In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Liz, a mum of two, antenatal teacher, and breastfeeding peer supporter, who shares her experience of a hospital labour ward birth following a long journey through unexplained infertility.
In this episode, Liz shares the story of the birth of her first baby after a long and emotionally challenging journey with unexplained infertility. She talks about conceiving naturally just before starting IVF, early pregnancy bleeding caused by a subchorionic haematoma, and navigating anxiety after years of trying to conceive.
Liz planned a birth centre birth, but after bleeding began in labour she transferred to labour ward. She describes a fast, intense labour supported by an excellent midwife, using gas and air, continuous monitoring, and giving birth to a large baby boy with a second-degree tear. Liz reflects positively on the birth itself, despite some aspects not going to plan.
The episode also explores a difficult postpartum period, as Liz’s son struggled to gain weight and was eventually diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy after weeks of feeding concerns and feeling dismissed. Liz shares what she wishes she’d known, how she learned to advocate for herself, and how these experiences later led her to become an antenatal teacher and breastfeeding peer supporter.
These stories are personal experiences and are shared for informational purposes only. They should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
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