In this episode, host Victoria Gaba sits down with Maddie to discuss her remarkable journey through two vastly different pregnancy and birth experiences, beginning with Maddie's unexpected transition into motherhood at just sixteen years old. Despite a PCOS diagnosis that suggested future fertility hurdles, Maddie’s early experience as a teen parent set the stage for a learning advocacy and grit, ultimately leading her to a high-risk plus-size pregnancy with Di-Di twins years later.

This second journey brought a new set of medical complexities, from the initial shock of discovering multiples during a routine ultrasound to the daily management of diet-controlled gestational diabetes. As her pregnancy progressed, Maddie navigated the physical and emotional weight of being a plus-size mother, confronting societal stigmas and medical biases while her body worked overtime to carry two babies toward a safe delivery.

The narrative takes a critical turn as Maddie describes the sudden onset of severe preeclampsia symptoms—including vision spots, chronic migraines, and significant swelling—which necessitated an immediate hospital admission and a traumatic emergency C-section. She offers a raw, unfiltered look at the grueling realities of a magnesium drip and the physical toll of a spinal block that required seven attempts before successful placement. Once her twins arrived at thirty-four weeks, the family began a month-long NICU journey characterized by the use of CPAPs, NG tubes, and the delicate balance of "touch time" and "scent cloth" bonding. Maddie concludes the episode with a transparent discussion on postpartum depression (PPD) and the unique challenges of parenting multiples alongside a seven-year-old, all while managing the external pressures and commentary often directed at plus-size women during their postpartum recovery.

Resources Mentioned:

Hand to Hold NICU Support

Episode 6 | Sydney’s Story

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Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy and health needs.

In this episode, host Victoria Gaba sits down with first-time mom Cera to unpack the raw and empowering reality of navigating a plus-size pregnancy and a successful vaginal birth after induction. Cera shares her journey from the surprise of a quick conception after thirteen years on birth control to the nuances of receiving "high-risk" prenatal care due to her BMI. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of self-advocacy in the delivery room, explaining how she navigated medical weight stigma, opted for midwifery care, and managed gestational hypertension with a proactive medical team.

The heart of the episode dives into the details of Cera’s 37-week induction, where she discusses the physical hurdles of the Foley balloon, the decision to use an epidural to help her body relax and dilate, and the "fireworks" moment of finally meeting her daughter. Cera also pulls back the curtain on the postpartum fourth trimester, offering a vulnerable look at the mental health toll of low milk supply and the grueling cycle of triple feeding. By sharing her transition to formula and her firm belief that fed is best, Cera provides a supportive roadmap for any parent feeling the pressure of "perfect" breastfeeding.

Whether you are interested in the mechanics of an anterior placenta, looking for tips on managing morning sickness, or seeking a boost of confidence for your own plus-size birth story, this episode is a testament to the fact that our bodies are capable, resilient, and worthy of compassionate care.

Resources Mentioned:

The Heavyweight Midwife

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If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe! Your support helps us reach more plus-size women and share the stories that matter.

Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy and health needs.

In this episode, We sit down with Allison to discuss her incredible journey from a decade of fertility struggles to the birth of her "miracle baby," Juniper. Allison shares the raw reality of navigating pregnancy with PCOS and endometriosis, including the specific 30-day hormone reset that finally led to a positive test.

The conversation dives deep into the unexpected side effects of pregnancy—from extreme arm numbness and ear infections to a sudden pre-eclampsia diagnosis at 37 weeks. Allison also provides a beautiful and rare look at her Navajo cultural traditions, explaining how they influenced her choices regarding medical interventions, labor practices, and the sacred handling of the placenta.

Whether you’re curious about C-section recovery, the stress of a NICU stay following a failed car seat test, or managing postpartum anxiety and high blood pressure, Allison’s story is a testament to the power of self-advocacy and the resilience of a mother’s intuition.

#plussizepregnancy #biggerthanbirth #Induction #Csectionmom

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Gauge Girl Fitness

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If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe! Your support helps us reach more plus-size women and share the stories that matter.

Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy and health needs.