Mel: Mel is a dedicated mother of two, passionate birth keeper, and postpartum doula. She has facilitated numerous home births, guiding women through their birthing journeys. Mel's personal experiences with home birth have made her a significant advocate for undisturbed birthing practices. She is devoted to supporting women through their postpartum period and building strong community ties. Mel resides with her family and continues to inspire others with her holistic approach to motherhood and birth.

In this engaging episode of "Your Holistic Midwife," host Bibi welcomes Mel, an experienced birth keeper and postpartum doula. Mel shares her transformative journey through two home births, offering valuable insights into the world of unmedicated, natural births. Her candid recounting of each experience highlights the stark contrasts between her first and second pregnancies, emphasizing the lessons learned and the deeply personal decisions that shaped her birthing stories. This episode serves as an empowering narrative for expecting mothers and those intrigued by home birthing.

Mel's story begins with her first pregnancy, which she navigated with the support of a private midwife. Despite facing the typical anxieties of a first-time mother, including a lengthy labor that extended to 43 weeks, Mel's steadfast commitment to a home birth set the foundation for her approach to motherhood. She describes her second pregnancy as a stark contrast—embracing a free birth with no scans and relying on her innate wisdom and connection with her body. This episode delves into the practical aspects of preparing for birth, the importance of a supportive environment, and the deep trust in one's body and instincts.

• The profound impact of choosing a home birth for first-time mothers.

• The role of a private midwife in providing personalized care and support.

• Transitioning from a monitored first pregnancy to a free birth for the second child.

• The importance of undisturbed labor and the concept of physiological birth.

• Practical steps and mental shifts for preparing for an unmedicated, natural birth.

• "I knew first-time moms, I was expecting that. So the first time I actually found it fine." – Mel

• "Birth is not over until your placenta is out." – Bibi

• "Wherever you feel safe, that's where you should birth." – Mel

• "I just had to just surrender to it. And I was like, just soften, just soften, relax." – Mel

• "The only way out is through." – Mel

• Positive Birth Australia (Referenced podcast with birth stories)

• Instagram Handle: Byami Birth (Mel’s business profile)

• Books: Works by Dr. Sarah Wickham and Dr. Rachel Reed on physiological birth and birthing instincts.

For anyone passionate about home births or looking for inspiration on natural birthing, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gather insightful advice and personal anecdotes from Mel, which could redefine your perspective on childbirth and postpartum care. Stay connected with "Your Holistic Midwife" for more empowering stories and expert advice!