S5 EP157: Holly Phillips: Hospital Births + Homebirth/Induction/Private OB/Hypertension Diagnosis/Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Perinatal Depression/Perinatal OCD Diagnosis/'High' BMI

Today on the podcast, Holly, a mother of three beautiful boys, shares her contrasting birth experiences and her journey with mental health. At 21, just before a powerlifting competition, Holly unexpectedly discovered she was pregnant. With no prior understanding of physiological birth or available care models, she takes us through the path she chose while navigating a diagnosis of hypertension due to high blood pressure readings.

When she became pregnant with her second child, Holly knew she wanted a more aligned experience. She found an OB who immediately recognised that her previous hypertension diagnosis was actually white coat hypertension, a condition where anxiety in clinical settings causes elevated blood pressure readings. Navigating profound mental health challenges during this pregnancy, Holly shares how connecting with a practitioner helped her manage her mental well-being.

Holly then takes us through the experience of her dream third birth at home and the fight she faced with her BMI reading. A story of unwavering determination and resilience, she shares her journey, filled with highs, lows, and invaluable lessons.

Show Notes:

Personal Instagram: @mshollyphillips

Prolapse Journey: @mum.form

Doula: @the_homegrown_doula

Private Midwife: @sacredmoonmidwifery

Psychologist: Your Place Psychology

Mentioned in this episode:

Positive Birth Australia Birth Affirmations Tracks Available Now!

Did you know that studies have shown affirmations can significantly boost self-esteem and reduce stress? Here at Positive Birth Australia, we’ve crafted a 20-minute affirmation to guide you to deeply remember the power you hold within. And to my fellow Belly Birth mothers, we’ve created a track specifically for you, to honour that all birth is sacred. For only $5, you can download at www.positivebirthaustralia.com and immerse yourself in our affirmations track to transform your mindset.

Positive Birth Australia