Birthing on the Prairies

You sentIn this episode of the Birthing on the Prairies podcast, listeners are invited to join Heidi as she shares her second birth experience in Viking, Alberta. Heidi, who is a midwife, achieved her unmedicated birth with the support of a doula. Heidi takes listeners through her journey from early labor to delivery, describing the physical and emotional sensations she experienced along the way. She talks about her decision to have a doula present during her birth and how that decision impacted her overall experience. Listeners will hear firsthand what it's like to give birth without medical intervention and the challenges that can come with that choice. Heidi provides valuable insight into coping mechanisms and the role that her doula played in helping her manage the pain of labor. As the episode progresses, listeners will hear about the joy and relief of giving birth to a healthy baby girl, as well as the gratitude Heidi feels towards her doula and birthing team. This episode is valuable for expectant parents who may be considering an unmedicated birth, or those who are interested in learning about the role of a doula in the birthing process. Birth workers and other healthcare professionals may also find this episode helpful as they seek insight into different approaches to childbirth and care. Overall, Heidi's story sheds light on the beauty and wonder of childbirth and highlights the importance of support, whether it comes from medical professionals, family members, or doulas

In this episode, we hear from MYSELF! I overcame the challenges of miscarriage and secondary infertility to welcome my first daughter into the world in Camrose. I share my journey through pregnancy, the emotional toll of miscarriage, and the joy of finally holding a healthy baby in my arms. The podcast explores the emotions and thoughts that came with my experience with miscarriage and secondary infertility. I share the fears and anxiety that came with my pregnancy, as well as my excitement and anticipation for the birth of my daughter. As a first-time mom, I discuss the preparations, both mentally and physically, as well as the lack of support I received from her caregivers in Camrose. I describe my journey through labour, including some labouring techniques, and how I managed any pain during the process. The episode emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive care team and trusting one's own body and intuition through the birthing process. Through MY story, listeners will gain insight into the emotional and physical tolls of infertility and miscarriage and the joy and hope that can come with a successful pregnancy and birthing experience. Join us for this empowering episode that celebrates the strength and resilience of mothers and the importance of supportive care in the birthing process.

In this episode, we hear from Justine, a mother and surrogate who shares her journey of becoming a surrogate and birthing a baby for another family. Justine discusses the process of becoming a surrogate, the emotional and physical demands of the experience, and the joy of seeing the baby claimed by the intended family. Listeners will hear about the motivations behind Justine's decision to become a surrogate, including her love for childbirth and desire to help others. She discusses the rigorous screening process and the importance of finding a compatible intended family. The episode covers the preparation Justine underwent before becoming pregnant, including monitoring her menstrual cycles and undergoing fertility treatments. Justine shares her thoughts and feelings during the pregnancy and the unique bond she formed with the intended parents and their family. Through Justine's story, listeners will learn about the complexities involved in surrogacy, from the legal implications to the emotional and physical demands on both the surrogate and the intended family. Justine's story emphasizes the importance of clear communication and mutual respect throughout the process. Listeners will also hear about the emotional moment of giving birth to the baby and the joy of seeing the intended family finally be able to hold and raise their child. Justine's story is a testament to the selflessness of surrogacy and the power of love and compassion to create families. Join us for this emotional and heartwarming episode that celebrates the beauty of surrogacy and the gift of life that a surrogate can give.

In this episode, we hear from Amanda, a mother who had a beautiful home water birth with a midwife and doula after experiencing premature rupture of membranes and drinking the midwife brew. She shares her journey through pregnancy, the challenges she faced, and the joy of her birth experience. Amanda discusses the moment she experienced her water breaking before contractions started. The episode covers the options she considered, including the potential risks and benefits of waiting or inducing labor, consulting with her midwife, and the decision-making process to drink the midwife's brew to naturally stimulate labor. Listeners will hear about the early stages of labor, the progression of the birth, and the decision to move to the birthing tub for the final stages of labor. The episode explores the benefits of water birth, including the relaxing and soothing benefits for both the mother and baby. Through Amanda's story, listeners will gain insight into the benefits of having a supportive care team and the importance of having trust in one's body and intuition. Amanda's story highlights the power of a positive mindset and surrounding oneself with a team that supports and encourages an empowered birth experience. Join us for this inspiring episode that celebrates the strength and beauty of mothers and the potential for a safe and empowering birth, even in unexpected situations and navigating postpartum depression

BIRTH LOCATION: Homebirth in Sherwood Park

MIDWIVES: https://edmontonmidwiferycooperative.com/

Maternal mental illness has a profound impact on all aspects of a mother’s life and affects her infant, other children and partner. Depression during the postpartum period is estimated to affect up to 15% of mothers. Postpartum Depression (PPD) screening standardization was identified as a priority in the Government of Alberta’s Valuing Mental Health Strategy.

* IF YOU OR YOURSELF FEEL LIKE YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PPD PLEASE REACH OUT TO FRIENDS OR FAMILY AND SEEK THE HELP OF YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services/Page15072.aspx show less

In this episode, we hear from Kelsey, a mother who experienced a precipitous birth at a hospital in rural Alberta. She shares her unexpected journey through pregnancy, childbirth and the challenges she faced with giving birth so quickly. Kelsey discusses her early labor and her journey to the hospital with her partner. Listeners will hear about the rapid progression of her labor and the intensity of her contractions, leading to an incredibly quick birth experience. The episode explores the challenges of navigating a fast birth at a rural hospital, from the suddenness of the situation to the limited resources and staff available. Kelsey shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system. Listeners will also hear about the aftermath of the birth, the physical recovery, and the rollercoaster of emotions that come with such an intense experience. Kelsey's story provides an important perspective on the realities of precipitous births and the importance of mental health and support during the postpartum period. Join us for this inspiring and heartwarming episode that celebrates the strength and resilience of mothers and the importance of supportive care during childbirth. DOULA: @littledoulaontheprairie

NURSE SHOUT OUT: Cammie

• Evidence based birth podcast
• The birth hour podcast
• Bridget Teyler on YouTube
• Ina May’s guide to child birth

In this episode, we hear from Ashlyn, a mother who planned for a homebirth with a midwife that turned into a cesarean birth at a hospital. She shares her journey through pregnancy and childbirth, the challenges she faced during the birth, and her experience with birth trauma. Ashlyn discusses the preparations she made for the homebirth, including finding a midwife who understood and respected her wishes for a natural birth. Listeners will hear about the early stages of labor and the decision to transfer to a hospital due to complications. The episode explores the challenges of navigating a cesarean birth, from the physical and emotional recovery to the impact on her birth plan and bonding with her baby. Ashlyn shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, including the trauma she experienced during the birth and in the aftermath. Listeners will also hear about the support she sought out through therapy and the importance of mental health and support during the postpartum period. Ashlyn's story provides an important perspective on the realities of birth complications and the importance of informed decision-making, communication with healthcare providers, and the crucial role of self-care and support. Join us for this heartfelt and empowering episode that celebrates the strength of mothers and the importance of processing birth trauma. Connect with Ashlyn: @ashlynmoench

BIRTHING LOCATION: lac la biche

MIDWIVES: Tree de la Vie

BIRTH TRAMA RESOURCES: @theteaonbirthtrauma

BODY TALK: Chealsea Snelgrove

In this episode, we hear from Megan, a mother who had two previous cesarean births and then had a healing vaginal birth. She shares her journey through pregnancy and childbirth and the decision to have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). Megan discusses the medical reasons for her previous cesarean births and the support she received from her healthcare team for a VBAC. Listeners will hear about the preparations she made for the birth, including finding a supportive care provider, educating herself on the risks and benefits of VBAC, and building a birth team. The episode explores the challenges of navigating a VBAC, from the physical recovery to the emotional impact of the experience. Megan shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the beauty and strength of VBAC and the importance of feeling respected and supported in one's decision. Listeners will also hear about the actual birth experience, from the early stages of labor to the moments of pushing and the joy of meeting her baby for the first time. Megan's story provides an important perspective on the journey of VBAC and the importance of having a supportive healthcare team and birth team. Join us for this empowering and inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience of mothers and the beauty of VBAC.

BIRTHING LOCATION: GREY NUNS

RESOURCES: VBACLINK & SPINNING BABIES

In this episode, we hear from Stacy, a mother who experienced an emergency cesarean birth due to a prolapsed cord. She shares her journey through pregnancy and childbirth, including the challenges and trauma she faced during the birth and the delayed bonding with her baby. Stacy discusses the early stages of labor, the sudden onset of complications, and the panic and stress that ensued. Listeners will hear about the moments of uncertainty and the rush to get to the OR for an emergency c-section. The episode explores the challenges of navigating a traumatic birth, from the physical recovery to the emotional impact of the experience. Stacy shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the importance of having a supportive partner and healthcare team. Listeners will also hear about the delayed bonding with her baby, the challenges of breastfeeding, and the emotional journey of postpartum recovery. Stacy's story provides an important perspective on the realities of birth complications and the importance of mental health and support during the postpartum period. Join us for this inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience of mothers and the importance of informed decision-making and support during childbirth.

Yasmina's Two Beautiful Cesarean Births in Calgary In this episode, we hear from Yasmina, a mother who had two beautiful cesarean births. She shares her journey through pregnancy and childbirth and the decision to have a cesarean birth for both of her children. Yasmina discusses the medical reasons for her cesarean births and the support she received from her healthcare team. Listeners will hear about the preparations she made for the birth, including finding a supportive care provider and educating herself on the risks and benefits of cesarean birth. The episode explores the challenges of navigating a cesarean birth, from the physical recovery to the emotional impact of the experience. Yasmina shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the beauty and strength of cesarean birth and the importance of feeling respected and supported in one's decision. Listeners will also hear about the actual birth experience, from the early stages of labor to the moment when she meets her babies for the first time. Yasmina's story provides an important perspective on the journey of cesarean birth and the importance of having a supportive healthcare team. Join us for this empowering and inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience of mothers and the beauty of cesarean births. Connect with Yasmin on IG @yasmina.rose

In this episode, we hear from Teresa, a mother who planned a vaginal breech delivery for her baby. She shares her journey through pregnancy, the discovery of her baby's breech position, and the pushback she received from the medical community for wanting to have a vaginal birth. Teresa discusses the research she conducted regarding vaginal breech delivery and the support she received from her partner and care team. Listeners will hear about the preparations she made for the birth, including finding a supportive care provider and educating herself on the risks and benefits of vaginal breech birth. The episode explores the challenges of navigating medical pushback and finding support for a decision that goes against conventional medical thinking. Teresa shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the importance of advocacy and informed decision-making when it comes to childbirth. Listeners will also hear about the actual birth experience, from the early stages of labor to the intense moments of pushing and the successful delivery of her baby. Teresa's story provides an important perspective on the beauty and strength of vaginal breech birth and the importance of listening to a mother's intuition and desires for her own birth. Join us for this empowering and inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience of mothers and the power of informed decision-making in childbirth.

Here is a quick list of amazing people:

• Spinning Babies Parent educator @lifesourcedoula

• Webster-trained Chiropractor Joanna Galasso @lunahealth.yeg

• Breech CONFIDENT & friendly OBs at RAH @loisholehosp

(* quick disclaimer * I am in no way saying that cesarean birth isn’t a good option for your family when you are faced with a breech baby. That decision is solely yours. I do feel it’s important that you are given any and all options like any other intervention to explore and discuss in order for you to make an informed & educated decision. You will never regret your decision when you had all the proper information to make it ) Find Teresa on IG @LOTUS.MOMMA

In this episode, we hear from Sophiane, a mother who gave birth to her rainbow baby at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares her journey through previous loss, and finally, the joy of carrying and giving birth to her healthy baby at home. Sophiane discusses her decision to have a home birth, the support she received from her partner, and the importance of having a midwife and doula by her side. The episode explores the challenges of pregnancy during a pandemic and how she and her healthcare team navigated the shifting landscape of available options and resources. Listeners will also hear about the actual birth experience, from the early stages of labor to the moment when Sophiane births her own baby in a peaceful and safe home environment. Sophiane openly shares her thoughts and emotions throughout the experience, highlighting the beauty and strength of home birth supported by a midwife and doula. The episode also delves into the aftermath of the birth, including Sophiane's postpartum recovery and her thoughts on the experience looking back. Through her story, Sophiane provides a touching and powerful insight into the world of home births, particularly during uncertain and challenging times. Join us for this deeply moving and inspiring episode that celebrates the resilience and strength of mothers and the power of home birth with midwives and doulas.

Find Sophiane pm IG @sophianefawcettI

MIDWIVES @passagesmidwifery

DOULA @kira.leigh_hygge.holistics

In this episode, we hear from a same-sex couple who underwent IVF to conceive triplet boys. They share their journey from considering parenthood to choosing IVF, and the emotional and physical challenges they faced throughout the process. As they approached their due date, the couple faced another challenge: deciding on a birthing plan. They ultimately opted for a cesarean birth due to the health risks associated with triplet pregnancies, and the episode dives into the emotional and practical aspects of that decision. Listeners will hear firsthand about the preparations for a cesarean birth and the support they received from healthcare professionals, family, and friends. The couple also shares their thoughts on being same-sex parents and the unique challenges they faced during the birthing experience. Through their powerful and moving story, listeners will gain insight into the joys and challenges facing the incredible dedication and love that goes into the IVF process. The episode also provides resources and advice for other same-sex couples considering IVF and parenthood and highlights the importance of having a supportive community throughout the journey. Join us for this touching and inspiring episode that explores the beauty of same-sex parenting and the power of love in creating a family.

This episode is from my very first live recording of Birthing on the Prairies. Ashley, from the Hardisty/Amisk area, was so kind to share her planned C-section birth story of her son Winston. Her care was transferred from Wainwright to RAH around 20 weeks. She shares with us her fears & anxieties, some complications during her surgery & her recovery period. You can find her on IG @vividphotographyflaade

Welcome back to another episode of Birthing on the Prairies! August 22 was NATIONAL RAINBOW BABY DAY! So I thought it would be a perfect fit to share Carmen’s birth story! Carmen is a long-time “online” buddy of mine & I originally recorded this episode with her last year so I am so excited for you all to listen again. I feel so lucky to have her coming on to share with us her pregnancy journey and the Cesarean birth of her rainbow twin girls.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains talk of loss & fertility. If this is not a good time in your life to hear stories containing this content.

BIRTHING LOCATION: RAH Edmonton AB.

“ Breathe ”

Welcome Bailly Mac Millan to Birthing on the Prairies !!!! We will talk about Pregnancy depression and anxiety. Her pregnancy and birth after a loss that was very close to her & how finding the support and care you need in pregnancy, birth and postpartum is so so important.“ Depression and anxiety. My beautiful niece was stillborn when I was 20 weeks pregnant. My son was measuring well, but turned out to be very small and with an anterior placenta, I almost never felt him kick. Fear, anxiety and guilt really took a toll on me. I went on leave two months early. I couldn’t get myself to work. On top of that, I have Hypermobility and a couple of autoimmune Diseases which were undiagnosed at the time, so it added up to a pregnancy that was tough physically and mentally. I want another baby someday. But I often wonder if I’m strong enough to go through that again. “ - Bailly

This is going to be an extremely special story. I Can’t wait for you all to hear it.

MIDWIVES: @hope_midwives

Other support: @thebirthcove

Find Bailly on IG @baillymacmillan

“ Surprise breech baby” Welcome Arielle Rechner to Birthing on the Prairies! Arielle birthed her Breech baby in the heat of COVID at the Grey Nuns hospital in Edmonton Alberta with a midwife and OB. “ I delivered breech vaginally when most of the time you only hear breech babies being delivered by cesarean. It is possible to deliver a breech baby vaginally! My birth with my daughter was one for the books, the complete opposite of my birth with my son. It was extremely fast, empowering, scary, challenging and magical. The unexpected event of finding out she was breech came as a shock but my body did all the work and I am proud of “her” aka my body. And the mental game of being pregnant during a pandemic and delivering at the peak of the pandemic with so much uncertainty in society.” - arielleHuge thank you @amrit_rai3 from the Lucina Midwives & the Grey Nuns for supporting Arielle through this incredible birth! Find and connect with Arielle on Facebook & IG @arielle.rechner

Beth's Homebirth During COVID In this episode, we hear from Beth, who bravely chose to give birth at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. With hospital restrictions and concerns about the safety of giving birth in a medical setting, Beth and her partner decided to plan a homebirth with the help of a midwife. Throughout the episode, Beth shares her experiences with prenatal care, the decision-making process for opting for a homebirth, and how she and her partner planned and prepared for the birthing experience. She also shares the emotional and physical experience of giving birth at home, from the comfort of having familiar surroundings to the challenge of being away from friends and family during such an important moment. Finally, we dive into the practicalities of homebirthing, including the role of midwives, the importance of having a support network, and tips for navigating the unique challenges of a homebirth. Join us for this inspiring episode featuring a brave and strong mom who chose a homebirth experience during a time of uncertainty and limitation. Learn more about the benefits and challenges of homebirth and hear a firsthand account of what it's like to give birth at home during a global pandemic.

To apply for midwifery care, please register at: clientcare.alberta-midwives.ca/waitlist/register 

#birthstory #birthtrauma birthwithconfidence #empoweredbirth #yegmom #littledoulaontheprairie #birthingontheprairies