Episode 50: A Heart-Shaped Uterus, with Layla Bates

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, miscarriage, subchorionic hematoma (SCH), bicornuate uterus, symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), natural delivery, retained placenta, postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), pandemicWelcome to a bumper episode with Layla Bates! This mum of two tells her eventful motherhood journey, step-by-step and in honest detail. She and her partner had a uncertain start to their first pregnancy, with the baby not visible on the scan partly due to the shape of Layla's uterus, and a large hematoma that caused worrying bleeding into the second trimester.Although their daughter was born safely, Layla hemorrhaged and required surgery for retained placenta. Combined with the pandemic, it was an eventful time as the couple adjusted to family life! We chat about balancing work and childcare after maternity leave.Sadly, the couple had two miscarriages in the following years. Please note there are graphic descriptions that some listeners may find difficult to hear. Layla highlights a meaningful 'sign' before discovering her fourth pregnancy. Deemed high-risk, she was monitored closely with use of progesterone, aspirin and bedrest due to pelvic pain and low-lying placenta. She faced anxious decisions about her birth plan, though happily this labour was a far more ‘textbook’ experience; her daughter arrived quickly and without complications.We discuss the bond between her daughters, Layla’s seemingly changed uterus shape after pregnancies, and excitingly – the couples’ upcoming wedding! Layla hopes her story is encouraging to other women who might have uterine anomalies, bleeding through pregnancy or face miscarriage. Thank you Layla, for sharing your story! (Recorded January 2026).Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.