Podcast Episode #267
VBAC birth story with Tenae
In this episode, I talk with Tenae, a mum of three, who opens up about her powerful VBAC birth story — from an unexpected emergency caesarean to two empowering vaginal births after caesarean. Her story is honest, emotional, and full of insights for anyone navigating pregnancy, birth choices, and recovery.
In this episode, we discuss:
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Tenae’s experience of her first emergency caesarean just before the pandemic
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How feelings of failure and isolation led her to seek an empowered VBAC
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The decision-making process behind choosing a VBAC, and the importance of informed consent
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Overcoming hospital pressure and learning to trust her instincts
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The difference between her two VBAC births – one induced, one spontaneous
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Navigating fear, medical intervention, and unexpected challenges during labour
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Postnatal recovery: managing prolapse symptoms and rebuilding strength
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How gentle, physio-led exercises through FitNest Mama supported her healing journey
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Why every woman deserves to feel informed, supported, and confident — no matter how she gives birth
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In this article you'll find tips to:
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Prepare emotionally and physically for a VBAC birth
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Rebuild confidence after a challenging or traumatic first birth
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Ask the right questions to ensure informed consent
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Balance medical advice with your own instincts and intuition
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Create a supportive birth environment that promotes calm and oxytocin flow
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Manage hospital pressure and advocate for your birth preferences
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Navigate induction, intervention, and decision-making with confidence
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Begin gentle, safe postnatal recovery exercises after birth
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Support your pelvic floor and core healing after vaginal or caesarean birth
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Recognise when to seek help and how to access supportive communities
In this podcast, I talk with Tenae, a mum of three, who shares her deeply personal and empowering VBAC birth story. From her first emergency caesarean to two very different vaginal births after caesarean. Her honesty about the challenges, decisions, and emotional recovery makes this a must-listen for any woman navigating pregnancy, birth, or postnatal healing.
From an emergency caesarean to two VBACs
Tenae’s first birth in early 2020 ended in an emergency caesarean just weeks before the pandemic. The experience left her isolated and struggling with recovery. Determined to feel empowered next time, she chose a VBAC for her second and third births, both unique in their own way, which involved courage, learning, and self-trust.
Learning to trust her body again after giving birth
After feeling disconnected from her first birth experience, Tenae educated herself about VBACs, joined online communities, and revisited her hospital notes to better understand what happened. With support from her sister, midwives, and a compassionate obstetrician, she learned how to balance medical advice with her own instincts, regaining confidence in her body’s ability to birth.
Tenae’s first VBAC
When tests showed her amniotic fluid levels dropping, Tenae decided to be induced after fully understanding her options. The labour was intense, and when the baby’s heart rate dipped, doctors prepared for surgery. But with calm communication and support from her obstetrician, she gave birth vaginally using a vacuum and episiotomy. It wasn’t “perfect”, but it was informed, empowering, and hers.
Tenae’s second VBAC
Her third birth came at 40 weeks and three days, much earlier than expected. Despite a midwife who ignored her birth plan and performed an internal procedure without consent, Tenae stayed focused. When her epidural failed and her baby’s heart rate dropped, she faced another possible caesarean — until a midwife encouraged her to push. Within moments, her baby was born vaginally, healthy and strong. The wave of oxytocin and relief that followed gave her the bonding and closure she had long hoped for.
Postnatal recovery and body connection
Recovery after her third birth was smoother. Though she experienced pelvic heaviness and early signs of prolapse, she began gentle FitNest Mama exercises focusing on breathwork, core connection, and progressive strength. Within weeks, her symptoms eased, her confidence returned, and she felt more at home in her body than ever before.
Lessons from Tenae’s VBAC birth story
- Informed consent is power. Keep asking questions until you feel confident.
- Debrief twice. Once soon after birth for facts, and later for emotional processing.
- Listen to your instincts. Your body’s signals matter as much as medical data.
- Environment influences birth. Safety, respect, and privacy support labour.
- Healing takes time. Gentle movement and self-compassion help recovery.
*** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
Links
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