Childbirth is an intimate dance, a divine orchestration of life entering the world. Audrey Ross, an expert on physiological childbirth, joins us to share profound insights into this transformative experience. Through her narrative, we traverse the journey from honoring the physiological process of birth to advocating for personal birth choices, defying the conventional medical model.
The podcast begins with a discussion on “God’s Design for Birth.” Audrey recounts her family’s legacy of vaginal breech deliveries. And, her astonishment at the medical community’s resistance to this natural occurrence. Her personal tale of a steadfast refusal to conform to hospital protocols during her breech pregnancy underscores the importance of trusting one’s body and advocating for birth preferences, even within the walls of a clinical setting.
Midwife vs. Birth Keeper
The conversation takes a poignant turn as we discuss the challenges faced by home births and midwives. Audrey illuminates the emotional toll when medical professionals dismiss women’s choices. Terms like “proven pelvis” are used to undermine the confidence of expectant mothers. The dialogue touches upon the legal battles over the term “midwife.” This prompted the rise of the term “birth keeper” as a symbol of those who safeguard the natural birth process. The hurdles licensed midwives face, often coerced into conforming to state laws and hospital policies, reveal the stark reality of the medicalization of birth.
Childbirth Interventions: Cervical Checks, Membrane Sweeps, Castor Oil
In a chapter on trust in birth and the importance of motherhood, we delve into the misconceptions and risks associated with common childbirth interventions. The discussion highlights the body’s natural defense mechanisms. This includes the protection of the cervix and the dangers of introducing foreign bacteria through unwarranted procedures. We critique common methods like membrane sweeps and castor oil. We discuss their potential to disrupt the natural labor process and underscore the significance of trusting the body’s timing and the design of childbirth.
The impact of birth environments on the spiritual and emotional essence of motherhood is another compelling topic. Audrey reflects on the stark differences between medicalized births and those that occur in more natural settings. This underscores the importance of advocating for an undisturbed and instinctual birth process. She draws parallels between human and animal birthing behaviors, emphasizing the need for a calm and unobserved environment for successful natural birth experiences.
Cultivating Birth Wisdom with Audrey Ross: Learning Moments
The value of educating children about the natural process of birth is also examined. Audrey suggests that exposure to home births can demystify the birthing process, promote a healthy understanding of sexuality, and challenge societal pressures. She asserts that the postpartum body should be celebrated as part of the divine design, providing the perfect nurturing environment for a newborn.
As the episode concludes, we invite you to join Audrey on Instagram! Her passion for educating and inspiring through her platform, @ajoyfulbirth, offers a beacon of hope and empowerment for those on their birth journey.
This podcast episode, rich with wisdom and reverence for the natural rhythm of childbirth, serves as a testament to the strength of motherhood and the beauty of life’s transitions. It leaves listeners with a deeper appreciation for the sacred dance of bringing life into the world, a marvel to be honored and cherished.
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 78
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Guest: Audrey Ross @ajoyfulbirth
Thank you for listening to The Radiant Mission podcast! We are on a mission to encourage and inspire you on your walk with Christ and as you journey through life.
In Episode 78 we discuss learning moments and cultivate birth wisdom from Audrey Ross, a mother and birth keeper.
Bible Verses Mentioned
1 Thessalonians 5:24
Resources
Visit Audrey on Instagram @ajoyfulbirth and on her website ajoyfulbirth.org
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