Expecting the Unexpected: My 3 Birth Stories & the Doctor That Saved Me (with Dr. Paula McAllister)

When a birth plan completely changes, it’s easy to feel like your body failed you. But your birth story isn't a performance—it’s a victory.In this deeply personal episode of Live to 120, I am sitting down with my incredible OBGYN, Dr. Paula McAllister. Together, we walk through the raw reality of my own three completely different birth experiences: navigating an emergency C-section, a successful VBAC, and a completely unmedicated, induced VBAC.For many women, there is an immense, silent pressure to achieve a "perfect, intervention-free" birth. When medical realities shift toward inductions or surgical interventions, it can leave mothers carrying a heavy burden of shame and trauma. Dr. McAllister and I are here to break that stigma entirely.We dive deep into:The "Failure" Stigma: Why an induction or a C-section is a medical tool, not a personal shortcoming.The Reality of VBACs: What it actually takes medically, mentally, and physically to advocate for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.The Spectrum of Birth: A clinical and human look at how modern medicine works with our bodies to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.Reclaiming Your Story: How to heal from birth trauma and view your delivery as a profound act of strength, no matter how the baby arrived.About the Podcast: Live to 120 explores the intersection of modern medicine, bioethics, intentional living, and generational healing. Hosted by Bracha, a genetics professional, we challenge cultural taboos to build a legacy of health and truth for the next generation.Follow and subscribe for more raw conversations on health and wellness.#LiveTo120 #BirthStory #CSectionMom #VBAC #UnmedicatedBirth #DrPaulaMcAllister #BirthTrauma #JewishPodcast #WomenHealth