Welcome to Episode 1 of The Empowered Plus Size Mama Podcast. This episode is my birth story of my first baby. After 5 years of infertility we found ourselves finally pregnant with our sweet baby we had always hoped for. Her birth changed me. Like so many people I know, I had heard all of the negative birth stories and thought birth was something to be feared. There was always the small part of me that held on to hope that I could have a peaceful (maybe unmedicated) birth. I learned quickly that I couldn't share that with others though, because it was mostly met with negativity. Up until this point in my life, I was convinced that my body was broken. It felt like infertility confirmed that for awhile. So, when I was finally pregnant, I thought maybe my body was more capable then I had believed for so many years. I was right. Her birth was healing and redeeming. I saw myself in a completely new light and that's what I want for all birthing people. Since that night 7 years ago, I have wanted to shout it from the rooftops that our bodies are so much more capable than we're led to believe. I wanted the world to know that even larger bodies know how to grow, birth and feed babies. I was fully supported and had never felt so confident in my life. I think it's so important that we hear more positive birth stories, especially plus size ones. I hope my story reminds you of all that you're capable of. I hope it empowers you and allows you to dream of a peaceful, confident and fully supported birth, no matter where or how you will be bringing your baby earthside. 

This birth was the starting point for the work I do now to support pregnant, birthing and postpartum people was they transition through one of the most vulnerable times if their lives. You can learn more about my support by joining me in my IG community @mindfulmamabirthwell or by scheduling a FREE pregnancy chat at www.mindfulmamabirthwell.com. Thank you so much for being here!