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77 | Emm Engelman IVF Natural conception, Kidney stones, Pancreatitis
09/03/2018
77 | Emm Engelman IVF Natural conception, Kidney stones, Pancreatitis
In today’s episode, I interview Emma Engelman. Em started trying to conceive shortly after getting married at the age of 23. With no friends who had had kids or were trying to conceive she felt she had very little understanding of menstral cycles or tips or tricks in trying to conceive. She had been on the pill Depo-Provera for 3 years and hadn’t had a period during that time. After a year of trying and being unsuccessful, Emm saw an obstetrician who prescribed Clomid. She went on Clomid for 5 months to try and regulate her cycles. She found the hormonal surges and other side effects very challenging. She decided to come off the drugs and try naturally again. Her husband who is a little bit spiritual said: “We need to visualize the baby coming and prepare a nursery”. So Emm went and bought a fancy nappy bag and pram and found out she had conceived her first child naturally shortly after. To hear more about Emm’s first pregnancy in which she got both Pancreatitis and kidney stones, tune into this weeks show. Topics covered: IVF, Clomid, egg transfers, kidney stones, pancreatitis, natural conception.
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76 | Kirsty Farrugia Two Vaginal Deliveries Private and Public 3rd Degree Tear
08/27/2018
76 | Kirsty Farrugia Two Vaginal Deliveries Private and Public 3rd Degree Tear
In today’s episode, I interview Kirsty Farrugia. Kirsty shares her two birth experiences with us. She had her first child through the Public system at the Mercy Birth Centre in Melbourne. She had Oliver with the support of her doula and husband. Kirsty then had her second child in Sydney through a Private Hospital with an Obstetrician. To hear more tune into this week's show. To connect with Kirsty and her Feels Like Home Professional Organisers You can tune into the Podcast she co-hosts The Art of Decluttering Podcast Today’s episode of the show is Brought to you by . If you’re looking for really helpful baby products but don’t have time to trawl the internet to find them - check out Baby Berry Collective. Baby Berry are an online directory with gorgeous baby, kids AND mum products, from both Australia and New Zealand. Shopping without the overwhelm, is what they’re all about. Finding you products that will help you in your parenthood journey. Plus they have an Exclusive Offers page on their website, where you’ll find over 50 discount codes to use at your favourite online stores. You can find them at .
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75 | Kara Demmrich Two Vaginal Hypnobirths
08/19/2018
75 | Kara Demmrich Two Vaginal Hypnobirths
In today's episode, I interview Kara. Kyal and Kara have been together since they were both 16 years old. Kara explains that while Kyal was ready to have kids for quite a while, she just didn’t feel quite ready. She woke up one day and out of the blue she just felt a sense of readiness. She fell pregnant straight away more or less and began to feel nauseous quite early on this lasted until she was 16 weeks. They decided to go through the Private system despite their private health not covering them yet. They booked into a new clinic with Dr. Peta Skilbeck. For the last few weeks, Kara felt she was going to go early. She found those days dragged. She tried everything, walking stairs, castor oil, and acupuncture. To hear more about Kara’s births tune into this weeks show. Today's Sponsors: Discover beautiful essentials, innovative parenting solutions, hand selected gifts and designer furniture at . With brands such as Wee Gallery, IVI Rugs, Comotomo, Olababy and Oeuf furniture you will be sure to find all your baby needs at UrbanBaby. Find UrbanBaby at or check out their amazing Instagram feed @urbanbabyshop for plenty of baby related inspo. UrbanBaby is offering 10% off with code AUSBIRTH08 (excluding Oeuf and gift vouchers). Valid until 2 September 2018. is Australia’s most trusted provider of baby and child first aid. Tiny Hearts are on a mission to empower parents and caregivers through their courses and kits. Tiny Hearts First Aid are offering all listeners $10 off on their courses and kits is with the code: AUBS10 Topics covered: acupuncture, delayed cord clamping, breastfeeding, an oversupply of milk, nipple shields, hypnobirthing, active labour.
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74 | Anna Thurlow Two Induced Labours, Premature Membrane Rupture, Breastfeeding Journey
08/13/2018
74 | Anna Thurlow Two Induced Labours, Premature Membrane Rupture, Breastfeeding Journey
In today's episode, I’m interviewing Anna Thurlow. Anna takes us through her two induced vaginal deliveries. In both Anna’s pregnancies, her membranes ruptured prematurely at 35 weeks. Anna also shares her challenges with managing an oversupply of breastmilk and making the difficult decision to have her son’s tongue tie cut. To hear more of Anna’s story tune into this week's show. Today’s episode is brought to you by . Medela’s range of breast pumps covers all the potential needs of a breastfeeding mum. To celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Week Medela are supporting the McGrath Foundation by donating $10 from the sale of every electric Breast Pump purchased at Baby Bunting stores from the 6th - 19th of August, to support cancer research, and those battling the disease in Australia. For more information head over to To connect with Anna :
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73 | Emma Isaacs Five. Homebirths
08/05/2018
73 | Emma Isaacs Five. Homebirths
In today’s episode, I interview Emma Isaacs. Emma takes us through her five home water births with a private midwife. It wasn’t until Emma was 32 weeks in her first pregnancy that she decided she’s like have a home birth. She found it quite challenging to find a private midwife who would take her on so late in her pregnancy, particularly as it was her first birth. Up until 30 weeks, Emma was terrified of childbirth. Her mum started a ritual that they’d blow out their birthday candles and then she would tell their birth story in great detail including having 32 stitches. She knew she needed to change that narrative for herself ignorer to go into her own births with a more positive mindset. She read every book available, she went to Calm Birth and she did a course through Marie Burrows (from Birthing Rites Australia ) Her first birth was a water birth at home, the most empowering experience of her life. To hear more tune into this weeks interview. Today’s show is brought to you by Bimby and Roy. Bimby and Roy are versatile, maternity friendly undergarments which are soft, stretchy, quick dry and wireless. Apart from everyday wear, Bimbys can also be worn as swimmers for impromptu dips, as birthing and breastfeeding bras, yoga and sleep wear. To check out the full range of Bimby and Roy pieces head over to Also sponsoring this week episode is Tooshies by TOM. Tooshies, gentle on bottoms and the planet. To find out more about Emma's Book Winging it click here: Topics covered: Home Birth, private midwife, Marie Burrows (Birthing Rites Australia), Calmbirth, Business Chicks. To see more pictures and a video of Emma's with birth click HERE
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72 | Anna Abbott Elective Caesarean, VBAC Missed Miscarriage
07/29/2018
72 | Anna Abbott Elective Caesarean, VBAC Missed Miscarriage
When Anna and her partner decided to have a child she began watching One Born Every Minute religiously. After they got married and they moved into their own place she began tracking her cycles. When they were ready she joined a" trying to conceive" online forum. After trying for two months, Anna planned a holiday to Thailand surrounding her window of ovulation and she successfully fell pregnant on her well planned trip Anna booked in with private obstetrician who she felt had an unusual bedside manner however she initially felt she could trust him. When Anna was 30 weeks her Obstetrician said she had high blood pressure and he prescribed her some blood pressure medication which she reacted to. He was quite vague about if she needed to take them or not. She then went in to see him at 39+5. He was adamant that she needed to a caesarean at 40 weeks and he said he was not prepared to care for her beyond 40 weeks. Having paid all the fees they felt they had no other option but to follow his guidance and have a caesarean section. To hear more about Anna’s journey tune into this weeks show. Topics covered: Private Obstetrician, breastfeeding challenges, missed miscarriage, depression, gastric sleeve surgery, successful VBAC, DNC, grief, and loss, Ngala https://www.ngala.com.au Today’s episode is sponsored by The best time to sort out your superannuation is before kids come along. Super doesn’t have to be a headache and GROW understands this. That’s why GROW lets you consolidate online, with zero paperwork, in under two minutes. They’ll even find your lost super for you. GROW Super is offering Fee Free superannuation for new parents because your super shouldn’t take a hit when you’ve got a newborn. Download GROW Super now on iPhone or Android or visit for more info and t&cs.
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71 | Nicola Cross Vaginal Delivery Epidural
07/26/2018
71 | Nicola Cross Vaginal Delivery Epidural
In today’s episode I interview Nicola Cross. Shortly after getting engaged, Nicola went and saw her doctor as she was having some issues with breakthrough bleeding and pain whilst taking the pill. Both Nicola and her partner Pat always intended to have children in the future so Nicola decided to go off the pill. To their surprise, a short time later they found out Nicola was pregnant. With a history of fertility challenges on both her and her partner’s side, Nicola was expecting to have a long journey to falling pregnant. Thankfully they were very lucky. They went through shared care with her public hospital and her local GP. To hear more of Nicola’s pregnancy and birth tune into this weeks show. Topics covered: Induction, waters breaking, epidural, afterbirth pains, acupuncture, engorged breasts, acupuncture. Today’s episode is sponsored by Pip and Lenny is a small online boutique created by two Australian mums, midwives and friends, who both found it difficult to source thoughtful and practical clothing for their young children. After falling in love with handmade products and vintage styling, Bec and Justine created Pip and Lenny with a dream to stock all the brands they love and adore in the one place. The Pip and Lenny collection is thoughtfully selected, by the girls in their homes, surrounded by the splendid chaos that is their beautiful children. Pip and Lenny seek ethically made products designed with a focus on children's comfort and a classic, clean aesthetic with vintage-contemporary style. Pip and Lenny offer Afterpay, International shipping and local pick up for their fellow Adelaide buyers. Pip and Lenny would love to offer Australian Birth Stories listeners 10% off STOREWIDE with the code AUSTRALIANBIRTHSTORIES at the checkout. Follow on Instagram: Website: To learn more about Tiny Tonics click here:
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70 | Caitlin Four Vaginal Deliveries Postpartum Haemorrhage
07/23/2018
70 | Caitlin Four Vaginal Deliveries Postpartum Haemorrhage
In this week’s episode, I interview Caitlin Langford about her four pregnancies and births. Caitlin fell pregnant shortly after losing her mother. She and her husband had decided to wait to try and conceive as Caitlin was grieving and they had planned an overseas trip. Shortly after running a marathon, Caitlin found that she was struggling to recover and felt lethargic and as if she was coming down with something. To her complete surprise, she was intact 7 weeks pregnant. To hear Caitlins pregnancy and birth stories tune into this weeks show. Today’s episode is sponsored by GROW Super. The best time to sort out your superannuation is before kids come along. Super doesn’t have to be a headache and GROW understands this. That’s why GROW lets you consolidate online, with zero paperwork, in under two minutes. They’ll even find your lost super for you. GROW Super is offering Fee Free superannuation for new parents because your super shouldn’t take a hit when you’ve got a newborn. Download GROW Super now on iPhone or Android or visit for more info and t&cs. Australian Red Cross For more information, or to register to donate blood, please visit , or call 13 14 95.
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69 | Danielle Symes Two Vaginal Births, Postnatal Depression and Anxiety, Third Degree Tear
07/15/2018
69 | Danielle Symes Two Vaginal Births, Postnatal Depression and Anxiety, Third Degree Tear
Danielle had decided with her partner that they would start trying for a baby at 27 and they fell pregnant literally on their first attempt. Danielle’s reaction was not what she had expected at all. She was freaking out. Even though her pregnancy was planned, she realized she wasn’t 100% ready. She read over a million books and never really came to terms with her pregnancy. Danielle became so preoccupied and anxious with how she would come when the baby came that she didn’t really focus on the birth itself. To hear more of Danielle’s story tune into this week's show. If you’d like to become a Patreon member and help support the show head over to birthstories I’ve been nominated for the Ausmumpreneur Awards. Its a huge honour to be nominated and the people’s choice voting has just opened. So if you feel like this podcast is making a difference to you and you enjoy listing to my show each week it would be amazing if you could give me your vote. It literally takes 1minutes. I’m listed in the first categories Making a Difference Award, you can just scroll down to Sophie Walker to vote for me. And I’ll let you know how I go.
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68 | Sarah Bell Burch Three Births, 4Year Old Son Present
07/08/2018
68 | Sarah Bell Burch Three Births, 4Year Old Son Present
68 | Sarah Bell Burch Three Births, 4 Year Old Son Present In today’s episode I interview Sarah Bell Burch who shares three pregnancies and vaginal deliveries. Sarah was 25 when she fell pregnant with her first son Remi. After living overseas for several years she had come home to settle in Australia in her husband’s home town of Cootamundra. Sarah woke at 830am on the morning of her due date with a contraction and labour unfolded from there. In this episode Sarah shares having a retained placenta in two of her births, mastitis the challenges of breastfeeding and toddler weaning, and the joy of having her little boy Remi present for his sister's birth.
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67 | Felicity Cook Pelvic Instability, Vaginal Delivery
07/01/2018
67 | Felicity Cook Pelvic Instability, Vaginal Delivery
In this week’s episode, Felicity Cook shares her challenging pregnancy with her little girl Tilly. One year prior to trying to conceive Felicity saw her gynaecologist and kinesiologist to make sure her hormones and cycles were balanced. Her husband also had his sperm count checked. They then fell pregnant very easily in her second month of trying. On the recommendation of a close friend, Felicity booked in with a private obstetrician at the Mater Hospital in Sydney. Felicity suffered from a lot of physical pain during her pregnancy. From 20 weeks her pelvis became quite unstable. To hear more about Felicity's journey tune into this weeks show. Today's episode is brought to you by Bree Downes Birth Support & Photography. Bree is a Melbourne based doula and birth photographer. Having worked as a doula for 10 years Bree supports women to have the births they envisage for themselves by providing emotional, physical and informational support throughout their pregnancy and birth. Bree is offering a 10% discount off her doula and birth photography packages for any women due before December 2018. Just mention Australian Birth Stories when enquiring with Bree. For more information please visit or check her out on instagram @breedownes_doula_photographer
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66 | Gemma Pranita Infertility, IUI, Antenatal Depression positive Induction Experience
06/24/2018
66 | Gemma Pranita Infertility, IUI, Antenatal Depression positive Induction Experience
In today’s episode, I interview Gemma who takes us through her struggles with unexplained infertility. Gemma was able to conceive her daughter Raffaella with the help of one round of intrauterine insemination (IUI). Gemma was surprised to find that shortly after she conceived Raffa she began to feel unexpectedly depressed. To hear Gemma share her struggles with antenatal depression and the way Raffa’s birth unfolded tune into this weeks episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Bimby and Roy. Bimby and Roy are versatile, maternity friendly undergarments which are soft, stretchy, quick dry and wireless. Apart from everyday wear, Bimbys can also be worn as swimmers for impromptu dips, as birthing and breastfeeding b ras, yoga and sleep wear. Designed in Australia, and made at a solar-powered facility in Fiji. Bimby and Roy products are sustainable, comfortable and come in some gorgeous prints and patternes To check out the full range of Bimby and Roy pieces head over to I just want to thank the new Patreon members who have signed up to help support the making of the show: Amy Small, Jessica Cassidy, Courtney Thornton, Emma Egleman, Adrian McDonnell and Leoni. If you’d like to become a member head over to . Images by:
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65 | Teresa Palmer Two Vaginal Deliveries, Retained Placenta Manual Removal
06/17/2018
65 | Teresa Palmer Two Vaginal Deliveries, Retained Placenta Manual Removal
In this week’s episode, I interview Teresa Palmer. Teresa and Mark tried for about 5 months to conceive and were unsuccessful. Teresa then found out that she ovulates later in her cycle that she had thought. With this knowledge in hand, she was able to fall pregnant the following month. Teresa felt her pregnancy with Bodhi Rain was pretty uneventful. She had wanted to be a mother her whole life and so to be pregnant was the most exciting thing she had ever navigated. She loved every moment of it. She felt very well with minimal pregnancy symptoms. She found out her baby’s gender at her 11-week scan. She had planned to have a home birth in America. She had witnessed a home birth of one of her best friends when she was 11 weeks and she ended up hiring the same midwife she had seen navigate a very challenging birth. She read all of Ina May Gaskin’s books and watched her documentary. Teresa and Mark got married when she was 6 weeks pregnant. At 36 weeks she started a hypnobirthing course. At 38+6 Teresa’s waters broke while she was in bed and they began to get really excited and called their midwife. The midwife said to rest and come in the morning. She went in at 11 am and it was confirmed that her waters had infant broken. To hear more about Bodhi’s birth and Forrest’s tune into this weeks show. Topics covered: waters breaking, castor oil, hypnobirthing, acupuncture, birth pool, home birth, hospital transfer, breastfeeding, posterior baby, fever during labour, Dr. Paul Crane, manual extraction of the placenta, tandem breastfeeding, To connect with Teresa's To enter the tooshies giveaway click Today’s episode is proudly sponsored by Tooshies by TOM. Tooshies, gentle on bottoms and the planet.
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64 | Bonnie Antenatal Depression, Induced Labour
06/11/2018
64 | Bonnie Antenatal Depression, Induced Labour
In this week’s episode, I interview Bonnie. Bonnie suffered terribly with morning sickness and then antenatal depression throughout her pregnancy. Living in the UK at the time with her husband, Bonnie had planned for them to return to Australia when she found out she was pregnant. Bonnie shares very openly about suicidal thoughts and regularly discussed with her husband her feelings that she couldn’t be a mother and that he would need to raise the baby himself after the baby was born. To hear more about Bonnie’s very difficult pregnancy and how she connected with some very supportive staff through St John of God Hospital in Perth, tune into this weeks episode. This week’s show is brought to you by Mrs Heemskerk’s cookbook . To check out Food for the ones I love head over to at just $39.95 this book is a must-have. Topics covered: Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, antenatal depression, migration, morning sickness, arrhythmia, exercise in pregnancy, psychologist, induction, postnatal anxiety. If you or someone you know needs help please contact: 13 11 14 : 1300 726 30
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63 | Kristy Joyce Triplets Born via Caesarean Section
06/07/2018
63 | Kristy Joyce Triplets Born via Caesarean Section
In this week’s episode, I interview Kristy Joyce. Kristy had trouble conceiving after having her first son Mason and sought the help of fertility specialists. She began the process by taking Clomid to help assist in egg stimulation. Just before Kristy was about to have IVF she discovered she was pregnant with triplets. Despite being advised that Clomid can lead to the possibility of having multiples, Kristy and her husband never dreamed it would actually happen to them. To hear how Kristy managed her high-risk pregnancy and the safe delivery of all three beautiful babies tune into this week's show.
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62 | Lacey Barratt Four Birth Stories, Doula and Birth Photographer
06/03/2018
62 | Lacey Barratt Four Birth Stories, Doula and Birth Photographer
In this weeks episode, I interview mother, Doula and Birth Photographer Lacey Barratt. Lacey fell pregnant quite unexpectedly at the age of 22 whilst backpacking in Darwin. Lacey describes herself as feeling violently ill and was throwing up multiple times a day throughout her first pregnancy. Lacey connected with her local GP and she delivered through the birth center in Darwin. Lacey was unsure of what was deemed ‘normal’ for morning sickness however she was concerned about her weight and she felt very run down and dehydrated. Lacey delivered her first baby at 41 and a half weeks after days of prodromal labour with a posterior baby. There is a just 15mths difference in age between Lacey’s first and second children so it came as quite a surprise when she fell pregnant again. To hear how Lacey went on to have a home birth and private midwifery care in her subsequent births tune into this week's show. To connect with Lacey click here: Topics covered: Hyperemesis gravidarum, posterior position, prodromal labour, anterior lip, birth stole, methadone, lounge tie, prolapse, anemic, free birth, gestational diabetes, placenta prints, This weeks episode is sponsored by . Chekoh Bamboo wrap carriers and Slings were created by mother of three Krystal in 2013. Krystal designed the Chekoh range of carriers to encompass all those points that were missing from the mainstream brands, no bulk, breathable lightweight and natural fabrics, prints and patterns the modern parent WANTS to wear and an easy to use carry for this busy mama of three. To check out the fabulous Chekoh range head over to is offering Australian Birth Stories listeners 15% off their purchase with the code AUSBIRTH. You've carried baby close for 9 months - why stop now? Carry on carrying with Chekoh into the fourth trimester.
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61 | Anna McGahan 33 week Premature Emergency Caesarean Delivery
05/28/2018
61 | Anna McGahan 33 week Premature Emergency Caesarean Delivery
In this weeks episode, I interview Anna. Anna fell pregnant just six weeks after getting married catching both her and her partner by surprise. Despite having a couple of scares early on in her pregnancy with a car accident at 5 weeks and a small bleed after a fall in a recreational sports game, Anna said she had a beautiful pregnancy. She had read books such as Birth Skills by Juju Sundin and she was preparing for a drug-free natural delivery through the Mercy Public Hospital in Melbourne. At 32 weeks Anna started to have a very strange feeling she would have her little girl early. She read two accounts of women who had had babies at 33 weeks on an online forum she was part of. One woman and had delivered a healthy prem baby and the other had a stillborn. This tragic loss really rocked Anna during her pregnancy. To hear more of Anna’s story tune into this week's show. Today’s episode is brought to you by Urbanbaby. Discover beautiful essentials, innovative parenting solutions, hand selected gifts and designer furniture at UrbanBaby. With brands such as Wee Gallery, IVI Rugs, Comotomo, Olababy and Oeuf furniture you will be sure to find all your baby needs at UrbanBaby. You can find UrbanBaby at or check out their amazing Instagram feed @urbanbabyshop for plenty of baby related inspiration. UrbanBaby is offering $15 off for orders over $100 with code AUSBIRTH. Valid until 16 June 2018. Topics covered: concealed abruption, NICU, Emergency Caesarean section, breastfeeding, Mercy Hosptial for Women, reduced fetal movement.
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60 | Kristie Simpson, Vaginal Breech Delivery Public Hospial, Hip Dysplasia
05/21/2018
60 | Kristie Simpson, Vaginal Breech Delivery Public Hospial, Hip Dysplasia
Kristie had been on the pill for 10 years and thought it might take her a little while to conceive. She came off the pill in December and fell pregnant quite quickly. Kristie is a very active gym goer and she found going to the gym each morning really helped with her early morning sickness. Kristie was keen to have a natural delivery and she booked into her local Family Birth Center which was associated with King Edward Hospital. Kristie undertook the She Births birth course online to help her prepare for her pregnancy and delivery. She did the course in conjunction with the Family Birth Center. Kirstie is a Type A personality and felt confident to take the She Births course as it has been proven to reduce rates of Caesarean Section and birth intervention. At 32 weeks Kristie discovered that her baby was a frank breech presentation, bottom first instead of head first. Kristie was still very keen to avoid a caesarean section and looked into the possibility of a natural vaginal breech delivery. To hear more about Kristie’s breech delivery tune into this weeks show. Topics covered: She Births, Hip Dysplasia, Breech birth, private midwife, King Edward Hospital, Family Birth Center, active pregnancy, prolapse, second-degree tear, acupuncture, ECV.
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59 | Kirsty Chandler Positive Hypnobirth in Water, Private Midwife
05/14/2018
59 | Kirsty Chandler Positive Hypnobirth in Water, Private Midwife
In this week’s episode, I interview Kirsty Chandler. Kirsty fell pregnant in her second month of actively trying to conceive. She spent the lead up preparing her body by cutting out alcohol and caffeine and saw a variety of healthcare providers such as acupuncturists and chiropractors to prepare her body for pregnancy. Kirsty was very careful in searching for the right care provider for her pregnancy and birth. She interviewed both the midwives at her local Gold Coast hospital as well as the private midwives which worked a short distance from her house. She decided to employ a private midwife for her care. Kirsty also took Hypnobithing classes to prepare for the drug-free water birth she intended to have. Kirsty laboured at home and spent much of her time on the toilet where her waters went. Her private midwife came to her house to monitor her and see how labour was progressing and she advised she had time to make the journey to the hospital to get into the birth pool there. Kirsty was very well prepared for her labor. She wore an eye mask and had her hypnobirthing Australia track- rainbow relaxation playing in her earphones as she made the journey to the hospital. This helped her to block out any external influences and allowed her to stay focused on her breathing. Kirsty’s husband checked her into the hospital and then went to move their car from the emergency bay and almost missed the birth as he got lost finding his way back from the car park. River was born gently into the birth pool with the guiding hands of Kirsty and her partner Guy also in the birth pool. To hear more about this beautiful birth tune into this weeks show. To connect with Kirsty: Topics covered: Breast crawl, hypnobirth, homeopathics, private midwife, yoga, meditation, acupuncture, delayed cord clamping, perineal massage, labia graze. Today’s episode of the show is sponsored by . Tree Hut Village is the only website in the world where you can hire/lend/buy and sell your baby items from one family to another. is essentially like AirBnB for baby equipment. You can: List your baby items for hire. Hire from other parents - short or long term. You can sell baby items, and you can try products before you buy them so you don't have to worry if your baby will sleep in the bassinet or travel cot you want to buy. Tree Hut Village is offering my listeners 10% off with the code THV4ME. To find out more head over to https://www.treehutvillage.com.
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58 | Sarah Hocking Legally Blind Two Caesarean Births, Miscarriage, Brain Surgery.
05/07/2018
58 | Sarah Hocking Legally Blind Two Caesarean Births, Miscarriage, Brain Surgery.
In this weeks episode, I interview Sarah Hocking. Sarah first found out she was pregnant when she was in her first year of primary teaching. The pregnancy came as a shock as they were planning their wedding however they soon became really excited. At Sarah’s eight week scan they discovered they had miscarried their baby. Devastated by their loss, Sarah decided to throw herself into her wedding preparation. Nine weeks prior to the wedding Sarah found out she was pregnant. Thrilled to be pregnant Sarah went through the care at the Mercy Hospital in Melbourne. Sarah had had a stroke at the age of 24 which meant she was categorized as high risk during her pregnancy. Sarah was diagnosed as having placenta previa and as she was on blood thinning medication from her stroke, she had to watch out for any bleeding. Due to the placenta’s positioning Sarah was booked in for a caesarean section. A week before her scheduled Caesarean section Sarah’s vision began to deteriorate and she initially thought it was due to tiredness. She went to see the doctor and she said if it gets worse come back in for more tests. Sarah was watching the news with her husband and she started crying as she couldn't see the faces of the news readers properly. They decided to go to the hospital and they had monitoring and then the doctor came back in and he thought she should have a CAT scan to rule everything out. At this stage, they were just waiting for results and she sent her husband home for some rest. At 3 am she was woken when all the lights in her room came on and a team of doctors came in and said “You’re going to be in for a really rough ride. We’ve found three clots in your brain.” To hear more about Sarah’s journey tune into this weeks episode. To connect with Sarah and her blog Today’s episode is sponsored by Renee from . Renee is a Certified Hypnobirthing Australia™ Practitioner and Postnatal Doula based in Perth. She is passionate about teaching and encouraging women that birth shouldn’t be feared, but anticipated and embraced. With the right knowledge, preparation, tools, and support, the Hypnobirthing Australia™ program helps you to have a positive and calm birthing experience. Renee teaches the Hypnobirthing Australia™ program in a group or private classes in Perth and she also offers Skype sessions for those of you living in other states across Australia. As a Postpartum doula, Renee is able to support you in that precious first few days and weeks post birth. Renee is offering my listeners a $50 discount off a Hypnobirthing Australia class or her Postnatal Doula services until the end of July using the code BirthStories. You can find out more about Renee and over at https://www.thebirthspace.com.au Topics covered: stroke, legally blind, clean, brain surgery, downs syndrome, DNC, meningiomas, placenta previa, disability, grief, loss, VBAC.
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57 | Jules Coffey Two Vaginal Deliveries, Hyperemsis Gravidarum, Doula, Breastfeeding Challenges
04/30/2018
57 | Jules Coffey Two Vaginal Deliveries, Hyperemsis Gravidarum, Doula, Breastfeeding Challenges
In today’s episode, I interview Jules Coffey. Jules shares her two pregnancies and births from the perspective of a trained doula. Despite always wanting to be pregnant and have children, Jules didn’t enjoy her first pregnancy. She was sick almost immediately, just ten days after conception. Jules was also affected by costochondritis and her colon doubled in size making her feel very unwell. At 19 weeks pregnant Jules and her partner got married and on their honeymoon, she developed a bladder infection. All of these ailments combined had Jules wishing away her pregnancy. Towards the end of Jules’ pregnancy, her growth scans showed she was measuring 3 weeks behind in size and she was also admitted to hospital suffering from sciatica. At 37 weeks she had a stretch and sweep to help try and initiate labor. She then went on to have cervical inserted to which she had an allergic reaction which led to her having an overstimulated uterus. To hear more of how Jules’ first and second labors went tune into this week's show. Today’s episode is sponsored by Kindred Postnatal Products. Kindred is based in Melbourne and specializes in placenta encapsulation and other placenta remedies including creams, balms, tinctures, and smoothies. Women all over the world have reported increased energy, balanced hormones, a bigger milk supply and less postpartum bleeding when taking placenta capsules. Kindred wants to share these amazing benefits with the women of Melbourne. Kindred is offering a $30 discount to any Australian Birth Story listeners who are interested in encapsulating their placenta, with code BIRTHSTORIES. Anyone living in Melbourne can check out their website at to find out what areas of Melbourne they service. Topics covered: Hashimotos, thyroid conditions, doula training, induction, epidural, breastfeeding, breast aversion, formula feeding, private obstetrician, hypnobirthing, irritable uterus, costochondritis essential oils, placenta encapsulation, breast crawl, oral and nipple thrush, mastitis. All images by Ashleigh Jane Birth Photography
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56 | Suzie Blake Two Vaginal Deliveries, Artist and Breastfeeding Advocate
04/26/2018
56 | Suzie Blake Two Vaginal Deliveries, Artist and Breastfeeding Advocate
In today’s episode, I interview Suzie Blake. Suzie shares her two pregnancies and births as well as her beautiful photography work as a breastfeeding advocate. Suzie fell pregnant unexpectedly whilst living in London with her partner. They were overjoyed but somewhat isolated being away from family and having no immediate friends who were having children. Suzie shares her birth in London under the care of midwives and she then compares the system to that of Australia. Halfway through her second pregnancy Suzie returned home to Australia and gave birth to her second child at the Royal Women’s Hospital. Today’s episode of the show is brought to you by the Medela Asia Pacific Breastfeeding and Lactation Symposium 2018. This event is the ideal platform for health professionals to enhance their knowledge and clinical practice through presentations of the latest research in breastfeeding and human milk. Together with an audience of breastfeeding champions, the Symposium offers a valuable exchange of thoughts and ideas as well as networking opportunities. The Medela Asia Pacific Breastfeeding and Lactation Symposium is a two-day event with a world class line up of speakers, will take place in the Pullman Melbourne On The Park Hotel on 3rd & 4th of May 2018. To purchase your ticket head over To connect with Suzie Topics covered: midwifery, NHS, Royal Women’s Hospital Melbourne, Photography, hind water leak, fast delivery, breastfeeding, breastfeeding photography, censorship, feminism, Medela, hole in the heart, Tweddle
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55 | Nikki Jurcutz Emergency Caesarean Reduced Foetal Movements Gestational Diabetes
04/23/2018
55 | Nikki Jurcutz Emergency Caesarean Reduced Foetal Movements Gestational Diabetes
In this week’s episode, I interview Nikki. Nikki is the CEO of Tiny Hearts first Aid and a qualified paramedic. Nikki conceived quite quickly when she and her partner finally agreed to try for a baby. Unfortunately, they lost their first baby at 10 weeks. They decided very quickly to try again once they were given the all-clear from their doctor and they went on to conceive their daughter Nahla Fox. Nikki explains feeling very anxious throughout the pregnancy due to their previous loss and combined with morning sickness, hyperthyroidism and gestational diabetes Nikki said she did not enjoy her pregnancy. At 36 weeks gestation Nikki went to bed and both her and her husband were marveling at how active Nahla had been. She was all over the place and then she suddenly stopped moving. Nikki went to the bathroom, which usually leads to Nahla moving around and still nothing. Knowing she had an ultrasound booked for the morning Nikki decided to wait until the morning. After a restless and anxious night of little sleep, they made their way to the hospital. The doctors discover that she was in fact not moving as much as they would have liked to see. The baby had also not grown since her previous scan and they decided it would be best to try and induce Nikki. To hear more about Nahla’s delivery tune into this weeks show. Today's episode of the show is brought to you by . Tiny Hearts First Aid is Australia’s most trusted provider of baby and child first aid. Tiny Hearts are on a mission to empower parents and caregivers through their courses and kits. Tiny Hearts First Aid are offering all listeners $10 off on their courses and kits is with the code: AUBS10 Topics included: miscarriage, gestational diabetes, hypothyroidism, reduced foetal movement, emergency caesarean, NICU, low blood sugar, transfusion
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54 | Bohannah Gerritsen Three Births, Hospital Birth and Two Home Water Births
04/16/2018
54 | Bohannah Gerritsen Three Births, Hospital Birth and Two Home Water Births
In today’s episode, I interview Bo Gerritsen. Bo was busy planning her wedding at the age of twenty-four when she found out she was unexpectedly pregnant with her daughter Indiana. Despite being a strong believer in home births, Bo felt unprepared so she decided to have her first daughter through the public hospital in Perth. Bo suffered morning sickness for her entire pregnancy with Indiana and got quite used to the routine of throwing up each morning and then feeling better by the afternoon. Bo went into labour the morning after her birthday. She’d felt upset and emotional throughout her birthday so in hindsight she thinks it was a sign that labour was about to start. Her labour began with cramping however as it was five days until her due date she didn't think it was the early signs of labour. She spent the best part of that day labouring in her bath at home and she accepted that she was having contractions when they became more regular and were timeable. At 6 pm she made her way to the hospital to find out she was 3cm dilated….. Tune into this weeks episode to hear more about Indian’s labour and how Bo’s partner passed out in the hospital room heat and due to the pressure of holding Bo up while she was pushing on the birth stool. Topics include public hospital healthcare, unplanned pregnancy, morning sickness, breastfeeding, NICU, home birth, water birth, tongue tie, The Simple Folk. Today’s episode is sponsored by . ErgoPouch have just released their new winter newborn sleepwear essentials pack, which includes everything you need to help your new baby sleep comfortably this Autumn and Winter to see the full ErgoPouch range head over to All images : Cat Fancote - Capturing Birth
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53 | Bec Douros Two Births, Emergency Caesarean, Elective Caesarean
04/09/2018
53 | Bec Douros Two Births, Emergency Caesarean, Elective Caesarean
In today’s episode, I interview Bec Douros. After getting engaged quite young at 21 and married at age 23, Bec knew she wanted to try for a baby right away. With a history of Endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome, Bec journey into motherhood was long and challenging. After four years of actively trying to conceive and after several miscarriages Bec fell pregnant with her first son Archie. She suffered from debilitating morning sickness throughout Archie’s pregnancy which required her to be hospitalized on more than one occasion. Thankfully this sickness passed at about 20 weeks. Bec was seeing a private obstetrician through the Epworth Hosptial in Melbourne and she undertook the hospital offered birthing classes. She said she went into the birth hoping for a natural delivery however she was open to seeing how it went on the day. Bec went over on her dates and she was booked in to be induced however she went into labour naturally the morning of her scheduled induction. Making her way to the hospital at 8 am, Bec laboured all day with help of Gas and Air and her TENS machine. When she was checked and confirmed to be 8cm’s dilated, she started to have intense back pain. Archie was in a posterior position and despite efforts to turn him they couldn’t. It was at that moment that Bec started bleeding profusely and both her and Archies heart rates suddenly dropped. Bec explains that it got very intense very quickly and after 18hrs of labour she was rushed away for an emergency caesarean. To hear the rest of Archie’s birth in more detail and Bec pregnancy and birth of her second son Lenny, tune into this weeks episode of the show. Topics covered: Endometriosis, Polly Cystic Ovarian Syndrom, caesarean section, hemorrhage, postpartum recovery, blood transfusion, pelvic girdle pain, pelvic instability, SRC Recovery shorts, physio, breastfeeding. Today's episode is sponsored by women’s health physio Shira Kramer. Shira has helped thousands of women through pregnancy, postpartum and beyond, and has recently launched her 8-week online program, , designed to help busy mums return to exercise safely post-bub with a focus on core and pelvic floor recovery. It includes daily exercises, interviews, and videos, all completed in the comfort of your own home for less than $20 per week. Shira would like to offer Australian Birth Stories listeners 10% off the full price of her program, using the code RYCABS. To find out more about the Restore Your Core program head over to All images by : Kelly Jordan Photography
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52 | Kate Vincent Twins, IVF and Spontaneous Conception Vaginal Delivery
04/01/2018
52 | Kate Vincent Twins, IVF and Spontaneous Conception Vaginal Delivery
52 | Kate Vincent Twins, IVF and Spontaneous Conception Vaginal Delivery In today’s episode, I interview Kate Vincent. It took just over four years for Kate and her partner to conceive their twin boys. Kate was in her mid-twenties when they first started and they expected it to happen very quickly. After a year of trying Kate had some tests to investigate if she may have had endometriosis. Her results came back all clear. The next step was to speak to a fertility specialist. The fertility tests came back fine and Kate and her husband had what is often referred to as ‘unexplained infertility’. Kate experienced a few chemical pregnancies after their fertility treatments but it wasn’t until the 6th transfer that she fell pregnant. Remarkably Kate fell pregnant naturally a couple of days before her embryo transfer and went on to have twins. To hear Kate’s twin pregnancy and natural vaginal delivery in more detail tune into this weeks episode. This weeks episode is sponsored by . Don’t have any spare time to trawl the internet for the latest products for your little ones? Baby Berry Collective can help you because they’ve already done all the hard work! They’re an online directory showcasing amazing baby, kids AND mama products from Australia and New Zealand. have an Exclusive Offers page where you’ll find over 50 discount codes to use at your favorite online stores. Plus they run amazing giveaways! https://babyberrycollective.com All images and film captured by The First Hello Project http://www.thefirsthelloproject.com Topics: calm birth, induction, IVF, unexplained infertility, spontaneous pregnancy, twins, twin pregnancy, tandem feeding, silent reflux, express feeding, mastitis.
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51 | Rachael Casella Emergency Caesarean After Long Labour Spinal Muscular Atrophy
03/26/2018
51 | Rachael Casella Emergency Caesarean After Long Labour Spinal Muscular Atrophy
In this week’s episode, I interview Rachael Casella. Rachael refers to herself as a Type A personality, so when thinking about trying to conceive, she spent six months preparing. She saw a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist and also had her husband Johnny tested for fertility. Rachael started trying on her honeymoon and when she didn't fall pregnant in the first 2 months of trying she went and saw Genea in Sydney. She discovered that she ovulates on day 8 instead of day 14 of her cycle. With this info in hand, she fell pregnant the next month of trying. Despite having private health insurance, Rachael and her husband decided to use the midwifery lead care program through the Royal Hospital for Women in Sydney. At 39 weeks Rachel had a stretch and sweep however her cervix hadn't dilated as yet. She began to experience reduced foetal movement at this time so her midwifery team decided it would be best to induce her at 40 weeks. After a difficult labour and 2 hours of pushing Mackenzie were delivered by caesarean section. At 10 weeks of age, Rachael took Mackenzie to see a lactation consultant because she found Mackenzie was pulling off crying during feeds. The lactation consultant initially thought that Mackenzie she was a bit floppier than he should be for her age. Panicked Rachael rushed her to a doctor who said that she would need to go and see a pediatrician. They got to see a pediatrician in 2 days later. When seeing the pediatrician They were in the office with the pediatrician for about 4 minutes before he turned to them and said: “I think your baby has got Spinal Muscular Atrophy”. They had never heard of SMA before so they asked what the cure was and he said it was terminal. To hear the rest of Mackenzie’s journey please tune into this week's show. To find out more about Rachael’s blog: This weeks episode is proudly sponsored by . Bouncing Back From Birth is dedicated to helping mums thrive after birth. From Vaginal Birth to Belly Birth and Breastfeeding support Bouncing Back From Birth offers everything you need for healing, strength, and confidence in the one place. are offering 15% with the code BIRTHSTORIES offer available until April 30. ($2 from every sale made using this code will be donated towards SMA research). Topic: miscarriage, fertility tracking, private health insurance, Royal Hospital for Women, Midwifery care program, Genea, continuity of care, birth plan, delayed cord clamping, reduced foetal movement, TENS, posterior position, Mackenzie’s Mission. To find out more about Rachael’s blog: Additional Reading: The Conversation: . The Conversation: To see the ABC 730 report covering Mackenzie’s Mission: and
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50 | Adrienne Biscontin Three Fast Vaginal Deliveries
03/22/2018
50 | Adrienne Biscontin Three Fast Vaginal Deliveries
In this weeks episode, I interview Adrienne Biscontin. Adrienne started trying for a baby shortly after she had gotten married bought a house. Several of her friends had fallen pregnant quickly so she assumed she would conceive quickly too. After 8mths of actively trying to conceive she fell pregnant. Unfortunately, Adrienne miscarried quite early in this pregnancy. Completely devastated after her loss, she decided to overturn her life and she concentrated heavily on her health, moving her diet to organic produce and swapping many staples in her diet to try and create the most favorable environment to conceive. Six months later she fell pregnant with her first daughter Ava. Adrienne delivered all three of her daughters at St Vincent’s Private in Melbourne. Collectively she laboured for 8.5 hours she had 3 super fast deliveries. To hear Adrienne’s very fast deliveries in more detail tune into this week’s episode. To check out Adrienne’s blog Stylish Bump click here: This week's sponsor is the Aussie brand . Modibodi replaces the need for disposable hygiene products such as pads, liners, post partum pads, and tampons. Modibodi call it pee, perspiration and period proof underwear and maternity wear. Modibodi are offering my listeners a special offer 15% off until 5th April with the code: birthstoriesmarch (excludes packs and gift cards. excludes clearance items) If you’d like to become a member of the Australian Birth Stories Podcast and help support the show please check out my Patreon account here: Topics covered: pilates, fertility, fast births, irritable uterus, miscarriage, silent reflux.
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49 | Beccy Cloke Emergency Caesarean, Planned Hypno Birth
03/19/2018
49 | Beccy Cloke Emergency Caesarean, Planned Hypno Birth
In today’s episode, I interview Beccy Cloke. Beccy was diagnosed as having a tilted cervix by her gynecologist at a young age and she was advised that it may take her a little longer to conceive. With that in mind, she and Travis started trying for a baby shortly after their honeymoon. To their complete surprise, they conceived very quickly and then had to adjust quickly to the idea that a baby was on the way. Beccy went through private obstetric care through Mitcham Private Hospital in Melbourne. After an initial hiccup, she changed obstetricians to find a recommended doctor they had complete trust in. Beccy took both a Hypno Birth course and an online course called Birth Beat. Wanting to have a drug free, natural delivery, Beccy shares how she became very upset when she underwent an emergency caesarean after her labour didn’t progress. Overjoyed to have a happy and healthy baby, Beccy still feels disappointed with some components of her birth. To hear more about how Beccy struggled with some of the decisions she made during her pregnancy and her labour and some things she wished she had done differently tune into this weeks episode. Today's episode of the show is brought to you by . Tiny Hearts First Aid is Australia’s most trusted provider of baby and child first aide. Tiny Hearts are on a mission to empower parents and care givers through their courses and kits. Tiny Hearts First Aid are offering all listeners $10 off on their courses and kits is with the code: AUBS10
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48 | Lisa Wipfli Two Under Two, Emergency Caesarean, Elective Caesarean
03/15/2018
48 | Lisa Wipfli Two Under Two, Emergency Caesarean, Elective Caesarean
48 | Lisa Wipfli Two Under Two, Emergency Caesarean, Elective Caesarean In this weeks episode, I interview Lisa Wipfli. Lisa shares her pregnancy with Ted and her unexpected emergency caesarean. She then discusses falling pregnant some 7months later with her second little boy Jack and life with two under two. Lisa conceived Ted during her second month of trying to conceive and after watching many friends struggle to fall pregnant, she was incredibly grateful. Ted’s pregnancy went quite smoothly until the final weeks when Lisa began to feel very uncomfortable and she suffered pelvic and back pain. Lisa had weekly and sometimes twice weekly appointments with her Osteopath to assist with the discomfort. She went two weeks over her due date in the middle of summer and had gained approximately 22kgs so she was more than ready to be induced at 42 weeks. To hear more about Lisa deliveries, her husbands GoPro and virtual reality filming of the births and lots more tune into this weeks episode. This weeks episode is sponsored by Nourishing Bubs- a range of ten single vegetable purees, frozen into easy-to-use individual portions. Snap-frozen to hold in all the nutrients using only locally-grown Aussie veggies and nothing else. No added sugar, no salt, no fruit, no thickeners, no preservatives, just wholesome, nourishing meals for your precious bub. To find your nearest stockist head over to https://www.nourishingbubs.com/pages/about-us Topics included: pelvic pain, breastfeeding, breastfeeding challenges, reduced milk production, emergency caesarean, cracked nipples, nipple shields, pilates, Body beyond birth, abdominal separation, mixed feeding, pumping, virtual reality filming.
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