long to be able to have a brand new, fresh baby boy on my chest.” Kayana is a strong powerhouse with such a sweet, beautiful heart. Her stories are filled with so many wild twists and turns including infertility, IVF, premature birth at 31 weeks, NICU time, a miscarriage, a cerclage, progesterone shots, being abandoned by a doula, a low and slow Pitocin induction, scary postpartum hemorrhaging, and the blissful, magical VBAC moment she was dreaming of. We know you will learn so much from Kayana’s many experiences and leave feeling inspired by her strength and positivity! Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC After Preterm C-section Find a VBAC Link Doula How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. It is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have another VBAC story for you today. Our storyteller today is on a road trip, so we are going to have maybe some kiddos along the way, maybe my dogs. My dog likes to bark too, so it’s going to be a fun one. We are going to bring everyone along with this birth story today. We are going to be talking about a lot, you guys. She has so many things that really are relevant in her story. She has infertility, IVF, premature birth, miscarriage, cerclage, was actually abandoned by a doula so we are going to talk about that, induction, and postpartum hemorrhage. It’s heavy. We’ve got a lot of yummy things to go into, so I won’t take up too much time so we can definitely get into her story, but I want to do a Review of the Week and then we’ll jump right in. Review of the Week Meagan : Today’s review is from Amylynn Seider . Amylynn, I typed it wrong. Amylynn Seider and this is on Apple Podcasts . She says, “I really can’t express how informative and empowering this podcast has been for me following my traumatic birth in 2019. In the 16 weeks I’ve been pregnant and a listener, I feel deeply strengthened by the st
Wed, September 21, 2022
Episode 202 Katie Davis' HBAC + Is home birth right for you?
“It was just the most amazing experience. I have never felt so strong.” Meet Katie, the newest member of The VBAC Link team! You will be in awe after hearing about her 39-hour HBAC journey (not including a week of prodromal labor!). Find out how Katie was able to bounce back after being told she was complete, pushed for hours, then learned she was actually only at 7 centimeters. You will also hear what chiropractic care did for her after 30+ hours of active labor. Katie followed her intuition to pursue her HBAC and worked hard during pregnancy to make sure that she was mentally strong during labor. Little did she know about the sheer exhaustion she would have to endure, but that preparation made all the difference. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Blog: Home Birth After C-Section The VBAC Link Blog: Chiropractic Care Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, Women of Strength. We are so excited to be back with you today. This is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have a special story for you. Obviously, all of our stories are amazing and special, but if you haven’t seen on our social media yet, we have a new team member on The VBAC Link team and she is Katie. Her name is Katie and she is going to be sharing her HBAC story with you today. If you didn’t know, she started in August and has been killing it. So grateful for her. She has been helping me with emails, social media, and all the things so you may run into her if you are writing on Instagram or anything like that. You may run into her messaging. Just tell her hello and give her a squeeze because you guys, she is amazing. Head over to her post on the Instagram page. Learn more about her and say hello that way as well. So yeah, we are going to dive into this story. Review of the Week But of course, we have a review. You guys, we are running down on reviews, so we need your reviews. If you would not mind, send us your reviews. You can give them to us on Apple Podcasts . You can do it on<a href="https://www.google.com/search?ei=AIgqY6C1LdeL0PEPu46rsAM&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAMyBAgjECcyBAgjECcyBAgjECcyBAgAEEMyBQgAEIAEMgYIABAeEBYyBQgAEIYDMgUIABCGAzIFCAAQhgMyBQgAEIYDOgsILhDHARCvARCRAjoFCAAQkQI6DgguEIAEELEDEMcBENEDOhEILhCABBCxAxCDARDHARDRAzoLCAAQgAQQsQMQgwE6FgguEIAEEIcCELEDEIMBEMcBENEDEBQ6BAgu
Wed, September 14, 2022
Episode 201 Lucy's Big Babies
Big babies can come out of vaginas! During her first pregnancy, Lucy was told that she had a macrosomic baby. She was pressured into an induction which ultimately led to a C-section. Her baby was just over 8 pounds. Lucy later learned she was closed up with internal staples and only glue on the outside. Her incision popped open not long after surgery, she developed an infection, and she spent her first few weeks of motherhood traveling to the hospital to get her incision packed. The second time around, Lucy refused to take no for an answer. Though she stayed with the same hospital practice, Lucy equipped herself with an amazing VBAC doula and lots of VBAC Link education. She trusted the birth process and her team, safely delivering a 10-pound, 2-ounce baby! Additional links Aussie Doula 5 Tips to Deliver a Large Baby Vaginally Blog Baby Weight Prediction and Third Trimester Ultrasound Blog 5 Steps to Get Your Partner on Board with VBAC Blog How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Hello, everybody. Guess what? We are doing an impromptu episode today. This is our friend, Lucy. You’re listening to The VBAC Link and we can’t wait to hear her story. We are going to talk about big babies. We hear it all the time. Big babies. “I can’t have a vaginal birth because I have big babies” or “My pelvis is too small.” But she is here to share her story with you today and let you know that big babies can come out of vaginas. That is the big statement today. Big babies can come out of vaginas. Review of the Week Meagan: I’m going to hurry and read a review, and then we will jump into her story. This is from bjmg104 on Apple Podcasts. It says, “This podcast is empowering and positive. As a home birth transfer turned Cesarean, this podcast has been so instrumental in helping me shed the shame and sense of failure I have been feeling since my son’s birth. Armed with the knowledge gained in this podcast, I now feel more confident than ever in my next pregnancy. VBAC is possible for me. Thank you for this podcast.” Well, thank you, bjmg104 for sharing your review. Lucy’s Story</
Wed, September 07, 2022
200 Episodes with JULIE!
Meagan welcomes Julie back today to celebrate 200 episodes of The VBAC Link podcast! They celebrate this milestone with a special live Q&A podcast recording session joined by followers of The VBAC Link Facebook community. Topics include: how to talk to your provider, all about Spinning Babies, adhesions, managing sciatica pain, induction, nipple stimulation to induce labor, VBAMC, C-section consent forms, and much, much more. We can’t wait to continue sharing new episodes with you as we stay committed to our mission of making birth after Cesarean better! Additional links Spinning Babies website The VBAC Link Blog: Pumping to Induce Labor Fear Release YouTube Video Episode 18 Leslie’s HBAC + Special Scars Julie’s Instagram The VBAC Link Community on Facebook How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is our 200th episode and yes, you are listening to Julie. I’m back just for this episode and probably some more in the future at some point, but we are so excited, Meagan and I, because this is the 200th episode. We are now live in our Facebook group. Not now when you are listening to it, but right now in this moment in our timeline. It took us way too long to get in here live, but we are doing a Facebook Live podcast episode. We have never done that before and we probably will never do it again because this was kind of traumatic. Meagan : Yeah, this was a little rough, but that’s okay. Now that we know, now that we know, we are good. We’re good. Julie: Now we know. Meagan: It just took 34 minutes to figure it out. Review of the Week Julie : Oh my gosh. Cool. So, let’s get started first. There is a Review of the Week. Meagan, are you ready? Do you have one? Meagan: Yep, I do. This is from blpinto and it’s from Apple Podcasts . It says, “Wonderful resources for ALL moms, not just VBACs.” It says, “I didn’
Wed, August 31, 2022
Episode 199 Lauren's VBAC + PPROM
“I hope I give you some hope.” All around, Lauren’s stories are different. Her birthing journey includes Asherman’s syndrome, infertility for over 10 years, two rounds of IVF treatments (each with only one viable embryo), a miscarriage, placenta accreta, and significant hemorrhaging after her first Cesarean delivery. Lauren miraculously got pregnant naturally with her second son. She was committed to having a VBAC even with her complicated medical history. When her water broke at 32 weeks, Lauren made her desires known loud and clear to every person who entered her birthing space that a Cesarean was not an option. Sure enough, Lauren was able to successfully VBAC with no signs of placenta accreta or hemorrhaging. After years of so much heartache and holding onto hope, Lauren was finally able to see one miracle unfold after another. Additional links The VBAC Link Community on Facebook How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, whatever time it is where you are at, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Meagan and we have our friend, Lauren, today. You guys, she is currently in Vietnam and it is 4:10 a.m. where she is recording. I cannot believe that she is up and ready to record an episode. We are so grateful for her for being with us today. She has a lot of great things in her story, a lot of great things that sometimes we don’t talk about or know of. There’s a certain thing in her story where I hadn’t even ever heard the word before until I saw it in her story. So I can’t wait to dive into her story and have her tell more about all of the things about her story. Review of the Week Meagan: Of course, we have a Review of the Week so I will read that and we will dive right in. This is from saraalbinger and she says, “One month ago, I had a successful VBAC induction just 18 months after a Cesarean section. I almost called to schedule a repeat on my due date because I was so scared. Then I found your podcast and listened to it for two days straight. It gave me the courage to go through with the induction and I am so glad I did. I hope more people find this as a resource.” She actually emailed us, which is awesome. Congratulations, Sara, on your VBAC. So happy for you. Like I said, she emailed. You can email us your rev
Wed, August 24, 2022
Episode 198 Dr. Betty DeLass with Reborn Pelvic Health & Wellness
“Being pregnant in general is the biggest musculoskeletal change of your entire life.” Having a baby changes your life in the best ways. It also takes a huge toll on your body. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Dr. Betty DeLass, tells us how her treatments help women resolve issues like leaking, prolapse, movement restriction, adhesions, endometriosis, fertility, hemorrhoids, pelvic pain, and so much more. She helps clients not only get back to their previous activity level but also far surpass it! Run to your local pelvic floor PT or take advantage of Dr. Betty’s out-of-state options to get the personalized care YOU need. It may take time, but we promise that you don’t have to feel the way you’re feeling forever. Additional links Reborn Pelvic Health & Wellness Website Pelvic Rehab Practitioner Directory Pelvic Guru - Pelvic Health Resource How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan : Hello, this is Meagan with The VBAC Link and we have a wonderful episode for you today. We have a great friend. Her name is Betty. She is actually local here to Salt Lake City, Utah and she is a pelvic floor specialist. Seriously, you guys. It’s going to be a good one. Just hearing her speak, I feel like she’s reading from a book. There’s so much education in her mind. I feel like she is just reciting this book because she uses all of the right words and just makes sense. I can’t wait for you guys to hear more about the pelvic floor and all of the things that go into prepping for a VBAC, how we can help things after a VBAC, and even we are going to talk a little bit about infertility. Review of the Week Meagan: Of course, we have a Review of the Week, so I’m going to read that, and then we are going to jump right in. This review is from jmclane04 and it’s on Apple Podcasts . The review title is, “I got my VBAC.” It says, “I am four days out from my VBAC. I told my husband today it was the greatest accomplishment of my life thus far. Thank you, Julie and Meagan, and all of the wonderful women of strength who shared their stories. I cried so many times on my daily walks while listening to this podcast including the day before my TOLAC started. It was truly inspiring and one of my main resources in preparing for a VBAC. I will continue to listen to every new episode.” Well, <e
Wed, August 17, 2022
Episode 197 Jennifer's VBAC + Home Birth Transfer
“Your story is 50% yours and 50% your baby’s.” After having a crash C-section under general anesthesia, Jennifer planned to have a peaceful and redemptive vaginal birth at home. Jennifer shares how she still found peace and redemption through her VBAC, even though things didn’t go exactly as planned. If for some reason, your home or birth center birth is transferred to the hospital, know that it’s okay. Know that you didn’t do anything wrong. Nothing failed, the story is just changing. You’re turning the page and it’s going to a new place. It’s okay to change! Additional links Jennifer’s Instagram and Photography Website The VBAC Link Blog: Deciding Between HBAC and Hospital Birth The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Good morning, everybody. This is The VBAC Link and we are excited to bring you another VBAC story today. We have our friend, Jennifer, who is in California, and guess what? She is also a birth doula. I love when birth doulas share their stories because I feel like sometimes as birth doulas, while we are in labor, we forget all of the doula things. I always like to hear sometimes how we as birthing doulas will labor because for me, when I was in labor, there were some things that I knew I probably should have done but I wasn’t in that doula mindset. I couldn’t think, “Oh, I should do Rebozo apples right now.” And so I love hearing what doulas do and don’t do. I love that because it’s just a reminder that even we as doulas can benefit from having a doula in the room. So I’m excited to hear your story, my love. Review of the Week But of course, we have a Review of the Week which is from RosiP87 and she says, “This podcast is empowering and healing.” she says, “The VBAC Link has been exactly what I needed but I didn’t know it. Listening to the podcast has been healing and helpful in processing my C-section after my first baby. Julie and Meagan are informative and engaging to listen to. I know that I will have a different birth experience with my second baby because of the information and confidence that I have gained through listening to this podcast. Thank you so much, ladies.” Thank you, RosiP. That was back in March, so definitely write us when you have your baby and let us know how things went.
Wed, August 10, 2022
Episode 196 Brenda's VBAC + D-MER and Postpartum
“Once I knew what it was, that helped. It’s a physiological thing. There’s nothing actually wrong with me. My experience with it was pretty extreme. Our bodies are so amazing and they serve us so well, but there are differences for everybody.” Brenda’s six births include a medicated hospital birth, a crash Cesarean, an unmedicated VBAC, an HBAC, an emergency C-section, and a gentle, planned Cesarean. Her stories are wildly different but all inspiring in their own ways! Brenda also gets raw and vulnerable with us as she shares her intense postpartum experiences with Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER). Her choice to fight for healing in a positive way has helped her come out of the fog every time. Have you experienced D-MER? Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: How to Plan for a Natural Family-Centered Cesarean The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Meagan, your host, which is so weird to say that it’s just me by myself. I don’t know how long it’s going to take to get used to that, but here I am and I’m still so excited to be with you. We have an awesome episode today. We have our friend, Brenda, and she has a lot of stories to tell you. I am so excited to learn more about all of her birth journeys. She is a mom of six and has had a mixture of vaginal, unmedicated, medicated, home birth, VBAC, and planned Cesarean. All of the things, so we are so excited to dive into her stories today. Review of the Week Meagan: As usual, we always have a Review of the Week and I am going to be reading that for you today. This is from a mama in Australia. I don’t even know how to actually how to say her username. It’s awesomebarbie . Sorry if I’m botching that, love. Her topic says, “Two angels sent from above.” It says, “Hey, ladies. I’m from Sydney, Australia and I’ve been a silent fan for months now. Ever since having my C-section on November 19th, I have been obsessed with achieving a vaginal birth. Luckily for me, I fell pregnant on July 20th and I’m currently 33 weeks.” “Listening to your podcast has encouraged me to be strong-minded and educated me so much. It has taught me how to self
Wed, August 03, 2022
Episode 195 Rebecca's Precipitous VBAC + Cervical Laceration
“Every baby, every delivery, and every birth is so different.” Rebecca’s first birth was a smooth, textbook experience. Less than 12 months later, Rebecca arrived at the hospital ready to deliver her second baby girl. However, after four hours of pushing, unmedicated manual rotation, and scary heart rate readings, Rebecca knew she needed to consent to a C-section. In surgery, Rebecca was told her pelvis was too small to ever birth a baby vaginally even though she already had a prior vaginal birth! She also experienced a cervical laceration. Rebecca was left traumatized after such a drastically different birth experience. With her next baby, Rebecca fought for healing and for her TOLAC. Her third delivery was quite unlike either of the two previous deliveries. We can’t wait for you to hear about her wild ride and to learn from her particularly unique experiences! Additional links Intrapartum Cervical Lacerations PubMed Article The VBAC Link Blog: Special Scars Special Scars, Special Hope Facebook Group How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Good morning, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link. Today is the first episode without Julie and let me tell you, I am already missing her so much. It’s going to be a little different not having this podcast with her. I was just telling our guest today how weird– I don’t even know what episode number we are on right now because Julie was such the backbone. She did all of the technical, little-detail things and I am going to have to get used to that. So bear with me as I am weaning into doing all of the podcast stuff by myself. Today, we have our friend, Rebecca, and she is going to share her story. You guys, she has a special scar, or a cervical extension I should say, that ended up turning into special scar. We don't have a ton of these episodes on the podcast. They are not as common and one of the reasons why I am personally excited for her to share her story is because they are not as common but they are still possible. We really want to get the word out there to do your research and do what’s comfortable for you, but know that it is possible. Something that’s also a little different about her story is that it was from the cervical extension. I can’t wait for her to share a little bit about this. We are going to talk about what a cervical extension even means, what that looks like, and what it could mean for future vaginal bi
Wed, July 27, 2022
Episode 194 VBAC Q&A + A Sad Announcement
This episode is exclusively with Meagan and Julie, here to answer your burning questions! Topics include due dates, induction, membrane sweeping, diastasis recti, scar tissue, pelvis size, and head size. We also have a sad announcement to share. Thank you, VBAC Link Community, for being with us through all of our seasons of change and growth. We feel that you are there for us as much as we love being there for you! Additional links ACOG Practice Bulletin 146: “Management of Late-Term and Postterm Pregnancies” Julie Francom Birth Photography How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Episode 194 and this is Julie. I’m here with Meagan today. We have a not-as-fun of an episode. It’s fun because we are going to do some FAQ’s. We are going to talk about questions that we get all of the time. We had you guys submit questions on our social media pages, questions that we have been getting through our email, so we are so happy to answer your questions as usual. We also have an announcement to make that is not as fun. But before we do any of those things, Meagan has a Review of the Week for us. Review of the Week Meagan: Yes, I do. This is from Ashley. She says, “This podcast is a gold mine of knowledge when it comes to VBACs. I have been bingeing these episodes ever since I got pregnant with my second. I have learned so much and gained a lot of confidence on how to find a truly supportive provider. I have enjoyed the birth stories so much. I mostly listen on my commute and can also say that these ladies are my car doulas.” That’s fun. Julie: Yay! Meagan: I have cried tears of happiness and/or tears of pain and understanding during so many of these stories. No matter what happens in my birth in August, which I hope will be a VBAC, this podcast has prepared me for it. P.S. I am now caught up on all of the episodes and I am sad that I have to wait for just one weekly episode.” That is so hard. You know what? I have listened to podcasts like that. I am a big– Julie: You just binge. Meagan: I am a big crime podcast listener. I will wait and wait and wait, and then I will catch up really fast, then I’m like, “No. I need to listen any time I want. All day every day i
Wed, July 20, 2022
Episode 193 Lindsay's CBAC + Chiropractic Care
We are so happy to be joined by Lindsay on the podcast today who is sharing her birth stories and her chiropractic expertise. Lindsay is a beautiful example of how to create a healing birth experience after a traumatic one. We discuss how making empowered decisions can help you feel more in control in the birth room. Also, as the owner of her own chiropractic practice, Lindsay explains the benefits of the Webster Technique during pregnancy, as well as why every woman and baby should seek chiropractic care during the postpartum stage too. Additional links Lindsay’s Practice: Bluebird Chiropractic The VBAC Link Blog: How to Plan for a Family Centered Cesarean The VBAC Link Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Women of Strength Wednesday. It is Meagan and Julie. Julie: Hello! Meagan: And we are so excited to bring you another story. Today is actually a CBAC story and we were just talking about this before the episode. We are going to call it an elective CBAC. Is that what we decided? Julie: I don’t know. I think we will just leave it at CBAC because she labored. Her plans changed during labor. So I think we are going to keep it at CBAC. Meagan : She did, yeah. Okay, a CBAC story. It was definitely something that she chose and that’s one of the reasons why I love the story so much is that she stood her ground, advocated for herself, and chose something that not even her provider wanted her to choose. I am not going to give away too much, but we have a Review of the Week and then we are going to go into this lovely episode with our friend Lindsay. Review of the Week Julie: Yes, a Review of the Week. I like this review. I picked the longest one I could find on our spreadsheet. Meagan: Oh good because I can’t read and you know that. Julie: Meagan can read, everybody. Meagan can read. She just has a hard time reading and speaking. But you have actually gotten quite a bit better since we first started The VBAC Link four years ago. You have improved leaps and bounds. I’m actually quite impressed with your skills now. <p
Wed, July 13, 2022
Episode 192 Carolyn’s VBAC + Birth Options
Show notes “Whenever I see someone that I know who has had a C-section, I’m like, ‘Did you know you don’t have to have another C-section? You can do something else!’” Mama, you have options! Carolyn shares her Cesarean and VBAC stories with us today about how she explored all the birth options available to her and made informed decisions along the way. Carolyn especially took advantage of optimal fetal positioning resources. She went from pushing for hours with no progress during her first labor to one great push and a successful VBAC with her second. Carolyn’s dream birth experience came true and she cannot stop reliving that sweet moment of catching her baby. Additional links The VBAC Link Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie : Welcome, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Julie. I am here with Meagan and we are so excited to be with you on another Wednesday. It is kind of fun rocking and rolling again with the podcast and hearing all sorts of people's stories. Today, we will have interviewed somebody in each time zone in the United States. I am pretty sure. We are in one and our guest today is from Kansas City. We are really excited. I love the Midwest. Everyone thinks I’m crazy. Maybe it is because I haven’t been there for any winter, but I really love the Midwest, especially in springtime. It is just perfect to me. I love it. One day, I don’t know. If I ever get to be rich and get to have multiple houses, I might own a house in the Midwest so that I can have a nice springtime there. But anyway, we are talking with Carolyn who is an incredible woman. She has a three-year-old and a one-year-old and she lives, like I said, in Kansas City. She’s a senior marketing manager and we are so excited to hear from her today. Before we do that, Meagan has a Review of the Week for us. Meagan, do you want to go ahead and share? Review of the Week Meagan: Yes, I do. This is from holmclaugh90 . It says, “I listen every single day. After a traumatic Cesarean with my first baby five years ago and multiple miscarriages in between, this is a breath of fresh air as I await my chance to have a VBAC this October with my second, I love every story I hear on this podcast and it makes me feel so much stronger in knowing that I can do this.” And I want you to know that this is
Wed, July 06, 2022
Episode 191 Emily’s VBAC + Precipitous Labor
Thinking there was no way she would go into labor with her VBAC baby at 37 weeks, Emily and her husband traveled to a family wedding. It was only a four-hour drive away from her birthing place. It was just for one night. She’d be laboring for the first time. Even if labor started, she’d have plenty of time to get back home. Right? Thanks to her physical, mental, and emotional birth preparation, Emily was able to stay calm and present when her birth took a wild turn. She rode each wave gracefully and allowed her body to take over when it needed to. You are sure to be left feeling inspired by Emily’s impressive strength! Additional links Gentle Birth App Meditation and Contraction Timer The VBAC Link Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. This is Meagan and Julie with The VBAC Link and we are so excited, as always, to share with you another amazing story. We have our friend, Emily, today and she is going to share her VBAC story. She’s actually in New York if I remember correctly and has quite the story to share, you guys. I kind of feel like we have a celebrity right now on the podcast because her story has seriously been featured everywhere. Like, seriously everywhere. People, USAToday, Inside Edition, Good Morning America, and yours truly, The VBAC Link here now. Julie: Almost right up there with them. Meagan: If we were as all of those platforms, then that would be really cool, but yeah. We are so excited to bring this story to you today. We are going to dive into her story really soon, but Julie has a Review of the Week, so we will hurry and do that, and then we’ll dive right in. Review of the Week Julie: Yeah, absolutely. I love it. I am so excited to hear this story. I love a good– type of story that this is. I almost gave a spoiler alert. This is my favorite type of birth story, so I can’t wait to hear it. But yes, our review this week is from Kaytjtvgml on Apple Podcasts . Meagan: Alphabet soup there.
Wed, June 29, 2022
Aubree's HBAC + Home Birth After Cesarean
Today on the podcast we have one of Meagan’s local doula clients, Aubree. Aubree’s unexpected HBAC story is one of overcoming fears and digging deep when birth moves much faster than planned! We also discuss the risks and benefits surrounding home birth. Julie mentions criteria you can use to help you decide if HBAC is right for you. However and wherever you choose to birth, our mission is to help you feel empowered, peaceful, and safe in that choice. Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: HBAC MamasteFit Julie’s Fear Release Video How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. It is Julie and Meagan and we are so excited for you to hear this story today. We have our friend, Aubree, on and she has got a really cool story to share. And kind of a little side note or a little teaser, I was actually one of her doulas. It was me and my partner, Melinda, and I sadly didn’t get to make it to the birth. Melinda went, but I seriously can’t even believe how awesome this story is. I’m actually excited to hear her share it. We actually had scheduled to go to lunch and hear her story, and we never got to have that happen. So I’m so excited today to hear along with you guys her version of the story. As usual, we have a Review of the Week and our amazing Julie is going to share that with you before we dive right in. Review of the Week Julie : Hello, I am so excited to hear this story too. Meagan was just telling me a titch about it before we started recording and it is always fun to have somebody local share their story with us. I do have a Review of the Week. This is from Apple Podcasts and it is from libbywilger. The title is “My Safe Space”. That makes me really happy– “My Safe Space.” Meagan: And I love her name, Libby. Julie: Libby. I know, that’s cute. Okay, so she says, “I have been listening to The VBAC Link from the very beginning and it has carried me through my own VBAC journey (and beyond)! I had an emergency C-section with my first baby in 2017 and knew immediately I wanted to pursue a VBAC with future pregnancies. I tried listening to birth stories on o
Wed, June 22, 2022
Mabel's VBAM (Vaginal Birth After Myomectomy)
“I don’t have anybody that I can use as a resource or as a reference, but I know that I am not an anomaly. I also know that I am not asking for too much. I am not asking for a vaginal birth. I’m asking for support. I’m asking you to hear me. I’m asking you to give me time. I’m asking you to let my body do the work. Let my body do the work instead of you dictating what you think my body should do.” Mabel is a trailblazer. She walked the lonely road of fighting for her vaginal birth after a myomectomy with very limited resources, support, and anecdotal evidence. Mabel knew her risks. All she wanted from a provider was true support and the chance to try. This episode is a must-listen. Sit back and soak in all of the incredible advice Mabel offers to both VBAC and VBAM hopeful women. We were honored to have such a powerful woman of strength on our podcast today! Additional links Mabel’s Website: Within Her Birth Services Special Scars Website The VBAC Link Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Hello, how are you guys? This is The VBAC Link podcast and we are with you today with our friend, Mabel. We are so excited to hear her stories today. We encourage you to pause and listen up because this is going to be an amazing one. She is from northern Virginia and did you say DMC? Is that what you called it? Julie: Washington DC. Mabel: DMV. Meagan: DMZ. Julie: Everybody’s confused. Mabel: Yeah. I’m from Northern Virginia. In the city and state, I’m from Bristow, Virginia, but it is technically part of northern Virginia. We call it the DMV– DC, Maryland, Virginia. Meagan: DMV like where you go get your license. Julie: Oh my gosh. Meagan: Okay, the DMV area. So if you are in her area, this is definitely one to listen to. But of course, we have a Review of the Week, so I’m going to turn the time over to cute Julie, and then we will dive into this story. Review of the Week Julie: Okay. You know I can’t just go right into the review. I have to say something. That’s really funny that you said “cute Julie”. That’s really funny because I have a longtime friend from when we were in the military. We hardly ever see
Wed, June 15, 2022
Lindsay's VBAC + Preparing for VBAC
Lindsay’s first birth was a planned home birth which ultimately resulted in a hospital transfer and emergency C-section. She was left feeling unprepared, unheard, and committed to fighting for a VBAC next time. Lindsay worked for months preparing for a VBAC both physically and emotionally. Once labor started, she was coping extremely well with her intense contractions. She arrived at the hospital at 10 centimeters, ready to have her baby! Until…her contractions completely stopped. Lindsay shares with us how she overcame ultimate doubt when pushing continued for over four hours. Doubt can creep in at any time on your VBAC journey. Trust yourself and your preparation. Lean into your supportive birth team. We know you can do this! Additional links The VBAC Link Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome, welcome. This is Women of Strength Wednesday and you are tuned in to The VBAC Link podcast with Julie and Meagan and our special guest, Lindsay, today. We were actually just chitchatting a little bit before we pressed record about different providers and how they influence birth outcomes. Sometimes you will have a provider who is surprisingly more supportive than you would expect them to be and vice versa, right? So we are going to talk about that and all the different parts of Lindsay’s story in a little bit. Before we do that though, Meagan has a Review of the Week for us. Review of the Week Meagan: Yes I do. This is from RokFray and it says “Getting VBAC Ready. This podcast has been inspiring and motivational to me as I prepare for a VBAC with my fourth baby. Listening to each of these stories and realizing that through listening I have learned how to advocate for myself and my family has been a true blessing. Thank you!” And I just want to say thank you to RokFray for sharing your review. Julie and I say it all the time. We love your reviews. We truly mean it. And honestly, we are running out of some reviews because we haven’t been recording for so long. We haven’t had a ton of reviews here coming in and so we would love some new, fresh reviews so we can read them on future podcasts. Julie : You never know. Maybe next week, we will read yours. Meagan : Yep. <stro
Wed, June 08, 2022
Carly's VBAC + COVID Birth Challenges
The only predictable thing about birth is its unpredictability! When Carly felt the urge to push at home, she realized that there wasn’t enough time to make it to her hospital of choice. She would have to have to fight for her VBAC at the closest hospital– the same hospital where she had her traumatic C-section. Though she wasn’t treated with the respect she deserved yet again, this time, Carly held her ground. This time, Carly was in control. This time, Carly birthed her baby how she knew she could. “The first time I became my mom was literally a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me and I felt like that had been stepped on for so many different reasons. The second time around, I was like, ‘I am going to fight for this.’” Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: How to Find a Truly Supportive Provider Mamastefit How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: You guys, it is The VBAC Link. We are back. We are so happy. We are four weeks into this and seriously, it is just making me smile every single time we record with another guest. It is Meagan and Julie with The VBAC Link and we have a guest today. Her name is Carly and she will be sharing her VBAC story. You guys, she is pretty stinking amazing. She does all the things. She does cloth diapers, co-sleeps– all the things. I am reading through her bio and I am like, “She is amazing.” You are so amazing. Cloth diapering is a hard thing to do and the fact that you even do it part-time is amazing. So I am excited to get to know you even better and learn more about you. Right before we dive into your amazing story, we have Julie, of course, with the Review of the Week. Review of the Week Julie: Okay. So we already know that I have this weird thing where sometimes I feel like I need to be a singer on the podcast this season. This season, I don’t know what you even call it. In this next review, I am not going to sing, but I really want to just sing because Carly is from Philadelphia. If you know what song is triggering in my mind right now from Philadelphia, I will not sing it. I have been trying to not because I think it is a little bit weird. I don’t want to be weird. I’m really weird. Oh my gosh. I’m weird. Oh my gosh. I’m so weird, you guys. Okay. But anyway, I am just going to read the Review of the Week while you guys can sing the song I am thinking about fro
Wed, June 01, 2022
Danielle's VBAC + High Cesarean Rates
Did you know that in South African private hospitals, where patients are better cared for, the C-section rate is 76%?! Joining us today all the way from South Africa is our friend, Danielle. She shares how she became part of that C-section statistic with her first birth, but also how she refused to let those numbers define her second birth. Though she fought an uphill battle, Danielle’s successful VBAC was an achievement that changed the course of her life. Her strength has paved the way for others in her area to no longer become a statistic and to no longer fear natural birth. Additional links Natural Birth With Great Expectation s Midwives How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome, welcome. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast with Julie and Meagan and we have a really special guest for you today. This is episode number 186. We have Danielle with us and Danielle is from South Africa. She had her C-section and her VBAC in South Africa. We were just chitchatting before we started recording the podcast. There are private and public hospitals and in the private hospitals, which is where you get the best care, the C-section rate is 76%. 76%! Meagan: It’s so crazy to me. The crazy thing is that it’s where you get better care, but then– Julie: –where you are treated better, I know. Meagan: Yeah. Julie: In public hospitals, the C-section rate is 24%. When you combine those two together– I mean, I guess it just depends on the population density that is giving birth in each of the hospitals and so I guess I can’t really come up with an overall rate there for the country. Maybe Danielle knows when she will share her story with us. But that is very, very large. Danielle had quite the battle to fight during her pregnancies, births, and deliveries, but we are going to go ahead and let her share that with you after Meagan reads a Review of the Week for us. Review of the Week Meagan: Okay. This is from Brittany and it was actually on Instagram . She sent us a message on Instagram. It says, “Meagan and Julie, I just wanted to thank you for your
Wed, May 25, 2022
Kallista with New Mom Boss Talks Postpartum
You’ve researched, prepared, and achieved your VBAC, but now what? We are diving deep into all things postpartum today with New Boss Mom, Kallista Anderson. Kallista shares her expertise with us on how to thrive during the postpartum period. Topics include: Strengthening your relationships Kallista’s number one postpartum tip Investing in yourself Warning signs and resources for postpartum depression Continue advocating for your needs even after your baby is born. You deserve to enjoy this season and your baby deserves to have the best version of yourself! Additional links New Mom Boss Kallista Anderson Prepping For Postpartum Workshop Meal Train Website Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Postpartum Support International How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. I am so excited today to talk about postpartum. Julie and I have partnered up with Kallista Anderson who, if you don’t already know, you should know. She has her podcast, The New Mom Boss Podcast , and she is amazing. She is helping mamas get through all the things by preparing, self-care, creating a good space, learning about postpartum, and coaching all the things. So today, we are going to be talking with her about postpartum and a few different types of things about postpartum: navigating through relationships in postpartum and then also prepping for after and being prepared. Before we do that, I am going to turn over the time to Julie, and then we are going to dive right in because I think this is such an important topic that honestly isn’t talked about enough. Review of the Week Julie: Yeah. I’m excited too. Postpartum, my goodness. We don’t talk about that enough here and society doesn’t talk about it as much just generally. So we are glad to have Kallista here with us today. Our review today comes from Apple Podcasts and it is from jenh415 . She says, “I don’t feel alone in this journey anymore.” Her review says, “I started planning my VBAC two years ago right af
Wed, May 18, 2022
Daniela's VBAC + Doulas and Advocacy
“When she saw that I couldn’t speak, she spoke up for me.” Though her first birth felt wildly out of control, Daniela learned her first lessons in how to speak up in the birth space by pushing for pain relief during her Cesarean even when she wasn’t initially believed. During her VBAC preparation, Daniela’s confidence just kept growing. Yet though she was confident, she knew she couldn’t only rely on herself. So with her husband and a trusted doula by her side, Daniela was able to keep her focus on laboring and achieve the VBAC she envisioned. Advocating for yourself in the birth space can feel scary, but Meagan and Julie discuss how to help you feel strong enough in your desires and courageous enough to make sure they are honored during your VBAC. Additional links Benefits of a Doula for Pregnancy, Birth, & Beyond VBAC Friendly Doctors: How to Find a Truly Supportive Provider How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Find a VBAC Doula Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Julie and Meagan with you today. We are so excited. Oh my gosh, we are just getting back into the groove of podcast recording and I’m just over here with a big ol’ smile on my face. I’m sure Meagan is the same. We just shut off our videos. We record on Zoom. So we just shut off our videos and it is always fun to get to see each other because Meagan and I hardly ever see each other anymore. It’s really funny. But it’s fun to see our guest, and just chit-chat a little bit first, and get back into it. But we have a really, really exciting guest for you today. It is Daniela and she’s going to share her story about her VBAC. We’re going to talk about advocating for your rights during childbirth because that’s a really hard thing to do and sometimes you don’t exactly know how to do it. So Daniela’s story is going to go into that a little bit, and then we’re going to talk a little bit more at the end. But before we get started, Meagan has a Review of the Week for us. Review of the Week Meagan : Yes, I do. This is from Jen7363728 . Julie: “867-5309”. Okay sorry, go on. Meagan : The title is, “So inspiring.” She says, “Thank you for providing this important resource to women. I am preparing for my VBAC coming any day now (40 weeks, 5 days today). Your podcast has been so informative and inspirational! Your work is
Wed, May 11, 2022
Moana's VBAC + VBAC with an Epidural
Moana’s first birth left her feeling traumatized, confused, and like a failure. With her next pregnancy, she was determined to find redemption. She became educated on all of the risks and benefits surrounding VBAC, hired a highly supportive birth team, and affirmed to herself that she could do this. Thanks to her preparation, Moana was able to adapt and utilize the birth tools she needed to achieve the beautiful VBAC she desired. We talk about how to build your own “birth toolbox” and why it’s important to allow yourself to use those tools as you need them. And as always, we fully support you in whatever tools you choose to use to have your positive birth experience! Additional links The Swiss Army Knife of Labor The VBAC Link Blog: Natural Birth versus Epidural Find a VBAC Doula How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Hello, hello everybody. It’s Meagan and Julie. We are back with you today for episode number two of our return and episode number 183. We have Moana today and we cannot wait to get into her story. A little funny thing— I’m totally going to admit what just happened. We went through everything, and we were getting into the story, and guess what? We forgot to push “Record”. So darn it! Julie : My bad. Meagan: We are restarting, but that’s okay. We are excited. We have Moana with you today. She is from Hawai’i and she is one amazing mama. You guys, she had a 72 hour labor. I’m just going to say that. How stinking amazing! She is a military wife. She is in the Reserves. They have two kiddos. They love being in the sun, and surfing, and living life up in Hawai’i. We can’t wait to hear her stories in just a second. Review of the Week Meagan : We’re going to hurry and turn over the time to Julie because as usual, we are going to have that Review of the Week. We really love your reviews and now that we’re kicking the podcast off again, we’re going to need some more. So feel free to drop us a review on Google or send us a review, whatever it may be. We would love, love, love to read your review on the podcast. Alright, Julie. Julie: Oh my gosh. I am such a nerd. I cannot believe it. I am going to have to put a sticky note in the middle of the computer again and be like, “Push ‘Record’!” so I don’t forget. Second of all,
Wed, May 04, 2022
182 We're back! Frances' VBAC + Big Babies
After a LONG break, The VBAC Link podcast is back again! We have missed hearing your stories and feeling inspired by your strength. We promise that you will smile, cry, and celebrate with Francis as she shares her beautiful heart with us today. While pregnant with her hopeful VBA2C baby, Francis created these birth goals: “I wish for a healthy mother and baby, both physically and emotionally. For my intuition to guide me and to be trusted by those around me. For labor to begin and continue as hands-off as possible and to feel heard, empowered, and respected.” She strived for an empowering birth experience no matter what the outcome was, which only made her successful VBA2C that much sweeter. We also discuss why you shouldn’t be afraid to birth a big baby and how your intuition can be your greatest asset in the birth room. Additional links The VBAC Link Blog: Get That Big Baby Out The VBAC Link Shirt Shop The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. We have Francis with us today. And my gosh! I did not sing. I was going to sing a song, “Guess who’s back, back again?” Oh, yes. I was going to sing it. I was going to sing it, but I did not sing it. Meagan: Guess who’s back? Julie: Back again. Meagan: Oh, I love it. Julie: Julie’s back. And Meagan! Meagan: Yeah! Julie: Dang it. I sang it. Gosh. The only other time I have sang on the podcast was when I sang myself “Happy Birthday” for me in Korean on my birthday episode . That was fun. Do you remember that? Meagan: Yeah, that was forever ago. Julie: That was super fun. Julie: Oh my gosh. We are back! Meagan: We’re back! Julie:
Wed, June 16, 2021
181 See ya later, we promise!
We are taking a break. Listen in to find out the details and what we will be up to in the meantime! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 09, 2021
180 April's 2VBA3C + Birth After Loss
Today we are joined by our dear friend, April, who is sharing her second VBAC birth story with us after three previous Cesarean births. April had two traumatic, emergency Cesareans for her first two births and a scheduled Cesarean for her third. Her first VBAC was a very heartbreaking yet tender birth to a stillborn at 36 weeks. She shares the many miracles and sweet experiences that led her to her most recent birth-- her second VBAC to a perfectly healthy, beautiful baby girl. Education, great support, trusting her intuition, finding the courage to be unconventional, and asking questions are all big parts of her story. She is a woman of strength in every way. We know her story will inspire you as much as it inspires us! Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome, welcome. It is Wednesday and it is podcast Wednesday. I am really excited for today’s story because our interview today is with April. April is actually one of my doula clients and she has-- oh my gosh. We could probably take three or four hours to share the whole story and all of the intricacies of how everything played out in her birth. But we are not. We are going to try to keep it super short. It’s probably going to be a little bit hard for us. So bear with us while we try and keep this story to under an hour and get on there with it. But April has had three C-sections, and then she had a VBAC after three C-sections that was a 36-week stillborn, and then she went on to have another VBAC after three C-sections with a healthy baby girl. That’s when I supported her as a doula for her second VBAC after three C-sections. I really admire April a lot. I am going to talk a little bit, maybe at the end if we have time, about her relationship with her provider and how she created this really cool, mutual respect and dynamic between them. If not, we are going to have to just have another podcast episode about me just telling about the cool things I experienced there. She is just fresh off the VBAC, like just over a month fresh off of her VBAC. It is such an incredible story, but I don’t want to take up too much time sharing about it because I want her to be able to share as much as she can. Review of the Week Julie:</stro
Wed, June 02, 2021
179 David Arrell Welcome to Fatherhood (WTF) Tips for Dads!
Dads are constantly flooded with messages to be helpful and supportive to their birthing partner, but where are those specific tips on how to do just that? Cue David Arrell. David has developed a passion for everything surrounding birth with his main focus centered around helping dads learn the things he wished he knew when he became a dad for the first time. According to his own words, “I am just a dude who has been through this journey.” With his very specific dad tips as well as big ideas, David’s advice will take your birth support partner from feeling clueless, guilty, and overwhelmed to feeling hopeful, empowered, and inspired. When both partners learn to be a strong team during pregnancy, their bond during labor and throughout parenting will thrive even more. And the tip that gets 100% of his recommendation? “Dude, Hire a Doula.” Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts David's website: Welcome to Fatherhood Welcome to Fatherhood: The Modern Man's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Fatherhood Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy, happy Wednesday everybody. This is Meagan and Julie. You are listening to The VBAC Link. You are going to be excited just like we are for this episode today, so make sure you are somewhere where you can hear all the words, and honestly, you probably want your birth partners to list them as well. We have David Arrell. He is an author, entrepreneur, consultant, and men’s coach currently in Colorado. We have actually had quite a few special guests in Colorado which is really fun. He is passionate about coaching men on how to more fully embrace and embody help, masculinity, and especially through the powerful modalities of partnership. His most recent work-- now I can’t speak. Julie: Sorry. Meagan: You’re fine. --in this area is a book and we have the book. We are so excited. It’s called Welcome to Fatherhood and I really like it because it is like “WTF”. Julie: WTF. Meagan: Through the
Wed, May 26, 2021
178 Jesse's RCS + Choosing a RCS
“There are a million paths to motherhood and there is no right way or wrong way. It is just your way.” Jesse Truelove with @movewithtruelove joins us on the podcast today and drops some serious truth bombs about birth, fitness, social media, and motherhood. We couldn’t be happier to have her with us and for you to hear the important messages she has to share! Our mission at The VBAC Link is to empower ALL women in their birthing choices, whatever they may be. We applaud all women for choosing the birth path that is best for THEM. There is no right or wrong way to give birth! Additional links Instagram Live with Jesse and TVL Birth Words: Language For a Better Birt h Podcast VBAC vs Repeat C-Section Blog Move with Truelove: Jesse’s website AB Rehab course Move Your Bump Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link. This is Meagan. Julie is on with us and we have a special guest. Her name is Jesse Truelove. We are excited to talk about her episode today because this is something that is actually a first for The VBAC Link. We were just chatting a little bit before. We were like, “Why haven’t we had this happen?” because this is totally what we talk about, what we teach about in our courses, and this episode is where she had an emergency C-section, ended up recovering from a really difficult delivery and had very little support. And really, for her next child, when all was said and done, she decided to have a repeat C-section. And I love this. I love this because as The VBAC Link, as Meagan and Julie-- yes, I am talking for you, Julie. We are all about everybody making the best choice for them. That may not be a VBAC. Some people may not choose to have a VBAC. One of my best friends has had three C-sections. The first one was unexpected, two were scheduled. I love and support her in that even though that is not what I chose to do. I chos
Wed, May 19, 2021
177 Nicole’s VBAC + Racial Bias in Birth
We can’t wait for you to hear Nicole’s incredible VBAC story! She is a successful, driven mama of two and owner of The Polished Playhouse. You will feel her resiliency over and over during this episode. Nicole shares with us her firsthand experiences with racial bias during her first birth and along her journey to VBAC. You will also be inspired by how Nicole overcame challenge after challenge giving birth at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. We talk about the reality of racial bias in the birth world, why you shouldn’t trust the VBAC calculator and a way that anyone can advocate for change. Have the courage to set yourself up to feel safe with your birth team and get that supportive birth experience you deserve! Additional links Nicole’s Instagram: @polishedplayhouse Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2020 The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: All right. Good morning Women of Strength. We are so excited to be here with you today as we always are. I think every guest that we have brings this different kind of excitement with them. Today we have Nicole with us who is amazing in 360°, just all-around. We were just chitchatting with her before we started the episode today and she is an incredible, incredible, incredible woman. I cannot wait to share all of those interesting details and information about her with you. But before we do that, Meagan is going to read a Review of the Week for us. Review of the Week Meagan: Okay, so this is from holmclaugh90. It says “I listen every day. After a traumatic Cesarean with my first baby five years ago and multiple miscarriages in between, this is a breath of fresh air as I await my chance to have a VBAC this October with my second! Love every story I hear on this podcast and it makes me feel so much stronger in knowing I can do this!” That was put in last July, so that means last October she would have had her baby. So holmclaugh90, if you are still listening, shoot us a message. We would love to know how things ended up. Julie : Absolutely. Oh my gosh, thank you so much for the review. You know we always love them. They are near and dear to o
Wed, May 12, 2021
176 Kalie's VBAC + Precipitous Labor
We are joined today by our friend, Kalie, from Illinois. You will be captivated listening to her two wildly different birth stories! Kalie’s first birth was a crash Cesarean after a brutal labor experience with a difficult recovery. Kalie’s VBAC was an unexpectedly fast and furious birth in an emergency room. While her VBAC was a whirlwind experience, she was still able to be a strong advocate for herself and her birth wishes. We also talk about precipitous labor and how to make empowered decisions instead of fear-based ones. Trust your body, listen to your intuition, and use your voice. You’ll know just what to do if your baby decides to come ASAP. Additional links Episode 18 Leslie’s HBAC + Special Scars The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. This is The VBAC Link podcast. We are excited that you are here with us. We have an awesome story. I mean, seriously though, every story is awesome, right? This is our friend Kalie. She is actually from Illinois, so we are excited to hear her amazingly fast VBAC. We are also going to talk about precipitous birth and what that looks like, and how to know what to do, and all the fun things like that. Before we get going into that, we have Julie with us who is going to read a review. Review of the Week Julie: Yeah, absolutely. Before I read a review, I want to tell you something funny. I have a friend, Leslie. She is on Episode 18 as a special scars episode, the very first one that we did on special scars. It was funny because we were preparing for our VBACs together. Our babies were born one month apart, so she was due a month before me. It was really funny because in both of our VBACs, the one thing we did not prepare for is the one thing that happened that was really big for us. For me, I was not prepared for my water breaking before labor or to actually go into labor before 40 weeks. I had my baby on my sister-in-law‘s wedding day. I woke up to my water breaking. I was not prepared for that. I was prepared for everything else, but not that. And then my friend Leslie, her thing was she was prepared for everything and she was expecting to have a super long labor because her first birth, it was a Cesarean. It was 40-something hours. It was so long and the one thing she was not prepared for was to have a
Wed, May 05, 2021
175 Kay's CBAC + Virtual Support
Kay’s story is a must-listen for everyone! Hopeful VBAC moms, CBAC moms, first-time moms, and birth workers will be inspired by Kay’s wisdom, beauty, and strength. Kay was Julie’s first cross-country virtual doula client. She shares her journey of thoroughly preparing for a VBAC (complete with a color-coded binder!), having 100% confidence in her intuition, and ultimately having a euphoric CBAC. Yes, euphoric! Julie also shares a special lesson learned from Kay that she will never forget. “My biggest piece of advice to anyone would be to have that plan C. Have A, B, and C and be so at peace with all of them. Love every part of them because that made all the difference in the world. “I think it’s just as important to listen to all of those beautiful VBAC stories as it is to listen to beautiful CBAC stories because it does not have to be the trauma that most of us have experienced in our first C-section. It can be different.” Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Community on Facebook Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everyone. This is Meagan and Julie. You are listening to The VBAC Link. I am currently driving in the car and Julie is her usual, very organized self sitting in front of the computer. We are excited to record today’s episode. This is Kay. She is actually a virtual client of Julie’s, so I’m excited to hear this story from her because I heard the story from Julie. So yeah. We are excited to get into this story. Review of the Week And of course, we have a review of the week. Since I am driving, we are going to turn the time over to Julie, since I cannot read and drive, and then we will jump back into her story. Julie: Yes. We are quite a dynamic duo. We record in the dentist’s parking lot, on the road, in our home. Meagan: That’s true, yeah. Julie : I remember the early days. Oh my gosh, the episode with Dr. Cormano (Episode 15). Meagan: Oh man. I was in the car going to a prenatal. Julie : I was in my garage in the car and it was 80° outside. I was swe
Wed, April 28, 2021
174 Our Secret Weapon
Who is behind the voice of our podcast introduction? Who edits The VBAC Link podcast episodes? Meet Brian Albers, The VBAC Link’s secret weapon! Listen to this episode to find out why Brian has earned this title time and time again. We also learn some fun secrets and ask him some of your burning questions. But in all seriousness, we are SO grateful for all Brian does for us. He is a quality, genuine guy that they just don’t make these days anymore! Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Community on Facebook The VBAC Link Shop Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: All right, you guys. Guess what? This is an episode that I know you guys have all been waiting for since we posted a picture of our secret weapon wearing, “Don’t be all up in my perineum.” If you haven’t seen the post, go scroll back in our Instagram. We have Brian, who is our secret weapon. Julie started calling him that, I don’t know, forever ago. Julie: Because he is. Meagan : He really is. He has proven it. So we today are going to be recording an episode about Brian. Brian is the voice of our intro on our podcast. Review of the Week Meagan: We have a review, and Julie is the best review reader. We all know this. I can’t read. Julie: Oh my gosh. Meagan : She can. So Julie, go ahead and read your review. I hope you picked a big one. I think strategically, you probably pick the big ones knowing that I can’t read them. Julie: Yeah. That’s exactly what I do, actually. I pick the bigger ones and leave the smaller ones for you. Meagan: I always hope. I always hope. Julie: We have so many. I don’t even think we are going to get through them all, so I am trying to pick more recent ones because I know that you pick older ones and so I feel like maybe we have a little bit of both worlds in our review reading. All right. This review is from <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vbac-li
Wed, April 21, 2021
173 Katherine's Unassisted VBA3C
Katherine’s unassisted VBA3C was truly redemptive in every way. After three unwanted Cesareans and a traumatic VBA3C, she decided that her fifth birth had to be different. When Katherine’s intuition told her that she was not getting the support she deserved, she knew that birthing unassisted was the path for her. Katherine worked hard to research, plan, and prepare as safely as possible. Her birth was intense, healing, and just what she needed. We talk about the risks and benefits of unassisted births and what things you can do to make sure you are making the best (and safest!) choice for your situation. While we will always advise birthing with a VBAC supportive provider over birthing unassisted, we also ALWAYS applaud women for following their intuition! Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Good morning, Women of Strength. It is Women of Strength Wednesday and let me tell you, I couldn’t be happier to say that. I love that alliteration, Women of Strength Wednesday. I don’t know if that’s exactly an alliteration, but it feels really cool to me. Women of Strength Wednesday. No matter what day you are listening to this on, this podcast was released on Wednesday and so you can proudly be a part of Women of Strength Wednesday. We have a really, really, cool, cool, cool story to share with you today. We have Katherine with us. She has five kids. She had three Cesareans and then two VBACs. Her first VBAC was a traumatic and really hard experience for her and her second VBAC after three Cesareans was a planned, unassisted birth. And so, we are going to talk about all those things. We’re going to talk about when you might need to consider an unassisted birth and how to do that safely, although we always recommend first if you can possibly find a supportive provider to support you in your VBAC, we always are going to recommend that first. But we realize that that’s not possible in every area and so we want to talk about it instead of going into an unassisted birth irresponsibly, let’s talk about options. We’ll go over the risks. We will talk about how to do it responsibly if you find yourself in that position. Review of the Week Katherine’s going to share her story with us, but before we share her story and before we get to meet sweet Katherine, Meagan has a Review of the Week for us. Meagan: Yes I do. I was scrolling through reading and I was like, “Oh, I totally want to sho
Wed, April 14, 2021
172 Carlee's VBAC + Cholestasis
After her first labor stalled and ended in a C-section, Carlee remembers leaving the hospital so grateful for her healthy newborn, but also confused, exhausted, and longing for a “birth redo.” When she became pregnant again, Carlee planned mentally, physically, and emotionally for a dreamy HBAC. She also prepared thoroughly with a super supportive team at a nearby hospital if needed. At the end of her pregnancy, Carlee presented a severe case of cholestasis and her plans suddenly changed. Carlee began her low and slow induction at 37 weeks with no signs of labor and an unfavorable cervix. But the patience of her birth team, the support of her doula, and her ability to make decisions regarding her care all set her up for a nice, healthy VBAC. When plans changed, Carlee’s preparation still set her up for success and empowerment. Carlee is proof that a medically necessary induction doesn’t mean you have to go right to a C-section. When working with an early induction, patience is the key. With the right mindset and a patient birth team, you have a good chance of having a great birth experience and an even better chance of having a VBAC. Additional links The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Women of Strength Wednesday. You are listening to The VBAC Link and this is Meagan and Julie and our friend Carlee. She is from Arizona and she is going to be sharing her VBAC story today. There’s something interesting about her VBAC story. If you have never heard of cholestasis, then you want to listen up because we’re going to talk a little bit about it, and what it is, and why it’s important to actually get the baby here sooner rather than later when it is present. We are going to dive into her story. As always though, we have a Review of the Week and Julie will be sharing that with us. Review of the Week Julie: Yeah. I’m going to share a review. But before I share a review, I’m going to congratulate Meagan for saying “cholestasis” right. Meagan : I know. I always call, in my head, I’m like, “Choleo--” Julie: Cholestasis. Meagan: Yes. And I just, it says it all the time. I’m like, “Choleostasis.” Julie: You didn’t even stutter. It was just nice and smooth off the tongue, so I was very proud of you. I had to let you know. Meagan: Perfect. I am g
Wed, April 07, 2021
171 Sarah's HBAC + Little C Antibodies
Have YOU heard of little c antibodies? Sarah gives us information and inspiration as she shares her story with this rare condition. She fought for the redemptive home birth of her dreams while caring for herself and taking the highest precautions for her baby. Sarah built the supportive birth team she didn’t have the first time around and made birthing choices that helped her feel the most in control. Her HBAC with a nuchal hand was a whirlwind and a story we know you’ll love! Additional links The VBAC Link on Instagram How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents MamasteFit Childbirth Education Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Julie and Meagan here with you today and we are really excited about our guest today. I was just reading her bio, and then I was reading a little bit about her and her births, and then I had this “Aha!” moment. I am like, “Wait a minute. Are you the one that we were talking to before you had your baby?” And she was like, “Yes, I was.” And so, we have this really fun story, kind of a little established relationship I guess, before the birth and after the birth. It is always fun to be able to talk to people that have reached out to us before they have their baby and then hear from them after they have their baby. I am so excited to hear the full story. But before I tell you what made her story stand out to me, I’m going to read a little bit of her bio that I thought was really cute. If you can hear my three-year-old in the background, she escaped from quarantine upstairs. My husband will come down soon and rescue me from her. But Sarah‘s bio is really, really cute. She said she is a working mom of two tiny humans and two not-so-tiny cats. She has a quirky sense of humor and an affinity for superhero movies. That’s where I was like, “Okay.” We have got to talk about this because superhero movies-- I really love superhero movies now, but before I got married, I didn’t even know the difference between Batman and Superman. Now I know and I have a very strong opinion about Batman. We won’t go into that though. But I married a geek and he is all about the superheroes, and the comic books, and everything. And so, I’ve come to really love the superhero movies and all of those things. It’s a sentimental part of my life. So that made me really happy. She’s part of the American Sign Language comm
Wed, March 31, 2021
170 Jess's HBAC + VBAC Prep and Planning
“It’s not that birth is painful. It’s that women are strong.” Due to her bicornuate uterus, Jess was told that she could only ever have Cesarean births. When her first birth experience involved a rough surgery and brutal recovery, Jess was tempted to wonder if she even wanted to get pregnant again in the future. Then, she made a choice. Jess decided to trust in her intuition, in a supportive birth team, and in the natural process of birth. She chose to believe in her body and chose to take a risk. Jess’ VBAC story is fast, furious, and magical. She found the mental strength to fully commit and the physical strength to achieve the unmedicated VBAC she was told she’d never have. Jess is truly a woman of strength and so are you. Additional links The VBAC Link Facebook Community How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents JessandBabe YouTube Channel Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Welcome, welcome. This is The VBAC Link podcast and we are really excited to be here with you today. I feel like it’s been a while since we have been recording. I guess it hasn’t really been that long, but it just feels like a long time since we have been talking to people. We have a really fun guest with us today. Her name is Jess. She is a full-time mom. She has two girls and she has a bicornuate-- however you say it-- uterus where it’s a heart-shape, right? Jess: Mhmm, yep. Julie: That can sometimes cause problems conceiving. It can cause problems with baby’s positioning. She has a really, really cool story about her VBAC with a heart-shaped uterus. I am just not going to try and pronounce it anymore. But I am really excited to talk with Jess today because we actually had her scheduled to record a couple of weeks ago, but they had an ice storm. She lives in Oregon and they had an ice storm in Oregon that shut down power and internet for days. At that time, we hadn’t had any more recording sessions planned, but then all of a sudden we decided to open this huge day. We are recording a ton of podcasts today and Jess, you are our very first one. We are so excited that you are not iced in anymore-- Jess : Me too. Julie: -- and that your power is back on and you can share your story with us. But bef
Wed, March 24, 2021
169 All About the Cervix with Julie and Meagan
Come listen, learn, and laugh with Meagan and Julie today in our ode to the cervix. We discuss the role of the cervix in birth, cervical checks, cervical changes, and how to navigate policies to make choices that are best for YOU. The cervix is an amazing, powerful muscle that we love talking about! Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program Empowering Gynecologic Exams: Speculum Care Without Stirrups Lenihan et al. (1984). ” Relationship of antepartum pelvic examinations to premature rupture of the membranes.” Obstetrics & Gynecology 63: 33-37 Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Hey hey, this is Meagan and Julie. Today we have an episode with us. We don’t have a VBAC story today, but that’s okay. We are excited to be sharing an episode with us because we haven’t done one for a while and so we were like, “Oh, let’s get on and talk about the cervix.” This is something that obviously, the cervix has a big role in our deliveries, and so we want to talk about what it means, what it looks like, what it means if we are not dilating or if we are dilating, what it means to be checked during labor or before labor even begins, and all of the crazy things that we hear about these amazing cervixes of ours. Julie has a Review of the Week, and so we are going to turn the time over to her to read that, and then we will dive right in. Review of the Week Julie: Yes, yes. So excited to do a whole episode all about the amazing cervix. I’m going to read a review that was just left a couple of weeks ago. Get a fresh new one in here. This is from Karen. Karen says, “Thank you,” is the title. Actually, this was an email. Oh my gosh! It’s not even a podcast review. I just read that it is an email that she sent us. So, Karen, we are going to read your email. This is really fun. Okay, so she says, “I have written this email in my head so many times in the past year. It has been a bit over a year since my little girl was born and I am still thinking about how helpful your podcast was. She was my eighth baby and was born by VBAC after two Cesareans. While I was blessed to have a very supportive doctor and birth team, something that would be more common in Canada wh
Wed, March 17, 2021
168 Breana's VBAC with a Special Scar + Preventing Preeclampsia
Breana’s first birth was not only an emergency Cesarean at 24 weeks due to severe preeclampsia, but she was also given a classical incision and told that under no circumstances would her body be able to tolerate labor in the future. The news broke Breana’s heart as she longed deeply for a natural, unmedicated birth. Breana researched extensively and found a community of women who also had special scars. When birthing unassisted seemed like her only option, Breana found Amish midwives who were willing to attend her birth. Her VBAC was triumphant, restorative, and wonderful in every way. When our bodies are properly fueled and nourished, our birth outcomes are better and our babies are healthier. Breana is a perfect example. We’ve always been told that preeclampsia has no known cause, but what if there WAS something we could do to prevent it? Additional links Special Scars, Special Hope Silent Knife: Cesarean Prevention and Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC) My Homebirth after Preterm Classical Cesarean - Issue 47, Natural Mother Magazine The Brewer Pregnancy Diet Blue Ribbon Baby Pages The VBAC Link Blog: Birth After Premature Cesarean C-Section Incision Types: Learn More About Special Scars Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Welcome, welcome. It is Women of Strength Wednesday and you are listening to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Julie and Meagan is here with me today. We have a really neat story for you today. It’s been a while since we have had somebody on our podcast with a special scar, which is a scar that is different than the low, vertical incision or the bikini cut scar that most parents have when they get a Cesarean. Meagan: More horizontal, you mean? Julie: Yeah. Did I say vertical? Meagan : Yeah. Julie. Oh, well. Meagan : That’s okay. Julie: Different than the low, horizontal incision that most parents get when they have a C-section. There are lots of different types of special scars. This type that we a
Wed, March 10, 2021
167 Alysa's VBAC + Placenta Previa and Accreta
Alysa is a prime example of how every birth is its own unique story. With her first birth, Alysa had a very medicalized vaginal birth. During her second pregnancy, Alysa unexpectedly developed placenta previa, resulting in weeks of hospital bed rest and a very necessary Cesarean. After knowing firsthand how unpredictable birth can be, Alysa’s third birth was exactly the empowering, unmedicated VBAC she had envisioned. We also talk about placenta previa and accreta-- what it is, how severe it can be, and what the chances are that it will happen to you based on the most current research. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Episode 124: Elyssa’s CBAC + Birthing in a Pandemic Expecting and Empowered Fitness Guides National Accreta Foundation Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan : Happy Wednesday. It is The VBAC Link with you today, Meagan and Julie, and of course, we have another amazing story to share with you today. We have our friend, Alyssa, on the line. She actually-- we just were talking about this. She has actually been with us from the beginning, which is so fun to have someone that we recognize and we know. She posts and everything, so thank you, Alyssa, for being so amazing on our social media outlets. We are so excited to have you here today. She did have a VBAC and it was after a situation that was unexpected. It is placenta previa. We are going to talk about that as well after she shares her story because this is something that is really necessary to have a Cesarean. It truly is. And so, we want to talk a little bit more about that, what it means, what it looks like, and also touch on placenta accreta and talk about the two differences. Review of the Week Meagan: Before we jump into the story, of course, we have a Review of the Week. Julie will be sharing that with you today. Julie: Hey, hey. I am so excited. I really get excited when we interview people that have been with us from the very beginning. Meagan : It is so fun. Julie: I recognize Alysa’s Instagram handle and I am like, “I know who you are.” It’s so exciting. But do you know what is also really funny? The re
Wed, March 03, 2021
166 Ali's VBAC + Fear Release and Advocacy
We are SO excited to be joined today by our friend, Ali Levine. You will instantly feel her bright energy as she shares her awesome VBAC story with us. As a celebrity stylist and TV personality, Ali is no stranger to being in the limelight. With her first pregnancy, she had glamorous photoshoots, went to flashy events, and made a dreamy birth plan. When the natural water birth of her dreams quickly turned into a traumatic and invasive C-section, Ali was left confused, disappointed, and depressed. Ali drastically changed her approach to birth with her second pregnancy. Once she began researching VBAC, Ali was determined, intentional, and never looked back. Ali’s VBAC journey is one of a life-changing, spiritual awakening that we absolutely love and know you will love too. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Ali’s Podcast: Everything with Ali Levine Ali’s Instagram: @alilevinedesign Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast and we are so excited. We have been chitchatting with Ali today and she has a really amazing birth story to tell. We cannot wait for you to hear it. I am sitting here in my dentist’s parking lot. I literally just got done getting a filling. I had to rush out
Wed, February 24, 2021
165 Lexus' Cesarean + Birth Trauma Processing
Today’s episode is vulnerable, raw, and beautifully courageous. In the first of a two-part episode series, we meet Lexus. Lexus shares the trauma of her first birth which ended in a crash Cesarean. She walks us through her anxiety, shock, the negligence of the hospital staff, and how she was stripped of the first birth experience she had envisioned. Lexus is currently pregnant with her second baby and is preparing for a VBAC. She shows us how she is finding healing even before her redemptive birth outcome. We can’t wait for Lexus to come back and share her second birth story! We wish birth trauma didn’t exist. We wish we could wave a magic wand and make it all disappear. But here at The VBAC Link, we also know how resilient you are. We see what you overcome. We know what victories you are capable of. We love you and continue to be inspired by you, Women of Strength. Trigger Warning: We know that unfortunately, many of our listeners can relate to the trauma Lexus shares. This episode may bring up unresolved feelings from a previous birth. Please give yourself grace and use discretion when listening. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Alexis Joy Center for Perinatal Mental Health Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Trigger Warning Meagan: Hey everyone, this is M
Wed, February 17, 2021
164 Jessica's VBAC + PROM
Joining us today from Canada is our friend, Jessica. Determined to avoid another brutal Cesarean recovery, Jessica researched extensively and fought for her VBAC rights. When she experienced PROM for the second time, Jessica didn’t allow different opinions from different providers dictate what she knew she deserved. She refused a scheduled Cesarean, reminded providers that their hospital did in fact support VBAC induction, knew when her body needed an epidural, and got the VBAC of her dreams. Jessica’s preparation made all the difference in her outcome. We want that to be the case for you too! Topics discussed today include: How to know if all providers at a practice have the same views Why you should ask open-ended questions PROM: what it is and what to do if it happens to you Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents The VBAC Link T-Shirt Shop 3 Game-Changing Things to do When Your Water Breaks: The VBAC Link Blog Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Hello, hello, and welcome everyone. This is The VBAC Link with Julie and Meagan. We have a guest with you today from Canada. Her name is Jessica. She has an awesome story for you today. We were chitchatting a little bit before the episode began. We found out that she found us in the very beginning. It was right after her Cesarean, which is exciting to us because we want people to be able to find us during their journey of healing before they start preparing as well. So, that was really fun and exciting to hear. She has a fun story today. A cool highlight of her story is PROM. If you don’t know what PROM means, it means Premature Rupture of Membranes
Wed, February 10, 2021
163 What CBAC Moms Want You to Know
They invested so much of their time, energy, money, and hearts into their VBAC preparation. They craved immediate skin-to-skin, fought for their rights, and advocated for themselves. They labored hard, sacrificed for their babies, and felt the heartbreak that comes from an unplanned repeat Cesarean. They found healing, and they found each other. Now, these 7 Women of Strength want to share it all with you. How does it feel to have a CBAC? We invite you to sit in this space with us and find out. Additional links Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program CBAC Support - The VBAC Link Community Facebook Group Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our very own Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program . It is the most comprehensive VBAC doula training in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced video course. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more information and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Are you interested in sponsoring The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Alright, alright. Hello, everybody. This is The VBAC Link, and you are with myself, Meagan, and Julie. We have a special treat. You are with a whole bunch of other people today, and we are so excited that you are going to be able to hear from all of them. This episode is going to be powerful. It’s going to be emotional. It might be something that fuels fire and something that you totally relate to. I want to start the episode off by encouraging you to have an open mind and an open heart as you’re listening to these people’s stories. We are going to be talking about CBAC today. If you didn’t know, I had a CBAC. I wanted a VBAC with my second, and it ended up in a Cesarean. In so many ways, I feel like I can relate to all of these people. I can’t wait to hear their personal journeys, and feelings, and stories. We do have a special message. We are going to skip over our review of the week, and Julie is going to go over the differences between CBAC, VBAC, and scheduled C-section. Is that what you said? Julie: You got it. Meagan: Yes. Alright. So, we are going to get into that, and then we will get into these awesome stories. Episode sponsor
Wed, February 03, 2021
162 Harmony and Kimberly + Doula Support
In a VBAC Link podcast first, we are joined by both a parent and her doula to share an inspiring VBAC story with us. Harmony, a VBAC mom, talks about her journey to better health, trusting her intuition to feel confident with an out-of-hospital birth setting, and how crucial it was to have a rock-solid support system. Kimberly, one of our VBAC Certified Doulas, chimes in to share her unique perspective on Harmony’s birth. Their sweet friendship shows us just how special the bond can become between you and your doula. Kimberly says to Harmony, “Stories like yours are exactly why I am passionate about VBAC. I was honored to get to be a part of your experience.” Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program Find a VBAC Link Certified Doula Kimberly’s Website: Dulce Birthing Services Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. You are listening to The VBAC Link podcast and as always, we are excited to be with you today. Today, we have something special for you. We have actually never done this before. Today is going to be so fun to hear the stories from both sides. We have both a parent and her doula with you today. They are going to share a VBAC story. We have Harmony and Kimberly. Harmony is the mom and Kimberly is the doula. She had a VBAC just six weeks ago, so we are so excited to hear her story. As always, we have a Review of the Week before we dive right in. I will turn the time over to Julie. Review of the
Thu, January 28, 2021
161 Brittany Sharpe McCollum + Pelvic Dynamics
What if tiny, subtle movements during labor could give your baby extra centimeters of space in your pelvis? Those centimeters just might make all the difference in getting your VBAC. Brittany Sharpe McCollum is an expert on educating women about pelvic biomechanics. This episode is packed with valuable, mind-blowing information that will put you, the laboring woman, back in control of your labor and ready to have an exhilarating birth. “It doesn’t matter if somebody is birthing with an epidural or without an epidural. They should come out of their experience feeling like they did something amazing. It doesn’t matter if somebody has a Cesarean or vaginal birth. They should come out of it feeling like they did something awesome rather than feeling like something happened to them.” Today’s topics include: - Your pelvis shape and optimal fetal positioning - Subtle movements during labor - Closed knee pushing - 5/4/3 Rule of Movement Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Brittany Sharpe McCollum’s website: Blossoming Bellies Birth Blossoming Bellies Birth Instagram Baby Got VBAC Free Webinars The VBAC Link T-Shirt Shop Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link podcast. This is Julie and Megan with you today and we are really thrilled
Wed, January 20, 2021
160 Everything Left Unsaid with Mari and Allie
“To the unsupportive OB:” “To that labor and delivery nurse:” “To my partner:” “To the midwife who believed in me:” “To myself:” The long-awaited episode is here. This is the one where YOU have the spotlight. Mari Vega and Allie Mennie are back to join Meagan and Julie as they read your letter submissions. Let your voices be heard. Let your trauma heal. We tell the world everything you weren’t given the chance to say during your birth. Additional links The VBAC Link’s Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program Allie Mennie’s website Mari Vega’s website Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program . This course is designed for birth workers who want to take their VBAC education to the next level so you can support parents who have had a Cesarean in the most effective ways. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more information and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com . Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar and to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Happy Wednesday, women of strength. We have a really incredible episode for you today. I can’t even put into words all of the things I am feeling about what we are about to do because it’s big. It’s big, and it’s emotional. Some of us are reading over these for the first time. I think there’s going to be lots of tears and crying. I don’t know. We’re going to try to not get angry and frustrated. We asked you back in December, or the end of November, maybe it was, to write an anonymous letter to a healthcare worker, your provider, somebody on your hospital staff, or somebody that negatively affected your birth. These are all anonymous letters. We have lots and lots of submissions, and we are excited to read them to you today. Now, I want you to be advised that some of these letters have some difficult experiences explained in them. But, I think it’s really, really important that we listen to these, we hear them, and we meet these anonymous letter writers where they are because this is the state of maternity care in our country. These things that we are about to read are not uncommon
Wed, January 13, 2021
159 Brittany's VBAC + Finding Peace in Unplanned Cesareans
With her first baby, Brittany knew she needed a home birth. She took no shortcuts to ensure that her dream would come true. From hiring the most supportive midwife and doula to routine chiropractic care to practicing HypnoBirthing to blowing up the birth tub and hanging birth affirmations, the level of preparation (especially as a first-time mom!) was truly impressive. Yet in a matter of hours, Brittany’s years of planning turned from a powerful home birth into a heartbreaking Cesarean and traumatic hospital experience. Brittany shares valuable lessons learned, how she found healing, and her beautifully triumphant HBAC story which was redemptive in every way. Today’s topics include: - How to handle insensitive comments - Breech presentation - Relinquishing control - Postpartum grief and healing - Gratitude and perspective - Mother-baby bonding in a Cesarean versus a vaginal birth Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents The VBAC Link Facebook page Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Sponsorship inquiries Interested in sponsoring a The VBAC Link podcast? Find out more information here at advertisecast.com/TheVBACLink or email us at info@thevbaclink.com Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Hello, hello. It is The VBAC Link. You are going to be hearing an amazing story today from our friend Brittany. We are so excited to hear from her. She had a C-section and then a VBAC. She is from Florida. She is actually a hairstylist and she does it all day. We were just talking about her bio, how cute it is. She says, “Hairstyle by day and mama by night.” We totally get that because that’s how we roll. We are podcasters by day. Julie: Podcaster by day. Podcaster by night. Doula by day. Doula by night. Meagan: Right? Oh my gosh. It’s a crazy life that we all live. But man, we are so excited to hear her story. We do have a Review of the Week. So before we get into it, I want to turn the time over to Julie to read that review, and then
Wed, January 06, 2021
158 Hallie's VBAC + Water for Pain Relief
Happy New Year! We are starting 2021 strong with today’s powerful VBAC story. Hallie is a two-time VBAC mom and birth photographer from New Zealand. This 5’0” tall woman of strength fought through a long, hard labor to deliver a 9 pound, asynclitic, and perfectly beautiful baby girl. Hallie talks about how using water as a coping technique was pivotal to her success. Later in this episode, we talk about the biggest barrier doulas face when trying to support VBAC/TOLAC parents. We surveyed over 200 VBAC doulas and almost every single answer was the same. The Birth Wizard herself, Emmy Howard, joins Julie today as her co-host to discuss what that barrier is and how to overcome it. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Emmy, Birth Wizard: Website , Facebook , Instagram , Twitter Hallie’s Instagram: @nz_birthstories The Evidence on: Waterbirth Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcriptNote: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Happy New Year, Women of Strength! Can you believe it? It is January 2021. We are recording this in the past and right now I hope our future selves in January 2021 are living in a lot better world than we are in right now, October 2020, because things are a little nuts right now. Let’s be honest, 2020 hasn’t been the best. I was going to say most exciting, but exciting could also not be a good thing. It’s definitely been a tumultuous year. We could say that. So hopefully, 2021 brings us good fortune, lots of love, kindness, and health. For our first episode of 2021, I am missing Meagan again. Do you remember a couple of episodes ago when I told you that she was out with some family stuff? Well, this is the last episode where she will be out. But, I really like having our VBAC doulas co-host with us, so you’ll probably have some more VBAC doulas co-host in the future. Our co
Wed, December 30, 2020
157 Home Birth and Hospital Birth, Risks vs Benefits
It’s an ongoing and classic debate-- home birth versus hospital birth. Trying to decide where to have your VBAC is one of the toughest decisions to make. There are LOTS of opinions out there to navigate. Julie and Meagan sit down with you today to share some pros and cons (and some myth busters!) of each based on their personal experiences as doulas, as well as the most current evidence-based research out there. This discussion is only the beginning. We include tons of resources with even more information about these topics to help you continue your research and get closer to making your informed decision. We hope this episode leaves you feeling empowered and more confident in your birth choices no matter where you end up birthing. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents The VBAC Link Community VBAC Link Blogs: Writing a Home Birth Plan Natural Birth versus Epidural Home Birth After C-section (HBAC) Laboring at Home What to Write in a VBAC Birth Plan 13 Tips to Prepare for an Empowering Birth Evidence-Based Birth® article: What is Home Birth? The VBAC Link Shop Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Meagan: Hello, hello. It’s Meagan and Julie with The VBAC Link, and today, you just have us. Lucky you. We’re so excited to be with you today. Julie: Woohoo! Me
Wed, December 23, 2020
156 Brigette's VBAC + Getting Your Cervix Ready for Birth
Brigette, who is also one of Julie’s very own clients, shares her inspiring VBAC story of how she went from being only 1 centimeter dilated upon arrival to the hospital to 10 centimeters dilated, pushing, and a beautiful baby boy in only five hours. In Julie’s words, Brigette’s “VBAC rocked my world. It’s one of those things where in your mind you know certain things work, line up, then the magic happens. But then, when you actually are there witnessing it and doing it, it is magical. I don’t know what other way to describe it. It’s super cool, super empowering. I left that birth all smiles, really, really excited for Brigette.” Also, joining us today as Julie’s co-host is Tara Van Dyke, one of our VBAC Link Certified Doulas. Together, Julie and Tara discuss how to best prepare the cervix for labor, as well as some information about the cervix that most people overlook. Additional links Spinning Babies Abdominal Lift With U Parenting How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Welcome to The VBAC Link Podcast. This is Julie today. I am missing Meagan with all my heart, but don’t worry, because I have two wonderful people with me here today-- one of our VBAC doulas to co-host and one of my own clients sharing her VBAC story that I’m so excited to hear. I’m going to introduce both of them in just a second, but Meagan-- this is going to be really funny, the way it plays out in the schedule because this episode is coming out in the middle of our three recordings. This is technically the second one that you’re hearing with Meagan absent, but it’s three weeks after the first one that posted, and then there’s another one in two weeks that’s not going to have Meagan on it either. So, just bear with me. I’m missing my security blanket, Meagan. But luckily I have one of our VBAC doulas and one of my clients here to fill in that warm and snuggly that Meagan always helps me with when we’re recording. </p
Wed, December 16, 2020
155 Alison's VBAC + How to Advocate for Yourself
With her first birth, Alison pushed for five hours. She was nauseous, dehydrated, and exhausted. Her doctors were adamant that she would not be able to birth her baby vaginally. Alison trusted their medical advice and went for a Cesarean. An analyst by trade, Alison couldn’t stop analyzing every detail of that birth. She wished she had known more. She wished she had asked more questions. When she became pregnant again, Alison knew much more, but she still had concerns and doubts. But she kept moving forward, learning and trusting her intuition. Her second birth was fast, furious, and unique in its own way. Ultimately, she did what she knew her body was able to do. Did you know that you have rights in the birth space? And that as scary as it sometimes feels, we have the right to ask questions? We talk about what those rights are, what questions to ask, and how to help you feel more in control of your birth environment. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents The VBAC Link on Apple Podcasts Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted, and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcript Julie: Good morning, Women of Strength. We are so excited today to have our friend Alison with us. Alison is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I’ve been to Philadelphia, actually. But every time I hear the word “Philadelphia,” I don’t know. I want to see if I’m the only one. Whenever I hear the word “Philadelphia,” I want to bust out The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air song. “West Philadelphia born and raised, on the playground was where I spent most of my days, chillin’ out maxin’, relaxin’ all cool…” Right? Am I the only one? Alison: In case you were wondering, I am actually located in West Philadelphia. I should have specified. Julie: Fresh Prince. We’ll call you Fresh Princess Alison Grant. But seriously, now that song is going to be stuck in your head all day. You’re welcome. Let me know if you bust out singing that song every time you hear “Philadelphia” or if it’s just me. I might be the weird one. Alright. So, Alison here from Philadelphia. She’s a mom of two. She works as an analyst, which is probably why
Wed, December 09, 2020
154 Bec's VBAC + Evidence on Due Dates
Meet Bec from Sydney, Australia! Though her first birth was very much dictated to her by hospital policies and unsupportive providers, Bec fought and researched relentlessly to make sure she was involved in every.single.decision. during her next birth. When hospital VBAC policies and outside opinions tried to prevail, Bec stayed steady and determined. She built a birth dream team, and at the center of that team was the most important member of all—her baby. Bec describes her journey from feeling inferior, inadequate, and controlled to becoming informed, empowered, and respected in every way. Her hard work paid off beautifully and she finally got the birth of her dreams. We also discuss the most up-to-date evidence on due dates. Why do so many providers refuse to allow a VBAC past 39 weeks? Why do so many providers refuse to induce for a VBAC? The most important piece of information that we want you to have during your search for a VBAC supportive provider is this: There is no evidence to support the hard-stop deadline of giving birth at 39 weeks or 40 weeks for a VBAC. Do not let an unsupportive provider dictate your birth. Keep fighting for that birth of your dreams, Women of Strength. You can do this! Additional links Evidence on: Inducing for Due Dates VBAC After 40 Weeks: Is it Safe to Go Past Your Due Date? How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents . It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted and we are ready to help you too. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcript Julie: Good morning, Women of Strength. It is Wednesday, December 9th and it is a very special day for our guest today. It is her VBAC baby’s birthday, which is so exciting because-- I sent it out in an email a little while ago and I think we’ve talked about it a little bit before on the podcast, but Meagan gives me such a hard time. Not a hard time. She just teases me, or giggles, or whatever, because it always seems like whenever we air the podcast, the date has a special meaning. Meagan: It’s without fail. It has never not happened when you a
Wed, December 02, 2020
153 Marilys' VBAC + The untold CBAC and VBAC stories
Calling all listeners! Whether you’re preparing for a VBAC, have already had your VBAC, had a planned or unplanned CBAC, or are a birth worker, this episode is for YOU. Mari Vega is a powerful force in the birth world. Through her VBAC experience, Mari found her voice. Not only did she find it, but she realized that it is loud, it is confident, and it is beautiful. Mari is now on a mission to help all moms with any birth outcome feel heard, valued, and loved. To the woman who has faced obstetric mistreatment during any birth, we see you. To the woman who is struggling with finding a VBAC supportive provider, we see you. To the woman who fought so hard for her VBAC and did everything right, yet got an unwanted CBAC, we see you. We see you, women of strength, and we love you. We are proud of you. Also joining us this episode is one of our VBAC trained doulas, Allie Mennie, who has a true gift with words. We have a special assignment for all of our listeners at the end of this truly impactfull episode. Tune in to find out what it is. We cannot WAIT to hear from each of you! Topics today include: - How to get your VBAC everything is working against you - The importance of reporting obstetric mistreatment - Finding the strength to share your CBAC story - Releasing sorrow from any birth outcome to find greater joy Additional links Mari Vega’s website , Instagram , and Facebook pages Alli Mennie’s website , Instagram , and Facebook pages Email your letters to info@thevbaclink.com Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our very own Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program . It is the most comprehensive VBAC doula training in the world perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced video course. Head over to thevbaclink.com to find out more information and sign up today. Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Alright, Women of Strength. It is Women of Strength Wednesday and we are here for you with a podcast with one of our newest, most favorite people in the world. Her name is Mari Vega and she’s doing a lot of really amazing things. But before I try and talk about four things at once like I tend
Wed, November 25, 2020
152 Liz's Surprise HBAC + Emotional Release
Can crying really help solve prodromal labor? Is it possible that an emotional release can suddenly turn manageable contractions into full-blown pushing? YES! Listen to our friend, Liz, share her incredible surprise HBAC story that will reinforce your confidence in the power of a woman’s ability to birth. Liz was prepared to birth at the hospital without her husband due to COVID restrictions, but her baby had other plans. She says, “I got to have my baby in this completely natural way that I didn’t even realize how much I needed. I went from having a birth where I had literally zero control, zero-knowledge, and everyone else telling me what to do, and then a birth where I caught my own baby, suction bulbed him, and walked out carrying him while he was still attached to me. It’s so incredibly empowering.” We also discuss specific ways to find fears within yourself and how to release them. There truly is physical power in just letting go. Additional links How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents The VBAC Link Blog: How to Turn Prodromal Labor into Active Labor VBAC Without Fear: Five Minute Fear Release Video Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds by Cynthia Gabriel Episode sponsor This episode is sponsored by our signature course, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Preparation Course for Parents , that you can find at thevbaclink.com. It is the most comprehensive VBAC preparation course in the world, perfectly packaged in an online, self-paced, video course. Together, Meagan and Julie have helped over 800 parents get the birth that they wanted and they are ready to help you too. Head on over to thevbaclink.com to find out more and sign up today. Full transcript Note: All transcripts are edited to eliminate false starts and filler words. Julie: Happy Wednesday, women of strength. We are really excited for our story today, as usual. I don’t think we’re ever not excited about anything, really. But today we have a really cool story. We just love our friend, Liz. Her story is really, really exciting because it was an unplanned, unassisted home birth after Cesarean and I’m dying to hear all of the details of this story. Liz is from Houston, Texas and she is the mother of two boys. Her youngest boy’s name is the same as my oldest boy’s name. I thought that was really, really cool
Wed, November 18, 2020
151 Gretchen's VBAC + Prenatal Anxiety
“A lot of people have the idea that if you’re in therapy or if you’re using extra help, then it’s a weakness and it’s not. It’s a strength. It really is. It’s okay to need support and to need help.” Gretchen is a licensed professional counselor, a marathon runner, and a mom of two boys from Marietta, Georgia. She also has battled severe anxiety throughout her life. As Gretchen shares her unique obstacles from both of her pregnancies and births, her story is sure to be a message of inspiration and hope. Throughout her birth journeys, Gretchen experienced unexpected stressors like infertility, medical complications, and a pandemic that threatened to let her anxiety take over and win. But Gretchen didn’t let it. She chose to strengthen herself and made a plan. Through bi-weekly therapy, education, and a powerful birth team, Gretchen found the support she needed to stay well. She trusted her intuition, found her courage, and had a victorious VBAC, confirming to herself something she already knew-- that she is stronger than her anxiety. We get very vulnerable in this episode as we talk about the importance of asking for help and how much we all need extra support, especially in the birth space. Additional links Antepartum Depression Blog Better Help Therapy Episode sponsor This episode is brought to you by Nourisher. Whether you are in the prenatal, postnatal, or nursing stage of motherhood, Nourisher bars have your nutrition covered without sacrificing flavor. Their delicious flavors include Blueberry Coconut, Chocolate Banana, Maple Walnut, Papaya Turmeric, Spirulina Ginger, and Strawberry Rosehip. Check them out at thevbaclink.com/go/nourisher . Full transcript Meagan: Hello, hello. It is Wednesday and you’ve got Julie and Meagan with you today. We’re so excited as usual. I don’t feel like we’re ever not excited to be recording. Julie: We’re kind of a happy couple of people. Meagan: We are, and it’s so fun to get to know all these people from all over the world. Today we have our friend, Gretchen. She is going to share her story. She’s actually from Georgia. Is that correct, Gretchen? Gretchen: Yes. Marietta, which is a suburb of Atlanta. Meagan: Yes. So, she is going to share her story with us today. I want to tell you a little bit about her. She calls herself an “old mom”. I don’t think she’s old. I do not think she’s old. Julie: Um, we’re the same age, Gretchen, and I also feel old. Meagan: No! You guys are not old. But anyway, she’s got two boys. One is two months and one is two years. She’s actually a licensed profession
Wed, November 11, 2020
150 Aubria's HBAC + Expert Providers
With her first baby, Aubria had gestational diabetes that wasn’t diagnosed until she was 37 weeks. She ended up having a Cesarean and birthing an 11 pound, 11 ounce perfectly healthy baby girl. Aubria was determined to have a different birth outcome the second time around. She was proactive with her diet, switched providers at 38 weeks, and stayed as patient as possible even when she was approaching 42 weeks. After six long days of prodromal labor, Aubria had a beautiful, redemptive HBAC. Aubria talks about how she trusted instincts she didn’t know she had and found healing through postpartum pelvic floor therapy. We also discuss how imperative it is to find a provider who is an expert in your type of birth. Our discussion is based on this quote by Lauralyn Curtis: “If there is one thing you can do right now to ensure your best birth experience, it’s this: Choose a care provider who is an expert in the type of birth you are planning...When you find the right care provider, they will understand your birth plan before you even show it to them because it’s what they already do every day.” Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Nourisher. Whether you are in the prenatal, postnatal, or nursing stage of motherhood, Nourisher bars have your nutrition covered without sacrificing flavor. Their delicious flavors include Blueberry Coconut, Chocolate Banana, Maple Walnut, Papaya Turmeric, Spirulina Ginger, and Strawberry Rosehip. Check them out at thevbaclink.com/go/nourisher . VBAC Link Courses: How to VBAC: The Parents’ Course Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Additional Links: 3 Things You NEED to Know About Your VBAC Provider Full Transcript: Julie: Good morning. This is The VBAC Link podcast. We have me, Julie Francom, and my co-host, Meagan Heaton-- owners of The VBAC Link podcast-- here with you today, and we are so excited because this is our 150th episode. I’m a little excited about that because I am a numbers girl. I just spent a long time updating all of our podcast episode numbers this past weekend so that they would match because we changed how we number episodes about 70 episodes in. I’ve been going through and making everything consistent. To have our 150th episode feels so surreal. It feels like yesterday that I was talking to Meagan, and I’m like, “Hey, we should start a podcast. It’s not going to be hard at all. I’m going to do a test recording to try it and see. It’s going to take no time, and it will be so easy.” She’s like, “Okay, but I think you’re crazy, and I think you’re underestimating how m
Wed, November 04, 2020
149 Jill's VBAC + Birth Support Coaching
Jill from Alberta, Canada. She is a homeschooling mother to 3 children, a birth doula, and a recently certified birth support coach through the Birth Coach Method. She is excited to use her newly learned coaching tools to help her clients achieve their desired birth experience even if they cannot have a doula attend their birth. Jill works with pregnant women in their last trimester to coach them around their desires for their birth, their current reality, and circumstances and closes every coaching session with an action assignment designed to reach their goals. Aside from sharing her incredible VBAC story, we discuss: -What birth coaching is and how it is different from childbirth education. -How hiring a birth support coach can help you, even if you can't have a doula attend your birth. -How birth support coaching places the pregnant parent as an expert on their body and their birth. Find Jill and learn more about birth coaching on her Instagram page: @jillmcknight_birthdoula Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by @Nourisher, formerly known as Milkful nursing bars, Nousrisher believes that moms deserve the most nutritious food. Their pre and post-natal bars are made to nourish her unique needs throughout motherhood, without sacrificing flavor. Their delicious flavors include Papaya Turmeric: A tropical treat! Folate-packed Papaya + anti-inflammatory Turmeric. Spirulina Ginger: Sweet and spicy! Nausea-soothing spicy ginger plus energy-boosting Spirulina, and Strawberry Rosehip: OMG flavor! Yummy strawberries plus immune-boosting Rosehip. Check them out at thevbaclink.com/go/nourisher Meagan: Happy Wednesday, women of strength! It is Julie and Meagan. We have Jill with us today. She’s in Canada and we cannot wait to hear not only her stories, but we want to dive in a little bit more on birth coaching-- something that she has gone into during her journey. She actually has three kids. She had a C-section and then two VBACs. We can’t wait to hear that story. She is a certified birth coach and a birth doula. We’re really excited to hear more about the coaching, what that entails and how we all can learn more because I know as a doula, for me, I think that would be something really fun to add to my offerings and my skills. I can’t wait to hear that. Julie has a review of the week, so we’ll turn the time over to her. Review of the week Julie: I’m Julie and I have a review of the week and I’m also interested in learning about birth coaching. I’m just really excited. I’m not going to start asking questions and things because it’s the very beginning of the episode. But at the end we might just pick your brain a little bit, Jill. This review is from Apple Podcasts and the reviewer name is Khuxx. The review’s name is “Success.” Khuxx says, “This pod
Wed, October 28, 2020
148 Julie and Meagan Chat About Life and Birth
We have both been so busy with moving, remodeling kitchens, parenting, soccer, gymnastics, being a good wife, (trying to do) self-care, record podcasts, keep up with business, and EVERYTHING that we haven't even been able to catch up with each other. So, we decided to have a fun episode about life and what's been going on with us and the different births we have attended. You will be sure to get to know us a little better and have fun while we shoot the breeze. Birth topics we discuss: Our doula careers at @tinyblessingsdoulaservices and @juliefrancombirth Overcoming emotions as birth approaches How we feel as doulas when our clients don't get the birth they prepared for Inappropriate things we have heard providers/staff say to parents in labor Video content on our YouTube Channel Clearing our minds as doulas and for parents as we enter the birth space Releasing fears and emotions Our signature course How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Episode Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by our very own VBAC Doula Certification program! Find out more about how to support parents who have had a Cesarean in the most effective ways at thevbaclink.com. Full Transcript Julie: Good morning, women of strength. It is Julie and Meagan here today and we are just going to talk because we have both been so busy moving, remodeling kitchens, doulaing parenting, soccer, gymnastics, trying to be a good wife somewhere in there… Meagan: And still trying to do self-care. Julie: And podcasts. We really haven’t even had a chance to catch up with each other and find out what we’ve been doing birth-wise, doula-wise and things like that. So we wanted to have a fun episode where we talk about life, different things that are going on with us, some births we’ve attended and different things like that. Hang along the ride with us. You’ll get to know us a little bit better and brain dead Julie, man. That’s my life right now. But first, before we do that, Meagan has a review of the week. Review of the week Meagan: Yes I do. This is actually from Google, so I was excited to see this. We are on Apple Podcasts and that’s probably where we get the most reviews. But this one is from Google and it’s from Hannah Troyer, Doula. Her subject is “5 Million Stars”. She says, “If I could give the VBAC Link 5 million stars, I would. It’s just that good. I have been a doula for three and a half years now and have supported multiple VBAC mamas. The evidence-based informa
Wed, October 21, 2020
147 Jennifer's CBAC + Crash Cesarean
Jennifer says: "In 2015, after 41 hours of labor, I ended up having a C-section. I was sad that my birth plan hadn't ended the way I wanted it to but so happy to meet my baby boy finally! Fast forward 3.5 years, a miscarriage and secondary infertility- I was yet pregnant again! I found the most VBAC friendly doctor in town, went to a webster certified chiropractor every other week, hired a doula, listened to ALL the VBAC podcast, and I was ready! I had prepared myself and my body for birth. I was 100% confident that I would accomplish a VBAC- so was my entire birth team! Then I found out my doctor was going to be on vacation for 1.5 weeks- I was pretty sure he would not be attending my delivery, which made me so sad since he was so VBAC positive. Labor started just after midnight on my due date. I progressed slow and steady- at the 25 hrs mark, my water broke, I was 8 cm dilated. My husband and I were so excited; my body was doing what it was MADE to do! "We were going to find out the gender of our baby soon! "Within 10 minutes, everything changed. Nurses and doctors rushed in. The baby's heartbeat couldn't be detected. The fear was that my uterus had ruptured, which is a slight risk you take when attempting a VBAC. My team decided that a crash C-section was necessary; it wasn't going to be a "gentle" section. I was going to be put under general anesthesia. My husband would not be able to attend the birth. I was put under terrified thinking about how I would tell my four-year-old that his brother or sister wasn't going to be coming home. Bad things weren't supposed to happen to rainbow babies. "My doctor acted swiftly, and he said he was able to remove my baby within 43 seconds of putting me under... 43 seconds! Thankfully, my uterus hadn't ruptured. The cord was wrapped twice around the baby's neck. When I saw my baby for the first time, I quickly noted the pink hat in her warmer and realized I was now a girl mom, which was so shocking because I thought it was another boy. "Soon after, the tears of joy went back to tears of sadness. Thankfully I had a great support system and reached out to a counselor right away. I knew that I wanted to sort my feelings about my failed VBAC and traumatic birth before those thoughts consumed me. I saw a counselor who specializes in postpartum issues four days after delivering my baby girl. She has helped me work through the fears of almost losing our baby and has been a tremendous asset in keeping my mental health in the right place." We go on to talk about the difference between a Crash Cesarean and an Emergency Cesarean, and why it is important to know the difference. You can find out more about How to Cope When You Don't Get Your VBAC on our blog. We want to thank this episode's sponsor, Betterhelp Coun
Wed, October 14, 2020
146 VBAC Doulas Tell All
This episode is a must-listen! Ten of our VBAC doulas give their best tips and tricks for an empowered pregnancy and birth. There are so many sweet nuggets of information given by these wonderful people that you will be sure to re-listen again and again to soak it all in. To find a doula on this podcast or, in your own state or country, go to thevbaclink.com/findadoula . Guest Doulas: Kimberly Culver Dulce Birth - Central Texas - Birth hormones and physiological birth Terri Schelkoph Doula Mama - Lakeville, Minnesota - The people you have in your birth space Tiffany Muniz The Doula Tiffany - Breese, Illinois - Choosing a supportive provider Emmy Howard Birth Wizard - Chandler, Arizona - Teamwork makes the dream work Brittany LeBoeuf MotherBirth - Lafayette, Louisiana - Staying informed and always learning Nicole Ramsey Ada's Gift Doula Services - West Central Indiana - Birth planning and choices Michelle Holmes Doulaed - Heber City, Utah - 3-minute childbirth education class for the partner Brooke Volpe Solace Birth Services - Southeast Pennsylvania and New Jersey - Understanding the pelvis Dominika Buck Alaska Above and Beyond Doula Care - Alaska - Coping with unsupportive family and friends Sarah Bills - The VBAC Link Admin - Boise, Idaho - Asking questions and being an active participant Want to become a VBAC Doula? Head over to thevbaclink.com/product/advanced-doula-certification and get started today! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 07, 2020
145 Hermaris' VBAC + Prodromal Labor
Hermaris' first birth was straightforward and boring until the very end when they found out her baby was breech. She was unable to turn her baby and ended with a Cesarean. With Hermaris' second pregnancy, she was forced to switch providers at 30 weeks due to her insurance. After laboring at home for a long time, Hermaris and her husband headed to the hospital. She arrived at a 6 and quickly progressed. Hermaris' birth was full of lots of surprises, but she still got to have her VBAC. Meagan takes a moment to talk about prodromal labor. She tells you what it is and what to do when you experience it. Main Episode Topics: - Breech - Switching providers - Prodromal labor This episode is brought to you by, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents: Our course is not a typical childbirth class. We focus exclusively on the extra information you need to prepare yourself for the best chance of a successful VBAC. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Additional Links: The VBAC Link Blog Hermaris' Website Hermaris' Instagram Hermaris' Photography Instagram Hermaris' Shop Hermaris' Facebook Hermaris' Blog Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 30, 2020
144 Laura's VBAC + IUGR and Due Dates
Laura's first baby was failure to descend and ended in a Cesarean. 3 years later Laura and her husband were able to conceive with IUI. During her pregnancy, her baby was diagnosed with intrauterine growth restriction (smaller baby than it should be). Through many discussions and changed plans, they took the diagnosis away and changed her due date forward because they knew the day she conceived due to the IUI. Just days before her due date, Laura went into labor. She labored at home and arrived at the hospital dilated to a 10! Laura was able to push her baby out despite the fears and doubts she had. At the end of the episode, Julie discusses due dates and what you can do to track the date you conceive. Check out the links below for more information. Main Episode Topics: - Failure to descend - Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) - Infertility - IUI (intrauterine insemination) - Due dates - Basal Body Temperature (BBT) This episode is brought to you by, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents: Our course is not a typical childbirth class. We focus exclusively on the extra information you need to prepare yourself for the best chance of a successful VBAC. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Additional Links: The Evidence on: Due Dates How to Track Your Basal Body Temperature Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 23, 2020
143 Kate + Birth Outside the US
Kate tells us all about her birth experiences in England and how they differ from birth in the US. She was induced at 38+1 with her first baby, which led to an emergency Cesarean. Kate was so happy that her baby was healthy and safe, but she felt her body "failed" her. She found a supportive provider to guide her through her second pregnancy. Kate went into labor at 41+2 and labored at home until she reached 8cm. She was able to achieve her VBAC with the support of her husband, doula, and midwives. Main Episode Topics: - Birth in England - Midwifery - Pessary - Cesarean Rates This episode is brought to you by, How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents: Our course is not a typical childbirth class. We focus exclusively on the extra information you need to prepare yourself for the best chance of a successful VBAC. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Additional Links: Kate's Instagram Find A VBAC Doula Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 16, 2020
142 VBAC Blogging: Lessons Learned
In this episode, Julie and Meagan talk about their most popular blogs. They go into detail on where they get the information and resources to write their blogs. They also talk about their most popular blogs in more depth. They also talk about their most popular blogs in more depth. Including birth intervals when seeking a VBAC, the CPD diagnosis, big babies, birth trauma and baby positioning. Use the search bar on our website to search for different topics in our blogs. The VBAC Link Blog Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Keywords/Topics: birth intervals; small pelvis; cpd; big baby; baby position; birth trauma; scar tissue Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 09, 2020
141 Molly's VBAC + 4th Degree Tears
In this episode, Molly shares her Cesarean and her two VBAC stories. Her Cesarean was a birth center transfer due to no progression after 5 hours of pushing. Molly's second birth was a VBAC at a birth center where she had a 4th degree tear and was transferred to the hospital to be repaired. Her third birth is what Molly calls her "dream birth" with no tearing! How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Molly's Blog Molly's Birth Services Facebook Page Molly's Facebook Page Molly's Instagram Handle: @mollywogray _______________________________________________________ Topics/Keywords: midwives; gbs; posterior; postpartum anxiety; doula; perineum massage Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 02, 2020
140 Amber's VBAC + Postpartum Anxiety
In this episode, Amber shares her VBAC story! She talks about her Cesarean birth for failure to progress and tells how redemptive her VBAC birth was. Especially when she progressed farther than her first birth. Also in this episode, Amber, Julie, and Meagan talk about their emotional and mental postpartum experiences. We would like to thank this episodes sponsor, Betterhelp Counseling whose mission is to make professional counseling accessible, affordable, convenient - so anyone who struggles with life’s challenges can get help, anytime, anywhere. Get 20% off your first session by going to betterhelp.com/vbac . Topics/Keywords: depression; anxiety; meditation; castor oil; postpartum Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 26, 2020
139 Julie and Meagan Answer Your Facebook Messages
Julie and Meagan answer all your questions! From herbal supplements, switching providers, turning your OP baby, dilation, uterine scar, cervical lip, and more! Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Program The VBAC Link Blog Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 19, 2020
138 Tiffany's VBAC + Nuchal Hand
Tiffany shares all about her struggles with infertility, including an ectopic pregnancy where she lost one of her tubes. She goes on to share about her breech Cesarean and her VBAC, both in military hospitals. Tiffany was able to labor at home for awhile, and arrived at the hospital at a 5. She goes into great detail about her labor, and what she was feeling both physically and emotionally every step of the way. The pushing stage came differently than Tiffany expected, so she adapted and was able to get her baby here vaginally. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Topics/Keywords: Nuchal Hand, Military, Infertility, Doula, Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 12, 2020
137 Amy's HBAC + Pushing
Amy shares about her Home VBAC with her amazing group of midwives. She talks about how changing providers from an OB to a midwife wasn't as big of a change as she expected, it was just about finding someone she felt would listen to her and that she felt comfortable with. Later in this episode, Julie and Meagan talk about the physiological side of pushing and the best positions to birth in. We want to thank this episode's sponsor, Betterhelp Counseling , whose mission is to make professional counseling accessible, affordable, convenient - so anyone who struggles with life’s challenges can get help, anytime, anywhere. Get 10% off your first session by going to betterhelp.com/vbac . The VBAC Link Community Facebook group The VBAC Link Advanced Doula Course How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 05, 2020
136 Jocelyn + International Health Care
Jocelyn had a Cesarean due to her baby being breech, and was so grateful she had her doula with her. She shares all about the differences of her birth experiences from her Cesarean in Germany, and her VBAC in the U.S. Jocelyn was able to find a VBAC supportive provider in the rural area she lives in, and didn't have to travel an hour and a half to the city for her VBAC! We want to thank this episode's sponsor, Betterhelp Counseling , whose mission is to make professional counseling accessible, affordable, convenient - so anyone who struggles with life’s challenges can get help, anytime, anywhere. Get 10% off your first session by going to betterhelp.com/vbac . The VBAC Link Community on Facebook The VBAC Link Doulas Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 29, 2020
135 Rebecca's VBAC + Travel for VBAC
Rebecca had a Cesarean due to meconium in her baby's lungs and was unable to meet him for 9 hours after birth. She then had to search outside of her home area to find providers who took VBAC clients. After being in labor for hours, she checked in to the hospital and shortly checked out for minimal progress and was told "I hope you go into labor soon!" After a couple more hours of labor at a hotel, she went back to the hospital to be checked again. Listen to find out how Rebecca's story ends! Check out our blog to find out how you can advocate to reverse a VBAC ban in your community! The Truth About VBAC Bans Rebecca's Facebook Page How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 22, 2020
134 Meet Sarah, our new Admin!
Sarah is our admin, who helps handle our social media and all the messages we receive from all you wonderful people, and so much more for Julie and Meagan! In this episode, Sarah tells about herself, how she got the job, and shares her own birth story. She is SO excited to be a part of The VBAC Link, and has loved interacting with all of you for the last few months, and looks forward to much more interaction in the future! Advanced VBAC Doula Certification Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 15, 2020
133 Emily' VBAC + The Hard Stuff
Emily Jacobson is the owner of Green Bay Doulas, and Executive Director of the Wisconsin Doulas Association, with almost a decade of birth work under her belt. In this episode, Emily shares her VBAC story that wasn't very empowering for her. We talk more about how birth can be hard and difficult even when it is a VBAC, and how that's okay! We think more people need to talk more about the true feelings we have during and after birth so more women can relate and learn from these personal stories! Listen to our insight regarding birth and the feelings birthing people go through. "Don't compare someones highlight reel to your backstage footage" Emily's Facebook Emily's Youtube Channel Emily's Instagram handle: @greenbaydoulas ______________ Keywords/Topics: high brim pelvis; vacuum; transverse Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 08, 2020
132 Sarah's VBAC + Midwifery Model of Care
At 39+5 weeks, Sarah’s Provider would no longer support a VBAC due to COVID 19. With the connections of her Doula, she was able to transfer care to a Birth Center and Midwife. After 28 hours of unmedicated labor, with twists and turns along the way, she had an exhilarating VBAC. How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents ________________________ Keywords/Topics: nuchal hand, triple nuchal cord, Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 01, 2020
131 Katie's VBAC + Car Birth!
Katie has had three very different birth journeys delivering her babies. She delivered her first baby with midwives in a hospital and used an epidural to help her meet her baby girl. For her second birth, Katie chose to have care through a birth center. After pushing for four hours, Katie transferred to a hospital to meet her second baby via C-section. Just recently, Katie prepared for her third birth, a VBAC. Katie met her third baby by delivering him unassisted in her car! Her birth with her son was fast and furious but turned out to be very peaceful and very empowering. She was blown away by the care she received at the hospital, even during COVID. Katie's Instagram handles: @kate_white @denverborn How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents What Are the Benefits of Going to a Chiropractor for VBAC Getting baby into a good position What To Do When Your Water Breaks How to Turn Prodormal Labor into Active Labor Home Birth After C-section Blog _ _______________________ Topics/Keywords: car birth, birth center, chiropractor care Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 24, 2020
130 Alyssa's VBAC + Creating a Supportive Environment
Alyssa was able to have her VBAC just 17 months after her Cesarean. In this episode, Alyssa didn't go into labor until after 41 weeks, and advocated for herself every step of the way. She changed providers, declined things she wasn't comfortable with and spoke up when she wanted to do something differently. Alyssa goes into so much detail about her mental state of preparing for a VBAC and how she needed to avoid certain people to keep a positive attitude. Check out her Instagram and YouTube page linked below! Alyssa's YouTube Channel Alyssa's Instagram Account How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents The VBAC Link Blog _________________ Keywords/Topics: postpartum depression, pelvic floor specialist, posterior, asynclitic head position Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 17, 2020
129 Heather's HBAC + Posterior Babies
Heather endured 3 long days of labor before welcoming her baby into this world. Throughout her labor she told her doula and midwife that they didn't need to come, because she was doing fine. Eventually, her doula insisted that she come right away. Once she arrived, she saw that Heather's baby was in a posterior position by the way her sacrum was bulging. Her doula called her midwife to come immediately, but her midwife was at a wedding one and a half hours away. Not long after the call, Heather's body took over and started to begin pushing. Heather's sweet mother-in-law was there supporting her and told her she was ready to catch the baby. Heather's Facebook Page How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents _______________________ Keywords/Topics: home birth, posterior Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 10, 2020
128 Grace's Breech VBA2C
In this episode, Grace tells her story of finding a VBA2C supportive provider and having to do appointments online (due to Covid-19) after finding out her baby was breech. She tried EVERYTHING she could not knowing whether it was working or not until she could go into the office at 36 weeks. In spite of all her efforts, her baby continued to stay breech, but her doctor said he was still willing to move forward with her VBA2C! Listen to her talk about the importance of educating yourself, and sharing your story to help educate others throughout your birth journey. You can find more on Grace and her husband Rico on their podcast All In With The Allens where they talk about everything from changing diapers to preparing for Super Bowl Sunday. All In With The Allens Podcast Grace's Instagram handle: @grace.e.allen Grace Allen's Website How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents _______________ Topics/Keywords: breech, VBA2C Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 03, 2020
127 Shilo's VBAC + Remote Virtual Doula-ing
In this episode, Shilo shares her VBAC story where the majority of her prenatal visits were done virtually, because she lived 2.5 hours away from her provider (this was before Covid-19). She timed her contractions well and made it to the hospital 6 cm dilated, but only progressed one more additional centimeter in 5 hours. Her doula suggested doing a labor position called Walcher's Technique, which is extremely effective but very painful. Listen to her describe how fast her labor progressed after using this position. Later in the episode, Julie and Meagan also discuss if having a virtual support doula is worth it or not. _________________ Topics/Keywords: virtual support, Walcher's technique, baby positioning Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 27, 2020
126 Laura's VBAC + Anterior Placenta
In this episode, Laura Hatch, an OG VBAC Link podcast listener, tells us about her 3 births with 3 different providers in 3 different hospitals. Those births include a vaginal birth, a Cesarean section with an anterior placenta, and a VBAC. Through her journey, she realizes how important it is to educate and advocate for herself - which led to her unmedicated VBAC. She discusses how important it is to have a team who is going to be supportive of your birth plan and to make AND act on the choices you make for you and your baby. Laura's written birth story How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents _______________ Topics/Keywords: anterior placenta, placenta previa, low-lying placenta, hypnobirthing Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 20, 2020
125 Postpartum: The Things No One Talks About
Julie and Meagan talk all things postpartum! They go into detail of how a woman's body heals after giving birth via Cesarean and vaginal birth. In this episode, Meagan and Julie discuss when you should meet with a pelvic floor specialist, and talk about the importance of postpartum hydration. The VBAC Link ________________________ Topics/Keywords: heal, hemorrhoids, postpartum, stitches, hydration, pelvic floor specialist Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 13, 2020
124 Elyssa's CBAC + Birthing in a Pandemic
In today's podcast, Elyssa tells us what it was like to have her CBAC during the Covid-19 pandemic. She changed birth providers three different times. One being during her induction to a different hospital that would allow her doula to be there. After hours of Pitocin and not being able to find a good position for the baby to get enough oxygen, she decided to have a CBAC but was resilient in getting the care she and her baby deserved during and after her Cesarean. Do you want to know more about how to process your birth if you don't end up with the VBAC you worked so hard for? Check out our blog, How to Cope When you Don't Get your VBAC . _____________________ Topics/Keywords: CBAC, preeclampsia, induction Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 06, 2020
123 Cesarean Scar Massage and Care with Lynn
Lynn, a women's health physical therapist, talks about the importance of Cesarean scar massage and how it can help relieve different pains and problems you may be having. In this episode, we also talk about birth trauma and how it can be affecting your body. Lynn's website and directory Lynn's Youtube Channel ===== Topics/keywords: bladder frequency, painful intercourse, low back pain, sacrum, pelvic floor muscles, dense adhesions Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 29, 2020
122 Liesel Teen (Mommy Labor Nurse) Talks VBAC
Delivery nurse Liesel answers your questions about labor and delivery from a nurse's perspective. Liesel is a labor and delivery nurse from Raleigh, North Carolina. She is a mom, wife, and business owner! She works part-time at the hospital she delivered her own son at, and spends the rest of her time blogging and creating captivating Instagram content for her brand - Mommy Labor Nurse! She started her brand in February of 2018 as a way to educate more moms in the online space about the birth process. After having such a fulfilling birth experience at her hospital, she felt that she wanted to educate other moms in hopes that more women feel empowered and educated about their births, instead of scared and anxious. She has always had a passion for educating women and thoroughly enjoys spreading knowledge and awareness about birth! Website: mommylabornurse.com Instagram: instagram.com/mommy.labornurse Birth Courses: mommylabornurse.teachable.com ======= Topics/keywords: changing positions, TOLAC, cesareanrates.org, birth plan, uterine rupture, doulas vs nurses, VBAC unsupportive nurse, doula mommy.labornurse Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 22, 2020
121 Roxy's VBAC + Long Labor
First pregnancy- Pitocin, epidural, 8 hours labor, still at 4 centimeters dilation, so it was off to surgery for the C-section. Difficult recovery with infections and just a general traumatic over the experience. For her second birth, she found a new provider who was very much more VBAC supportive than her first. Labor for her second was just as long if not longer than her first. She elected for an epidural, which helped greatly, and actually may have been the pivotal decision in her path to accomplishing her VBAC. ====== Topics / keywords: round ligament pain, placenta circumvallate, shoulder dystocia, IUPC inter uterine pressure catheter, epidural Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 15, 2020
120 Mary's VBA2C + VBA2C Tips
Mary's first pregnancy was pretty normal, although she had it in her mind that she wanted a natural birth, she trusted her provider when it was suggested that a C-section was the better way to go. Recovery did not go well for her, and some aspects of being a new mother, such as breastfeeding, were very much a daily struggle. With her second, she attempted a VBAC, but her labor stalled and stalled and stalled, and she ended up with a second C-section. Third time's a charm? Yep, third time's a charm. ___________________ Topics/keywords: VBA2C, breastfeeding, postpartum Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 08, 2020
119 Pelvic Movement in Pregnancy and Birth with Gina Conley
Fitness trainer, doula, and VBAC mama Gina Conley is working to get her Masters in Exercise Science, and applying all of that schooling to matters related to pregnancy and childbirth. In this Special Episode, we pick her brain and she touches on a range of topics including preparing your pelvis for childbirth and baby positioning. You can find her @mamastefit on Instagram and at mamastefit.com. ====== Topics / keywords: LOA, ROA, LOT, pelvis, pelvic types, mamastefit Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 01, 2020
118 Fran's VBAC + Processing Fears
Fran's first pregnancy miscarried. During her second pregnancy, she and her husband unexpectedly moved across the country in her 36th week, after both being offered jobs that they couldn't pass up, which understandably caused some stress and chaos. But as we know, babies don't wait, no matter what chaos is happening in mom's life. Fran didn't have much of a birth plan. She got to 10 centimeters. But problems with the epidural catheter, among other things, led to a C-section. And physical complications in postpartum recovery ushered in a rocky start to her newfound parenthood. For her third pregnancy, she dove in headfirst and did a bunch of research to learn what her options were for delivery. A new complication with this pregnancy was her high blood pressure, but that didn't stop her from getting her VBAC. -------------------------------- Topics/keywords: miscarriage, epidural, postpartum, chiropractor, induction, fear processing Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 25, 2020
117 Sarah's VBAC + Birth Locations
Sarah's first pregnancy happened very quickly as she and her husband first started trying but unfortunately ended with a miscarriage. Having trouble getting pregnant again, they took the route of intrauterine insemination, which was successful. But, understandably, in the back of her mind, Sarah wondered if this one too would miscarry. Better news this time. The pregnancy went the duration, and she was fully prepared when she went to the hospital to have the baby, or she thought she was. Labor was not pleasant (I mean, is it for anybody?), and even though she reached 10 centimeters dilation, the hospital staff pushed her into agreeing to a C-section. She had difficulty finding a supportive provider or even a midwife after finding out she was pregnant again a year or two later, so she said to herself, 'You know what? Fine. I'll do it myself, at home. No medication, no intervention, no nothing. Just me and my husband.' And, she went through with it. Hear how it went for her in this episode. ============================================================ Topics/keywords: trans machine (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation machine), nitrous oxide, birth plan, pelvic organ prolapse, Autonomous Birth Project on FB, Birth Uprising, Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 18, 2020
116 COVID-19 Is Affecting the Birth World -- What You Need to Know
Today we are talking about the impact COVID-19 is having on the birth world. Hospital policies seem to change daily and restrictions are being put in place to limit the number of people allowed to support the birth giver, in most cases to just one support person. How should you navigate these constant changes as a birthing parent and as a birth professional? Listen in as we dig deep and talk about the things we are seeming and how we are working through them. Birth Monopoly put out a great list of resources lately of policies and guidelines from reputable organizations that you can use to help advocate for lower restrictions on doulas, here is the list but we encourage you to go to their website for even more detailed information. – Community letter to hospitals [ link ]– AWHONN position statement on continuous support [linked above and here ]– WHO (World Health Organization) brief on “Companion of choice during labor” [ link ]– DONA (Doulas of North America) recommendations on “COVD-19 & Doulas” [ link ]– ACOG and SMFM (Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine) guidance for providers on treating pregnant patients suspected of or confirmed to have the virus [ link ]– CDC recommendations for treating patients suspected of or confirmed to have the virus [ link ]– CDC recommendations for inpatient obstetric healthcare settings [ link ]– DONA letter to hospitals [ link ]– ACOG practice advisory on COVID-19 [ link ]– ACOG committee opinion on “Approaches to Limit Intervention During Labor and Birth” [ link ] Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands</
Wed, March 11, 2020
115 Jennifer's VBAC + Irish Twins
Even though Jennifer's first birth was a scheduled C-section, it still provided for some shocking surprises. But in the end, it all worked out, and it wasn't a terrible experience for everyone involved. It was recommended to her that she not get pregnant again for a minimum of 12 months after that birth. But it so happened that she found herself pregnant again after only 4 months after her first was born. Surprisingly, she didn't have too much trouble in being approved by her provider to try for a VBAC. Her second was born via VBAC without complications, except for some significant tearing and lots of stitches. Then for her third, she wanted to go for a home birth VBAC. Listen and find out how that went for her. And listen towards the end of the show about the repercussions for her midwife for allowing a home birth under these conditions. But wait, there's more. For her fourth baby, she wanted to go for a home water birth VBAC. Would this prove as successful as her others? Even though this is very much a shorter episode, it's still packed with great stories and great information. ============================ Topics/keywords: placenta previa, rubella, four-month interval between birth and pregnancy, short interval, stitches, home birth, water birth, Irish twins, Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 04, 2020
114 Pelvic Floor Health with Valerie Schwalbe, DPT
Valerie Schwalbe is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic health. But she's had so much hard core schooling and has been practicing for so many years, that she can speak authoritatively on any number of topics. Julie and Meagan pepper her with questions about a bunch of stuff that many of you will find informative and useful. Find her in Murray, Utah at https://www.wellbeingphysicaltherapy.com/ ===================================== Topics / keywords: pelvic floor, chronic pelvic tension, incontinence, shapes of poop, kegals, pelvic floor dysfunction Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 26, 2020
113 Brittany's VBAC + Big Babies and Small Pelvises
Sadly, Brittany's first pregnancy ended with a miscarriage. Her second pregnancy did not miscarry, and like so many first time mothers, she had some sort of vague idea that she wanted what she thought of as 'unmedicated, natural childbirth.' Which is all well and good, but when she reached her due date, a bunch of stuff came flying at her, and fast. More or less regular pregnancy and childbirth stuff, but she just wasn't ready for it and didn't have a backup plan. And again like so many first time mothers, she was left disappointed and sad when that first baby was delivered via C-section. Her next pregnancy was uneventful, just like her previous one. But with her first child, she didn't really get to a stage where contractions had a chance to kick in. This third pregnancy, however, labor started early and lasted a long time. How long? Two and a half eventful days. Powerful, intense contractions every 5 minutes. Almost no sleep. Did all of that labor pay off with a VBAC baby? Listen and find out. Find out more about all things VBAC at thevbaclink.com.blog Topics/keywords: military peace corps joke, miscarriage, long labor, small pelvis Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 19, 2020
112 Nicole's VBAC + Breech Babies
Even though Nicole hoped for a natural birth with her first, her high blood pressure put the kibosh on that, and she was off to surgery for a C-section, even after days of laboring. And even though the actual Cesarean procedure wasn't that traumatic for her, the post-birth aftermath, particularly with the hospital staff, is what drove her to try for a VBAC with her second. Her second pregnancy was progressing beautifully en route to her planned VBAC. Until her third trimester when her baby started doing somersaults in her womb just about every other day, and Nicole's high blood pressure started flaring up again. And when the day came, things were looking worse and worse. Did she make it to her VBAC finish line, or would she be wheeled off to surgery again? Listen and find out. Find out more about why baby's go breech and what you can do about it at https://www.thevbaclink.com/why-babies-go-breech-and-5-things-you-can-do-about-it/ Topics/keywords- breech baby, VBAC calculator, high blood pressure, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 12, 2020
111 Brooke's VBAC + Switching Providers
Brooke thought she was all set up in her VBAC attempt with her second baby- a supportive provider, excellent progress reports through the weeks, trusty midwife at her side, husband cheering her on every step of the way. Then, her provider went Brutus on her and stabbed her in the back (figuratively, not literally), leaving her with few options with only a handful of weeks before her due date. Then things got worse. Her initial consultation with her new provider went less than promisingly when that provider's first statement was "If you want to have a VBAC, don't come to this hospital." The only potentially good thing to come from that meeting was a recommendation of another hospital that would likely give her a shot at a VBAC. Did that work out for her and her baby? Listen and find out. Find out more about how to find a supportive provider at https://www.thevbaclink.com/post/vbac-provider Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 05, 2020
110 Kara's VBA2C + Mental and Physical Prep
Kara’s first baby was a C-section, with additional physical trauma and an extended hospital stay. Her second baby was an attempted VBAC, but this one, too, was a C-section; although this time, it was much less stressful for Kara, and she had an overall better experience. With her third baby, Kara was more determined than ever to deliver vaginally. It helped immensely that her provider was 100% one her side and supportive from the get-go. However, as she approached the finish line, signs were pointing to another C-section. Even with Pitocin, she wasn’t progressing and or dilated at all, and wasn’t really contracting; However, her provider had a couple of clever techniques up her sleeve. Would those techniques finally provide the means for Kara to achieve her VBAC? Listen and find out. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 05, 2020
109 Things You Never Knew you Needed to Know About Birth with Julie & Meagan
In this special episode, we talk about some of the things that parents (first-timers, second-timers, tenth-timers, etc.) will need to know and also bring to light some unexpected things that many parents simply have no idea might come into play in their birth journey. Sometimes these things happen without the parents the wiser! Look at it like this: some parents in the past have learned these lessons the hard way or have had these things jump out at them unexpectedly, and we want to share these lessons with you. We want you to be as informed and as prepared as possible. Find out even more in our How to VBAC Prep Course to Parents at thevbaclink.com/courses . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 29, 2020
108 Tracy's VBAC + Finding Your Support
Towards the end of her first pregnancy, Tracy’s baby was measuring very small. That specifically wasn’t the thing that led to the C-section, but that C-section was very unpleasant for Tracy. A difficult recovery and postpartum depression compounded her struggles in the weeks after the birth. With her second pregnancy, she ran into similar circumstances as her first, which initially put a damper on her spirits. But this time, she was resolute and more informed than before and knew when to put her foot down. Find out all about VBAC at thevbaclink.com/blog . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 22, 2020
107 Tatiana's VBA2C + Safely Avoiding Cesareans
In her first pregnancy, Tatiana was very young. Her provider used some scare tactics, but Tatiana didn’t think to not trust them 100%, and the baby was delivered via C-section. Tatiana wasn’t happy about it. Second pregnancy: Tatiana was much more prepared and educated this time. She wasn’t happy with any of the providers in her area, so she planned on a home birth VBAC (HBAC). Most of the pregnancy went smoothly and according to plan, but that last, most important part is where things got a little bit complicated. Tatiana had to go with plan B and ended up at the hospital. Although still trying for a VBAC at that point, this one, too, ended in a C-section. Third time’s a charm? Even though the nearest VBAC-supportive provider was two hours away, Tatiana made that drive for every appointment. Prodromal labor was the new twist with this pregnancy, and towards the end, crazy complications arose and the VBA2C plan was on thin ice, only getting thinner every day. How did it turn out? Press play and find out (hint: the word 'euphoric' is used more than once). Check out our blog, The Four Main Reasons for Cesarean, and How to Avoid Them for more info. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 15, 2020
106 Rachel's VBAC + Unexpected Unassisted Home Birth
Rachel’s C-section with her first left her feeling defeated and overwhelmed. Therapy helped her through the months following the birth, but when she got pregnant a second time, she feared the same thing would happen. She studied hard about her options and decided to TOLAC (trial of labor after Cesarean). You know what they say about best-laid plans? Well, Rachel did achieve her VBAC, but to say things didn’t go exactly as planned would be an understatement. Tune in to see how her exciting journey unfolds. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 08, 2020
105 Briana's CBAC + Uterine Rupture
Warning: this episode includes discussions about severe postpartum depression as well as uterine rupture. Brianna's first pregnancy ended in an unremarkable Cesarean. Unremarkable at least as far as the hospital was concerned, but to Brianna, it was emotionally devastating. Even in the weeks following her child's birth as she physically recovered, that emotional devastation and the shock of how fast everything happened in the OR and how little control she felt she had over anything stayed with her. When her second pregnancy quickly followed her first, she obsessively researched everything having to do with VBAC, all the while knowing that a second C-section was a possibility. She tried and tried and tried and tried, but this pregnancy also ended with a C-section. But because Brianna was much more mentally prepared for it, and because her provider and the staff were much more accommodating to her wishes this time around, it was generally a more pleasant experience for her. Although it came with a heavy toll which was much more physical than mental this time. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, January 06, 2020
104 Documenting Your Birth with Rowan Steiner and Danielle Wilstead
We are back from a nice holiday break and are happy to start off our regularly scheduled episodes with this one. In this episode, we speak with our friends, birth photographers and videographers Rowan Steiner and Danielle Wilstead and talk about some of the issues and expectations when documenting births. How did you get started? What exactly do you do? What should parents expect? Do you ever run into any troubles in regards to photography bans by hospitals or providers? What are your most memorable moments? You can find Rowan at saltcitybirth.com/ You can find Danielle at wildoakbirth.com/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 01, 2020
103 Happy New Year, Women of Strength!
We're back!!! Happy New Year! We are checking in with a fun, short episode to let you know all about what 2020 has in store for us, and YOU. Find out more about all the things we are chatting about at thevbaclink.com and register for our events across the country at thevbaclink.com/events . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 20, 2019
102 Amy's VBA2C + Assisted Delivery
Amy has such a nice voice and a calm, pleasant phone demeanor that you can hardly imagine her as a shrieking, raging woman as she labored for hours with her VBAC attempt, when her contractions were literally coming one on top of the other. Her first two children were born via C-section. She didn’t have the worst experience ever with either of those, but still the desire was in her heart and mind that when she found herself pregnant a third time, she would do everything she could to achieve her VBAC. Her doctor even broke out the forceps during the delivery to help her. Hear the whole story from Amy in this episode and then find out more about assisted vaginal delivery on our blog at https://www.thevbaclink.com/post/assisted-vaginal-delivery . After this episode we are taking a podcast holiday break in order to spend more time with our families, this will be our last episode, for the year We wish you the very best of holidays and an incredible New Year. Please join us when we come back the first Monday in January! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 13, 2019
101 Allison's VBAC + Birthing with a Non-Supportive Provider
Initially, Allison was a little worried about her VBAC plan, because her provider seemed more VBAC tolerant than VBAC supportive. But midway through the pregnancy, her provider changed his tune to become more VBAC supportive, which was, of course, great news. But then he flip-flopped again. But he wasn't finished yet! Another flip. And again and again and again. What’s a mother to do in this situation? One of the best things Allison did in preparation was to have a Plan A and a Plan B. Which plan did she put into action? Did things go according to that plan, or did she have to quickly come up with a Plan C? Listen to this episode and find out. We also talk about the three things you should ask your provider to nail down whether they are VBAC supportive, VBAC tolerant, or opposed to VBAC altogether. Find three things you NEED to know about your VBAC provider on our blog at https://www.thevbaclink.com/post/vbac-provider . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Sat, November 09, 2019
100 Meagan's Birthday!
Today is Meagan's birthday! I did a sneaky thing and kicked Meagan out of the recording studio mid-recording to record this very special, very secret special episode for you. Meagan has no idea what is in this episode; in fact, only two people know what it contains so, this is going to have to be a surprise for you as well. Join me as I help make Meagan's birthday a little more special by listening in and then head over to our social media pages on Facebook and/or Instagram , find her episode image, and send her some more birthday love! -Julie Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 06, 2019
99 Tonya's VBAC + Abnormal Shaped Uterus
Today we celebrate our 100th episode with Tonya! During Tonya's first pregnancy, it was discovered that she had an abnormally shaped uterus, in her case, it was heart-shaped or bicornuate. Even though her first pregnancy ended in a C-section, the shape of her uterus is unrelated. Her uterus hemorrhaged during her Cesarean to the point where she lost so much blood that she passed out several times in recovery. As you can imagine, her second pregnancy was likely to involve complications. Nevertheless, she was determined with her VBAC plan. As her due date approached, her water broke and she headed to the hospital. She stalled at 6 centimeters for several hours. Listen carefully to what happens when her doctor suggests manual dilation in an attempt to avoid a second C-section. Go find us on social media and find Tonya’s episode image. Tell us what your most memorable moment from or first 100 episodes is! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, November 04, 2019
98 Julie and Meagan Answer Your Emails
Today we answer your emails! How long should I wait between having a C-section and getting pregnant again? How do I deal with an unsupportive provider who doesn't take my VBAC birth plan seriously? How do I know my provider is or isn’t giving me biased or just plain bad information? Do I need to worry about uterine rupture? What should I do if, when trying for a VBAC and my due date is approaching, I am given a deadline to birth my baby or else it’s off to surgery we go? What are the benefits of having a doula on my birth team? Tune in as we go through our inbox and answer the most common and some unique questions. Find out more answers to out most common and uncommon questions on our VBAC blog thevbaclink.com/blog . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 30, 2019
97 Patrice's VBAC + The Best Induction Method for VBAC
Patrice’s first pregnancy ended in a C-section. With her second, she was determined to deliver vaginally. The pregnancy was progressing fine. What wasn't fine was her provider’s attitude toward her birth plan. Patrice was much more educated during her second pregnancy than her first, and asked many specific questions to her provider over the course of the pregnancy. Patrice eventually learned through these inquiries that her provider was more VBAC-tolerant than VBAC-supportive than she had been led to believe. With the suggestion of a second C-section and talk of scheduling induction, Patrice felt discouraged, betrayed, hopeless, and afraid. Luckily, Patrice did the right thing: she fired her provider and found another who believed in her and her VBAC birth plan. Women of strength, let me tell you: firing your provider takes courage. Some of the things that Patrice’s provider suggested to her, you will most likely hear as well if your provider falls more on the VBAC-tolerant side of the scale than VBAC-supportive. Every person on your birth team needs to believe in you 110% and no less, and that includes your provider. In this episode, listen to Patrice tell the story of how her second pregnancy ended in a beautiful VBAC. And always remember, you’re the one calling the shots, you’re the one in charge, not the other way around, and you owe your provider nothing. Fun finds in this episode: we’ll learn what an aquadoula is, and also what an outpatient foley bulb is. Check out our blog, The Best Induction Method for VBAC , to find out more about the foley bulb and other VBAC induction methods. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 23, 2019
96 Ashley's CBAC + Empowering Cesareans
If you’re a regular listener of this podcast, you will notice that several common themes come to light--one of which is that your pregnancy will most likely not go exactly as you planned. In this episode, Ashley tells us how her first pregnancy ended in a C-section, and how her second pregnancy, which she intended to be a VBAC, also ended in a C-section. With her third and most recent pregnancy, she attempted a VBAC delivery once again. On the big day, complications arose, and even though the baby was seconds away from being earthbound, Ashley was once again wheeled off to the operating room for her third C-section. She doesn’t take that as a defeat, though; it was this third C-section that was her most healing and positive birth experience. Check out our blog, How to Cope When You Don’t Get your VBAC for more info. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 16, 2019
95 Brittany's VBAC + VBAC Doulas
The attitude of Brittany’s first birth provider resembled something more like a prison warden than a caregiver. Add to that a completely dysfunctional hospital and you have the makings of a truly traumatic C-section. This experience motivated Brittany to do a whole lot of research and make some very specific plans for her second pregnancy, which she’d hoped would be a VBAC. You know what they say about the best-laid plans? Well, her second pregnancy didn’t go according to plan. Pregnancies rarely do. Did she end up having a successful VBAC? Listen to Brittany tell the story. Check out our blog, Myth-Busting: 5 Facts About Doulas that will Shock You for more information about how having a doula can make your birth a positive experience. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 09, 2019
94 Sarah's VBAC + How to Talk to Your Birth Partner About VBAC
Like many first-time parents, Sarah’s experience giving birth to her first child didn’t go as expected. She ended up having a Cesarean after her providers didn’t fully explain all of her options, nor did she know all of the questions she should have asked at the time. Even though her second child was a VBAC, she still wanted something more from her third birth experience. Third time’s a charm? Let’s find out. Check out our blog, 5 Steps to Get Your Partner on Board with VBAC , for tips you can use to help get a less supportive partner on board with your plans for VBAC. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, October 07, 2019
93 Kristy Burtenshaw - Structural Integration
So much attention is given to your physical preparation for VBAC. But what about your mental and emotional preparation? Professional doula and Structural Integration specialist, Kristy Burtenshaw talks to us about some things that none of us would guess come into play when approaching birth. Do you know what structural integration is? How about how your fascia relates to that? Do you know what your fascia is? How about Hellerwork? Rolfing? How about Russian sports massage superficial friction? It sounds like we just made up those last couple terms, right? Well, we didn't, and those are all things that could very well help you in your journey to your own VBAC. Kristy explains it all in this Special Episode. Find out more about her and the work she does at http://www.dancecore.us/ Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 02, 2019
92 Summer's VBA2C + VBAC Providers
Summer had her VBA2C after moving to a brand new area where she didn't know anyone or have any connections to a supportive provider. However, everything ended up coming together perfectly and you will never guess how! Shortly after she got pregnant she found us at The VBAC Link and was hooked on our podcast from the get-go. Find out more about how to find a supportive VBAC provider on or blog at thevbaclink.com/post/vbac-provider Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 25, 2019
91 Sara's VBAC + Birth Words
Sara’s first pregnancy, with twins, included several severe complications that lead to an emergency Cesarean. Her VBAC was empowering and life-changing and ignited her passion for birthwork which lead her to become a doula. Sara has combined her studies in linguistics with her passion for birth creating a revolutionary new area of study in how the way we speak about birth impacts our birth outcomes. Tune in to Sarah’s own Podcast, Birth Words, wherever you listen to podcasts or at https://www.birthwords.com . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 18, 2019
90 Kimberly's VBA2C + Doula Support
Kimberly is a rockstar! Preparing for her VBA2C involved hard conversations with her husband who was not initially on board with her plans, a 5-day long labor, a birth center transfer to the hospital, and one glorious meeting of her baby after just 18 minutes of pushing. Kimberly took the online version of our course How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents which helped educate her and her husband on their options for VBA2C. Kimberly’s doula, Meagan, played a huge role in her birth. Looking for a doula who knows all about VBAC? You can find a VBAC trained doula near you at thevbaclink.com/findadoula . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 11, 2019
89 Renay's VBAC + Pregnancy Nutrition
Renay is truly an inspiration! Her first birth, a Cesarean, left her feeling defeated and exhausted. Over the next three years, she worked so hard to get her body in the best physical shape for pregnancy and birth. She lost a lot of weight and drastically improved her overall health. She prepared in all the ways she could and educated herself as much as possible about VBAC. She was one of the very first students to take our How to VBAC course for parents . After three days of labor, she got her VBAC! Just wait until you hear the intricate details of her journey. It is a must-hear! Read more about VBAC pregnancy nutrition on our blog VBAC Pregnancy Nutrition and then head over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and let us know what YOU did to prepare for VBAC! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 04, 2019
88 Brittany's CBA2C + Changing Plans During Labor
Today we get to hear the story of Brittany’s 3rd Cesarean from Illinois who had a repeat Cesarean after an attempt at a VBA2C. Her birth journey led her through some inspiring moments where she was really able to connect with her intuition and her baby. She did lots of research ahead of time for family-centered Cesareans and how to have the best Cesarean experience possible, if it came to that. This allowed her to have a really great experience with her birth, despite its unexpected turn and her diligence in preparing for VBAC. Find all the info mentioned in the episode and how to cope when you don't get your VBAC on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, September 02, 2019
87 Dr Stu & Midwife Blyss on Body Autonomy During Labor
What a more fitting episode for labor day than an episode all about body autonomy DURING labor! You raved about special episode 14 with Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss from Dr. Stu’s Podcast so we invited them back for an episode on body autonomy and birth. Here we discuss with them what the most important thing is for making your voice heard, especially in areas where you have limited access to birth choices and/or VBAC. What is more important, common sense or education? Can you walk into a birth room with all the education in the world and still not be respected? Is saying “NO!” simply enough? We discuss all that and more so you can walk away knowing exactly what you need to know to have full control of your birth. Find out more about All things VBAC related on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 28, 2019
86 Shannon's VBA3C + VBAC After Multiple Cesareans
Today we get to hear from Shannon, one of Julie's doula clients, share the story of her VBA3C (VBAC after 3 Cesareans). So many women hear that VBAC is not an option after just one Cesarean, let alone 3. As you listen to Shannon's story, pay attention to how she tuned into her intuition, got educated, and was entirely in control of her pregnancy and the 41-hour long induction at 41 weeks and five days. The induction came after her provider recommended a repeat Cesarean and told her she would only have a 10%-15% chance of success. Then, find out more about VBAMC on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/post/vbamc . Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 21, 2019
85 Jana's VBAC + 6 Months Between Pregnancies
One of the questions we get asked the most is how far between pregnancies should a parent wait before getting pregnant when preparing for VBAC. Today we have Jana from Missouri with us sharing the exciting story of her VBAC just 15 months after her Cesarean, that’s just 6 months between pregnancies! The current facts show that after 6 months your Cesarean scar is as healed as it will ever be and that after 6 months there is no increased risk for rupture. You can learn more about that and find the referenced study on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/length-between-pregnancies-c-section-to-vbac Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 14, 2019
84 Molly’s VBAC + VBAC After Breech Cesarean
Today we are chatting with Molly from Alabama. States in the deep South are notoriously NOT VBAC friendly and women in these states have an even harder time finding the support they need. Listen closely as Molly shares the details of her birth while navigating the difficult local birth culture. Her first Cesarean was due to her baby being breech, and her second baby, her VBAC, was posterior until AFTER her due date. Learn more about breech babies and how to get them to turn on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/why-babies-go-breech-and-5-things-you-can-do-about-it Listen to this podcast on your favorite podcast app or at thevbaclink.com/podcast . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 07, 2019
83 Jessica's VBAC + Trusting Yourself
Jessica’s story is an exciting one. Her first birth was a crash C-section under general anesthesia at 34 weeks gestation with a 2 and a half week-long stay in the NICU for her baby. Her VBAC baby was born after just 5 hours of labor and was a healthy, full-term baby. Listen closely through Jessica’s journey as it unfolds and hoe she trusted in herself and her ability to guide her through her birth. Find out more about trusting your intuition on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/intuition Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, August 05, 2019
82 Badassmotherbirther - Flor Cruz
Today we are honored to have the notable, social media dominating Flor Cruz of Bad Ass Mother Birther with us! Flor is taking the birth world be storm by sharing uncensored images and videos of all types of birth on her social media pages. Today, we get to listen to her own amazing VBAC story and listen to how her births brought her to doula work and changing and influencing the birth world. Make sure you are following her on Instagram @badassmotherbirther and on Facebook . More about Flor Cruz taken from her website https://badassmotherbirther.com : I have a deep seeded passion for childbirth and always have. I have been supporting families through pregnancy, birth and postpartum for over 4 years now and love what I do. To be able to help families on a larger scale with easier accessibility, I started BAMB in 2017. My focus is teaching about rights and options in childbirth, and exploring normal physiological birth. The U.S. has a dangerous cesarean rate and the highest maternal mortality rate in a developed country with the numbers continuing to rise. I am dedicated to spreading awareness and normalizing the birth process. And I also believe that sharing uncensored, raw images of birth helps to normalize birth in a spectacular way. Above all, I want families to be aware of risks, benefits, options, choices and bodily autonomy. With all that, each family can make educated decisions that are right for them. There's no "right" or "perfect" way to birth. That idea varies from person. Acceptable and unacceptable risks vary from person to person. But families cannot make those decisions with full consent or refusal if they do not have all the information being made available to them. This is my goal and hope. Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 31, 2019
81 Katelyn's VBAC + The VBAC Link Community
Today we are talking to Katelyn from Boise! We first heard of her VBAC success when she posted some amazing images of her birth in our Facebook community, The VBAC Link Community , of her catching her own baby at the hospital. Her labor was an unassisted home birth transfer and lasted 42 hours total, all unmedicated. One of the coolest parts of her story? She was 42 weeks and 4 days pregnant! Tune in for a crazy journey and such a fun story. Then make sure to join our VBAC community and find her post to see all the cool images from her birth. Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 24, 2019
80 Chelsey's 2VBA2C + Breech Babies
You will remember Chelsey from episode number 4! She was with us when we were brand new, very first starting up the podcast, and we are so excited to have her back with us again. Chelsey’s first birth was a breech VBA2C; you can listen to her story on the podcast AND watch a video of it on our youtube channel here . This time she shares her story of her second VBA2C, also beech, and you will NEVER guess where this little one decided to be born! This episode is a must-listen, and you will be giggling the whole way through right along with us! Find out more about breech birth on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/why-babies-go-breech-and-5-things-you-can-do-about-it Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 17, 2019
79 Alicea's VBAC + Avoiding Severe Tears
Today we are excited to have Alicea from Florida share her story, she has such an inspiring story for you. Her journey is difficult; her VBAC baby had shoulder dystocia and she ended up with a severe tear and other complications but, despite the difficulties she overcame so much to get to the birth she desired. Since her VBAC she has become very involved with ICAN, is a chapter leader, and edits the blog for the national ICAN page . Learn more about shoulder dystocia and other VBAC information on out VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 10, 2019
78 Christina's VBAC + Fetal Heart Tones
Today we are talking with Christina and her VBAC induction. VBAC induction is, perhaps, the second-most controversial thing surrounding VBAC besides Uterine Rupture . Luckily, Christina had a supportive team who guided her through a gentle induction. When her baby’s heart started showing signs of distress, the room filled with people who helped her and baby recover and continue laboring safely. Listen to the exciting story and details in this episode, then head over to our blog talking all about The Four Main Reasons for Cesarean . Learn how to (safely) avoid them, learn more about issues with fetal heart tones, how to help them, and other commonly avoidable reasons for Cesarean. Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 03, 2019
77 Rachel's VBAC + VBAC Education
We are SO excited to share Rachel’s story with you today! Rachel is one of Meagan’s own clients and her story is so inspiring. She started educating herself right from the very beginning, and was one of the very first people in our “How to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for Parents” class when it launched in Utah. She switched providers and followed her intuition closely as it guided her through some very specific decisions during her pregnancy and birth. You don’t want to miss this VBAC Birth Center Transfer story. Find out more about the online version of our VBAC prep class at thevbaclink.com/vbac-class . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, July 01, 2019
76 Chiropractic Care and VBAC with Steven Roushar
If you’ve ever wondered what chiropractors actually do to help you prepare for birth, this is a must-listen episode. Today we are interviewing Steven Roushar, from Flow Chiropractic , a local chiropractor based out of Lehi, Utah. We discuss all things related to chiropractic care and preparing for VBAC. He talks about his own wife's VBAC and then, he reveals the most embarrassing way he met Julie. This is a must listen for anyone wanting some great info coupled with a good old belly laugh. Find out more about chiropractic care and VBAC on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/benefits-of-chiropractic-care-for-vbac . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 26, 2019
75 Chelsey's CBAC + Intuition
Today we are talking with Chelsey, who found The VBAC Link right when we started! She listened faithfully to each episode to prepare for her VBAC, but at the end of her pregnancy, some important things came up that guided her to choose a repeat Cesarean. If you want to know what following your intuition feels like, you NEED to hear this story. Find out more about why your intuition is your most powerful birth prep tool on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/intuition . Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 19, 2019
74 Genavie's HBAC + Birth Trauma
Today we are talking with Genavie who has quite the unique story. Her Cesarean was her fifth birth after having four vaginal deliveries. It traumatized her and her husband so much that they decided they were done having kids and he got a vasectomy. After they had a few years to heal emotionally and physically they wanted to have another baby and got a vasectomy reversal. Six months after that they got pregnant. 5 and a half years after having her C-section, they welcomed baby #6 at home with a midwife in a beautiful HBAC. We then discuss healing from birth trauma. You can find out more about that and all things VBAC on our VBAC blog . Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Thu, June 13, 2019
73 Dr Stu and Midwife Blyss
We are continuing our Birthday week with another special episode for you! Today we are interviewing Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss from Dr. Stus Podcast . We had such a fun time chatting with them and you are sure to fall in love with them just like we did! Together, they are answering your questions about VBAC and home birth and everything related to it. Tune in to see if your question gets answered! https://www.drstuspodcast.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 12, 2019
72 Jill's Twin VBAC + Twin VBAC Facts
Today we are talking with Jill from Delaware who had a VBAC with TWINS! Her Cesarean was a traumatic birth center transfer. Her first VBAC she was in labor for four days and then her second VBAC was with twins. When she was 38 weeks pregnant with her twins her doctor insisted she get induced at 38 weeks. She signed an AMA refusing the induction and went on to have a healthy, unmedicated hospital birth with the twins at 39 weeks and 4 days. To find out more about twins and VBAC on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. Audio quality may vary between speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Tue, June 11, 2019
71 The VBAC Link's First Birthday!!
It's our First Birthday today! Tune in as we discuss our best and most challenging moments from the first year of The VBAC Link. We talk about our struggles and our strengths and the ups and downs of the incredible journey this has been. We are excited to be celebrating with YOU and are so happy that you are part of The VBAC Link family. Head on over to our popular blogs page to see the most popular topics we have discussed so far at thevbaclink.com/popblog . You might be surprised at the questions we get asked the most. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 05, 2019
70 Stephanie's VBAC + Military Hospital Birth
Today we have Stephanie, who is a military spouse and gave birth in an army hospital. Her story is so much fun, and you might be surprised at the little nuances that make birthing at a military hospital different than birthing in a civilian hospital. During her VBAC, the nurse asked if there was a “table ready,” and she started to panic; she thought they meant an operating table, but instead, she was asked to start pushing with the next contraction. There are so many valuable tidbits of information in her story that you can find out more about on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, June 03, 2019
69 Jennifer's Twin Birth, Vaginal and Cesarean
Today’s special episode is from our friend Jennifer, aka Coco. She shares her journey through IVF, supporting a husband with cancer during her pregnancy, and the birth of her twins where she experienced both a vaginal and a C-Section delivery. Her story is so tender and one that you will want to keep following. Her hope is to help others as she shares her journey as a new widow and mother of twins. To follow her and learn more about her journey you can follow her at @cocoscaravan on Instagram or on her blog at cocoscaravan.com . To learn more about VBAC and all things related, head over to our blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 29, 2019
68 Heather's 2CBAC + Uterine Rupture
We are sharing our first uterine rupture story today. Join us as we talk with Heather while she shares the story of her uterine rupture. Notice the signs she felt and how promptly her experienced team acted in order to get her baby out quickly and safely. Although uterine rupture is extremely rare, it does happen. Find out all about uterine rupture including the facts, statistics, and signs on our uterine rupture blog at https://www.thevbaclink.com/blog/uterine-rupture Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 22, 2019
67 Julie's HBAC Rebroadcast
There is nothing better than a re-telling of an unconventional story! Join Julie as she re-tells her Cesarean birth story then explains how she chose to have her next three VBAC's at home (HBAC). Find out the nickname given to her doctor by the nurses because of his Cesarean stitching. You will be shocked by how she came through a funeral, a wedding, and having a baby in three days time! You can find even more information about home birth safety and the referenced study by the American Midwives Association on our VBAC Blog at thevbaclink.com/home-birth-vbac/ fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 15, 2019
66 Alicia's VBAC + Dual Care
Alicia has an incredible story with a little bit of everything. For her VBAC, she did dual care with a hospital OGBYN and a homebirth midwife. She had a slow, then intense home birth with a highly sought-after midwife and you will be laughing right along with her as she shares her story. fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 08, 2019
65 Beth's VBAC + Mother Baby Bond
Beth is one of Meagan’s own VBAC clients and boy, does she have a story to share! Her VBAC labor started with her water breaking and progressing slowly. After some less-than-ideal interactions with hospital staff, and an anesthesiologist who “just wanted to have an adult conversation”, she had her VBAC a full day after going to the hospital. Her baby was born after an amazing experience that really testifies to the mother-baby connection. This is a must-listen episode! You can learn more about the science behind the mother-baby connection on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, May 06, 2019
64 Doula Life Q&A with Julie and Meagan
We get asked all the time about how we manage a growing business, have 3-4 kids, and balance doula life along with it all. Well, here we go into a fun special episode with Julie and Meagan. We share all the details about doula life with you. From what it’s like being on call, to the hardest and more inspiring moments as doulas and everything in between. You asked, and we answered! Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, May 01, 2019
63 Destiny's HBAC + Chiropractic Care
Destiny is one of our very favorite people! She has been following along with the podcast from the very beginning. We were constantly connected to her through Instagram for her pregnancy and she was even messaging us from her home during her HBAC. She had a long and hard labor, but had the right team and the right tools in her pocket to use to have a safe birth at home. She even had a chiropractor come and adjust her while she was in labor. We then talk about how visiting a chiropractor can help you have a vaginal birth. You can find our more about that AND links to Destiny’s home birth video on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 24, 2019
62 Meagan's VBA2C - Rebroadcast
Its time for a re-telling of Meagan's, VBA2C story! Follow along with one of your favorite podcast hosts story as she shares her journey through two unplanned Cesareans and achieves her VBA2C despite being told by eight doctors that her pelvis was too small to ever birth a baby. After listening to her story, check out our blog to find out five things you never knew about VBA2C! You can find even more information on our VBAC Blog at www.thevbaclink.com/popblogs fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 17, 2019
61 Jen's CBAC + Transverse Babies
Jen has an incredible story of perseverance and triumph while waiting or her baby to come. She learned as much as she could, was closely connected with us at The VBAC Link, and followed her intuition all the way through. When she went into labor and arrived at the hospital, her baby was transverse and, the only choice for her was a repeat Cesarean. Listen closely as she shares her journey and followed her heat perfectly. Then, learn more about transverse babies on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 10, 2019
60 Jessica's VBAC + Prodromal Labor
Jessica's VBAC story is one of true grit and determination. She lacked support from almost everyone she knew and endured days of prodromal labor before achieving her VBAC. Then, we talk about prodromal labor, what causes it, and some things to help on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, April 03, 2019
59 Katie's VBAC + ICAN
Katie is the admin of the ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) Instagram page, so our interactions with her on Instagram make us already feel like we know her! We were so excited when she reached out with her own VBAC story with us. After her Cesarean, she was inspired to start a local chapter of ICAN for her area and share her story all about how she educated herself on her options in order to decide the best birth for her and her family. Then, you guessed it, we talk all about ICAN! Find out more about ICAN and how to find a chapter in your area on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, April 01, 2019
58 Postpartum Mood Disorders with Elizabeth Gray
Elizabeth Gray, one of Julie’s and Meagan’s favorite people, goes deep into details about all the postpartum mood disorders (PPMD) and shares her own experience suffering through postpartum PTSD and Psychosis. This is a must-listen for all women, especially those who have never experienced it, to know how to help those who are and how to identify the issues in yourself and others. We list more info and connection to all the resources on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan’s and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 27, 2019
57 Kimberly's VBA4C + VBAC Induction
Kimberly shares her stories of 2VBA4C (two VBAC’s After 4 Cesareans) and birth after a loss. Her first C-section was due to a failed induction and pressure from her doctor. She went on to have a great VBAC experience followed by another C-section and was pressured into another one after she was told her provider “doesn’t do” VBA2C. Her fourth Cesarean was due to loss and then she was able to have another VBAC for her next birth. Her story has so many ups and downs and is inspiring and motivating. This one is a tearjerker. You can find the info about VBAC induction on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan’s and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note: in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 20, 2019
56 Rachel's VBAC + Failure to Progress
Rachel is on today’s episode sharing her birth stories. For her first child’s birth, Rachel was offered a Cesarean at 30 weeks pregnant because her doctor thought her baby was too big. When she finally delivered at 39 weeks, her baby was just eight pounds, five ounces. She was scared into an induction that led to Cesarean by her doctor who told her horror stories about women who had “big babies.” Her VBAC pregnancy was just four months after her Cesarean and labor was only a few hours long. You can read more about failure to progress, what that really means, and what is DOESN’T mean on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 13, 2019
55 Miranda's VBA2C + VBA2C Facts
Today we talk to Miranda, who is such an engaging storyteller! You will love listening to her tell her birth stories. Her provider told her she can schedule her birth like she schedules a haircut! Miranda had two Cesareans, one unplanned, and one scheduled, after her provider did a major bait and switch and went quickly from VBAC supportive to unsupportive when Miranda hit 41 weeks and everything didn’t go perfectly. She then went on to have a safe and successful VBA2C with an induction. You can find out all the details about VBA2C on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, March 06, 2019
54 Shiraya's VBAC + Home Birth
Shiraya worked hard to learn everything she possibly could to prepare for her HBAC (home birth after Cesarean). For her first child’s birth, she was unprepared for everything that would happen. An asynclitic baby led her to a Cesarean at 8cm dilated. When she found out she was expecting baby number two, she knew she wanted a different experience and found a supportive birth center with a midwife who trusted in her ability to birth. Shiraya’s third baby was a home birth transfer that ended in another VBAC, but was slightly traumatic. Her story is so inspiring and you will be laughing along with this fun woman of strength. Find out more about home birth safety on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, March 04, 2019
53 Talking to Your Partner About VBAC with Lyn Christian
What an incredible episode we have for you today! Lyn Christian is Julie’s and Meagan’s business mentor, a triple-certified business coach, and a master of all things conversational intelligence. We talk all about how to have an effective conversation with those you love and care deeply for that may not be supportive of your birth choices. If you have ever felt judged or hurt by people who you want to support you, this is a must-listen! You can find out more about Lyn on her website, soulsalt.com , and find the referenced TedX talk Head, Heart, and Gut here . We have an overview of how to have an effective conversation about VBAC with loved ones on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan’s and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information: www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 27, 2019
52 Jennie's VBAC + Premature Births
Jennie has had quite the experiences with her births; her first C-section was due to placenta abruption at 28 weeks gestation. The circumstances surrounding that birth caused trauma and difficulties for her. She went on to have two VBACs, one of which the labor lasted more than 28 hours. We then talk about preterm C-sections and what evidence says about the chances for VBAC. As always, you can find the referenced information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . The sponsor for this episode is Earth Mama Organics. We LOVE their safe and clean products for mama and baby and have both personally used and recommend their products to our clients. Bonus! You can get 20% off your Earth Mama organic purchase by entering promo code "VBAC" at checkout at earthmamaorganics.com. fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie's birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 20, 2019
51 Bethany's VBAC + Baby Positioning
Bethany has such an inspiring story. Her first Cesarean was due to a poorly positioned baby and a placenta abruption. For her VBAC, she faced the same circumstances with an asynclitic baby but got the baby's position straightened out to end in a successful VBAC at a birth center. Find more about getting your baby in a good position on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . The sponsor for this episode is Earth Mama Organics. We LOVE their safe and clean products for mama and baby and have both personally used and recommend their products to our clients. Bonus! You can get 20% off your Earth Mama organic purchase by entering promo code "VBAC" at checkout at earthmamaorganics.com. fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie's birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Fri, February 15, 2019
50 All About Julie - Special Birthday Episode
Surprise! It's Julie's Birthday! To celebrate, we have a very special birthday episode for you, all about Julie. You will learn things about one of your favorite podcast hosts that you never knew including, her rock paper scissors tactics, that time she got kicked in the head by a horse, her tropical skydiving adventure, and even a little bit about her relationship with Mr. Julie Francom (Don't tell him we said that, haha!). She even sings Happy Birthday to herself in Korean. Read more about Julie on our website at thevbaclink.com/julie and don't forget to hear over to our Instagram and Facebook pages and wish her a Happy Birthday! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 13, 2019
49 Schermisia's VBAC + Women of Color
Schermisia has such an incredible story! She fought hard for her VBAC and made so many educated and intuitive decisions along the way. We have wanted to share a story from a woman of color for a while now. In this episode, we are going to share the specific challenges women of color face in the birth room and why they have to work so much harder for an empowered birth experience. As always, you can find the referenced information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/womenofcolor/ . The sponsor for this episode is Earth Mama Organics. We LOVE their safe and clean products for mama and baby and have both personally used and recommend their products to our clients. Bonus! You can get 20% off your Earth Mama organic purchase by entering promo code "VBAC" at checkout at earthmamaorganics.com . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie's birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, February 06, 2019
48 Jeanine's CBAC + How to Handle the Unexpected
Jeanine is such an inspiration and a beautiful example of a woman of strength. Her VBAC preparation was perfect. She took a VBAC prep class, hired a doula, switched providers (twice), and overcame a lot of fears. Her baby’s birth took an unexpected twist when Jeanine spiked a fever and determined a repeat Cesarean was necessary. Listen to her story and hear how many small victories she had as she prepared to birth and labor started. Jeanine is a prime example of being 100% in charge of what was happening at her birth. You can find more about coping through unexpected changes in birth plans and healing from the loss of vaginal delivery on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, February 04, 2019
47 Uterine Rupture Facts & Perspective with Julie and Meagan
The most controversial and fear inducing issue surrounding VBAC is uterine rupture. Although uterine rupture is rare, it does happen. Today we are talking about how to process fear surrounding rupture, what the real facts are, how to recognize it if it happens, and that the real consequences of rupture truly are. This episode is jam packed with information and experiences that will leave you feeling even more ready to conquer your birth experience with confidence. Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 30, 2019
46 Caitlin's VBAC + Mental Preparation
Caitlin overcame some significant mental hurdles to prepare for her VBAC. She faced opposition from her provider, her family, and even some friends. She dug deep and surrounded herself with a doula and birth team that was incredibly supportive of her choices. She found our podcast, and binged listened to success stories through the end of her pregnancy. The affirmation "I am a Woman of Strength" was her mantra. You will love her inspiring story and will cheer her on right along with us as she shares her VBAC journey. Learn more about mental preparation for birth on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/mental-prep/ . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie's birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 23, 2019
45 Taylor's VBAC + Finding a Good Provider
Taylor’s VBAC and HBAC journey is so inspiring. From C-section to difficult hospital VBAC to a VBAC at home (HBAC), her HBAC ended in a hospital transfer for her baby, due to a concern about blood sugar levels; however, they got sent home the same day after the all-clear from a pediatrician. Taylor is a doula and ICAN member in her community in New Hampshire. Find more about ICAN and how to find a great VBAC provider on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/vbac-provider/ . Find your local ICAN chapter fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on the YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 16, 2019
44 Amy's VBA2C + Classical Scar
It was a lot of work for Amy to find a doctor to support her with her VBA2C. Her first C-section was a classical (vertical) incision with premature twins. Her second, the typical low transverse (bikini cut) incision. Finding a provider supportive of a VBA2C is hard enough without a special scar, but like all the other women of strength we know, she dove into the information and prepared herself mentally and emotionally and found a provider to support her. Her story is full of struggle and victory and is sure to inspire! Find more information on VBA2C and Special Scars on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 09, 2019
43 Maria's VBAC + Hypnobirthing
Maria’s first C-section was for a breech baby. Her provider told her, “Oh, good! I am working on your due date so that we can schedule a C-section for that morning.” She’s since had two VBACs after preparing for an unmedicated birth, taking a hypnobirthing class, and trusting her gut. She strongly believes in the power of affirmations, including and especially “I am having a VBAC!” Find a hypnobirthing instructor near you at hypnobirthing.com . If you are in Michigan, make sure to check out Maria’s classes. Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, January 02, 2019
42 Mary's VBAC + Water Breaking
Mary’s determination is inspiring! She went from a planned C-section to an unplanned repeat C-section to a triumphant VBA2C after 70 hours of having her water break. Her journey started as planned home birth, but after labor not starting for over 60 hours, they decided to transfer care to a supportive hospital two hours away from her house. You can find more information on what to watch for when your water breaks and what your provider might suggest for you. Find all of this and more on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/water-breaking/ . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, December 31, 2018
41 Julie's Breastfeeding Journeys + PPD
We have a great episode for you going into the new year. Julie, one of your hosts, shares her struggle with breastfeeding after each birth and the very different feeding journeys each of her four babies have had. You might even hear the self-proclaimed “not a crier” choke up a bit as she walks through her story with you. Each journey is so different; you are sure to relate to some of her story. Feeding your baby is not one size fits all, and this unique perspective amplifies that. fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, December 26, 2018
40 Mandy's VBAC + VBAMC, Special Scars, Premie, & Pre-E
We hope you had a great Christmas! Meet our friend Mandy. She has had six births. Her first birth resulted in an inverted T-scar and the second was a repeat cesarean. She then went on to have healthy VBACs. With her last birth, Mandy took a huge lead in her community by helping incorporate a new hospital policy in her area. She inspires many during her episode. If you have a special scar, be sure to check out https://specialscars.org/ . On the blog today: VBAMC (Vaginal Birth after Multiple Cesarean Sections) More on our VBAC blog at: thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, December 24, 2018
39 For Birth Partners + What VBAC Dads Want you to Know
Happy Monday! We are continuing our month of special episodes with a special treat for you. Today we interview five different Dads who have been through the VBAC journey with their partner. Listen in as they share their thoughts on doulas, birth, and offer their best advice for birth partners. Grab your significant other and share earbuds, this is sure to be one of your favorite episodes. Download FREE VBAC birth affirmations for you birth space here ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, December 19, 2018
38 Jenna's VBAC + Breech Babies
Jenna’s story is so much fun. Her C-section was due to a breech baby that wasn’t known until she was in labor. The doctors were considering performing breech delivery until the baby’s feet, legs, and hips were out and presenting with a cord. The Cesarean happened immediately to get her baby out. You will never guess what happened right before her VBAC! Find the referenced information on breech and more on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, December 17, 2018
37 Q & A with Julie & Meagan
It’s Q&A time with Julie and Meagan! Today we are answering you women of strength asked online. These questions are fantastic! Learn more about uterine rupture, what to look for in a provider, the recommended time frame between pregnancies, how moms and doulas handle difficult doctors, and more.. Thank you so much for submitting your questions. If you have more, we would love for you to reach out and ask-- your question might just end up on the podcast. Learn more on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, December 12, 2018
36 Bronwyn's VBAC + Special Scars
Bronwyn has a wealth of knowledge and information to share with you during this special scar episode. She has had such a wide range of experiences from vaginal, Cesarean, hospital, and home births, as well as VBAC. Each birth brought so much knowledge, and she shares all of the things she has learned along the way. Bronwyn is also the moderator and runs the website special scare special hope . She helps inspire women all over with special scars looking to VBAC. Along with her inspiring words, you will hear today check out her website https://specialscars.org/ . Find even more special scars info on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/special-scars/ . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, December 10, 2018
35 Meet Nick & Rick, the Husbands Behind the Podcast
Join us as our husbands, Nick and Ric, meet each other for the first time over the podcast. We interview them and ask them about their experiences during our own personal VBAC journeys. They share their thoughts on birth, doulas, having placentas in the freezer, and will make you chuckle as you listen to their highlights of the births. This episode is a great one for birth partners to understand better how our husbands view VBAC and doulas; you might be surprised! More VBAC info on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on the YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, December 05, 2018
34 Enzhe's VBAC + International Parents
Join Enzhe as she tells you about her journey from Moscow, Russia, to Salt Lake City, Utah, to have her VBAC. When she arrived, she was determined to find the best team possible for her birth. After so much research and dedication, Enzhe decided on a birth center birth where she and her husband delivered their baby boy in the water. Her journey is inspiring and truly uplifting, and we’re so happy we were able to join her along this beautiful process of hers. You won’t want to miss out on this fun and empowering episode. Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, December 03, 2018
33 Lindsey + The Evidence for Doulas
Happy Holidays! We are excited to be bringing you a special episode EVERY Monday in December. This week, we have Lindsey, who walks us through having a gentle Cesarean and support from an incredible doula; you will never guess who her doula was! Then, we talk about exactly how a doula will benefit YOUR birth, no matter what type of birth you are planning. Check out our new VBAC doula directory specially created for women who have attended out VBAC doula training and certification program. Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 28, 2018
32 Erin's VBAC + Home Birth Safety
Erin’s VBAC story is a shocking one! Her contractions never got to be more than seven minutes apart, and how the fetal ejection reflex happened so quickly that her baby was born at home, unplanned, and unassisted while her doula and husband were pounding on the locked front door outside. There is a lot of fun and inspiring information in this story; it is sure to be a quick favorite for all. Then, we talk about home birth safety, and, as always, you can learn more on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/home-birth-vbac/ . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 21, 2018
31 Tabitha's VBAC + VBAC After Multiple C-sections
Tabitha’s story is impressive! She has had 2 VBACs after having 4 (yes, four!) C-sections. Her OB told her that nobody in their right mind would touch her with a ten-foot pole when she wanted to VBAC. Now, that OB is a supportive midwife. See what happened to help her change her mind in this incredible VBAC story. You can find more about VBAMC on our VBAC blog at .thevbaclink.com/vbamc/ . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, November 19, 2018
30 Hannah + First Time Moms + Tips to Avoid a C-section
Surprise! It’s Monday, and we have our second special episode for you directed towards first-time moms and how to avoid getting a C-section in the first place. Share the love with your network, and let’s help reduce the overall C-section rate. In this episode, Hannah shares her story on how she navigated through her first pregnancy journey and avoided a C-section by finding a more supportive provider and educating herself on evidence-based care. Then, we talk about the primary reasons for initial Cesareans and how to avoid them. You can find out more about the four main reasons for C-sections and how to avoid them on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC Facebook group ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 14, 2018
29 Nicole's VBAC + Length Between Pregnancies
Nicole’s two boys are two years apart exactly. High blood pressure, preeclampsia, suspected big babies, meconium in the water, this story is full of so many ups and downs, but you will enjoy listening to Nicole share her journey. Her birth team was so incredible in helping her achieve her VBAC goal, so listen closely and pick up some tips, especially if you are planning on getting an epidural. After that, we discuss the recommended length of time between pregnancies after a C-section. What is the magic number? Tune in to find out! You can find out more about the controversial recommended length of time between C-section and your next pregnancy on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC Facebook group ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, November 07, 2018
28 Megan's VBAC + Birth After Loss
Megan shares her difficult journey through a twin pregnancy ending in a premature birth at 32 weeks via C-section and the loss of one of her babies, Madelyn, when she was just four days old. Her journey is unique as she mourned her daughter's loss while learning to be a mom to a preemie son in the NICU. She went on to have three VBACs and shares her second pregnancy journey, struggling with the unique emotions surrounding pregnancy after infant loss. You can find more about handling pregnancy after loss and how to support someone on our VBAC blog: thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 31, 2018
27 Aly's VBAC + Anterior Placentas
Aly is such a talented storyteller. You will love hearing her journey and how much she educated herself when preparing for a home VBAC (HBAC), with a placenta possibly lying over her scar, just 11 millimeters from her cervix. Aly is a true woman of strength as she used her intuition to guide her and find a birth team to support her. You can find more information on anterior placentas and the links to the study referenced on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/intuition/ . fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Find Meagan and Julie’s birth videos on our YouTube Channel. More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 24, 2018
26 Jenn's VBAC + Honoring Your Intuition
Walk with Jenn along the way as she shares her birth stories. You will listen in awe as she shares each of her incredibly different journeys and, during each experience, allowed her intuition to guide her to make the best decisions for her and her family. She works through a late-term stillbirth, an unplanned unmedicated birth, a planned Cesarean, a premature birth, twins, an induced VBAC, and a spontaneous VBAC; she has seriously been through it all. Then, Meagan talks about the importance of honoring your intuition as you prepare for your pregnancy and birth. You can find more information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog. Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 17, 2018
25 Molly's VBAC + Pregnancy Nutrition
Molly’s VBAC story is a party! You will giggle right along with Julie and Meagan as you listen to all the fun things going on in Molly’s birth space. From music to hip squeezes with a “double set of man hands” to Molly standing up to the birth she wanted, it is a story for everyone. Plus, Molly’s baby was the 3,000,000th resident of Utah! Who knew there were even that many people here? Check out referenced information and other info about good nutrition in pregnancy on our VBAC blog thevbaclink.com/blog . Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 10, 2018
24 Jenni's VBAC + GBS
Jenni’s birth is one for the books! Snowstorms, a crazy car ride, bearing down next to a jeep, and a baby born just minutes after arriving at the hospital. This story is full of twists and turns, and you will be laughing so hard at the end when you hear Jenni share what her husband told her NOT to say on the podcast! Check out the statistics and other info about GBS on our VBAC blog thevbaclink.com/blog. Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, October 03, 2018
23 Diana + Healing Birth Trauma
Try not to cry as you listen to Diana share the store of her first birth, a home birth transfer, that was traumatic from arrival at the hospital through her C-section recovery. Two years later, she fell pregnant unexpectedly and, while still terrified from her first birth, almost instantly fell in love with having another baby and different birth experiences. You HAVE to hear her share about the healing process and her triumphant VBAC. We talk about birth trauma and healing, and the book “ How to Heal a Bad Birth ” (spoiler, you NEED this book, go grab it now). Then, head over to our blog at thevbaclink.com/how-to-heal-from-birth-trauma/ for more info on birth trauma and more about this incredible book! Diana’s Instagram account @aninstrumentsofthypeace How to Heal a Bad Birth Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 26, 2018
22 Nichole's VBAC + VBAC Essentials
Nichole shares the inspirational story of her journey from scheduled C-section while living in Florida to successful VBAC in Chicago, Illinois. Her VBAC journey is incredible, and you will laugh and be amazed as you hear her story through a quick onset of labor to pushing out her baby, all while sick with pneumonia. Her VBAC shifted her entire life as she now works hard to empower and inspire women and mothers everywhere. You can find Nichole on her Facebook group here and Instagram here . Listen in for a BIG announcement; we think you will be excited! Our NEW VBAC shop ! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 19, 2018
21 Clare's VBAC + VBAC Interventions
Meet Clare, another Mom of some BIG BABIES. Her first birth was 48 hours long, ending in a C-section. Her VBAC birth was much shorter, and you will never guess where she ended up delivering her 9lb, 13oz baby. We love her, and her story is incredible, send us a message on Instagram and let us know what you think. You can find the information about B.R.A.I.N. and how to assess interventions on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/interventions-use-your-brain/ fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 12, 2018
20 Courtney's VBAC + The Four Main Reasons for C-sections
Join Courtney, one of Julie’s first VBAC clients, as she shares the story of her VBAC and HBAC. After being told her first baby was “probably too big to push out,” her first child and C-section baby ended up being just 7lb 12oz. Her next two VBAC babies were a whole pound and larger than that! If you are looking for an experience in the hospital with a C-section, a hospital VBAC, and a home VBAC (HBAC), this is the perfect episode. Then, we touch on the four main reasons for a primary Cesarean. You can find the information and how to avoid repeat C-sections for those reasons on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/the-4-main-reasons-for-c-sections-and-how-to-avoid-them/ fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.utahvbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, September 05, 2018
19 Lindsay's VBAC + VBAC Quick Facts
Lindsay is one of the most inspiring people you will ever meet! Her VBAC baby’s due date was just one week before her other baby was scheduled for a bone marrow transplant several states away. She shares the journey through cesarean, VBAC, and then on to Boston for the transplant, all while living together with a blended family of six children, her ex-husband, and her current husband. This family is truly inspiring and full of hope, love, and sacrifice for family. Make sure to follow Lindsey on Instagram and her website listed below. Instagram: @electriclinzyland Website: blendedfamilyadventure.com Podcast: thewickedugly.podbean.com fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 29, 2018
18 Leslie's HBAC + Special Scars
Leslie's story on VBAC with a special scar is incredible! Her OBGYN told her she was a "ticking time bomb" just waiting for rupture. Her thoughts on birth, in general, will inspire and educate any woman preparing for any birth. Leslie is one of Julie's high school besties. They shared their VBAC journeys just one month apart, so; this makes this episode extra special for us! You can find even more information about Special Scars on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/special-scars/ Specialscars.org Special Scars Facebook Page - Message the admins if you have a special scar! fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 22, 2018
17 Taylor's VBAC After TTTS and SIUGR + What is TOLAC?
Taylor’s births are quite the experience! Her first pregnancy was surprise twins! Halfway through her pregnancy, they found out that the twins had Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) and selective intrauterine growth restriction (SIUGR). If you don’t know what that means, you will learn in an exciting and nail-biting way as we travel the pregnancy and birth with Taylor, her husband, and her children. Then, she shares her journey through her second pregnancy, a VBAC, with a beautiful story. Out fact today is defining TOLAC and what exactly it means in your pregnancy and birth space. You can find even more information about TOLAC on our VBAC blog at What is TOLAC? The Difference Between TOLAC and VBAC @finandvince Instagram fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 15, 2018
16 Rachel's VBAC and HBAC + True Informed Consent
Rachel shares an incredible journey with us through an unplanned cesarean, a less than ideal hospital VBAC, and a more triumphant HBAC! During both hospital births, the staff performed procedures on her without asking or without explaining much at all. The lack of informed consent and refusal is genuinely devastating. You will switch from being appalled to laughing out loud with Julie and Meagan as you listen to Rachel share the details of her home birth. Someone could learn just about everything they need to know to have a satisfying birth experience by learning about all the different scenarios she went through. Then, Julie gets on a soapbox about what proper informed consent looks like according to the AMA (American Medical Association’s) guidelines. We love her story, and we know you will, too! You can find even more information on proper informed consent on our VBAC blog at The Truth About Informed Consent fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, August 13, 2018
15 DR Cormano Q&A With a VBAC Friendly OBGYN
Our first special edition!! We are SO excited to have Dr. Julia Cormano, MD, FACOG, from UC San Diego Medical Center, interview with us today. A few weeks back, we asked all our Facebook and Instagram followers what questions they would ask a VBAC friendly OBGYN. We are so lucky to have Dr. Cormano on the episode. Will she answer YOUR question?. You can find more about her here . Dr. Cormano believes in building strong relationships with her patients and truly listening to their needs. She often works with patients interested in attempting vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC) and is skilled in performing external cephalic versions (moving a breech baby into the head-down position). Additionally, she works with a midwife team to provide minimal intervention, evidence-based obstetrics care. You can find even more VBAC information on our blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 08, 2018
14 Tishra's VBAC + VBAC Bans
Tishra, a Professor of Public Health at a University in Washington, shares how she planned a beautiful birth with a midwife for her first baby that ended up in a hospital transfer after lengthy labor. The hospital received her well, but it resulted in the most challenging cesarean any of her doctors had performed. She struggled with postpartum PTSD due to her birth experience and was very critical of herself and her journey because of her career. She shares her struggle to find support for a VBAC during her second pregnancy because her rural hospital has a VBAC ban. She traveled a long way to get her VBAC! You are not going to want to miss this journey full of dedication and determination. Then, we discuss VBAC bans; you can find the referenced information on our blog at thevbaclink.com/the-truth-about-vbac-bans/ Sharon Muza's VBAC Classes in Seattle Photo Cred @allison.davila fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, August 01, 2018
13 Kelie's VBA4C + VBAMC Facts
Kelie’s VBA4C section story is one of many awe-inspiring moments! She truly has been through it all with each of her cesareans and her VBAC. Her first baby was born weighing less than two pounds, and you will NEVER guess what her doctor did to her during her third C-section that leads to secondary infertility after her fourth birth. You will be laughing, crying, and gasping along with Julie as she reacts to the story. Then, we discuss VBAMC facts, information, and studies that you can find referenced on our blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 25, 2018
12 Haley's VBAC + How to Find the Right Provider
Not all C-Sections are traumatic, and not all VBAC’s are perfect. Join Haley from @motherlovinyogi on her journey through her VBAC. She shares her confidence in her birth and how that quickly shifted when her provider went back on her words and became unsupportive. She suffered greatly and had some complications immediately following the birth that left her feeling incredibly defeated. You do NOT want to miss this episode as we discuss how selecting a VBAC supportive provider significantly impacts your birth experience. We also share tips on how to choose a provider that fits in line with your birth choices. You can find the referenced information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog . Follow Haley on Instagram @motherlovinyogi fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 18, 2018
11 Kassandra's VBAC + ICAN + Get That Big Baby Out!
Kassandra shares her journey through an unplanned cesarean, moving two weeks postpartum, and then having to start over finding a new birth team to support her through TOLAC. She shares her fears, triumphs, and how she worked to find the best provider to support her birth. She talks about how helpful her local ICAN chapter was, and we talk about ways to get your big babies out (and her babies were BIG!!!) You can find the referenced information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 11, 2018
10 Ashley's VBAC + VBAC Induction Facts
Ashley's VBAC story is full of suspense as she navigates through trying to keep baby in during hurricane IRMA and a county-wide evacuation effort. Your heart will ache with her as she describes her difficulties with watching the clock tick down to her scheduled cesarean date as her hospital will not allow VBAC inductions! You will NEVER guess how close she got to a repeat cesarean before her body kicks into full-blown labor! This journey is full of twists and turns with the happiest ending! Then, Meagan discusses safety for induction of VBAC. You can find the referenced information on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, July 04, 2018
09 Kristen's HBAC Transfer Vacuum Assist + Assisted Delivery and Postpartum Depression
Kristen shares the story of her HBAC turned hospital birth with vacuum assistance. The support, love, and care she describes through her VBAC story is incredible. Despite her home birth transfer, she describes her birth as “perfect in every way.” Listen to how her doula supported her decision, how her midwife friend delivered her baby, and how she got everything she wanted postpartum. This story is full of twists and turns and is sure to have you sobbing along the whole way through! After that, Julie shares information on when assisted delivery may be necessary and her own journey through postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. You can find the PubMed article referenced on our VBAC blog, www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 27, 2018
08 Allie's VBAC + Shoulder Dystocia Info
One of Meagan's own doula clients, Allie, shares her VBAC journey with us. She describes her traumatic first birth by cesarean and days of being separated from her first baby. Then, she describes the fear her birth team displays as they prepared for a large baby and shoulder dystocia. (P.S. TEN POUND BABY!) She shares her triumphant VBAC despite going through two days of labor and postpartum hemorrhage that took her to the O.R. Less than an hour after her VBAC. Her words and encouragement to those working towards a VBAC are something that EVERY woman needs to hear! Meagan provides facts about shoulder dystocia, you can find more information at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 20, 2018
07 Kelsey's VBAC + How Common is CPD?
Join Kelsey from Michigan, as she shares her triumphant VBAC story after being told by family, friends, and doctors that she was too petite to ever give birth vaginally. You will certainly admire her determination and desire to gain as much knowledge as she can as you soak in the details of her beautiful birth journeys! Then, Meagan shares some interesting facts about the diagnosis of small/misshapen pelvis and how common it truly is. You can find the article referenced at http://gynaeonline.com/cpd.htm You can find even more information on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog Find Kelsey on Instagram @kelseylaskowsi fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow, download, and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Mon, June 18, 2018
06 Karina's VBAC with Type 1 Diabetes + BIG BABIES!
Karina guides us through her three births with Type 1 Diabetes. Her births each have unique twists and turns along with their own unique ending. She has managed diabetes, breech babies, shoulder dystocia, and wait until you hear how BIG her baby was! Then, Meagan shares information about actual shoulder dystocia risks. You can find more information about shoulder dystocia on our blog. fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 13, 2018
05 Kasaundra's 2 VBAC's + The Law of the Sphincter
Walk with Kasaundra through her twin's birth via cesarean; her hospital VBAC, then homebirth VBAC. Kasaundra has a personality full of light and laughter that is contagious. I dare you not to giggle at the quirkiness! Listen as she shares the story of her OBGYN barking military orders across the O.R. table. Then, learn some awesome facts about birthing your baby as she walks us through the Law of The Sphincter in a way that only Kasaundra can! You can find even more information about VBAC on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Wed, June 13, 2018
04 Chelsey's Breech VBA2C + The Lost Art of Breech Delivery
Our first international Momma, from Canada! Chelsey has a viral breech birth video circulating in some birth circles. We were SO excited when she agreed to share her journey with us! Chesley shares her way through two cesareans due to breech presentation, becoming determined to deliver her third breech baby vaginally. You can sense Chelsey's strong warrior soul and feel the grace with which she handled each birth as you follow along her beautiful path. Then, Meagan shares some useful information about vaginal breech birth. You can find even more information on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Tue, June 12, 2018
03 Julie's 3 HBAC + Birth Location Options
Join Julie as she goes through her cesarean birth then explains how she chose to have her next three VBACs at home. Find out the nickname given to her doctor by the nurses because of his cesarean stitching, and see how Julie came through a funeral, a wedding, and having a baby in three days! On our blog, we discuss the facts about VBAC home birth safety. You can find even more information on our VBAC blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, to get stories from all over the country and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Tue, June 12, 2018
02 Meagan's VBA2C + 5 Interesting Facts About VBA2C
Follow along with Meagan as she shares her journey through two unplanned Cesareans and achieves her VBA2C despite being told by eight doctors that her pelvis was too small ever to birth a baby. After listening to her story, check out our blog to find out five things you never knew about VBA2C! You can find even more information on our VBAC blog at thevbaclink.com/vba2c fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Tue, June 12, 2018
01 The VBAC Link Introduction + What is VBAC?
Our first episode! Here, you will meet Julie and Meagan, founders of Utah VBAC Link and The VBAC Link Podcast. We are a team of expert doulas trained in supporting VBAC, have had VBAC's of our own, and work extensively with VBAC women and their providers. We are here to provide detailed VBAC and Cesarean prevention stories and facts in a simple, consolidated format. When we were moms preparing to VBAC, it was stories and information like we will be sharing in this podcast that helped fine tune our intuition and build confidence in our birth preparation. We hope this does the same for you! Be sure to listen, subscribe, rate, and comment. We look forward to hearing from you!! Check out episodes 2 and 3 for our own VBAC birth stories. You can find even more information on our VBAC Blog at www.thevbaclink.com/blog fb.me/thevbaclink for Facebook @thevbaclink on Instagram Follow and subscribe!! More VBAC information www.thevbaclink.com Please note, in order to get stories from all over the country, and even other countries, we record using phone lines. For this reason, audio quality may vary between episodes and speakers. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
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