Episode 219: Two Births, Two NICU Stays: Why Only One Was Traumatic feat. Abigail

In this episode, Kayleigh sits down with Abigail to talk about her first birth complicated by low amniotic fluid, a late preterm induction, and a long, emotionally exhausting NICU stay, and how that experience shaped her postpartum mental health and feeding journey. Abigail also shares her second birth story, including intentional preparation, advocacy, and what it looked like to face another NICU admission without it becoming traumatic. This episode is a powerful conversation about control, grief, healing, and how trauma-informed care and support can change everything.In this episode, we talk about:🤰 A pregnancy complicated by low amniotic fluid and an unexpected early induction🕰️ A long, 48-hour induction and vaginal birth at 34+ weeks👶 Having a late preterm baby who struggled with feeding, weight gain, and jaundice🏥 A prolonged NICU stay and the heartbreak of early separation💔 Grieving the loss of the postpartum experience you imagined🍼 Pumping in the NICU, feeding challenges, mastitis, and the mental load of it all😰 Postpartum anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the impact of early separation from your baby🧠 Healing through therapy, time, support, and self-compassion🤍 Babywearing, skin-to-skin, and reclaiming connection after NICU trauma🌱 Deciding to try again and preparing intentionally for a second birth🧭 The power of advocacy, informed consent, and slowing things down in medical moments🚑 A second baby, a beautiful birth center birth—and an unexpected NICU transfer again🛡️ How autonomy, preparation, and support changed the emotional outcome the second time✨ Why loss of control is a major factor in birth trauma—and respectful care is protective🫶 Turning lived experience into purpose as a trauma-informed lactation consultantWhy this episode matters:🌟 You can have trauma from a “medically stable” birth or NICU stay🌟 Subsequent births don’t have to repeat the same emotional outcome—even if complications happen again🌟 Advocacy, support, and compassionate care can make a real difference🌟 Healing is possible, and your postpartum doesn’t have to look the same after traumaAbigail is a board certified lactation consultant and a speech-language pathologist. You can follow along or connect with her by visiting her website: https://www.abbybslp.com/If you’ve experienced a NICU stay, feeding trauma, or are navigating pregnancy after birth trauma, this episode offers both validation and hope. You’re not alone—and your story gets to keep evolving. 💛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.