Kiwi Birth Tales

This is a bonus episode of Kiwi Birth Tales and part of an ongoing series of interviews with professionals around Womens Health and Wellness with a focus on Pre and Post Natal periods. In this interview I chat with Katie Richardson from Whole Health NZ. Katie is a Physiotherapist with a particular interest in Women's Health, Nutritionist, Pilates Instructor and Therapeutic Yoga teacher. I took questions from followers on Instagram as well as guidance from Katie on all things pre and post natal womens health when it comes to getting guidance and support from a physio. As you'll learn in this episode, Women's Health Physios can help us with a variety of areas pre and postnatally and I would encourage you to find a private provider near you or alternatively contact your GP for a referral to a public health physio consult. Thanks so much for joining me on the podcast Katie - check out her Instagram @wholehealthnz or her website https://www.wholehealthnz.com/Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 56 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Nina about her 2 birth stories. Nina takes us through coming off the pill and being diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (Menopause), her symptoms and what this meant for her trying to fall pregnant. When Nina did fall pregnant she was diagnosed with Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) and was monitored regularly through out her pregnancy, ending up being induced at 38 weeks. Nina takes us through her induction and birth, including an episiotomy to help Niamh make her way into the world, her recovery from birth and also her breastfeeding journey where she received donor milk from her sisters in the early days until her milk supply regulated. Nina then takes us through falling pregnant again reasonably quickly, no concern for growth restriction but still monitored more regularly due to being at risk for this, and through to her fast vaginal birth. Nina describes the differences between her birth experiences, her quick physical recovering and life as a Mum of two under 2. Nina also discusses her support of the NZ Charity Mothers Milk, a breastmilk donation charity http://www.mothersmilknz.org.nz/ and how she got involved. Thanks again for joining me on the podcast Nina!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 55 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Matilda Green about the birth of her son Milo. Matilda takes us through her pregnancy journey where she was sick for 16 weeks and extremely exhausted, finally enjoying being pregnant in the third trimester. Matilda kept active during her pregnancy and takes us through what she was doing during this time. Matilda and Husband Art did a Calm Birth course and also practiced Hypnobirthing breathing techniques that Matilda credits her positive homebirth to. Matilda decided to have a Homebirth early on in her pregnancy and had a great support team around her to enable this. Matilda takes us through going into labour, giving birth at Home and the next few hours after birth. Matilda then discusses her experience with the post baby blues, breastfeeding challenges and adapting to her new life as a Mum. She speaks candidly about her experiences and I think there will be a lot of new Mums out there who can relate. I am so grateful to Matilda for joining me on the podcast and of course you can check her out on Instagram @matooles This episode is Sponsored by The Sleep Scout (@thesleepscout) owner Lucy Burns, a leading Child and Infant Sleep Consultant. For 10% off a Sleep Scout package contact Lucy through the Instagram page or her website thesleepscout.co.nzThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this weeks episode of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Olivia Hewetson who takes us through her two birth stories with sons Beau & Leo. Olivia spends time taking us through her pregnancy and birth with Leo as everything was tracking as it should have been until a 41 week growth scan showing abnormalities in growth with her baby. They were told it was extremely likely Leo would have a form of Dwarfism and the rest was left unknown until Leo was born. Olivia was induced on the same day and after an 8 hour labour Leo was born, his form of Dwarfism was Achondroplasia. Olivia takes us through processing this information at 41 weeks, how they got the information and help they needed once Leo was born and also gives great insight into their lives which were changed forever, but in the most positive way. Olivia is an amazing mum, advocate for people with differences and is always willing to chat with anyone so I encourage you to check their lovely family out on Instagram @olivia_hewetsonThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 53 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Jane about her pregnancy and birth journey with son Beau. Jane takes us through their fertility difficulties, being treated for Endometriosis, unexplained infertility and 3 rounds of IVF. Jane lost over 20kgs in her journey to pregnancy as she didn't want this to impact their ability for IVF, the requirement at the time was to have a BMI of under 30. Jane takes us through their experience with failed rounds of IVF as well as finding out they had been successful in the last round. Jane had a very long labour due to Beau being in posterior position, eventually leading to an episiotomy and forcep delivery - the epidural Jane had was so strong she was unable to walk for hours after her birth and this proved difficult as Beau was taken to the NICU for breathing difficulties. After a short stay in the NICU they were reunited and Jane was able to go home with her baby. Jane takes us through her experience as a new Mum and also her breastfeeding journey, discussing exclusively pumping for 3 months due to Beau having silent reflux which lead to a feeding aversion. Thanks again for joining me on the podcast and sharing your story Jane!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 52 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Christina about the births of Valor & Zeph. Christina takes us through her extreme Hyperemesis Gravidarum in both pregnancies, how she brought on labour and her two quick births. Christina shares her wild ride of expecting to be in labour for hours on end but ending up only just making it to the hospital in time to birth both boys, with Zephs labour being less than 1 hour. She also takes us through her breastfeeding journey and shares her experiences with the many twists and turns that motherhood takes. I am so appreciative to Christina for being willing to share her journey with us all, if you want to check out their family on Instagram you can do so @christinadellarThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 51 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Aleisha about the births of her two children, Max and Millie. Aleisha talks through her initial anxiety around giving birth and how both her and her partner read Ina May Gaskins book Guide to Childbirth which completely changed their mindset. After reading the book Aleisha and her partner decided on a Homebirth for their first child, supported by their amazing midwife and they had a quick and positive experience at home, all relaxing in their own comforts an hour after birth. Aleisha fell pregnant while still breastfeeding Max and immediately knew she wanted to have another homebirth which was again a positive and calm experience for all involved. Aleisha takes us through her journey of recovery after both children, including how her and her partner approach Mental Health Days during the post partum period and what helped her recover physically. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Aleisha! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 50 of Kiwi Birth Tales I interview Lauren about her journey to Motherhood, Lauren takes us through her long fertility journey as she was diagnosed with PCOS and Endometriosis. Lauren tried for years to get pregnant before seeking help where she was put on Clomophine unsuccessfully, after suffering a miscarriage Lauren was referred to Fertility Associates Christchurch and during this time they decided to work with Oranga Tamariki on the possibility of becoming parents that way. After a short time a 6 month old baby girl was brought into their care and they were now parents to Abigail. Lauren takes us through going ahead with fertility treatments while adjusting to being parents of a 6 month old, falling pregnant after the first round of embryo implantation with their son Patrick. Lauren was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes at 34 weeks and discusses the problems this caused her with eating and managing her levels at home. At 37 weeks Lauren went into labour with her waters breaking at home, eventually heading to the hospital where labour slowed down. After an induction and epidural Lauren made it to 9cm when the Epidural began to wear off, the Midwife could see a Cervical Lip that meant Patrick was not able to fully descend down the birth canal and after trying to assist the call was made to move to an Emergency C Section. Lauren takes us through her experience with the C-Section, recovering after birth and also her breastfeeding journey which she is still on at 19 months with Patrick. This episode is packed with a lot of information and Lauren shares her experience so openly with us all which I am so grateful for. Thanks again for joining me on the Podcast Lauren. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 49 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Olivia about the birth of her son Gus. Olivia takes us through her experience falling pregnant unexpectedly, being on her feet all day with her job and the things she did to keep fit and healthy. Olivia also discusses the Hypnobirthing materials she used to prepare for her birth and her mindset leading into labour. Olivia went into labour at home at 39 weeks and things progressed very quickly, expecting it to be a long labour she was advised to keep doing what she was doing at home but when the midwife arrived to check her Olivia was 9cm dilated and they rushed to the Birth Centre where she gave birth to Gus on arrival. Olivia then discusses her experience with breastfeeding, her journey as a new Mum and her experience with the Post Baby Blues. Olivia talks about what she did to seek help and has some great advice for others who may be experiencing the same things. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Olivia!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 48 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Chavvah about the birth of her son Hudson. Chavvah had a textbook pregnancy until week 24 when she was walking home from work and thought she had wet her pants, as it turns out Chavvah had started to lose her waters and she was immediately admitted to hospital on constant bedrest. Chavvah takes us through her experience with being in hospital, not knowing what was going to happen, but also remaining positive through out the entire experience and how this had an impact on their journey. Hudson was born at 25+4 weeks vaginally and was then in the NICU for 86 days. Chavvah talks about their experience in the NICU, her afterbirth care as she was passed on from the community Midwife to the hospital care and also their experience bringing Hudson home. Chavvah has such a lovely presence and I hope you get as much from her story as I did. If you want to check out their family on Instagram you can do so @chavvahharlockThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 47 of Kiwi Birth Tales Lena takes us through her pregnancy and birth journey with son Lukas. Lena explains her experience with a long labour ending in complications that needed intervention to help bring Lukas into the world, she was too far progressed for a CSection. Lena discusses how needing stitches was her worst fear with childbirth and as this ended up happening she needed extra support from her Midwife and aftercare team, that she didn't receive. Lena talks us through what she now knows was not a normal experience in recovery and what she would advocate for in a second pregnancy and birth experience. Lena finishes our chat with what has helped her the most in dealing with the trauma associated with her birth - seeing a counsellor who specialises in birth and it's a positive outcome at the end of a long journey. Thanks again for joining me on the podcast Lena. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 46 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Morgan about the birth of her son Spencer. Morgan takes us through her uncomplicated pregnancy and also through the resources she used in preparing for labour / birth. Morgan attending a Peaceful Pregnancy course in Tauranga, read a Hypnobirthing book and also went to Antenatal classes all. Morgan then takes us through her labour beginning and being in denial at the initial signs, then into her Water Birth at Tauranga Hospital. Afterwards Morgan discusses her Breastfeeding journey and the ups & downs of having a partner who works away, dealing with baby blues and physically recovering from birth. This is a lovely episode, thanks again Morgan for joining me. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Amber Reid about the birth of her son Rome. Amber is a Kiwi and so is her partner, they live in Newcastle Australia and Amber gave birth in one of the local hospitals there. Amber takes us through her quick journey falling pregnant, adjusting to her changing pregnancy body, doing an online hypnobirthing course and then into her labour and birth experience. Amber had a fast labour and spent some time in the pool in hospital however it wasn't full enough at the time when she needed to push so instead moved to the shower where she gave birth to baby Rome. Amber talks about her experience after leaving the hospital (only a few short hours after giving birth) and how she is finding life as a new mum. Thanks so much for joining me on the Podcast Amber! If you want to check Amber and her family out on Instagram you can do so @amberriedxThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk to Kyla about the birth of her two sons - 1 when she was 18 and 1 later in life with her Husband after deciding this was the next step for their blended family. Kyla takes us through her different pregnancy and birth experiences as well as her experience with gender disappointment, life with a newborn and older children and how her pregnancy and recovery experiences differed between pregnancies. Thanks for talking on the podcast with me Kyla!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 43 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Brooke about the birth of her daughter Phoebe. Brooke takes us through her extreme sickness for the majority of her pregnancy and also finding out that her Daughter only had 1 Kidney. When Brooke went into labour she expected it to be a long time until birth as baby had been posterior a few days earlier, but she quickly progressed in her labour at home and went to the Hospital at 7cm. From there it was a quick birth for Brooke and Phoebe was born a happy and healthy 10 pounds. Brooke needed 12 external stitches and talks us through her experience with this, as well as the issues she had with Breastfeeding. Brooke was exclusively pumping until it started to take too much of a toll on her mental health and soon her baby was sleeping in the night when she was still waking to pump. Brooke discusses her feelings of Mum Guilt over this and her experience in dealing with these issues. Thanks so much for joining me on the Podcast Brooke! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 42 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Rebecca about the births of her two boys. Both births Rebecca used hypnobirthing techniques, which she explained as being particularly helpful for her partner to know what he could do to support her. Rebecca had 2 waterbirths with no tearing and explains her joy and positive feelings around birth. This is such a lovely episode where Rebecca discusses her experience as a new mother and how it differed from her 1st to her 2nd and also her experiences with Breastfeeding. Thanks for joining me on the podcast Rebecca! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 41 I speak with Jess Massey about her two Home Births. Jess takes us through her first birth in which she practiced hypnobirthing techniques from videos online as well as reading various books on calm birthing practices. Jess explains her dimly lit room, positive affirmations and incredible water birth with her daughter, which then took a turn when her daughter was taken from her chest while she birthed the Whenua (placenta) and was stitched up as she had a bad tear. Jess wasn't checked again after her birth between two midwives, and ended up with serious complications with her stitches and wound which resulted in post partum trauma and a difficult time bonding with her daughter. It wasn't until Jess saw a Gynaecologist that she was given the support she needed and began healing. Jess then talks us through falling pregnant quickly with her son, being extremely anxious because of her previous experiences and finding a different Midwife where she knew she was going to get the support she needed. This birth experience was completely different for Jess and she didn't have any tearing, which was one of the requests she had of her midwife that she wanted help with. As a result Jess was able to hold her son for a long time after he was born and she believes this has helped their bond and breastfeeding journey. It was so lovely to hear of this healing birth after the first experience Jess had. Thanks again for joining me on the Podcast Jess - if you want to check out her family on Instagram you can do so @j_e_c_massey Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 40 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Sam about her 2 births. Sam fell pregnant when she was 18 with her daughter Harper and she takes us through finding out she was pregnant, her journey to finding a support system and her birth in the Birth Centre. Sam also talks about her experience with other friends not having babies and where she met a great friend that she is still close with now. Sam then talks us through meeting her partner and deciding to try for another baby, falling pregnant with Seth. Sam experienced pelvic issues in both pregnancies and discusses what helped her the second time around as well as her fast birth with a much bigger baby. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Sam! Enjoy the episodeThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 39 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk to Courtney Iosefo who takes us through the birth story of her daughter Afia. Courtney fell pregnant quickly with Afia and had a smooth pregnancy journey going into spontaneous labour at the end of 39 weeks. Courtney had planned an unmedicated Birth Centre birth, however things quickly progressed as she laboured at home and when her Midwife came back to check on her, Courtney was ready to have her baby. Although nervous about a Home Birth Courtney had such a positive experience and is now a Home Birth advocate. Afia was born 6lbs and was later transferred to Hospital to be checked as she was small, where she remained for 3 days before coming home. Courtney also takes us through her breastfeeding journey and her experience adjusting to life as a Mother, which is so lovely to hear. I hope you enjoy this episode, if you'd like to check Courtney out on Instagram you can do so @courtneyiosefoThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weeks episode is sponsored by The Sleep Scout - owned by Lucy Burns, a certified infant and child sleep consultant and registered nurse who is dedicated in supporting parents through the journey of teaching their little one the very important skill of sleep. If you're struggling with early morning wake ups, routines, nap refusal, excessive night wakeups then look no further! Simply contact Lucy via Instagram @thesleepscout or thesleepscout.co.nz with the promo code “Kiwi” for 10% off a sleep package. In Episode 38 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Jessica Britten about the birth of her beautiful baby girl Stevie. Jess takes us through her struggles with conception due to the removal of a cyst and part of her ovary at 27 and low AMH levels which lead to freezing her eggs through IVF. Jess falls pregnant with Stevie after around 8 months of trying, and talks about her pregnancy journey, her new body as a pregnant woman and some methods she used to try and prepare for labour and birth. Jess talks about her hypnobirthing classes as well as the book she read which she highly recommends - Birth Skills by Juju Sundin, which combined gave Jess the skills she needed to use during her labour and birth. Stevie was born after a 6 hour active labour, in the Water at Parnell Birth Centre in Auckland. This was such a positive and empowering experience for Jess, which she does such a great job of sharing with us all. Jess also talks through her breastfeeding journey and adjusting to life with a newborn. Thanks so much for joining me this week on the Podcast Jess - if you want to check out Jess and her family on instagram you can do so @hallweneed.Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 37 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Sheldon about the birth of her baby girl Bridie. Sheldon takes us through her pregnancy journey which was pretty smooth sailing, her early labour and staying at home until 8cm dilated. Sheldon then talks about her experience in the birth centre, being transferred to the hospital due to baby being in distress and ending up needing an episiotomy and forcep assistance to bring Bridie into the world. Sheldon also talks about the difficulties of breastfeeding and how they have overcome their struggles with that journey, as well as how she found her mum tribe through pregnancy yoga. I hope you all enjoy the episode! Thanks again for joining me Sheldon. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Renata about her 3 birth stories. Renata has 3 gorgeous boys and their births were all very different. Renata takes us through her PCOS journey, a CSection and how that was different from her two vaginal births, recovery from all 3 different births and also dealing with loss. She talks about the difference in age gap between her three boys and her tips for mums with young children close in age. This is such a lovely story from Renata, who owns Little Mash (a lovely childrens store in Hamilton and Online) as well as a new brand Lila Jasmine, it’s focus is nourishing the minds & bodies of mothers & babies, their first product is a lactation bar and I am looking forward to the rest of their line!Thanks for joining me Renata - if you want to check out Little Mash and Renata on Instagram you can do so @little_mashThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 35 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Cherie Metcalfe about the birth of her Daughter Pepper and Son Kit. Cherie takes us through her first birth in hospital where Pepper was posterior until just before she was born, she talks through the pain of contractions without a break and her pain management for this birth. Cherie then takes us through her second birth with son Kit, which was an unplanned Homebirth. This is a lovely episode and I'm so glad Cherie was willing to share. If you want to check out Cherie on Instagram you can do so @pepperandme_Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Rebecca about the births of her two Daughters Mela and Millie. Rebecca focusses mainly on her second birth story with Millie, where she had planned to birth at the birth centre around an hour away from where they live. Rebeccas labour progressed quickly and her midwife instructed her to go to the birth centre as quick as she could, however Millie had other ideas. Millie was born in the parked car about 40 mins into their journey, healthy and happy. Rebecca takes us through this experience and how things progressed afterwards in comparison to giving birth in the birth centre as expected. Thanks for joining me on the podcast Rebecca - if you want to check out their lovely family you can do so @rebeccajoybatesThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 33 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Alana Swain about the birth of her first son Duncan. Alana takes us through falling pregnant the first 'try' and her relatively easy going pregnancy - experiencing some nausea and exhaustion in the first trimester, then smooth sailing from there. Alana swears by hypnobirthing and loved using the techniques during her labour and birth, choosing to be at the Birth Centre felt like the right fit for her. After testing positive for Strep B, when she went into labour she needed to go to the Hospital to have antibiotics intravenously, but was then allowed to go home and continue labouring as she hadn't progressed far enough to go to the Birth Centre. When Alana later arrived at the Birth Centre she spent some time in the bath and ended up needing an episiotomy to help Duncan make his way into the world. Alana experienced some late stage Post Natal Depression which she talks us through, as well as her tips for adjusting to life with a newborn. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Alana - if you want to check their lovely family out on Instagram you can do so @gratefulmumnzThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 32 of Kiwi Birth Tales I talk with Bekah Woods about the births of her Daughter Maia and Son Kobe. Bekah takes us through her first positive birthing experience in a Birth Centre, her breastfeeding journey and adjusting to life with a newborn. She then takes us through her second pregnancy and labour where she was at home, she had practised hypnobirthing techniques and ended up going into labour at 41 + 6. However Kobe ended up being a footling breech baby, causing serious complications where he needed full resuscitation and spent 9 days in the NICU to prevent brain injury due to lack of oxygen at birth. Bekah talks about dealing with the unexpected complications during her second birth, how her Daughter coped through out the time away from her parents and also life as a Mum of two. Thanks for joining me on the podcast Bekah! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 31 I speak with Libby Boxall (Matthews) about the pregnancy journey and birth of her baby girl Maxwell. Libby takes us through falling pregnant with Max and moving to South Africa to be with her partner who was playing sport there at the time. Libby discusses the high C Section rate in SA and the differences between her birth there with other stories she has heard of birthing in New Zealand. Libby gave birth to Maxwell via emergency C-Section on New Years Eve, she takes us through her breastfeeding journey, life as a new mum living away from family and also her journey with Post Natal Depression. Thanks for joining me on the podcast Libby! If you don't already follow her you can check her out @libbyboxallThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 30 I speak with Eden Crowley about the births of Nellie & Waylon. Eden takes us through her first pregnancy, in which she suffered morning sickness and went to 41+5, ending up being induced and needing assistance with a forceps delivery in which she didn't feel in control. Nellies cord snapped which was a concern as she was born, but she was a healthy 4.71kg baby girl. Eden was determined to have more control over her 2nd birth with Waylon, after finding out she needed to be induced due to preeclampsia at 37 weeks, she managed to have a Vaginal birth unassisted and was able to ensure she asked for what she wanted during her labour. These birth stories are a contrast both in Edens experience and also in the impact that then had on the birth. Thanks for taking the time to talk with me Eden! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 29 I talk with Annelise from Future Foody. Annelise had planned for a Water Birth in a Birthing Centre, however Tallulah had other ideas - Annelise was induced at 40+5 due to reduced feotal movement and after a long labour Tallulah made her way into the world with the help of forceps, the last step before needing a Cesarean. Annelise then takes us through the birth of baby Coco, which was a scheduled induction just after 41 weeks however Annelise went into labour spontaneously and Coco was born 3 hours later. Annelise talks about her two very different experiences and how that impacted her mental health post birth, their breastfeeding journey and adjusting to life with two children. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Annelise, if you want to check them out on Instagram head to @anneliseclarke or @futurefoody to find out more about their amazing NZ business. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 28 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Kendall about the birth of her son Brooklyn, and then the birth of her Quadruplets Indie, Molly, Quinn and Hudson. Kendall takes us through the surprise pregnancy with Brooklyn after being told it would be extremely difficult for her to fall pregnant, severe Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Emergency CSection and life threatening complications post birth with retained placenta. Kendall also talks about her breastfeeding experience with Brooklyn and adjusting to life as a new Mum when she had to spend weeks in the hospital. Kendall then talks about her fertility issues, trying for years to get pregnant again and eventually falling pregnant but losing the baby. After seeking help from a Doctor and a round of Clomiphine, Kendall fell pregnant and was told at the initial scan she had one healthy baby. Kendall suffered again from extreme HG ending up in hospital which is when she was then told she was having twins, then triplets, then quadruplets! Kendall discusses processing that information and their decision making process from there. The Quads were born via CSection after Kendall went into labour and she then talks about their experience in the NICU, life as Mum to 5 children and how they are adjusting to their busy household as a family. Kendall is a superwoman, but she is also so lovely and down to earth - I enjoy following their journey on instagram @quad_mum_plus_one if you haven't already checked them out, you should! Thanks for taking the time to talk with me Kendall! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 27 I talk to Emma Tevita about the birth of her daughter Amèlie. Emma had an ectopic pregnancy in 2016 with one of her fallopian tubes rupturing, meaning she wouldn't be able to conceive without IVF. Emma takes us through her IVF experience and falling pregnant, along with the highs and lows with having complications that caused anxiety around being pregnant. Emma then takes us through her induction, epidural and long pushing experience which resulted in an episiotomy - Amèlie was stuck behind Emmas pelvic bone and her midwife needed to intervene to help get Amèlie out, which ended up meaning Amèlies clavicle was broken in the process of getting her free, she was then out within a matter of minutes. Emma takes us through processing her birth experience, being a Mum to a newborn and dealing with lack of milk supply for the first 10 days due to retained placenta and the amount of blood she lost when the doctors and midwives were trying to ensure it was all removed. Emma takes me through dealing with guilt around formula feeding, but quickly realising how much of a change it made in their stress levels and Amèlie was like a new baby afterwards. Emma has a very interesting story she has shared with us all and I am so grateful she gave me her time, thanks Emma. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 26 I talk with Jana about the birth of her two babes Eddie & Thea. Jana takes us through falling pregnant unexpectedly and going through a miscarriage with her first baby, then falling pregnant again 3 months later. Jana was showing signs of Preeclampsia and was induced at 38 weeks, after 20 hours and an epidural Eddie was born after about 14 minutes of pushing. Jana had to stay in the hospital for a few nights post birth as she was showing signs of organ failure but after being cleared by the renal team she was able to go home. After about a week Jana then experienced some very serious complications where she was struggling to breathe, initially thinking it was an asthma attack but after being checked over in the hospital she was immediately admitted and rushed to emergency with heart failure. Jana spent a week in the hospital with Eddie but made a quick recovery. Jana then takes us through her second pregnancy with Thea - a planned birthing unit birth. Jana went for an iron infusion at 39 weeks an woke in the wee hours of the morning with contractions, Jana spent a short time in the shower and then realised her body was telling her she needed to push. Janas Mum called the Midwife and she made it over just in time to deliver Thea on the bedroom floor, an unplanned homebirth and one she describes as an amazing experience. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Jana! If you want to check out their awesome family you can do so @bringingupthebassicksThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 25 I speak with Caitlin about her two birth stories, her first with her Daughter Kyrie and second with Son Kemba. Caitlin talks through her first birth in which she was induced and ended up needing ventouse and forceps to deliver, bringing 1.5 year old Kyrie into the world. Caitlin then takes us through her pregnancy and birth with Son Kemba - Caitlin was told it looked as though she had gestational diabetes late in her pregnancy, however at 38 weeks Caitlin noticed reduced movements and was concerned, after a midwife check it was discovered there was no heartbeat, but Caitlin needed to go to the hospital to have this confirmed. In shock Caitlin and her Partner rushed to the hospital, only to be told another 2 times that there was no heartbeat and they had lost their baby. Caitlin was induced and gave birth to Kemba in the Hospital surrounded by friends and family, describing the birth as empowering while still grieving, like her body knew what it was doing the second time around. Caitlin talks about processing this trauma, dealing with day to day life as a Mum when going through such a painful time and also how she is coping 3 months on. Caitlin is an incredible Woman and I am so grateful she was willing to share her story with us all. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Caitlin. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 24 I speak with Laura Deveth about the birth of her first Son Isaac. Laura takes us through her induction when she was 42 weeks, which lasted a few days before Isaac was born with the assistance of an episiotomy and forceps. Laura and her partner Aaron decided to move to the Waikato not long after Isaac was born to be closer to family, which she explains was difficult to do with a Newborn. Laura experienced extreme pain in her stomach about 6 weeks after Isaac was born, it turns out her Appendix had ruptured and she was raced to hospital, very unwell. Laura explains how the period after her hospital stay was the hardest for her as a new Mum - adjusting to life how it had been for her family while she was away was confronting and difficult. Laura takes us through how she managed this and tips she would have for other families in similar situations. If you want to check out Laura and her lovely family on Instagram you can do so @laurahinemoaThanks for joining me on the Podcast Laura!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 23 I talk with Dayna about the birth stories of Jethro & Imogen. Dayna takes us through her fertility struggles, breech Elective C Section and then falling pregnant 4 months after birth with her second child, Dayna then talks about her successful VBAC and adjusting to life as a mother to two young babies. If you want to check out Dayna and her lovely family on Instagram you can do so @daynabkrThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 22 I talk with Kate Mc Cormick about the birth of her first daughter Freya. Kate was 19 when she gave birth to Freya and takes us through their journey to pregnancy, finding out they had Marginal Cord Insertion while pregnant and then being induced at 38.5 weeks. Kate had a long induction process, which ended up in an Emergency C-Section, Kate had to be put to sleep as the epidural wore off / wasn't working before the C-Section which was a traumatic experience for Kate and her Husband. Post Birth Kate experienced complications with her C-Section recovery about 3 weeks later, needing to be in and out of hospital. When Freya was 4 weeks old she was rushed to Hospital due to Apnea where she stopped breathing, she also had another one of these episodes a few weeks later - there has been no cause discovered for these which has resulted in Kate experiencing Post Natal Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress. If you want to check out Kate and her lovely family on Instagram you can do so @mrskatemccormickThanks for joining me on the Podcast Kate!Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 21 I talk with Christian Newman about the birth and after birth of their lovely baby boy Frankie (Francis). Christian takes us through the journey himself and Mark (his partner) went through to find a surrogate, the process for surrogacy and fertility, the birth of Frankie and also the adoption process in New Zealand, life with a Newborn and the big question - do they want more kids? Christian and Mark share their lives on Instagram through @lovefromyourdads with informative content about the Adoption process and life as new dads. Christian talks about the community he has found through the platform which is such a positive way of looking at social media. Christian also takes us through adjusting to life with Frankie, Marks experience with Post Natal Depression and day to day life with a newborn. Thanks for joining me on the Podcast Christian! I hope you enjoy the episode. Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 20 I speak with Bridget about the births of her 3 boys Nixon, Noah and Sonny. All boys were born Vaginally but have 3 quite different stories. During Nixons birth Bridget was induced but Nixons head was stuck which made for difficultly bringing him into the world. After he was born Bridget had a lot of bleeding so she was rushed away to find the cause, which was never really discovered. Nixon had a tongue tie that was missed and their breastfeeding journey was a difficult one. The birth of Noah was the opposite for Bridget, she went into labour naturally at home and arrived at the Hospital just in time for Noahs birth - 13 mins after they got to the hospital to be exact. Bridget had a large amount of blood loss again so was rushed away to find the cause. Bridget was determined to have a different experience with her third birth, Sonny. She research birthing affirmations and prepared mentally for the birth more than she had done previously. Bridget was induced at 38 weeks due to Gall Bladder issues, but the experience was one Bridget found healing - she reached down to pull Sonny out on the last push, a moment she will never forget. If you want to check out Bridget and her tribe of boys on Instagram you can do so @bridget.madarThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 19 I speak with Joi about the birth of her Identical Twin Boys Jaxon and Byron. Jaxon and Byron were born at 28 weeks and 2 days via elective C-Section and Joi had been under close observation by the Fetal Med team at Auckland hospital for the better part of her pregnancy due to suspected growth restriction and possible Twin-to-Twin-Transfusion Syndrome. During the last scan it was discovered Jaxon had a problem with his heart, so a C-Section was scheduled in order for Jaxon to receive the medication and care her needed. Both boys needed to go straight into NICU, where Jaxon was extremely unstable for the first week and needed to be resuscitated at 6 days. After this Jaxon made steady improvements and was the first twin to leave NICU. They spent over 3 months in NICU/SCBU/Starship with Byron, who then spent another 5 months on oxygen at home. Jaxon and Byron are now busy, beautiful 2 year olds who keep their parents on their toes! Joi does a wonderful job of recounting her birth story and journey with the boys, and I'm grateful she took the time to talk with me. If you want to check out Joi and her family on Instagram you can do so @joiful.meThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 18 I speak with Laura about the birth of her baby boy Cohen who is 1 year old. Laura is currently pregnant and due with her second baby end of January in which she is planning to have another Home Birth.Before falling pregnant with Cohen, Laura had 2 Miscarriages which made her anxious for the entirity of her pregnancy. Her Midwife supported her through the anxiety and they made the decision together to try and birth at Home. Laura was 10 days overdue when she went into labour, the labour was much quicker than everyone had expected it to be. Laura tells us about her positive and calm Home Birthing experience, after Cohen was born the Placenta came so fast it ended up being caught in a Cooking Pot as no one was prepared. Laura had a good recovery from Birth and was back playing Basketball 3 weeks later. Lauras Anxiety started to flare up when she was Breastfeeding Cohen, so they switched to formula and the Anxiety subsided. Not long afterwards, Lauras period came back and a few months later she fell pregnant again. I wish Laura all the luck and love for this time around. If you want to check out Laura on Instagram you can do so @lauraannswamboThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 17 I talk with Renee about the birth of baby Emmie. Renee takes us through her quick journey to pregnancy after deciding to start "not not trying", antenatal anxiety and depression, her preconceptions about the birth she wanted and the very positive birth she ended up having. Renee gave birth to Emmie in a birthing pool with no drugs and recovered well. When Emmie was born Renee talks about how her Anxiety / Depression lifted and she felt like a different person again. She also takes us through her breastfeeding journey in which she started mix feeding with pumping / formula top ups from 12 days. Emmie is a beautiful little girl and if you'd like to check Renee and her family out on Instagram you can do so @whatreneewritesThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 16 I talk with Mo Mc Reynolds about the birth of her Baby Boy, Brixton. Brixton was born at 38 weeks after Mo had been dancing all night earlier in the week at an Adele Concert and had just finished up work. Mo discusses the difficulty she had with the stand in Midwife, who told her she could push without checking her dilation only to find out Mo was only 8cm after 4 hours of exhausting pushing. After being transferred from the Birth Centre to Hospital, Mo was 10cm dilated and very soon after, Brixton was born. Mo talks with me about her recovery from birth both physically and emotionally, as well as her experience with Breastfeeding, eventually moving to exclusively pumping for 8 months. If you'd like to check out Mo and her family on Instagram you can do so @mmcreynolds1Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 15 I talk with Tessa Murray about the 2 Homebirths of her daughters Waitohi and Hapahapai. Tessa takes us through her decision to birth at home, her quick labours, using a Tens Machine for her Second Birth and also the Maori Tikanga that surrounding her birth and after birth. Tessa speaks so positively of Homebirth and her experiences are lovely to hear. I hope you enjoy the episode!If you'd like to check out Tessa and the girls on Instagram you can do so @kiwimamaproductreviewsThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 14 I talk with Freya Adams about the birth of her Fraternal Twin Girls Aubrey and Frankie. Freya discusses the surprise of finding out they were pregnant, and then with twins, her uncomplicated pregnancy and induction at 38 weeks. Freyas labour progressed after induction, eventually Freya decided on an epidural and was quickly 10cm following that. Both girls were born Vaginally, with a small tear requiring a few stitches afterwards. Twin 2 spent a short time in the NICU as she had water in her lungs, but she was able to join Freya and Willow (Dad) not long after. This is a really positive multiples birth story, Freya does a great job of talking about her experience and I hope you love the episode as much as I do. If you'd like to check out Freya and the girls on Instagram you can do so @freya.adamsThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 13 I speak with Jasmine about her 2 births with Alexa and Lincoln. Jasmine fell unexpectedly pregnant at 16 with Alexa while living at home with her family. Jasmine takes us through her long labour and experience feeling isolated and not listened to by the staff at the Hospital as she was young. Her first birth ended in an episiotomy and extreme PTSD after Alexas birth. Jasmine suffered from Post Natal Depression and Anxiety, which continued into diagnosed Depression later on. This then had an impact when Jasmine fell pregnant 4 years later with Lincoln. Lincolns birth was the opposite of Alexas, and Jasmine describes it as a very healing experience which is such a nice story to hear. Jasmine is pregnant with her third, expecting in 2019. If you'd like to check out Jasmine and her lovely family on Instagram you can do so @jasminehikuThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 12 I talk with Hannah McLean about her Vaginal Birth with her baby girl Winter. Hannah takes us through her experience with wanting to birth at a birthing centre, ending up in hospital, having her waters broken and the ventouse method to assist in getting Winter out. Hannah then takes us through her post-partum journey including breastfeeding, using nipple shields and her anxiety levels which significantly increased after Winter was born. I hope you enjoy this episode, if you'd like to check out Hannah on Instagram you can do so @hannah.winter.andcoThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In episode 11 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Jenny Chapman. Jenny has had 5 births, all daughters where she has given birth 4 times in the hospital and once at home (decided at 40 weeks).Jenny talks about the loss of her second daughter Tara in 2014, sadly Tara passed away with Cancer. When Jenny fell pregnant after Tara passed she was worried about the grief of that loss coming through during her birth experience, but with the help of hypnobirthing and therapy Jenny was able to have a lovely drug free birth with Hope. Jennys final birth with Anneliese was at home, she decided at 40 weeks that she wanted to birth at home surrounded by her older children, she talks about this experience for them and how healing that has been for her and her family.Jenny is incredibly strong and tells her stories of birth so well, I know you are going to get a lot out of this episode.If you want to check out Jenny on Instagram you can do so @jennychapz_ she is also an author of "Nga reo e toru / Three Languages" which is a childrens book that is worthwhile looking into! Thanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 10 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Jess Lowry. Jess has two beautiful little girls, Bowie & Nova. Jess's first birth with Bowie was a long labour, going to 42 weeks meant Jess was told she needed an induction. The doctors broke Jess's waters and found meconium, she was experiencing slow dilation through out the labour and eventually needed an emergency C-Section. Bowie was born a big 10 pounds but a darling little girl. In her second birth Jess really wanted a VBAC which she was successful with, Nova needed some forceps assistance but arrived in the world a lovely little girl. Enjoy this episode, if you'd like to check out Jess and her family on Instagram you can do so @jess.r.lowryThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 9 I talk with Anna Reeve about her journey to pregnancy with 'The Nuggets' as they are well known. Anna and Jay had trouble getting pregnant with the boys, with IVF treatments being unsuccessful they moved to ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), with implantation of one embryo, which then split into two. Anna had extreme Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) through out her pregnancy and was a lower weight when giving birth to the boys than she was before falling pregnant. She went into early labour at 34 weeks, Twin A was breach and a C-Section had been planned as a result, so Anna went into hospital for the emergency C-Section. Anna talks about her experiences with twin premature babies in the NICU, putting on a brave face and bringing the boys home, which resulted in post partum anxiety and depression which Anna hid for a long period before her plunket nurse was able to offer her support. This is a great episode where Anna speaks openly about PND, the reality of babies in the NICU and growing a bond with her boys, all in which are topics I think we should be talking more about. I hope you enjoy this episode, if you'd like to check out Anna and the Nuggets on Instagram you can do so @annareeve_ or her blog www.annareeve.co.nzThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 8 of Kiwi Birth Tales I speak with Emma about her two Vaginal births with Rylan and Cian. Emma discusses her 1st birth in the hospital where she feels as though she lost control resulting in an epidural, eventually she was able to reach down and assist in pulling Rylan out. In her 2nd birth Emma was determined to birth in the birthing centre, drug free if possible. Emmas pregnancy was initially triplets, which meant she would need to birth in the hospital, but after losing 2 of the babies, Emma was able to still give birth in the birthing centre. After a long labour, Emma and her partner tried the Rebozo method to move the baby which was successful, Cian was born in a bath in the birthing centre, with Emmas partner assisting him out. Emma has two different vaginal birthing experiences and this is a great episode. If you'd like to check out Emma and her family on Instagram you can do so @pickle.me.paishThanks for listening!@Kiwibirthtales@Yourbirthproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.