In this emotional and deeply insightful episode, we hear from a powerful mama Aly McClain who shares the highs and lows of her four unique birth experiences.
Each one teaching her something new about surrender, trust, and the strength of her body and spirit.
From a pain-empowered second birth, to navigating an unexpected NICU transfer, to welcoming her birthday baby after 42 weeks, this episode covers the full spectrum of birthing experiences, including a moment of potential shoulder dystocia and the power of intuition in labour.
In This Episode, You'll Hear:
🔹 A powerful story of choosing to feel pain during birth to affirm her strength
🔹 How she handled an unexpected NICU transfer due to her newborn’s low heart rate and blood sugar
🔹 The emotional challenges of postpartum in the NICU during COVID
🔹 Why knowing your NICU rights matters for home birth parents
🔹 A peaceful fourth pregnancy followed by a birth that required surrender and trust
🔹 A potential shoulder dystocia and wrapped cord handled intuitively and calmly at home
🔹 The importance of staying grounded in your “why” during birth
🔹 Insights on how inner work and belief systems influence birth outcomes
✨ Preparation is key for any home birth—including the possibility of transfer
✨ Trusting your intuition and tuning into your body can shift birth outcomes
✨ Your postpartum experience matters—and how you birth can impact your bond and recovery
✨ Your “why” is your anchor—know it, connect with it, and let it guide youEnjoy this episode!
More from Ashley:
The VBAC Village
Insta: @ashleylwinning
Website: www.ashleywinning.com
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Disclaimer: The VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. The stories and opinions shared are personal experiences and should not be considered medical advice. Every birth journey is unique, and we encourage you to research, trust your intuition, and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care.
The host and guests of this podcast are not liable for any outcomes resulting from the information shared. By listening, you acknowledge that you take full responsibility for your own health and birth choices.