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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. 218: Understanding ECMO & Flight Transport
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In this episode of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast, Kayleigh sits down with Derek Grassley, RN CEN, CFRN, CCRN, NRP, FP-C WP-C - a flight nurse and ECMO specialist, to break down what ECMO is, when it’s used, and why it can be life-saving for critically ill pregnant and postpartum patients.
This powerful conversation pulls back the curtain on critical care, emergency transport, and the realities of caring for patients at the edge of survival.
🩺 In this episode, we cover:
🫀 What ECMO is and the difference between VV and VA ECMO
🚑 Why and when ECMO is used, including AFE, cardiac arrest, and respiratory failure
⚖️ Risks and ethical considerations of ECMO care
✈️ Flight nursing & critical care transport explained
🤰 Unique challenges of transporting pregnant and postpartum patients
🏥 Access to ECMO, especially in rural and underserved areas
🧠 The emotional toll of caring for critically ill patients
🎧 This episode is a must-listen for survivors, clinicians, and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of critical care in pregnancy and postpartum.
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.