In this episode, Maddie shares the story of her first birth; planned as a home birth but ultimately ending in a calm and empowering caesarean.

Diagnosed with polyhydramnios during pregnancy, Maddie went into labour and experienced a week of intense contractions that weren’t progressing. After being dismissed at hospital and told it was early labour, she trusted her instincts and returned a few days later, this time insisting on further assessment.

Faced with pressure to induce, Maddie stood firm and chose a caesarean birth, which turned out to be a beautifully calm experience, one she would choose again in the future.

We discuss:

• The emotional toll of prolonged early labour

• Trusting your instincts when you're not being heard

• Why a caesarean can be a positive and empowering choice

A powerful reminder that trusting your instincts can lead to the right birth for you.

Find out more about polyhydramnios here https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polyhydramnios/

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