S1 EP8: | Ashleigh’s Story: The Birth That Changed Everything (And the One That Followed)

In this episode, Ashleigh shares her journey through loss, IVF, and two very different birth experiences — and what changed the second time around.After a first birth that she reflects on as traumatic, but pivotal, Ashleigh went into her second pregnancy with one clear intention: she wanted it to be different.What unfolds is a powerful exploration of:Pregnancy after loss and the heightened fear that comes with itThe difference between standard hospital care and private midwifery supportThe reality that many choices in the system don’t always feel like true choicesHow seeking evidence, information, and continuity of care changed everythingThe emotional and physical shift from a medicalised birth to an empowering oneAshleigh speaks candidly about:Feeling like options in the system were presented in a way that made it hard to say no Wanting informed consent and autonomy the second time aroundChoosing a private midwife early in pregnancy and the impact of continuous, personalised careThe contrast between a birth she describes as “traumatic, but pivotal” and one that felt “empowering, incredible and magic” It’s a powerful episode that we hope you enjoy.Want more?You can find episode photos over at:⁠https://www.instagram.com/wearemotherspod/⁠You can find me at:⁠https://www.instagram.com/iamsarahcusack/⁠You can find Ashleigh at:https://www.instagram.com/ashleighburgis/Resources mentioned in this episode:Midwife / IBCLC:Tamika Newman⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/midwifetamika/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://tamikanewmanibclc.com/⁠