358 | Jessica Urlichs, birth fear, MGP, private obstetrician, instrumental birth, breastfeeding challenges, perinatal anxiety, epidural

In this episode I chat to well-known author Jessica Urlichs @jessurlichs_writer about her three pregnancies and births. In her first pregnancy she was a magnet for grief-filled stories which exacerbated her fear and anxiety around birth. During labour she felt unsupported and unheard and she consequently experienced birth trauma and postnatal anxiety. Jess talks at length about her significant breastfeeding challenges and her choice to bottle feed to sustain her physical and mental health. Her second and third births were both healing and positive and she consciously chose to have epidurals to ensure she was in a calm and grounded mindset so she could make informed choices.  Thanks to today's sponsor, a three-piece adjustable pillow designed to provide peace of mind by encouraging safe side sleeping all while giving your belly some much needed relief. Sleepy Belly don’t normally discount their products but have provided a 10% off promo code for Australian Birth Stories listeners. You can purchase a Sleepy Belly today at  using the promo code ABS10 for 10% off head to Sleepy BellySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.