S3 EP: 1 Jessie - Four Births, Hospital Birth (X3), Freebirth, Doula, Miscarriages, Prodromal Labour, Epidural, D-MER

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02/11/25 • 136 min

In today’s episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Jessie, a seasoned Doula based in Karratha, Western Australia. Jessie generously shares the profound wisdom she gained from her four unique birth experiences—three in hospital and one empowering free birth with her fourth child. Reflecting on her first journey into motherhood, she discusses how the prevailing narrative around birth was one of pain and fear, which led to unexpected interventions. Through her work supporting other women as a doula, Jessie came to understand that women already possess everything they need within themselves to bring their babies into the world. She takes us through her personal evolution, from hospital births to the decision to have a free birth.

Jessie also opens up about D-MER (Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex), a condition where some breastfeeding women experience negative emotions just before milk let-down, during breastfeeding, expressing, or even when not nursing.

Links:

Jessie the doula
Jessie's Website
Birth Without Fear - January Harshe
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) - Australian Breastfeeding Association
Midwives' Cauldron - Breastfeeding aversion, agitation, D-MER
Reddit thread
DMER study

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Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.
The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.

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Links:

Jessie the doula
Jessie's Website
Birth Without Fear - January Harshe
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) - Australian Breastfeeding Association
Midwives' Cauldron - Breastfeeding aversion, agitation, D-MER
Reddit thread
DMER study

Support the show

Previous Episode

S2 EP: 24 Final Ep of 2024

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In today’s episode, Laura & Aimee, take a moment to reflect on the year that was—both personally and within the world of the podcast. They chat about the highs, the lessons learned, and some of the most memorable moments from 2024.

Here’s what’s in store for you in this episode:

A heartfelt look back at the past year—how things have evolved in both their personal lives and the podcasting journey.
The most listened-to episodes of the year and what made them stand out!
A huge thank you to everyone who’s supported the podcast, including those who bought us a coffee—we see you, and we’re so grateful!
An exciting update as we open up to sponsorship and what that means for the future of the show.
A sneak peek at what’s coming in the next season—what to expect, and what we’ve got in store for you.
Listener Q&A! We dive into some of your burning questions from our Instagram stories, covering:
- Tips for helping partners get on board with homebirth
- Our approach to parenting (and how homebirth may have influenced it)
- Navigating big emotions for kids during the holiday season

It’s a mix of reflection, gratitude, and exciting new things on the horizon. Tune in for all the details and a little sneak peek into what’s coming next!
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undefined - S3 EP: 2 Ellen - Two Births, Caesarean, HBAC, MGP, Induction, Reduced Variability, Epidural, Purple Line, Physiological Birth, 1st Degree Tear, After Birth Pains

S3 EP: 2 Ellen - Two Births, Caesarean, HBAC, MGP, Induction, Reduced Variability, Epidural, Purple Line, Physiological Birth, 1st Degree Tear, After Birth Pains

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Today, we’re joined by Ellen, a mum of two, who shares the story of her evolving birth journey. Her first experience was in the MGP program at her local hospital. After experiencing reduced fetal movement, Ellen was advised to have an induction. The induction led to complications: a fever, blood in her urine, and an accelerated heart rate for her baby, culminating in an unexpected caesarean. Ellen felt a deep sense of disappointment with her first birth experience.

Determined to approach her second birth differently, Ellen took the time to educate herself, preparing for a more empowered experience. She chose a homebirth (HBAC) and found the difference to be profound. She was more present, more aware, and felt a deeper sense of control over her body and the process. Ellen reflects on how natural contractions were far more manageable than the synthetic ones from her induction. She also shares the intense afterbirth pains she experienced—pain so severe it caused her to vomit—but despite this, she felt an overwhelming sense of peace and empowerment.

Ellen’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy, birth education, and trusting your instincts to shape the birth experience that’s right for you.

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