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Becoming a Single Mother by Choice after 40 and Twins Birth Story

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single mom by choice

At 41, Connie Rutherford became a single mother by choice, giving birth to twins via a scheduled C-section  at 38 weeks. The delivery resulted in significant blood loss, requiring two transfusions. Due to COVID-19  restrictions, the hospital nursery was closed, forcing Connie and her mother to care for the newborns alone  in their hospital room—they couldn’t even leave for water. One of the twins frequently choked, adding to the  stress. On the fourth day, a nurse tried to discharge them, but Connie  advocated to stay an additional   night. The next morning, a doctor discovered jaundice in one of the babies, who then underwent six hours of  phototherapy.

Once home, Connie faced the exhausting demands of caring for two infants while breastfeeding and  pumping around the clock. Two weeks later, she passed large blood clots and went to the ER, where she  experienced a postpartum hemorrhage. It was a physically and emotionally grueling start to motherhood.

Connie Rutherford Bio

Connie Rutherford, a proud alumna of The University of Oklahoma and a lifetime member of Delta Sigma  Theta Sorority, Incorporated, is a multicultural woman of Black and Taiwanese heritage. She spent her  formative years in Okinawa, Japan, where her father served in the U.S. Air Force. In 2019, while working on  Wall Street in New York City, Connie made the life-changing decision to become a single mother by choice.  She  pursued motherhood using donor sperm and, at the age of 40, became pregnant. She gave birth to  twins at age 41 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During her pregnancy, she began writing a  memoir to document her journey, capturing the emotional, physical, and mental challenges she faced. After  nearly six years of dedication and perseverance, she has self-published her book, Searching for  Tadpoles: The Journey to Motherhood of a Single Mother by Choice.Her story aims to inspire and empower  others considering or navigating similar paths to parenthood. The book is available at  store.bookbaby.com/book/searching-for-tadpoles. Learn more at connierutherford.com and follow her journey on Instagram and TikTok @searchingfortadpoles

twins cesarean birth

Resources

Zenith Health

Today’s episode is sponsored by Zenith Health. Zenith Health helps you navigate pregnancy with access to real evidence, bringing you peace of mind through data.  Imagine if your google searches only returned answers based on real evidence from research studies, clinical guidelines, and physician-authored content. Instead of giving you more opinions, Zenith’s Pregnancy Evidence Navigator -or Penny- tool provides exactly that and it’s completely free to use!  Next time you have a burning question like a new symptom, a supplement you’re unsure about, or a question as you’re planning for birth. Spare yourself the panic Google and ask Penny your question for a real-time, unbiased review of the evidence at www.zenithhealth.io. Zenith also started the Pregnancy Evidence Project which is the first large scale research project wholly focused on learning from the millions of pregnancy and postpartum experiences already happening in the real world. If you choose to opt in, your pregnancy journey becomes part of the evidence that helps future moms make informed decisions and drives research forward. You can access the Zenith app in the app store as well.

Giving Birth in France and Spain as an Overseas Basketball Wife

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Isaiah (first child, boy) was born in Bourg-en-Bresse, France during the pandemic in April 2021. Catherine’s husband was playing professional basketball there at the time. During Covid, France had very strict policies and that meant Catherine was unable to travel to see family and friends, and no one could enter France unless they were a citizen. Catherine went the entire year only seeing her brother once and not being able to see her parents. Catherine had a great experience delivering at a public hospital in France with the help of midwives. She had an epidural and labored almost 24 hours total. 

Sienna (second child, girl) was born in Santiago-de-Compostela, Spain in April 2023. Catherine’s husband was playing professional basketball there at the time. Catherine had an unmedicated precipitous, en-caul birth with her daughter at a private hospital after days of prodromal labour. A very different experience from her son’s birth. 

giving birth in france

Catherine Traer Bio

Catherine is a 31 year old mother of two originally from Canada and now living in Tenerife, Spain. Catherine’s husband is a professional basketball player and is currently in his 11th season playing basketball abroad. Together, they’ve lived in Italy, France and are in their 5th year living in Spain. Catherine is also a professional basketball player, doula, and childbirth educator. She started her doula business to help support expats giving birth abroad after experiencing the births of her children in France and Spain. Connect with her on Instagram @catherinetraerdoula

Resources

Aeroflow Breastpumps

Did you know breast pumps and milk storage bags, maternity compression garments, even lactation education & support can all be covered by your insurance? Aeroflow helps millions of parents unlock these breastfeeding and postpartum essentials by working directly with your insurance company to get these free essentials shipped straight to your door. Aeroflow offers all major breast pump brands including Medela, Spectra, Motif, Lansinoh, Ameda, Elvie, Willow and more. Visit AeroflowBreastpumps.com/birthhour to fill out their free and easy Qualify Through Insurance form. Don’t forget to use the promo code “BIRTHHOUR15” in their online shop for 15% off all supplies and accessories. You’ve got enough on your plate. Why not let Aeroflow Breastpumps help support you on your breastfeeding journey?

Unexplained Infertility Followed by Two “Medicalized” Births Including Twins

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dr. roxanne pero

After four years of unexplained infertility that ultimately led to four children in the five years that followed, Roxanne and her husband Colin often reflect on how their family came to be. Looking back on each birth story, she carries a quiet sense of loss for what could have been. Her first and second deliveries — the latter twins — mirrored the conventional, sterile medical environments she had long trusted. Yet with the successful vaginal birth of her twins, she began to feel herself emerging from the “chrysalis” of Westernized women’s care. That transformation came full circle with the adoption of her fourth child — a birth story of a different kind that redefined her entirely, both as a woman and as a doctor, and awakened a new way of showing up in the world.

Dr. Roxanne Pero Bio

A triple board-certified OB/GYN and Functional Medicine physician, Dr. Roxanne Pero
integrates holistic and Western approaches to women’s health. After overcoming her own
reproductive and fertility struggles, she now helps women optimize their whole-body wellness at Alive & Well Health in Dallas, TX. She is loves to learn, laugh and spend chaotic but joful time with her children Gideon (10), Lucie and Hugo (ages 8), Ella (age 4), her husband Colin and their sweet pup Zoe. She has been a medical advisor for Inito Fertility for the last 3 years.

Resources

vaginal twin birth story

Inito

This episode is sponsored by Inito. Inito is the only at-home fertility monitor that tracks four key hormones (Estrogen, LH , PdG, and FSH) on a single test strip and provides lab-grade insights in just 10 minutes. Unlike other ovulation kits that only give you 1-2 fertile days, Inito tracks your full 6-day fertile window and doesn’t just predict ovulation, it confirms it, which is essential information when trying to conceive or understand your hormone health. Instead of piecing together fragments of information, it offers a full, clear picture of hormone health. With 96% accuracy, Inito offers the reliability of a blood test, minus the inconvenience and the expense. 

I’ve had the chance to personally use Inito and was amazed at the user experience of the app—you enter in your last period date and from there the app guides you through exactly what to do and even sends a notification when it’s time to test. 
The kit comes with everything you need to collect a urine sample and the Inito connects to your phone’s camera to read the test—there’s no squinting and guesswork—just easy to read results and clear directions when you are in that fertile window and when you ovulate.

The Inito Starter Pack is available for just $89 with the code THEBIRTHHOUR at inito.com.

Positive Planned Cesarean and Four Parent Household

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planned cesarean birth

Mari’s birth journey started before pregnancy when she discovered that she had a 7cm fibroid
that would require surgery before she could attempt to conceive. Mari had a successful
myomectomy but was told that she would need to have a C-section at 37 weeks due to the
surgery. Mari spent the next year and a half coming to terms with and eventually embracing
having a planned C-section. Eight months after the myomectomy, Mari got pregnant. Early
pregnancy was challenging due to fears around the fetus inheriting a genetic disorder.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) revealed that the fetus did not inherit the disorder which
allowed Mari to relax into the 2nd trimester and start to enjoy pregnancy. Mari discusses the
body image work she did pre-pregnancy and how grateful she was during pregnancy to have a
positive relationship with her body and food.

Early in pregnancy Mari found a wonderful OB. Together they decided to have the planned
C-section at 39 weeks instead of 37 weeks to reduce the chance of a NICU stay or feeding
difficulties. Mari ended up having a smooth c-section at 39 weeks. Mari had a good recovery,
despite some early postpartum anxiety.
In addition to her birth story Mari discusses the decision to raise her baby with four parents and
how that affected the postpartum period.

Mari Bio

Mari is raising her 19-month-old with her sister, her partner, and one of her best friends. They all
live together in Chicago in a 20-person coop. Mari is a mental health therapist in solo private
practice. In her free time, Mari loves to garden, camp, play boardgames, swim in Lake Michigan
and take her toddler to the park. You can connect with her via email ( mari.lcsw.chi@gmail.com)
or by leaving a comment.

Resources

AirDoctor

Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code BIRTHHOUR to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free! Get this exclusive, podcast-only offer now at AirDoctorPro.com

Decision to Have One More Baby After 40 with Rebecca Minkoff

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rebecca minkoff

In this episode, Rebecca Minkoff returns to share her journey of having a fourth child at the age of 41. She discusses the decision-making process, her pregnancy experiences, labor and delivery, and the challenges of postpartum recovery. Rebecca also highlights the dynamics of parenting four children and shares valuable tips and resources for new mothers.

Takeaways

  • Rebecca’s experience highlights the complexities and joys of motherhood.
  • Rebecca felt a strong desire for a fourth child despite initial hesitations.
  • Her pregnancy was marked by challenges, including physical discomfort and managing expectations.
  • Labor and delivery were intense, with Rebecca using various techniques to cope with pain.
  • Postpartum recovery was easier due to her experience, but she faced new challenges with her body.
  • Rebecca’s daughter took on a nurturing role with the new baby, showcasing sibling dynamics.
  • Breastfeeding was a significant focus, with Rebecca utilizing innovative methods to manage her milk supply.
  • She emphasized the importance of pelvic floor therapy for postpartum recovery.
  • Rebecca shared insights on nutrition and supplements that aided her postpartum health.
  • The transition to having four children brought about emotional adjustments for the older siblings.

Rebecca Minkoff Bio

Rebecca is the co-founder and creative director of Rebecca Minkoff, a lifestyle brand with a focus on accessories. Rebecca also has founded the inspirational FB group and offline community, @Rmsuperwomen, which provides mentorship, fireside chats with fellow female entrepreneurs to inspire women to lead a more fearless life. She lives in Dumbo Brooklyn with her 4 children and husband Gavin Bellour.

Resources

Needed

There is overwhelming evidence that higher standards of nutrition support fertility, birth outcomes, and lifelong health. Unfortunately, the prenatal vitamin industry is failing us, leaving 95% of us depleted during one of the most nutritionally demanding times in our lives. Most prenatal vitamins only provide bare minimum nutrition, while Needed goes beyond bare minimums with products that can meet the needs of our minds, bodies, and babies. I’m excited to partner with Needed and offer you a special discount. Get 20% off your first order with code BIRTHHOUR at thisisneeded.com.

I feel confident recommending Needed because their products are rigorously third-party tested and endorsed by over 10,000 women’s health experts. Needed’s prenatal multivitamin comes in two forms – capsules or a delicious vanilla powder. In addition to the prenatal multivitamin, Needed has created bundle options to meet your needs, not only during different stages of pregnancy but also while trying to conceive and postpartum. As a mom of three, I especially love their collagen, pre/probiotics and cognitive support supplement.

Head over to thisisneeded.com to find your perfect bundle and use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off select plans. I’ve talked to so many Birth Hour listeners who have discovered Needed through the podcast and I love hearing the feedback that they are feeling better during their pregnancy and into postpartum since starting with Needed. That’s thisisneeded.com and use code BIRTHHOUR.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Just-as-planned, Positive Homebirth Birth Story

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homebirth birth story

Claire knew from her first daughters’ birth that labor could have a huge impact on her mental health and mindset postpartum. She wanted to have a safe, empowering birth experience and to practice trust in herself and her body. 

Throughout her pregnancy, she felt curious about exploring home birth. She interviewed midwives within the hospital system, toured various hospitals in her area, and interviewed a number of doula and home birth midwives. She was nervous to commit to home birth, but ultimately felt it was right for her, and something she would regret not trying. It wasn’t until she met Tiffany and Taylor of Dos Midwifery, sisters who practice together as a team of CNM and CPM midwives at home, that she knew she could do it. 

Dos Midwifery offered incredibly joyful, trusting and balanced prenatal care. They recommended hypnobabies as an approach for her, and the mindfulness exercises and affirmations really helped her to intentionally relax and build scripts with her partner that worked. She had nausea and cravings throughout her pregnancy and followed her midwives advice to double her protein intake, triple her water intake, and add minerals to her water. Focusing on nutrition and getting enough food worked wonders for her energy, and helped manage other symptoms she was having. Claire dealt with piriformis pain in her hip and down her leg in the second and third trimester. She did acupuncture and stretching to help manage.

Claire worked with an at-home pelvic floor PT to do biofeedback and understand what positions would be best for her in labor. Her pelvic floor PT also gave her good instructions on different positions she could use during each stage of labor to help descend and progress. 

When she was 38 weeks along, she had a scare doing kick counts. She didn’t feel any movement for most of the day. Her midwives advised her to go to the hospital and be monitored. After a while baby moved just fine and she was sent home!

Claire prepared her daughter for the arrival of a sibling by reading stories about babies and siblings, talking about signs of labor, and talking about what would stay the same alongside what would change.

One day before his due date, on Claire and her husband Kasey’s 9 year wedding anniversary, she went into labor. She had a peaceful, empowering, just-as-planned birth at home and welcomed her son Everett into the world. 

Claire de Leon Bio

Claire de Leon (she/her pronouns) is a communications strategist who builds belonging. She and her partner Kasey live in Long Beach, CA with their two little ones, Octavia and Everett. Claire studied public health and is a champion for birth justice. Together with her sister Claire launched Boop Bead Shop, home to handmade fidget necklaces for parents to keep babies focused while breastfeeding. Claire is also the founder of Fieldnote, a communications strategy consultancy. She is a creative enthusiast who loves flower arranging, playing with natural dyes, and reading. Connect with her on IG @deleonclaire.

Resources

Needed

There is overwhelming evidence that higher standards of nutrition support fertility, birth outcomes, and lifelong health. Unfortunately, the prenatal vitamin industry is failing us, leaving 95% of us depleted during one of the most nutritionally demanding times in our lives. Most prenatal vitamins only provide bare minimum nutrition, while Needed goes beyond bare minimums with products that can meet the needs of our minds, bodies, and babies. I’m excited to partner with Needed and offer you a special discount. Get 20% off your first order with code BIRTHHOUR at thisisneeded.com.

I feel confident recommending Needed because their products are rigorously third-party tested and endorsed by over 10,000 women’s health experts. Needed’s prenatal multivitamin comes in two forms – capsules or a delicious vanilla powder. In addition to the prenatal multivitamin, Needed has created bundle options to meet your needs, not only during different stages of pregnancy but also while trying to conceive and postpartum. As a mom of three, I especially love their collagen, pre/probiotics and cognitive support supplement.

Head over to thisisneeded.com to find your perfect bundle and use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off select plans. I’ve talked to so many Birth Hour listeners who have discovered Needed through the podcast and I love hearing the feedback that they are feeling better during their pregnancy and into postpartum since starting with Needed. That’s thisisneeded.com and use code BIRTHHOUR.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Unmedicated Birth Center Birth with Vaginismus

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vaginismus birth story

Photo by @devynleannephotography

Emmi shares her journey to motherhood, detailing her experiences from trying to conceive, navigating pregnancy symptoms, and the labor process. She discusses her challenges with vaginismus, her unmedicated birth experience, and the postpartum period, including breastfeeding and resources that helped her along the way.

Takeaways

  • Emmi began considering pregnancy in 2020 and started researching birth.
  • She faced challenges with vaginismus, which affected her conception journey.
  • Emmi used the Mozi Baby method to conceive after six months of trying.
  • She experienced typical pregnancy symptoms, including nausea and fatigue.
  • Emmi found support through pelvic floor therapy and hypno-birthing techniques.
  • Labor began with mild contractions and progressed through the night.
  • She utilized various positions and techniques during labor to manage pain.
  • Emmi’s birth experience included an episiotomy to assist with delivery.
  • Postpartum, she faced challenges with breastfeeding and oversupply.
  • Emmi recommends several resources for expectant mothers, including books and apps.

Emmi Murphy Bio

Emmi lives in Houston with her partner Barrett, their 15 month old daughter Beatrix and rescue dog Phoebe. She is a speech therapist in the public schools and loves listening to birth stories. She and her partner found out they were expecting in 2023 after a journey with vaginismus. Emmi had trouble finding any practical resources or stories including vaginismus and hopes that her story can help someone dealing with a similar situation. She chose to seek care at a birth center with midwives who were incredibly supportive and patient throughout her birth. Although Emmi ended up needing an episiotomy due to pelvic floor tension, she is so thankful for the incredible care she received and left her birth feeling empowered despite a long and difficult labor. 

Resources

Motif Medical

This episode is in partnership with Motif Medical. Motif designs insurance-eligible products for busy moms. With a focus on innovation and empowerment, Motif’s line of breast pumps and maternity compression garments are sophisticated, yet discreet, and made to support mothers as they navigate new motherhood. Discover why moms are reporting more milk in less time with the Luna breast pump, and see how you can get it covered through insurance at motifmedical.com/birthhour you’ll also see other products there like the Aura Glow which is their wearable pump that I discuss at the end of this episode with lactation consultant Jacque. We talk about what makes this wearable pump unique and how it compares to the Luna and it’s a great conversation so be sure to listen to that at the end of this episode. 

Surprise Breech Cesarean, Spontaneous VBAC and VBAC Induction Birth Stories

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cesarean birth story

Valerie’s first pregnancy was fairly easy. She was working with an OB and her NP and planning for an unmedicated vaginal birth. At her 40 week appointment, her OB discovered baby was breech during a cervical check. Ultrasound confirmed a breech baby and the OB gave two options: Valerie could schedule a cesarean or go in for an ECV consultation then into induction if successful or cesarean if unsuccessful, both options for the next day. Valerie was heartbroken at the news and chose the latter option. The ECV was not advised so she reluctantly went to her scheduled cesarean. The procedure went smoothly with some slight blood loss. Breastfeeding was a little challenging after the cesarean but she was able to establish a great breastfeeding relationship.

Valerie’s second pregnancy happened when she was nine months postpartum. She had a similarly uneventful pregnancy, but this time she was working with in-hospital midwives as she pursued a VBAC. At 40 weeks and 2 days, Valerie received labor inducing acupuncture; labor started the next day with slow, mild contractions. At 40 weeks and 4 days, Valerie delivered her second child vaginally after about 5 hours of active labor and one hour of pushing. She used nitros oxide during the pushing phase to help distract from labor discomfort. Breastfeeding was a breeze and postpartum was night and day different compared to her first postpartum season.

Valerie’s third pregnancy was a similar experience as her first two, but everything was a little “extra”; extra nausea, extra soreness, etc. She started her prenatal care working with the same in-hospital midwives as her second birth, but decided around 16 weeks to hire a home birth midwife and do co-care with both with the hope of a successful home birth. In her 39th week, Valerie had leaky waters for a few days. She ended
up delivering with low Pitocin at the hospital, no pain meds. Her labor was about three hours, start to finish, with baby coming out in two pushes. Postpartum has been good as baby is currently 7 weeks old.

Valerie Hummel LaBounty Bio

Valerie lives with her husband and three daughters in South Dakota where she works as a pastor in a United Methodist Church. Valerie is also a Chapter Leader of her local ICAN (International Cesarean Awareness Network) chapter in Sioux Falls, SD and is also ICAN Chapter Director. Email for contact: valhummel.10@gmail.com

Resources

Zenith Health

Today’s episode is sponsored by Zenith Health. Zenith Health helps you navigate pregnancy with access to real evidence, bringing you peace of mind through data.  Imagine if your google searches only returned answers based on real evidence from research studies, clinical guidelines, and physician-authored content. Instead of giving you more opinions, Zenith’s Pregnancy Evidence Navigator -or Penny- tool provides exactly that and it’s completely free to use!  Next time you have a burning question like a new symptom, a supplement you’re unsure about, or a question as you’re planning for birth. Spare yourself the panic Google and ask Penny your question for a real-time, unbiased review of the evidence at www.zenithhealth.io. Zenith also started the Pregnancy Evidence Project which is the first large scale research project wholly focused on learning from the millions of pregnancy and postpartum experiences already happening in the real world. If you choose to opt in, your pregnancy journey becomes part of the evidence that helps future moms make informed decisions and drives research forward.

Embryo Adoption Sibling and Surprise Natural Pregnancy

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natural pregnancy after embryo adoption

When their son was 16 months old, Olivia and her husband Isaac went back to the National Embryo Donation Center (NEDC) for a third frozen embryo transfer with two of their son’s biological siblings, embryos they had adopted through the NEDC. Olivia had symptoms very early on this time, and they were excited to learn they were pregnant with one of the transferred embryos. After a physically and emotionally difficult pregnancy, their daughter was born. Almost immediately, Olivia regretted asking for an epidural and hoped to be able to experience another birth.

When their daughter was 18 months old, Olivia and Isaac were shocked to discover that they were pregnant, naturally for the first time ever. Olivia found a doula to help support her and her husband during the birth, as her husband was in very poor health. She was able to have the pain medication free birth of her dreams with the most incredible support system for their third baby, second son, and first biological child.

embryo adoption

Olivia Hall Bio

Olivia is a former second grade teacher, married to her preacher husband Isaac. They live in a small town in Kentucky with their three children. Olivia and Isaac tried to conceive for about 3 years before deciding to go to the National Embryo Donation Center (NEDC) in Knoxville, TN and pursue embryo adoption to grow their family. Later they had a full genetic sibling using embryo adoption followed by a surprise natural pregnancy. Connect with her via email at oliviamcmillan314@gmail.com.

Resources

Aeroflow Breastpumps

Did you know breast pumps and milk storage bags, maternity compression garments, even lactation education & support can all be covered by your insurance? Aeroflow helps millions of parents unlock these breastfeeding and postpartum essentials by working directly with your insurance company to get these free essentials shipped straight to your door. Aeroflow offers all major breast pump brands including Medela, Spectra, Motif, Lansinoh, Ameda, Elvie, Willow and more. Visit AeroflowBreastpumps.com/birthhour to fill out their free and easy Qualify Through Insurance form. Don’t forget to use the promo code “BIRTHHOUR15” in their online shop for 15% off all supplies and accessories. You’ve got enough on your plate. Why not let Aeroflow Breastpumps help support you on your breastfeeding journey?

Two Weeks of False Starts and “Barely There” Epidural Hospital Birth Story

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epidural prodromal labor

After nearly two weeks of prodromal labor and multiple trips to L&D, Chanarah felt her first real contraction the night before her birthday during a staycation her husband planned at the Four Seasons. Her due date was April 25th, but by Sunday night, labor truly began. After being sent home again with a morphine shot for rest, contractions quickly intensified, and she returned to the hospital four hours later at six centimeters. Her baby’s sunny-side-up position explained the long early labor, and after just 45 minutes of pushing, Chanarah delivered vaginally. Though her epidural barely worked and there were tense moments with her heart rate dropping and the NICU on standby, both she and her baby were healthy—ending a long, emotional journey with joy and relief.

Chanarah Romero Bio 

Chanarah is a 31-year-old first-time mom who welcomed her baby after a long and emotional journey to motherhood. Following two miscarriages, she entered this pregnancy with both hope and cautious optimism. During her second trimester, she and her husband made the big decision to move back home across the country to Seattle to be closer to family and friends. That change brought her the comfort and support she needed as she prepared for birth. She hopes sharing her story reminds other moms that healing, strength, and joy can grow from even the hardest chapters. Instagram: @chanarahofficial  Spotify: Chanarah  YouTube: @ChanarahOfficial 

Resources

Seattle Area:

Zenith Health

Today’s episode is sponsored by Zenith Health. Zenith Health helps you navigate pregnancy with access to real evidence, bringing you peace of mind through data.  Imagine if your google searches only returned answers based on real evidence from research studies, clinical guidelines, and physician-authored content. Instead of giving you more opinions, Zenith’s Pregnancy Evidence Navigator -or Penny- tool provides exactly that and it’s completely free to use!  Next time you have a burning question like a new symptom, a supplement you’re unsure about, or a question as you’re planning for birth. Spare yourself the panic Google and ask Penny your question for a real-time, unbiased review of the evidence at www.zenithhealth.io. Zenith also started the Pregnancy Evidence Project which is the first large scale research project wholly focused on learning from the millions of pregnancy and postpartum experiences already happening in the real world. If you choose to opt in, your pregnancy journey becomes part of the evidence that helps future moms make informed decisions and drives research forward.

Two Birth Stories in Italy and Breastfeeding Challenges with Danae Mercer

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danae mercer birth story

Danae shares her two birth stories in Italy. She started trying at 37 and conceived just before her wedding—only to miscarry weeks later. After fertility challenges, she conceived naturally again and gave birth following a difficult labor and traumatic breastfeeding experience. Postpartum was isolating and painful. Danae’s second birth was holistic, supported, and healing and breastfeeding became the empowering experience she had longed for.

Danae Mercer Ricci Bio

Danae is a journalist, speaker, and content creator known for her honest conversations around motherhood, body confidence, and self-acceptance. A former editor-in-chief and long-time health journalist, Danae now shares the realities of parenting two young children — from postpartum recovery to the emotional shifts of early motherhood — with her global community of over two million women. Through her work, she blends professional insight with lived experience, trying to help women feel seen and supported. Connect with her on Instagram @danaemercer and her Facebook group Real with Danae

Resources

  • The Birth Hour Birth Stories
  • Dr. Sharon Silberstein @breastfeedingdoctor.uk on IG

Needed

There is overwhelming evidence that higher standards of nutrition support fertility, birth outcomes, and lifelong health. Unfortunately, the prenatal vitamin industry is failing us, leaving 95% of us depleted during one of the most nutritionally demanding times in our lives. Most prenatal vitamins only provide bare minimum nutrition, while Needed goes beyond bare minimums with products that can meet the needs of our minds, bodies, and babies. I’m excited to partner with Needed and offer you a special discount. Get 20% off your first order with code BIRTHHOUR at thisisneeded.com.

I feel confident recommending Needed because their products are rigorously third-party tested and endorsed by over 10,000 women’s health experts. Needed’s prenatal multivitamin comes in two forms – capsules or a delicious vanilla powder. In addition to the prenatal multivitamin, Needed has created bundle options to meet your needs, not only during different stages of pregnancy but also while trying to conceive and postpartum. As a mom of three, I especially love their collagen, pre/probiotics and cognitive support supplement.

Head over to thisisneeded.com to find your perfect bundle and use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off select plans. I’ve talked to so many Birth Hour listeners who have discovered Needed through the podcast and I love hearing the feedback that they are feeling better during their pregnancy and into postpartum since starting with Needed. That’s thisisneeded.com and use code BIRTHHOUR.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Hospital Birth Story with Postpartum Preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome

Posted on
postpartum preeclampsia hellp syndrome

After what began as a textbook pregnancy, Traci’s life took a terrifying turn when she developed postpartum preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome shortly after giving birth to her daughter. What followed was a traumatic stay in the maternal ICU, while her newborn spent days in the NICU fighting to get strong enough to come home.

That experience changed Traci’s life forever. She now works closely with the Preeclampsia Foundation to raise awareness about the warning signs of preeclampsia and to advocate for better maternal care and postpartum education. Her mission is to use storytelling and her media platform to help other women recognize their symptoms, trust their instincts, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.

Through vulnerability, humor, and heart, Traci continues to inspire audiences  showing that even in the scariest chapters of motherhood, there is resilience, purpose, and community waiting on the other side

Traci Stumpf Bio

Traci is an Emmy award-winning television host, writer, and the founder of Getting On Brand  a company dedicated to helping people discover their authentic voice and show up confidently on camera. Connect with her on IG @tracistumpf.

Resources

AirDoctor

Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code BIRTHHOUR to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free! Get this exclusive, podcast-only offer now at AirDoctorPro.com

KiwiCo

Get 50% off your first month on ANY crate line with code BIRTHHOUR at kiwico.com.