When Christine and Alex welcomed their son via VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) in June 2024, it marked a powerful moment of healing after a traumatic cesarean during COVID and two pregnancy losses.

“Every birth is a miracle,” Alex said, “but for us, it just seemed like a different kind of miracle.” Their experience highligts how crucial the right support is after birth trauma. When Christine’s midwife group deemed her ineligible for VBAC at 20 weeks, they found a new path with a supportive family medicine doctor and dedicated doulas.

Christine pushed for five and a half hours—an effort that would’ve likely led to another cesarean in many hospitals. But with a provider who trusted her body and doulas who guided her with care and confidence, she achieved the birth she had long hoped for.

The collaboration in the room was key. Their doctor later said, “You would not have had a vaginal birth had it not been for your doulas.”

For Christine, it was redemptive: “The best day of my life, the most healing, the most empowering.” Fittingly, as Alex called her a “warrior” throughout labor, they later realized their son’s name—Gunner—means just that.

Have you experienced birth trauma? We'd love to hear how you've navigated healing and how your birth team has supported your journey.

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xoxo, Stephanie

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