S5 EP157: Holly Phillips: Hospital Births + Homebirth/Induction/Private OB/Hypertension Diagnosis/Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Perinatal Depression/Perinatal OCD Diagnosis/'High' BMI

Today on the podcast, Holly, a mother of three beautiful boys, shares her contrasting birth experiences and her journey with mental health. At 21, just before a powerlifting competition, Holly unexpectedly discovered she was pregnant. With no prior understanding of physiological birth or available care models, she takes us through the path she chose while navigating a diagnosis of hypertension due to high blood pressure readings.When she became pregnant with her second child, Holly knew she wanted a more aligned experience. She found an OB who immediately recognised that her previous hypertension diagnosis was actually white coat hypertension, a condition where anxiety in clinical settings causes elevated blood pressure readings. Navigating profound mental health challenges during this pregnancy, Holly shares how connecting with a practitioner helped her manage her mental well-being.Holly then takes us through the experience of her dream third birth at home and the fight she faced with her BMI reading. A story of unwavering determination and resilience, she shares her journey, filled with highs, lows, and invaluable lessons. Show Notes:Personal Instagram: @mshollyphillips Prolapse Journey: @mum.formDoula: @the_homegrown_doulaPrivate Midwife: @sacredmoonmidwiferyPsychologist: Your Place PsychologyMentioned in this episode:Positive Birth Australia Birth Affirmations Tracks Available Now!Did you know that studies have shown affirmations can significantly boost self-esteem and reduce stress? Here at Positive Birth Australia, we’ve crafted a 20-minute affirmation to guide you to deeply remember the power you hold within. And to my fellow Belly Birth mothers, we’ve created a track specifically for you, to honour that all birth is sacred. For only $5, you can download at www.positivebirthaustralia.com and immerse yourself in our affirmations track to transform your mindset. Positive Birth Australia Mentioned in this episode:Esfera Designs Wellness (Birth) BallCreate a calm, supportive space during pregnancy and postpartum with Esfera Designs. Use code: PBA20 for $20 off your order. Esfera DesignsSacred Birth Affirmations Track This gentle affirmation track was created to help you feel safe, confident, and connected in pregnancy and birth. Perfect for daily mindset work or to play during labour.Positive Birth Australia