30 | In conversation with Calmbirth Director Karen McClay on birth preparation and her own VBAC journey

In this bonus episode of VBAC Birth Stories we speak to Karen McClay, better known as the Director of Calmbirth, but a lesser known fact about the registered midwife, nurse and mother of three is that she herself undertook her own VBAC journey. We had the privilege of hearing that personal story in this interview.Karen shares the emotions surrounding her initial caesarean and the complexity of this experience, and how women on a VBAC journey are often forced to look back and examine their first birth experience in a different way to others.Karen also talks about how the Calmbirth education program came to be, its unique offerings, and what’s next in terms of hospital integration both in Australia and New Zealand.We thank Karen for sharing her very personal experiences and her wealth of knowledge in the birth world.This episode is sponsored by Calmbirth. Calmbirth ensures couples are able to educate themselves through knowledge, birth preparation and maintaining a calm mindset. It is all of these things that we know can make all the difference in preparation for your birthing journey. The benefits of the course to couples goes beyond the birth process, teaching life skills and techniques to be used in parenting and beyond.~ Notes ~Website: Calmbirth.com.auInstagram: @calmbirthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/calmbirthPodcast: The Calmbirth Conversation Podcast**VBAC Birth Stories features women's lived experiences. It is not intended to replace medical advice. Should you have any concerns during your pregnancy please always consult your healthcare provider.Please connect with us on Facebook or Instagram: @vbacbirthstories