Ep. 228: Birth Trauma, a High Spinal, and the Power of the Right Care Team feat. Anya

On today’s episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh welcomes Anya to share the story of her first birth — a pregnancy that was completely uncomplicated until a cascade of unexpected events in labor led to a traumatic emergency C-section experience.Anya opens up about feeling pressured into surgery, a frightening complication with anesthesia in the operating room, and the terror of feeling unable to breathe while fully conscious. Her story highlights how quickly birth can shift and how important communication, consent, and emotional support are during labor and delivery. In this episode, we discuss:✨ An uncomplicated pregnancy that suddenly shifted during labor💧 An accidental rupture of membranes during a membrane sweep🏥 Induction with a Cook catheter and Pitocin💉 Receiving a very heavy epidural and not realizing something was unusual⚠️ A new on-call OB pushing for a C-section despite earlier progress😔 Feeling confused, pressured, and unheard during labor decisions🚨 Being rushed toward surgery without clear explanations🩺 A frightening complication when anesthesia didn’t work as expected😨 Experiencing panic and terror after suddenly losing the ability to breathe in the OR🫁 The moment monitors alarmed and the team realized something was wrong🤍 The emotional impact of feeling powerless and alone during a medical crisisAnya shares vulnerably about the fear, confusion, and loss of control she experienced in those moments — and how deeply those experiences can shape the way we process birth afterward.Her story is a powerful reminder that trauma in birth isn’t only about what happens medically, but how supported, informed, and safe a birthing person feels throughout the process.We are so grateful to Anya for sharing her story and helping others feel less alone in their experiences. 🤍For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.