The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast
Birth trauma is the dark and sometimes scary side of pregnancy & postpartum that no one wants to talk about. But, we're here to change that! I'm Kayleigh, a licensed therapist and birth trauma survivor, determined to bring birth trauma out of the shadows and into the light. When we talk about birth trauma, we take away its power and leave space for healing. Your birth trauma does not need to “happen for a reason." Birth trauma sucks and it’s okay to admit that. Join us as we navigate what it means to heal from birth trauma. You’ll hear from experts in the field as well as others who have experienced birth trauma. Storytelling and education are keys to raising awareness and better understanding how we heal trauma. We don’t do toxic positivity in this space, but you’ll definitely hear some dark humor. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry, but, most importantly, you’ll learn that you’re not alone and that healing is possible. Birth trauma is bullish*it, but your healing is not.
The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast
Ep. 155: When an ICU Nurse has an AFE feat. Jenna
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I sit down with Jenna, an ICU nurse and fellow Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) survivor. Jenna shares her harrowing birth experience, the life-saving interventions she received, and the long road to recovery.
We discuss:
💔 The shocking moment Jenna realized something was very wrong after birth
🚨 Her rapid decline & emergency medical response
🩸 Being diagnosed with AFE, intubated, and placed on ECMO
🦵 The unexpected vascular complications & multiple surgeries that followed
💜 How Jenna navigated postpartum, physical recovery & mental health struggles
🏃♀️ The incredible progress she’s made, learning to walk again & reclaim her life
Jenna’s journey is unimaginable, yet she speaks with raw honesty, resilience, and even humor. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by birth trauma, critical illness, or navigating life after a near-death experience.
Resources Mentioned:
🌐 AFE Foundation & Support Resources
📚 Free CEU Course for Healthcare Providers on AFE Management
📑 AFE Survivor & Family Support Guides
Jenna’s story is a testament to the strength of survivors and the importance of raising AFE awareness.
For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.
Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.
Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.