Ep. 7 - Joy’s Redemptive Unmedicated VBAC in the Hospital
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Encouragement for Others Moms
Throughout our conversation, Joy offers encouragement to other mothers who may be facing their own unique birth paths. She reminds us that no matter the twists and turns along the way, birth is powerful, and every mother deserves to feel supported and empowered in her journey.
Joy’s story is a testament to the beauty of birth in all its forms. Tune in to this episode of the Bare Birth Podcast to hear her inspiring journey and gain wisdom for your own path to motherhood.
Have you experienced a VBAC or faced unexpected challenges in pregnancy? Let’s talk about it on Instagram @barebirthpodcast!
In this episode of the Bare Birth Podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Joy Rhodes about her incredible journey through motherhood.
Joy’s story is one of strength, resilience, and empowerment as she reflects on her three unique birth experiences—from an all natural hospital birth to navigating complications in her second pregnancy, and finally, achieving a victorious VBAC with her third sweet baby.
The First Birth: A Natural Hospital Experience
Joy’s journey began well before her first birth. As one of seven siblings, all born at home, she was familiar with unmedicated labor and birth.
With her first baby she chose to give birth unmedicated in a hospital, due to her upbringing this actually felt more foreign and a little scary to her, but Joy shares what worked well, the challenges she faced, and how that birth shaped her perspective on future pregnancies and deliveries.
Facing Complications in Her Second Pregnancy
No two births are the same, and Joy’s second pregnancy came with unexpected complications. She was diagnosed with Velamentous Cord Insertion with Vasa Previa. A condition her doctors determined required a scheduled cesarean. She opens up about the emotional and physical toll it took on her, as well as the lessons she learned about advocating for herself and finding the right support system. Her honesty is a reminder that every birth journey comes with its own set of challenges, and navigating them with knowledge and confidence makes all the difference.
The Victory of VBAC
One of the most inspiring parts of Joy’s story is her successful VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) with her third child. She talks about the preparation, the fears she had to overcome, and the unwavering determination that led her to an empowering birth experience. Her journey is proof that with the right information, a supportive provider, and trust in your body, VBAC is absolutely possible.
For more information on the safety and statistics of a VBAC birth visit this article!
The Joy of Postpartum Bonding
Joy shares how each postpartum experience was unique, the importance of rest and recovery, and how - with proper planning - she embraced those early moments with her new baby.
