Georgia’s first baby was 5.1kg (that is, 11lb, 5oz), something that curtailed her initial home birth plans and saw her birthing in the hospital. This, along with feeding into a narrative which convinced Georgia that she shouldn’t feel pain in her birth, led to a less than ideal experience and a second degree tear. As well, Georgia and her man were sent spiralling down a postpartum anxiety hole, in part because of poor preparation, unhelpful expectations and a lack of support. This was all exacerbated by the Covid lockdown restrictions at the time.

Hear about how Georgia and her man navigated their relationship as struggling new parents, and how they set themselves up for an incredibly healing, beautiful and empowering home birth with their second, along with a peaceful and joy-filled postpartum. 

By the way, Georgia’s second baby was 4.6kg (10lb, 2oz), and was born after just 2.5 hours of labour, something she forgot to share during our interview.

Also discussed in this episode:

* Stretch and sweep

* Irregular contractions

* Artificial rupture of membranes

* Maternal and paternal postnatal depression and anxiety, including panic attacks

* Intrusive thoughts

* Counselling

* Postpartum preparation

* Birth planning process - birth mapping

* Home birth with sibling present

* Fast labour

* Birth photos

Check out Georgia's website: https://www.alightbeheld.com/

Follow Georgia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alightbeheld/

And here's the link to the Manawatu Home Birth Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MHBAInc