24. Fear Based Narratives in Birth and How to Get Past Them with Clara O’Rourke

Clara joins us today in a deep discussion on how fear has transformed the medicalized institution of birth.  She is a researcher-turned doula and childbirth educator who brings a mix of science and mindful practices to birth work.  Clara founded Clear Light Birth in 2021 and has supported thousands of families to prepare for beautiful birth experiences through her programs, services, and resources.  Clara is the host of the Mindful Womb Podcast, a show packed with actionable strategies, heartfelt stories, and pregnancy and parenting hacks… all tied together to support people in harnessing their inner power during life’s most magnificent transitions.  Her mission is to transform the mainstream, fear-based narrative about birth, help people connect with their intuition, and give birth with confidence. As a neurodivergent and queer birth worker, Clara is an advocate for creating inclusive spaces for people to access information and techniques for a calm and supported birth experience. 01:29 Overcoming Anxiety and Travels to India03:00 Meet Clara O'Rourke07:24 Clara's Journey into Birth Work10:26 Empowering Birth Experiences18:20 Navigating Birth Plans and Preferences23:41 Effective Communication with Providers36:14 Understanding the Stress Response 38:14 The Role of a Doula in Labor40:25 Fear-Based Care in Hospitals41:02 The Importance of Partner Involvement44:38 Navigating Hospital Birth Classes46:07 Accommodating Sensory and Emotional Needs55:22 Advocating for Queer and Neurodivergent Patients01:03:04 Conclusion and ResourcesMore from Clara O'Rourke:Listen to her podcast The Mindful Womb Visit her website: www.clearlightbirth.comIG: @clearlightbirthNoted book reference: A Good Birth, A Safe Birth by Diana KorteMore from My Friend's a Nurse:Join us for the Next Childbirth Crash Course This September 18th-20th!Join us for the next Birth Plan Workshop!Join the newsletter for behind the scenes and episode insights you don't want to miss!Visit MyFriendsaNurse.comGrab this FREE Hospital Bag ChecklistEmail Colette directly for coaching availability and membership [email protected] you are interested in partnering or being a guest on The Birth Link Podcast please email [email protected] Connected:InstagramTikTokFaceBookProduced and edited by Vaden Podcast Services