Birthing Twins (Bibi Your Holistic Midwife)

Kristine Lauria is a certified professional midwife with 35 years of experience. She began her career as a community-based midwife in the Amish country, practicing without registration for 17 years, learning hands-on techniques essential for traditional midwifery. Kristine furthered her credentials by becoming a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). She now works with Doctors Without Borders, delivering maternal and infant healthcare, including contraceptive care, safe abortion care, and sexual violence survivor support in humanitarian settings.

In this episode of Birthing Twins, Bibi hosts Kristine Lauria to dive deep into the world of twin pregnancies, childbirth, and beyond. Bibi, an experienced midwife from Australia with a personal history of twins, alongside Kristine's vast expertise, creates a rich dialogue filled with valuable insights and practical advice for expecting mothers of twins and birth professionals.

The discussion begins with Kristine recounting her career path from a traditional midwife in the Amish community to her current role in humanitarian aid with Doctors Without Borders. She shares her hands-on learning experiences and the evolution of her practice over the years. As they delve deeper, Kristine emphasizes the importance of prenatal care, diet, exercise, and mental health, highlighting that twin pregnancies don't necessarily classify as high-risk by default. They also explore various configurations of twins (dye/dye, mono/mono) and the considerations for home births, the roles of midwives, and the birthing setting for multiples. Throughout, Kristine reassures that with adequate preparation, home birth for twins can be a positive experience.

• Understanding the different types of twin pregnancies (dichorionic diamniotic, monochorionic diamniotic, and monochorionic monoamniotic) and their implications for birth plans.
• The importance of holistic prenatal care, including diet and exercise, for mothers carrying multiples.
• Encouragement and practical advice for midwives to support twin home births, focusing on the safety and autonomy of the mother.
• Insights into the process of delivering twins at home, including monitoring, decision-making, and handling potential complications.
• The significance of intuition and hands-on palpation skills in managing twin pregnancies and childbirth.

1. "If you have identical twins, theoretically they're going to be usually within a few ounces of one another. But if you have fraternal twins, they're going to be just as different as your first baby weighs this much, and then your next pregnancy, your next baby, they don't weigh the same thing."
2. "Preparation for birth for twins is actually your prenatal care. So I want you to eat a high protein diet…start exercising. Because your body is stretching and you are not at full capacity right now."
3. "Less is more when it comes to birth, and even more so with multiples, quite, quite honestly."
4. "Understand that if you are comfortable with your skills in singleton birth, then by all means, you have the skills to attend a twin birth."
5. "We have to challenge them to face that fear and realize there's nothing they were afraid of. Nothing that wouldn't happen in a singleton birth."

• Instagram: @globalmidwife64 Website: midwifewithoutboundaries.wordpress.com
• Kristine Lauria on LinkedIn
• Doctors Without Borders
• Breech Without Borders Workshops

Don't miss this episode filled with transformative insights and knowledge. If you’re an expecting mother or a birth professional looking for evidence-based guidance on twin births, this conversation is for you. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from Birthing Twins!

Dr. Stu, an obstetrician from the United States, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the discussion on birth practices. Having trained at the University of Minnesota Medical School and completed his residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, he has spent a significant part of his career transitioning from a more medicalized obstetrics approach to one that closely collaborates with midwives. Dr. Stu is an advocate for home birthing, teaching breach and twin delivery skills around the world, and hosts the "Birthing Instincts" podcast.

In this insightful episode titled "The Twin Birth Conversation with Dr. Stu," host Bibi discusses the intricacies of twin deliveries and the option of home birthing in medical practice. With a focus on choice, trust, and the natural process of childbirth, Dr. Stu provides valuable perspectives to debunk myths and empower expectant mothers carrying twins.

Starting with an overview of types of twins and their implications during pregnancy, Dr. Stu details the distinctions between diamniotic-dichorionic (die-die), monoamniotic-dichorionic (monodie), and monoamniotic-monochorionic (monomono) twin pregnancies. He further elaborates on the protocols for each kind, emphasizing the potential for normal vaginal deliveries under specific circumstances. Highly experienced in home birthing, Dr. Stu passionately argues for the demedicalization of childbirth and the importance of informed consent, shedding light on the risks and misconceptions propagated by a system overly reliant on interventions.

• Understanding the differences between die-die, monodie, and monomono twins is crucial for managing twin pregnancies.
• Vaginal births for die-die and monodie twins can be a safe and viable option when managed by a skilled practitioner.
• The medical system often operates from a place of fear, potentially leading to unnecessary interventions for twin pregnancies.
• Home birth with twins, attended by a knowledgeable practitioner, has been shown to have high success rates and can provide a fulfilling experience for the mother.
• Dr. Stu advocates for the normalization of vaginal breach deliveries, which are often portrayed negatively by mainstream obstetrics despite evidence of their safety when properly handled.

• "The decision of how to give birth does not belong to the medical institution or the physician. It belongs to the informed woman." - Dr. Stu
• "Nature is formidable but it's not intentionally dangerous." - Dr. Stu
• "Most twin moms don't have a problem. The problem is the way they're managed in the hospital." - Dr. Stu
• "Midwives, because they are experts in normal, are so quick to recognize abnormal." - Dr. Stu

• Instagram: @birthinginstincts Dr. Stu's website: www.birthinginstincts.com
• Podcast: www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com

Dive into the full episode to explore Dr. Stu's patient-centric philosophy of birth, especially regarding twins, and learn how empowerment through knowledge can lead to better birth experiences. Stay tuned for more enlightening content that can transform your understanding of childbirth and the choices surrounding it.

Simone is a passionate homeschool mom and former preschool special education teacher, originally from Queens, New York, and now residing in Georgia. She has dedicated her life to nurturing her children and providing them with a nature-based homeschool education. Simone's birthing journey is deeply personal and diverse, marked by hospital births, a cesarean section, and an inspiring vaginal birth of twins at home. Her story is a testament to resilience, self-trust, and the unyielding commitment to natural birthing processes.

In this captivating episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi, an experienced midwife and mother of twins, delves into Simone’s gripping and educational birthing journey. Simone shares her experiences of natural childbearing, a cesarean section, and achieving a vaginal birth at home with twins. This episode highlights the challenges and triumphs of birthing twins naturally, especially for mothers who have previously undergone a cesarean section.

Throughout the episode, Simone takes us through her journey, beginning with her initial pregnancies and moving through to her most recent experience with home birthing twins. Bibi and Simone discuss the emotional and physical hurdles that come with twin pregnancies, the importance of trusting one’s body, and the valuable support of midwife teams in achieving successful home births. This episode is packed with keywords like "vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)," "home birth," "breastfeeding twins," and "natural birth process," making it an informative listen for expectant twin mothers looking to explore their birthing options.

• Trusting your body is crucial in experiencing a successful and natural birth, especially with twins.
• The importance of finding a supportive and experienced midwife team cannot be overstated.
• Simone’s journey from hospital births to attaining a VBAC with twins at home demonstrates the significance of self-advocacy and informed decision-making.
• Managing expectations and preparing mentally for the birthing process can significantly impact the birth experience.
• Breastfeeding twins is intensive but deeply rewarding, emphasizing the need for dedication and support.

• "Why would God give me two babies that I couldn't birth to me?"
• "If I say I can do this, maybe I can do it."
• "Trust yourself and trust your body. Your body knows what to do."
• "I felt like I became a mother. I felt like it was such a transition in me."
• "I trusted myself and I trusted my instincts enough that I knew that it would be okay."

• Follow Simone on Instagram: @simmielittle Explore more inspiring birthing stories and support at Birthing Twins Podcast
• Books and educational materials referenced: "Free Birth Society" (mentioned as an inspiration in the episode).

For a deeply engaging and educational listen on the ups and downs of birthing twins, tune into this episode of "Birthing Twins" and stay tuned for more insightful content from Bibi and her remarkable guests.

Hannah is a devoted stay-at-home mother and homeschooler of seven children, including a set of fraternal twin boys born via a home birth. She has extensive personal experience in natural home births, having successfully delivered five babies at home before her twins. Her background and passion for natural childbirth have driven her to support and empower other mothers through their birthing journeys, especially those facing the unique challenges of twin births.

Join us for a compelling episode of "Birthing Twins" with host Bibi, a seasoned midwife from Australia, and her insightful guest Hannah Favela. Hannah, a mother of seven, takes us through her extraordinary journey of delivering die-die fraternal twin boys at home. This episode delves into the intricacies of natural twin births, the challenges posed by medical systems, and the significance of advocating for one's birthing choices.

Hannah shares her firsthand experiences of facing fear-based medical practices and emphasizes the importance of having a supportive birthing team that trusts the natural birthing process. Listen as she recounts her labor story, including the pivotal moment when she had to find a new midwife late into her pregnancy. Hannah's detailed recount of her twins' birth, including the support she received from her final midwife, Sherry, offers valuable insights and inspiration for expecting mothers, particularly those anticipating twin births.

• The significance of selecting a supportive birthing team that respects natural birthing processes.
• Understanding the potential pitfalls of fear-based medical practices in twin pregnancies.
• The importance of advocating for oneself and questioning medical advice when necessary.
• Insights into preparing for a home birth, especially in the context of a high-risk pregnancy.
• Emphasizing the role of informed consent and the rights of expecting mothers to make educated choices about their births.

1. "You are hiring them. They work for you. It's your body, your baby, your birth."
2. "A fear-driven birth ultimately, a lot of times, it's like a self-fulfilling prophecy."
3. "If one door shuts, don't just give in and say, well, that's it. Now I have to go have this hospital birth that I really don't want."
4. "Listen to your God-given intuition. We've been given this amazing gift to bring life into the world."
5. "Every intervention brings consequences; it's vital to educate yourself about what's necessary and what isn't."

• Hannah Favela on Instagram: @hannahfavela
• Documentary Recommendations:
• Pregnant in America
• The Business of Being Born
• Midwifery Resources:
• Traditional Midwife: Sherry Holly (with 46 years of experience)
• Books and Classes:
• Bradley Method Natural Childbirth Classes

Explore more about the empowering stories from mothers like Hannah and valuable insights into natural twin births by tuning into the full episode. Stay connected for more inspiring discussions on "Birthing Twins" and share this episode with friends who might benefit from these incredible experiences and advice.

Jessica is a remarkable mother of three boys, including twin boys, and a nearly three-year-old son. Living right outside Louisville, Kentucky in the United States, Jessica shares her personal journey through her second pregnancy with twins. She is connected with a supportive community of young families through her church and enjoys working part-time from home, alongside her husband who has his own business.

In this enlightening episode of "Birthing Twins," Bibi welcomes guest Jessica, a mother of three boys including a set of twins, who shares her incredible home birth story. With 38 weeks and four days into her pregnancy, Jessica navigated the complexities and challenges of carrying and birthing twins with the assistance of experienced midwives. This episode dives deep into the prenatal care system, the intricacies of twin pregnancy, and the personalized approach Jessica experienced through home birth.

Throughout the episode, Jessica recounts the discovery of her twin pregnancy, the decision-making process for home birth versus hospital birth, and overcoming the obstacles of a breech birth and an asynclitic position during labor. Key topics include the importance of a supportive birth team, managing unexpected complications during labor, and the benefits of home birth in creating a personalized and comfortable birthing experience. Jessica’s story is not only inspiring but also offers insightful perspectives for other expectant mothers considering home births for their twins.

• The significance of choosing a supportive and experienced birth team, especially for twin pregnancies.
• Understanding the options and regulations surrounding twin home births and midwifery care.
• The impact of physical and emotional preparation in managing a labor that involves breech and asynclitic positions.
• Importance of being open to both natural birth processes and necessary interventions to ensure the safety and health of both the mother and babies.
• Insights into breastfeeding twins and navigating the postpartum period.

• "Pursue the birth that you want. Do research for yourself. Look into stories of other twin, even triplet, home birth moms."
• "For me, I just chose to have her break the water… I don't think that just prolonging it at this point is really going to change much."
• "I was starting to just get completely physically exhausted, emotionally, and I was honestly kind of like, okay, I'm pushing. The baby said down, why isn't he coming out?"
• "It was kind of like my determination and my experience with Juan Tina's years of experience with breech and twins, just knowing what to do and not being fazed."
• "We try to do a few times a day breastfeeding them together if they'll do it, but a lot of the times I'm just nursing one at a time because it’s more practical."

• Instagram: @jesster_chen - Jessica's Instagram profile where she documents her journey.

• Instagram: BirthingTwins - Bibi's Instagram profile for more inspiring stories and information.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Birthing Twins" and make sure to listen to this full episode to immerse in Jessica’s compelling twin home birth narrative.

Allegra is a registered dietitian and IBCLC lactation consultant with over eight years of experience in the birthing world. She specializes in prenatal nutrition and postpartum care, with a strong focus on breastfeeding. Allegra transitioned her dietetic practice to emphasize the postpartum period and the importance of protein and electrolyte balance during pregnancy. Besides her professional expertise, she is a mother of four, including a set of identical twins. Allegra runs her consultation practice via Aloha Nutrition and actively shares insights on healthy pregnancy and postpartum practices on her Instagram.

In this compelling episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi, an experienced midwife and mother of twins, welcomes Allegra, a registered dietitian and lactation consultant, to share her journey through twin pregnancy and childbirth. Allegra discusses her transformative experiences with each of her pregnancies, the unexpected discovery of carrying twins, and the strategies that helped her achieve a healthy and full-term twin pregnancy.

Allegra sheds light on the critical role of nutrition, particularly the intake of sufficient protein and electrolytes, in managing a twin pregnancy. She delves into her personal and professional insights on handling the physical and emotional challenges of carrying twins, the importance of advocating for oneself in medical settings, and her meticulous approach to preparing for labor and delivery. This episode is rich in practical tips and empowering messages for expecting mothers, especially those anticipating twins.

• Nutrition is Crucial: Allegra emphasizes the importance of a protein-rich diet and proper electrolyte intake during pregnancy to support both maternal health and fetal development.
• Advocacy in Healthcare: Building a good relationship with your healthcare provider and advocating for your preferences can significantly impact your pregnancy and birthing experience.
• The Role of Family Support: Having a strong support system, including family and doulas, is vital during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, especially when dealing with multiples.
• Unique Birth Experiences: Allegra's varied birthing experiences highlight the unpredictability of childbirth and the importance of being prepared for different scenarios.
• Postpartum Recovery: Proper nutrition and support are essential for a smooth postpartum recovery, which can affect breastfeeding success and overall well-being.

1. "Our body speaks through us, through symptoms, through cravings. I just realized I really was not getting enough protein."
2. "It's so funny how much of a mental game birth is. You say you can't, and you just need that affirmation that yes, you can."
3. "I really wanted to show that food is fuel and implementing what I know as a dietitian, how can I support a twin pregnancy with that?"
4. "Even though, yes, I did have to be induced, it felt like that redeeming birth I was looking forward to."
5. "Twins are a blessing. Double the blessing, double the hardship, but twin moms wear something else."

• Allegra's Instagram: @aloha.nutrition
• Books Mentioned: "Real Food for Pregnancy" by Lily Nichols

• Diet and Nutrition Resources: Weston A. Price Foundation

Discover the incredible journey of twin pregnancy from a professional dietitian’s perspective, packed with tips on nutrition, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. Listen to the full episode for an inspiring and informative discussion that every expecting mother should hear. Stay tuned for more insightful content from "Birthing Twins"!

A successful lotus birth with twins and the natural separation of each twin from the shared placenta, marking a gentle transition for the newborns.

Neala is a mother of seven with a rich experience in the realms of motherhood, homeschooling, and natural birthing. Having transitioned from hospital births to free birthing at home, Neala champions an empowering approach to pregnancy and childbirth that encourages mothers to trust their instincts. Actively involved in the homeschooling community, she is an advocate for education that aligns with familial and natural rhythms.

Episode Summary:

In this heartening episode of "Your Holistic Midwife," we are welcomed into the world of Neala, a seasoned mother and free birther, as she shares her transformative journey from hospital births to free birthing at home. Her story resonates with themes of self-reliance, the unearthing of natural birthing knowledge, and the creation of intimate and family-centered birth experiences.

Our guest Neala recounts her early experiences with conventional hospital births, her subsequent discovery of the free birth movement, and the turning point that led her to birth her fourth child at home—a decision greatly influenced by the Free Birth Society. This episode also delves into the remarkable tale of her twin home birth, a sheer testament to the power of trust and the natural birthing process.

With insightful details on her preparation, approach to prenatal self-care, and the serendipitous birth of her twins without any medical intervention, Neala narrative is nothing short of an inspiring lesson in self-belief and the innate wisdom of the human body.

Key Takeaways:

Unplanned home birth of fourth child led Neala toward free birthing and showed her the possibilities of self-reliance in childbirth.

The pivotal role of the Free Birth Society in providing information and confidence to pursue natural birthing practices at home.

Experiencing twin birth at home, with one breech birth followed by a vertex birth, challenging common misconceptions surrounding the safety of non-hospital twins deliveries.

Resources:

Neala references the Free Birth Society as a key influence in her journey towards free birthing.

The Australian freebirth community where Bibi and Neala shared their experiences.

Neala Instagram: @garden_of_gaia

Follow me on Instagram @birthingtwins

Ruth is a resilient and passionate mother of twins, a missionary kid, who grew up in Haiti and France, and is currently residing in Missouri. She is an advocate for natural birthing and breastfeeding, having undergone extensive training to become a doula. Her personal experiences with home birthing, miscarriage, and successfully breastfeeding her preterm twins have inspired her to support and educate other expecting mothers. Ruth is dedicated to promoting holistic and natural birthing methods.

In this captivating episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi, a midwife from Australia with personal and familial experience with twins, delves into the often challenging but deeply rewarding journey of naturally birthing twins. The episode features Ruth, who shares her compelling story of discovering she was pregnant with monodi twins at 20 weeks and the subsequent trials and triumphs of her pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding journey. Ruth’s narrative illuminates the power of perseverance, community support, and faith in navigating unexpected challenges.

Ruth discusses the complexities of her second pregnancy following a traumatic miscarriage, highlighting her determination to maintain a natural birthing plan despite numerous obstacles. Key to her story is her interaction with Dr. Stu and her supportive midwife, who helped her navigate the medical system's pressures. Ruth's account of laboring at 33 weeks, her hospital transfer experiences, and advocating for a vaginal birth under challenging circumstances provides invaluable insights into the practicalities and emotional strength required for such a journey. Her eventual success in exclusively breastfeeding her premature twins underscores her commitment and the possibility of overcoming difficult odds with determination and support.

• ​Perseverance and Faith: Ruth’s journey demonstrates the importance of perseverance, strong belief, and faith in successfully navigating pregnancy and childbirth challenges.
• ​Community and Support Systems: Surrounding oneself with supportive and knowledgeable individuals, such as midwives and doulas, is crucial in maintaining a natural birthing plan.
• ​Natural Birthing Advocacy: Ruth’s story emphasizes the feasibility and benefits of natural birthing, even in complex cases like premature twin births.
• ​Breastfeeding Challenges and Triumphs: The episode provides insight into the difficulties and rewarding outcomes of committing to exclusive breastfeeding, despite initial struggles.
• ​Holistic and Patient-Centric Birth Planning: The importance of creating a birth plan that aligns with one's values and finding medical professionals who support holistic approaches is highlighted throughout Ruth’s experience.

1. ​“I always wanted to be a mom. I wasn't thinking about birth until my college years when I heard about my aunt’s home births. That's what I want.”
2. ​“When I found out it was twins, our world was turned upside down for the better, but at the same time, there was so much to consider and prepare for.”
3. ​"I made a decision that I wasn't going to go into the hospital if I went into labor at 35 weeks. I asked my midwife to support me, and she agreed."
4. ​“The only words that came out of my mouth during the most painful labor moments were ‘Jesus,’ and I was so grateful for the strength to persevere.”
5. ​“Teaching my daughters to breastfeed was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but the perseverance paid off. They're both exclusively breastfed now.”

• ​Ruth’s Instagram: @ruth_itsamullerfullife
• ​Dr. Stu’s Podcast: Birthing Instincts
• ​Weston A. Price Foundation: Nutrition and Health

Listen to the full episode to explore Ruth's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into natural twin birthing and breastfeeding. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Birthing Twins" as we continue to share stories and tips on twins' pregnancies and beyond.

Cameron, also known as Cami, is a 32-year-old mother of four, residing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a background of uncomplicated natural births, she has become an advocate for home birthing, most recently giving birth to twin girls at home. Her own holistic experiences, combined with the challenging journey of twin pregnancies, have solidified her commitment to empower other mothers navigating similar paths. She is a passionate supporter of natural birthing practices and dedicated to sharing her journey to inspire and support other expecting mothers.

In this engaging and enlightening episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi welcomes Cameron, a mother from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to share her remarkable journey of delivering twin girls at home. Cameron, already a mother of two boys, decided to pursue a home birth for her third pregnancy, which turned into an unexpected twin birth story. This episode underscores the importance of trusting one’s body and instincts, especially when faced with a twin pregnancy and breech presentation.

Bibi and Cameron explore the highs and lows of her twin pregnancy, from the shock of discovering she was carrying twins at 21 weeks to the challenge of changing her midwifery team late in the pregnancy. Despite the complexities, including both babies being breech, Cameron details how she remained steadfast in her desire for a natural home birth. She vividly describes her labor and delivery, highlighting the support from her midwife team and the calm, supportive atmosphere that facilitated the safe birth of her daughters, Georgia and Joey. This episode is a compelling testament to the power of belief in natural birthing practices and the ability to have a positive birth experience, even with twins.

• Trust in Natural Birth: Cameron’s story illustrates the importance of trusting your body’s ability to birth naturally, even with twins and complications like breech presentation.
• Importance of the Right Support Team: The significance of having an experienced and confident midwife team, especially when traditional medical systems predict the necessity of cesareans.
• Research and Advocacy: Cameron’s experience shows the need for thorough research and advocacy for your birth preferences, emphasizing that one should never settle for less than what feels right.
• Handling Unexpected Twists: Navigating the unexpected discovery of twins and a last-minute midwife change demonstrates resilience and the importance of adaptability in birth planning.
• The Power of Environment: The calm, serene environment of home birthing can contribute significantly to the birthing experience, as highlighted by Cameron’s peaceful and patient labor and delivery.

1. Cameron: "Trust your body. Trust your instincts. We were made for this."
2. Bibi: "You are healthy until proven the opposite; while a lot of time in the medical system, you are sick until proven that you're healthy."
3. Cameron: "Once I found out they were breach, that was a sign to continue. If my midwife's okay with it, I'm okay with it."
4. Cameron: "My midwife's patience to not put her hands all over the birth is something I’m so thankful for."
5. Cameron: "In my mind, I felt like everything was crumbling, but I just truly believed that God brought me through this pregnancy, and he will get me to the end."

• Cameron’s Instagram: @cami_east_coast We hope you enjoyed this deep dive into Cameron’s inspirational journey of birthing twins at home. For more stories and insights into twin pregnancies and natural birthing, make sure to listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening content on "Birthing Twins," and don’t forget to share this episode with friends who may benefit from Cameron’s story!

Kaitlyn Tripp is a dedicated mother from Anaheim Hills, California. She is a passionate advocate for home birth, having experience in delivering her three children at home with the help of midwives and doulas. Kaitlyn's twin birth journey included collaboration with esteemed professionals such as Doctor Stu and Doctor Flores, highlighting her commitment to a holistic and personalized birthing experience.

In this heartfelt episode, Bibi, our holistic midwife host, welcomes Kaitlyn Tripp, a mother of three from Anaheim Hills, California. Kaitlyn's experience encompasses the joys and challenges of home birthing, a journey she undertook with her first child and continued with her twins. Their conversation delves deep into the emotional and logistical aspects of planning and executing a home birth.

Kaitlyn shares her first experience with home birthing her son Jackson during the COVID-19 pandemic, detailing the unique circumstances that led to her decision. SEO keywords explored in this episode include home birth planning, midwife vs. OB care, and overcoming fears in home birth. The discussion transitions into her surprising journey of discovering and preparing for twins' birth at home, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and the supportive role of doulas and midwives.

• Home Birth Planning: Kaitlyn's story highlights the importance of considering home birth options and preparing for them mentally and physically.

• Support Systems: The role of doulas and midwives in providing comfort and expertise during the home birth process.

• Navigating Twin Births: Insight into the challenges and solutions for handling twin pregnancies and births at home.

• Postpartum Realities: The reality of postpartum recovery, including managing hemorrhages and breastfeeding challenges.

• Motherhood Joys and Challenges: Reflections on balancing motherhood with multiple young children, including the joys of watching sibling bonds develop.

1. "I told him I was like, I don't want to be in a hospital. I don't want to be an operating room. I don't want to be treated like, you know, I'm like, this is a medical procedure. I want it to be peaceful and relaxing, and I want to be able to hold my babies after."

2. "The day of birth, like, you really never forget it unless someone, you know, puts something on your head and knocks you out, then you lose your memory, but otherwise, it's like something that you have to live with forever."

3. "It was those birth affirmations, all the work you put in before it really becomes a fruitation while you're doing it."

4. "You had time to unlearn. It was just the most beautiful experience. It's hard, but it's the most rewarding thing in your life."

5. "I feel like, so far, really the safest place to have a natural birth. It's actually at home."

• Doctor Stu and Doctor Flores: Expert OBs consulted by Kaitlyn for her twin home birth.

• Midwives Jennifer and Lisa Marie: Key players in Kaitlyn's home birth team.

Kaitlyn Tripp's story is an inspiring testament to the power of personalized, home birthing experiences. Tune in to hear more about her transformative journey and stay engaged for more enlightening episodes on holistic midwifery and home birth stories.

Viviane is an experienced midwife living in Australia. Originally from Brazil, she has a rich personal and professional background in midwifery. Having given birth to twins herself, Viviane's journey into midwifery was inspired by her own birthing experiences. She previously worked as a speech pathologist in Brazil and is now dedicated to supporting women through their pregnancies and birthing processes. Viviane has been deeply involved in the movement to humanize birth practices in Brazil and is a passionate advocate for women seeking vaginal births, particularly those carrying twins.

In this heartfelt episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi engages in a compelling conversation with midwife Viviane about the nuanced and empowering journey of birthing twins. Bibi, an Italian midwife residing in Australia with personal experience in twin births, offers a platform for Viviane to share her unique story.

Viviane narrates her adventure of carrying and birthing twins in Brazil, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced. She discusses her initial plan for a home birth, the struggle to find a supportive obstetrician, and how she ultimately achieved a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) with the help of a diligent team of midwives and doctors. Key SEO keywords such as "vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)," "twin birth," "midwifery," and "birth stories" are intricately woven into their discussion.

Listeners will gain insight into the realities of the Brazilian healthcare system, the importance of having a supportive birth team, and the emotional journey of labor and delivery. This episode is a treasure trove for expectant mothers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in midwifery and birthing practices. Bibi and Viviane emphasize the significance of self-education, trust in one's body, and the crucial role of continuity of care, particularly for women expecting twins.

• The Power of Continuity of Care: Viviane stresses the importance of having a consistent and supportive birth team when expecting twins.

• Educate and Empower Yourself: Self-education and understanding one's body are pivotal in achieving a positive birthing experience.

• Brazilian Healthcare System: Insight into the challenges of birthing in Brazil, including the prevalence of cesarean sections and the journey to finding supportive healthcare professionals.

• Personal Growth Through Birth: Viviane's experiences underscored the profound personal growth and empowerment that can come from the birthing process.

• Natural Twin Births: The episode dispels myths about twin births, showing that full-term, natural, vaginal twin births are possible and beneficial.

1. "Nobody gives you power. Either you find it inside yourself and make it grow, or you're right." - Viviane
2. "Once you've seen, you cannot unsee." - Bibi
3. "Our body is just amazing because it is capable of growing two full-term babies." - Viviane
4. "We give the poison to sell the antidote. When you interfere unnecessarily, you create problems that didn't exist." - Viviane
5. "The system should serve the women, not the other way around." - Viviane

• Viviane's Facebook: Viviane Coentro
• Bibi's Instagram: Birthing Twins

Explore Viviane's profoundly inspiring journey and gain valuable insights on birthing twins by tuning into this episode. Don't forget to share with friends, leave a review, and stay connected for more enlightening content on "Birthing Twins."

Rosy: A devoted mother from Australia, Rosy shares her incredible journey of giving birth to fraternal twins at home. With two older sons and a challenging first birthing experience, Rosy’s story sheds light on the highs and lows of twin pregnancies and home births. She brings practical insights and inspiring anecdotes from her journey, making her story relatable and empowering for expecting mothers, especially those considering home birth options.

In this captivating episode of Birthing Twins, host Bibi, an experienced midwife and mother of twins herself, welcomes Rosy, a courageous mother from Australia. Rosy shares her extraordinary journey of giving birth to fraternal twins at home. From a traumatic first cesarean birth to triumphant home births, including a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) and a twin home birth, Rosy’s story is one of perseverance, trust, and empowerment.

Rosy’s journey begins with the unexpected discovery of carrying twins in her third pregnancy. Despite numerous complications and misdiagnoses that added immense stress, Rosy persevered with her plan for a home birth. Through meticulous planning, unwavering trust in her body, and support from Bibi, Rosy successfully delivered healthy twins at home. This episode is a deep dive into the realistic preparations and emotional resilience needed for home births, with valuable insights into managing twin pregnancies, dealing with medical advice, and the importance of self-belief.

• Twin Pregnancies Can Be Different: Every twin pregnancy is unique, and conditions like DCDA (dichorionic diamniotic) twins, where each baby has its own placenta and sac, can significantly influence birth plans.
• Trust in Your Body: Rosy's story emphasizes the importance of trusting one's body and instincts, even when faced with complications and contradictory medical advice.
• Home Birth is Possible: With proper preparation and support, a home birth for twins can be a safe and fulfilling experience.
• Manage Stress Effectively: Stress management through relaxation techniques and emotional support can positively impact the pregnancy and birthing process.
• Navigating Medical Systems: Engaging with healthcare providers, asking the right questions, and making informed decisions are crucial for a positive birthing experience.

1. "It was like a reset, and I was telling you until I had really severe heartburn up until I met Bibi, and then once we started our journey, I was like, my heartburn's gone."
2. "And then we just brought Jonah over, like twin A. Our twin A. We brought Jonah over back onto my chest so that he could reunite with his little brother."
3. "I could not believe that I birthed my twins at home, like, and sort of just reflecting on the whole journey, like, where we had started and where we ended up. It was just the sweetest ending."
4. "Just dive into as much information as you can, because often what we're told in a hospital setting is information and decisions made out of fear."
5. "The babies are just the cutest little boys. And for twin mums as well. Trusting yourself that you can handle it."

• Birthing Twins Instagram
• Free Birth Society Podcast

Listen to the full episode for an inspiring and informational journey through Rosy's experience with twin pregnancies, and stay tuned for more insightful content from Birthing Twins.

Aimee is a devoted mother of three, including seven-month-old mono-di (monochorionic diamniotic) twin girls and a four-year-old son. She has a rich history with twins, being a twin herself and coming from a family deeply experienced in home birthing. Aimee resides in Central Pennsylvania, near Harrisburg, and has found a supportive community in home birthing influenced by the surrounding Amish culture. Aimee has a strong passion for natural childbirth and has taken courses in doula practices. Her journey is inspirational, having navigated the complexities of twins' pregnancy and unassisted home birth confidently.

In this compelling episode of "Birthing Twins," Bibi welcomes Aimee, who shares her extraordinary journey of birthing healthy monochorionic diamniotic (mono-di) twins at home. Aimee’s experience is a testament to the power of intuition, faith, and support. Her rich heritage of home birthing, deeply influenced by her family's history and the supportive Amish community in Central Pennsylvania, played a pivotal role in her journey. As a mother who has dealt with PCOS and subsequent fertility challenges, Aimee's story offers hope and encouragement to many.

Throughout the episode, important themes of home birth, twin pregnancy, natural childbirth, managing complications, and breastfeeding are woven seamlessly into Aimee's narrative. Her detailed recount of her pregnancies, her proactive approach to health through nutrition and exercise, and her eventual decision to have an unassisted home birth for her twins provide valuable insights. Aimee outlines her birthing experience, the support from her twin sisters and husband, and her reliance on spiritual faith. She also dispels many myths surrounding home births with twins, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment and the need to protect one's mental and emotional space during pregnancy.

• Preparation and Intuition: Trusting one’s intuition and preparing extensively can lead to successful home births, even with twins.
• Support System: Having a supportive partner and community can significantly impact the birthing experience positively.
• Nutrition and Self-Care: Proper nutrition and self-care are critical, especially when dealing with conditions like PCOS and twin pregnancies.
• Unassisted Birth Feasibility: Unassisted home births for twins are possible and can be safe with the right preparation and mindset.
• Spiritual Faith: Faith and spiritual support can play a crucial role in navigating the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth.

1. "My mission is to share everything about twins, twins pregnancy, twins breastfeeding, and twins' life." - Bibi
2. "I really felt like I got pregnant with these twins naturally. I really, really felt like I can birth these twins naturally." - Aimee
3. "After I had them, I loved being home in the winter with them, but at that time, I wasn't going anywhere. I didn't have shoes that fit me." - Aimee
4. "Protect your bubble as much as possible because anytime you let any outside source come into your bubble ear space, it’s hard to listen to your own intuition." - Aimee
5. "In the end, if I could push that aside, I leaned into my intuition and spiritual guidance, which was the best decision for me." - Aimee

• Instagram: @asterbirth - Aimee’s account related to her birth journey and experiences.

Tune in to the full episode to delve into Aimee's inspiring and informative journey, shedding light on the possibilities and empowerment that can come with home birthing twins. Stay tuned for more episodes of “Birthing Twins” for further insights and stories that redefine the narrative around twin pregnancies and births.

We are launching on the 1st of october

Jamie is a seasoned doula based in Wisconsin, USA, with a professional history that began in 2009. She is also a dedicated mother of three— including a recent set of twins. Jamie has been actively involved in birth work since 2018 after earning her official doula certification. Her personal experiences with childbirth, including a brainstem stroke and managing a chronic pain condition, have significantly influenced her holistic and empathetic approach to midwifery and doula care.

Join host Bibi, an Italian-born midwife living in Australia, as she dives into the compelling and heartfelt twin birth story shared by doula Jamie. With rich personal history and professional insight, Jamie's journey from her first uncomplicated home birth to the surprising and challenging birth of her twins is nothing short of inspiring.

Throughout the conversation, Jamie elaborates on her decision-making process for home births, her unique encounters with prenatal care, and the unexpected challenges she faced, such as a snapped cord and a postpartum hemorrhage. Jamie's story is a testament to the power of intuition, the importance of supportive care, and the resilience inherent in the birthing process. Alongside these personal anecdotes, Jamie discusses the critical balance between medical interventions and holistic approaches, emphasizing the need for personalized, fear-free birth plans.

• Trust Your Intuition: Jamie stresses the importance of making birth-related decisions based on intuition rather than fear.
• Holistic and Personalized Care: The episode delves into how personalized care from midwives and doulas can positively influence the birthing experience.
• Challenges in Twin Births: Jamie navigates the complexities of a twin birth, including handling a breech baby and a snapped cord.
• Postpartum Support: Insight into significant postpartum challenges and the importance of having a robust support system.
• Healing and Trust: Emphasizing the emotional and spiritual aspects of birth, Jamie highlights the healing potential and spiritual growth that can stem from the birthing process.

1. "I knew deep down that really, she wouldn't have to do anything. But for me, having her presence there, just hearing her speak before, I just knew that it was the right call."
2. "It's taught me so much about letting go, about trust, about, can you imagine if I would not have said yes to conceiving these babies at that time?"
3. "The state of your nervous system informs your babies, and that is their environment. So starting the parenting when you're pregnant is really important."
4. "I wanted it to be an act of worship. I wanted it to be filled with joy."
5. "Whatever is meant for you is meant for you. There are healing opportunities and growth opportunities in every experience."

• Jamie’s Instagram: @triumphant_birth
• Jamie’s Podcast: Triumphant Birth (Launching in October)
• Birthing Instincts Podcast: Episode 300

Embark on this insightful episode to appreciate the intricacies of twin birthing, gain wisdom from Jamie's profound experiences, and discover how holistic approaches can empower your birthing journey. Don’t miss out on future episodes filled with expert advice, inspiring stories, and invaluable insights into the world of birthing twins.

Arielle, who goes by Elle, is a birth and postpartum doula based in Texas, USA. She began her journey into wellness as a health coach before transitioning into doula work after recognizing the profound impact of birth and postpartum experiences on women's health. In addition to her doula practice, she has a background in technology sales and tech degrees. Elle is a mother of four children, including a set of twins, all of whom she homeschools. She is also an advocate for holistic health practices and has supported numerous women through their birthing journeys.

Welcome to another enriching episode of "Birthing Twins" with your host Bibi, an experienced midwife from Australia who is dedicated to sharing everything about twin pregnancies and twin life. In this episode, Bibi is joined by Arielle, also known as Elle, a birth and postpartum doula from Texas. Elle shares her fascinating journey through multiple pregnancies, culminating in the home birth of her twins. Their discussion covers everything from her early birth experiences, the importance of choosing supportive healthcare providers, and her unwavering belief in her body’s ability to birth twins naturally at home.

Throughout the episode, Elle discusses her journey from having single births in hospitals to a transformative, hands-on home birth experience. She emphasizes the importance of holistic health practices, the significance of informed choice in prenatal care, and the challenges and triumphs of twin motherhood. Keywords like "twins home birth", "holistic pregnancy care", "doula support", and "postpartum doula" are thoroughly explored. Elle also shares practical advice for expectant twin mothers to navigate the often over-medicalized approach to twin pregnancies and highlights the empowering experience of birthing at home.

• The importance of choosing a healthcare team that supports and believes in your birthing plan.
• Why it’s crucial to filter out negative or fear-inducing stories from your prenatal journey.
• The significant role of nutrition and holistic health practices in carrying twins to full term.
• The unique aspects of planning and experiencing a home birth for twins.
• Strategies for managing postpartum challenges, including breastfeeding and sibling dynamics.

1. "Find people who support you and believe in you to be a part of your team." - Elle
2. "If someone is already starting with red flags, like, well, maybe, or if this, or we'll see…cut it off." - Elle
3. "Take care of yourself as much as you can mentally and physically." - Elle
4. "My biggest fear was delivering one baby vaginally and then having a cesarean for the second baby." - Elle
5. "In different seasons of motherhood, you do different things." - Elle

• Follow Elle on Instagram: @elle_ezechuk
• Book Mentioned: Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
• Doula Association: DONA.org (URL not explicitly mentioned in the transcript)

For more empowering twin birth stories and invaluable insights into twin pregnancy and motherhood, make sure to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more episodes from "Birthing Twins." If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, leave a review, and come say hi on Instagram at @BirthingTwins.

Sophie is a dedicated doula and assistant at a birth center in Quebec, Canada. Having extensive experience in birth support, she has also had personal experience giving birth to twins unassisted at home after her hospital experience felt unwelcoming. Sophie is a mother of four, including two sets of twins, and has navigated the complexities of pregnancy and childbirth firsthand. Her insights and personal journey offer a unique perspective on natural birthing, especially in the context of twins.

In this enlightening episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi, a seasoned midwife from Australia with personal and familial experience in twin births, sits down with Sophie, a doula from Quebec. The conversation navigates through Sophie’s remarkable journey of giving birth to twins at home, unassisted, after feeling unwelcome at the hospital. Detailing her pregnancy experience, Sophie shares how she managed cholestasis, the challenges of finding accommodating healthcare, and her revolutionary shift to having a home birth.

From discovering her twin pregnancy during a 12-week ultrasound scan to navigating an unsupportive healthcare system, Sophie shares how she tackled each obstacle. Despite enormous pressure to induce labor, she held out past 41 weeks, focusing on her well-being and body’s natural cues. Sophie’s journey emphasizes the significance of informed decisions, trust in one’s body, and advocating for respectful birthing conditions. This episode is a testament to the resilience and empowerment that pregnant women can harness, particularly when confronted with institutional pressures.

• Sophie's journey highlights the importance of advocating for a birth plan that respects your preferences.
• The risks associated with medical interventions, especially induction, underscore the necessity of being informed and confident in making decisions.
• Personal health conditions like cholestasis should be managed with thorough research and continuous monitoring.
• The transformational power of a supportive environment and mental relaxation in triggering natural labor processes.
• Trust in the natural process of childbirth can lead to empowering and positive birthing experiences, even in challenging circumstances.

• "The whole pregnancy, the babies were doing so, so, so well… I felt that they were doing really well." - Sophie
• "It's impossible…you cannot let the baby like that too long. And, you know, a contraction happens at some point." - Sophie
• "When I decided that by the next Tuesday it was over no matter what, I felt really good." - Sophie
• "You can make them kiss, and say hello, brother. Nobody talks about that." - Sophie
• "I was really open, if anything, would have not felt right, to go to the hospital." - Sophie

• Follow host Bibi on Instagram: Birthing Twins

Don’t miss out on this inspiring and informative episode that challenges conventional twin pregnancy narratives. Listen to the full story and stay tuned for more empowering content from "Birthing Twins."

Charlotte is a dedicated single mother of three, half French and half American, who now calls Australia her home. After moving to Australia seven and a half years ago, Charlotte decided in 2019 to become a single mother by choice via a fertility clinic, using an unknown donor. She now has a three-year-old son, Theo, and 13-month-old DCDA twins, Arthur and Ella, all from the same batch of embryos. Charlotte shares her unique and empowering birthing experiences, focusing on her commitment to natural childbirth and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system as a high-risk twin pregnancy patient.

In this episode of "Birthing Twins," host Bibi, a midwife and twin mother herself, dives deep into the world of twin births with her guest, Charlotte. Charlotte, who decided to become a single mother via donor embryos, shares her incredible journey of giving birth to her twins, Arthur and Ella. This insightful conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of a twin pregnancy, focusing on Charlotte's determination to have a natural birthing experience despite the typical high-risk categorization of twin pregnancies. The discussion moves from her first unmedicated vaginal birth with her son Theo to her extraordinary twin birth story.

Charlotte's episode is a must-listen for those interested in understanding the nuances of giving birth to twins under the Australian healthcare system. She emphasizes the crucial role of informed decision-making and the need for better postpartum care. Detailing her transition from the high-risk twin clinic to the more supportive MGP (Midwifery Group Practice), Charlotte's account provides invaluable insights into advocating for the kind of birth experience you desire, even within the confines of a medical system that often prioritizes intervention. Her successful natural birth of a breech-first twin stands as a testament to the potential for positive outcomes when mothers are supported and empowered.

• Role of Informed Decision-Making: The importance of being well-informed and advocating for the birth experience that aligns with one's values and desires.
• Challenges in High-Risk Clinics: Issues such as lack of continuity of care, high intervention rates, and limited support for natural births in high-risk clinics.
• Success with Natural Birth: Charlotte successfully gave birth to her twins naturally, with the first twin being breech, demonstrating the possibility of positive outcomes with proper support.
• Impact of Birth High on Postpartum: The positive emotional high following a natural birth can significantly support the mother's mental health and bonding with the baby postpartum.
• Importance of Supportive Healthcare Professionals: The critical difference made by having compassionate and understanding healthcare providers who respect and support the mother's birthing choices.

• "I wanted to see what my body could do because I was like, we're made to give birth, right?"
• "As soon as he came out, I was like, I want to do this again."
• "Pregnancy after loss is really hard. I was asking for a lot more scans… I had double the anxiety almost."
• "That appointment just changed everything. His approach was, 'How can I help you?'"
• "I wanted to experience a water birth. I want to be able to stay in whatever position I want. I don't want to be pinned to a bed."

• Charlotte's Facebook: Charlotte Romanet, reach out to Charlotte for more insights and support on navigating twin pregnancies and advocating for natural births. You can find her on Facebook and send her a message via Messenger.

Tune into this enlightening episode to grasp the full spectrum of emotions and practical advice Charlotte offers from her unique journey. Stay tuned for more empowering stories and expert discussions on "Birthing Twins."

Georgia is a 31-year-old family photographer based in Tasmania, specializing in motherhood and family shoots using film. She is also a mother of three children, including recently having twins. Georgia had a traumatic first birth experience, which influenced her journey towards having a free birth after a wild pregnancy for her twins. Her commitment to trusting her body and intuition has been a significant part of her birthing journey.

In this compelling episode of "Birthing Twins," Bibi, an Australia-based midwife from Italy, sits down with Georgia to explore the transformative journey of her twin births following a traumatic hospital experience. Georgia shares her decision to trust her body and opt for a wild pregnancy and a free birth, which ultimately led to the unexpected delivery of twins without prior knowledge of a multiple pregnancy. Her story highlights the significance of intuition, the need to listen to one's body, and the empowering nature of informed birthing choices.

Georgia’s narrative begins with a recount of her first pregnancy, marked by hospital interventions and a highly distressing forceps delivery. Despite a diagnosis of gestational diabetes, daily CTG monitoring, and coercion into medical procedures, she navigated an arduous labor. This deepened her resolve to explore alternative birthing options. In her second pregnancy, Georgia opted for no ultrasounds or routine interventions, instead relying on her body’s signals and intuitive guidance to navigate the pregnancy and subsequent free birth labor with surprising results. Her experience underscores the importance of autonomy and personalized choices in the birthing process, presenting a powerful case for women to reclaim their birthing power.

• Trust Your Body: Georgia emphasizes the importance of tuning into and trusting your body’s natural signals throughout pregnancy and childbirth.
• Empower Birth Choices: Exploring alternatives such as wild pregnancies and free births can provide empowering and positive birth experiences.
• Handling Medical Interventions: Her story reflects the potential challenges and implications of hospital-based births and medical interventions.
• Twin Birth Preparation: Adequate dietary preparation and iron levels are crucial for managing a healthy twin pregnancy and reducing complications.
• Support Systems: It’s vital to have a supportive partner and birth team who respects your birthing choices and advocates for your needs.

1. "If I thought you were stupid, I wouldn't have chosen you."
2. "I was adamant that it was just one baby and that it was a girl."
3. "You really, really can trust yourself to know what's best for you and your baby."
4. "I have so much pain when walking, but everybody says I have to exercise. No, you don't."
5. "That birth was so necessary because it forced me to step into my own power."

• Georgia’s Instagram: @georgia_lilley_photography

Encouraging listeners to delve deeper into Georgia's journey, this episode of "Birthing Twins" paints a vivid picture of resilience and self-empowerment in the face of medical adversity. Tune in for this and more enlightening stories on birthing and twin pregnancies. Be sure to share this episode with anyone navigating their own birthing journey and leave a review to support the podcast.

Bianca del Carmen is an expatriate living in Daegu, South Korea, for the past twelve years. She is a mother of three, including three-month-old twins. Bianca has a unique birthing experience, having given birth to her twins in a natural birthing center in Korea. Additionally, she is the founder of Boram Language Institute, where she teaches Korean online.

In this enlightening episode of "Birthing Twins," Bibi, an experienced midwife, hosts Bianca del Carmen, a mother of three and founder of Boram Language Institute. Bianca shares her profound journey of giving birth to twins naturally, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way.

This episode dives deep into the intricacies of twin pregnancies, from the initial discovery to the final moments of labor. Keywords like "twin pregnancy," "natural birth," "birthing twins," and "midwife in Australia" revolve around Bianca's narrative as she discusses the differences between birthing in a traditional hospital versus a natural birthing center. She recounts her experience with Clomid, a fertility medication, and how it led to her twin pregnancies.

Bianca’s narrative provides crucial insights into the natural birthing process for twins, challenges faced, and the importance of advocacy for one's birthing choices. This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in natural childbirth, especially expecting mothers of twins, healthcare professionals, and birth educators.

• The discovery and journey of twin pregnancy, influenced by fertility medications like Clomid.
• The comparison of traditional hospital births versus natural birthing centers in South Korea.
• Importance of advocating for one's birthing choices and understanding the possibilities of natural birth for twins.
• Detailed recount of Bianca's induction process, labor, and eventual natural birth of her twins.
• Insights into post-birth experiences, including the significance of immediate skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding.

1. "After hearing her story, it just really scared me. I was like, this is not what I want." – Bianca del Carmen
2. "I wish I would have enjoyed it a little bit more rather than being so stressed out about trying to find a hospital." – Bianca del Carmen
3. "I think that I was given the chance to actually have them naturally, you know, vaginally, and that's all I wanted, just the chance to do that." – Bianca del Carmen
4. "So from the time she broke my water to getting both of them out, they were out within 3 hours. Both of them." – Bianca del Carmen
5. "Listen to your body, because I definitely felt that when I was actually in labor and listening to my body, that is when I knew, okay, this is when they're coming." – Bianca del Carmen

• Follow Bianca del Carmen and learn Korean: Boram Language Institute

Embark on this captivating journey with Bianca del Carmen as she shares her story of birthing twins naturally in a unique environment. Tune in, gain valuable insights, and be inspired to explore more episodes of "Birthing Twins" for a wealth of knowledge on twin pregnancies and childbirth.

Kate is a dedicated health coach specializing in women's health, with a particular focus on fertility treatments, pre and postnatal nutrition, and support for twin mothers. She lives in New Hampshire, USA, with her husband, young daughter, and twin boys. Kate's profound passion and commitment stem from her own personal journey through fertility challenges and experiencing pregnancy and birth, including the birth of twins.

In this compelling episode of "Birthing Twins," Bibi, an experienced midwife and mother of twins, welcomes Kate—a twin mom and health coach from New Hampshire—who shares her dramatic and inspiring story of giving birth to her twin boys. From initial fertility struggles to the surprising revelation of twins, and ultimately to the challenges of birthing twins against medical advice, Kate's story is a tale of resilience, trust in one's own body, and advocating for one's birth choices.

Throughout the conversation, Kate delves into the specifics of her pregnancy journey, marked by significant anemia and low platelets that labeled her as high-risk, necessitating hospital care. She navigates through the complexities of choosing the right birthing strategy, vividly recounting her resistance to a coerced early induction and her determination to deliver vaginally despite pressure from medical professionals. This episode provides rich insights into twin pregnancies, the importance of self-advocacy, and the incredible power of maternal intuition.

• Trust Your Intuition: Kate emphasizes the importance of trusting in one’s own body and intuition during pregnancy and birth.
• Advocate for Yourself: Despite medical pressure, advocating for the birth experience you want is crucial, as illustrated by Kate’s insistence on a vaginal birth.
• Preparedness for Complications: Kate’s story highlights the need for being prepared for potential complications and having a clear birth plan.
• Importance of Support: Support from loved ones, such as Kate’s husband, can be vital in maintaining confidence and focus during labor and delivery.
• Postpartum Challenges: The episode also touches on the postpartum period, including breastfeeding challenges and the unique needs of twins.

1. "We knew that most likely that would be the position they were going to be in when I went into labor." - Kate
2. "Listen to yourself. Trust in your body and do what you think is right." - Kate’s Husband
3. "We have this incredible, incredible strength and power as women, and we have to tap back into that and to trust ourselves in it." - Kate
4. "Being a parent is hard. Being a mother is hard. Being a mother of twins, it's not twice as hard." - Kate
5. "My boys just kind of, in the last month, have really started playing together, and there's nothing better than watching your twins and their little language they have between each other." - Kate

• Kate Santucci's Website: www.katesantucci.com

Be inspired by Kate's resilience and her empowering journey through twin pregnancy and birth. Tune in to hear more about her story, advocate for yourself, and find support and resources tailored for twin moms. Don't forget to share this episode with someone who might benefit from this incredible account and stay tuned for more enlightening stories from "Birthing Twins."

Welcome to this podcast birthing twins

We will be launching on the 1st of October with all the episodes

Bibi is a holistic midwife and the host of the Holistic Midwife podcast. She has a background in midwifery and is passionate about empowering women to have positive birth experiences.

Summary: Bibi shares her birth story of giving birth to twins. Initially shocked by the news of expecting twins, Bibi navigated the decision of whether to have a home birth or go to the hospital. After researching and finding stories of women who had successfully free birthed twins, Bibi decided to have a home birth. She disconnected from the medical system and focused on her own intuition and natural methods to prepare for the birth. When her water broke, Bibi experienced intense contractions and quickly gave birth to her first twin. Her second twin was breech, but with the support of her husband and mother, Bibi successfully gave birth to both babies. She emphasizes the importance of protecting your birth space and trusting in your body's ability to birth.

Key Takeaways:

• Bibi's decision to have a home birth with twins was influenced by stories of other women who had successfully free birthed twins.
• She disconnected from the medical system and focused on her own intuition and natural methods to prepare for the birth.
• Bibi's first twin was born quickly and easily, while her second twin was breech but still born without complications.
• Protecting your birth space and trusting in your body's ability to birth are essential for a positive birth experience.

Quotes:

• "I really wanted to document this birth because I was like, whenever I actually talk about my birth, everybody is like, what are you talking about?" - Bibi
• "They just taught me how magical is our body and how if you have the right mindset, if you prepare your body, if you believe in yourself, actually you can." - Bibi