Ep. 238: Birth Trauma, Endometriosis, and the Long Road to Answers feat. Leah

In this powerful Listener Series episode, Kayleigh sits down with Leah to share her story of giving birth during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating a traumatic delivery, and enduring years of unexplained postpartum pain before finally being diagnosed with severe endometriosis. Leah opens up about medical dismissal, complex trauma, subsequent pregnancies, and the ongoing journey of healing, both physically and emotionally. This episode is a raw and honest look at what happens when trauma isn’t just one moment, but a series of experiences over time.In this episode, we talk about:🦠 Being pregnant and giving birth during the early days of the pandemic🏥 Infection, induction, and an emergency C-section after a long labor😔 Feeling dismissed, like a burden, and afraid to speak up to providers🩸 Ongoing, severe postpartum pain that was repeatedly minimized🧑‍⚕️ Seeing multiple doctors and being told everything was “normal”🧠 Questioning your reality and wondering if it’s “all in your head”🔍 Finally being diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis and interstitial cystitis💥 The emotional impact of delayed diagnosis and medical gaslighting😞 Postpartum PTSD and how trauma symptoms showed up over time🤰 An unexpected second pregnancy and navigating intense triggers✨ A redemptive birth experience and what felt different the second time🩸 A third birth complicated by hemorrhage and retraumatization🌊 Complex trauma vs. a single traumatic event💔 The impact of trauma on friendships, identity, and support systems🫶 Finding healing through EMDR, therapy, writing, and supportive relationshipsWhy this episode matters:✨ Trauma can be layered, ongoing, and complex✨ Being dismissed in medical spaces can deepen trauma✨ You are not “crazy” for knowing something is wrong in your body✨ Healing isn’t linear—and it can coexist with ongoing challengesIf you’ve ever felt unheard, dismissed, or alone in your postpartum or chronic illness journey, this episode is for you. Your experience is real and you deserve answers, support, and care. 🤍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.