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. 169: Preparing For Medical Procedures After Trauma
In this solo episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, I share a personal journey preparing for and undergoing a simple procedure after experiencing significant birth trauma. What used to feel like an impossible task, stepping into a hospital, lying on a table, and surrendering control, became a moment of grounded confidence and self-advocacy. Drawing from both clinical knowledge and lived experience, I talk through the practical and emotional tools that helped me feel safe, empowered, and informed before, during, and after the procedure.
This episode is a roadmap for survivors looking to reclaim autonomy and reduce overwhelm in medical spaces that so often echo past trauma.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
📞 How to call ahead and communicate your trauma history
🧠 Triggers you might not expect, like smells, sounds, or wristbands
🪪 Why a “trauma card” can help advocate for you when you can’t
💬 What to say when you’re told “that’s not going to happen”
🛏️ Strategies for staying calm when your support person has to step out
💊 Options for sedation, medication, and anxiety management
🤝 Navigating dismissive or unkind staff and requesting someone new
🧘♀️ Grounding and coping tools to use before and during the procedure
💡 A reminder: you are allowed to ask for what you need
Resources & Links:
📝 Coming Soon: Downloadable Trauma History & Needs Card – birthtraumamama.com
🌐 Learn more: thebirthtraumamama.com
📱 Follow Kayleigh on Instagram: @birthtraumamama
🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode supported you, don’t forget to share it, rate it, and leave a review, it helps more survivors find this space.
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.