Faithful Labor | Natural Birth, Pregnancy, Holistic, VBAC, Unmedicated

14. Wanting A Natural Birth? Here Are The Top 5 Things You Can Do To Avoid An Epidural (Mini-Series Part 3B)

If you’re hoping for an unmedicated birth and want to avoid an epidural, this episode is for you! Whether you’re newly pregnant, preparing for your first natural birth, or looking for a different experience after a medicated birth, I’m walking you through five essential steps to help you labor naturally with confidence as you forgo using the most common labor intervention in the 21st century. 
In this episode, you’ll hear:✨ Why education is KEY to overcoming fear and trusting God’s design for birth✨ How your birth team can make or break your natural birth plan✨ Practical pain management techniques to help you cope during labor✨ The mindset shift that can transform your birth experience✨ How fueling your body well sets you up for success
💛 You were created for this, mama! 
Resources & Links:
📖 Books & Resources Mentioned:
Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth
Optimal Care in Childbirth (The Case for a Physiologic Approach) by Henri Goer and Amy Romano
The Good Birth Course by Brittany McCardle of the Biblical Birth School 
Episode 03. How To Relax in Early Labor Using the Limp Noodle Approach 
FREE Scripture-Based Birth Cards
🔗 Want more Christ-centered birth encouragement?
📩 Join my bi-weekly newsletter for faith-filled birth encouragement, tips, and exclusive content https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/newsletter 
💬 Connect with like-minded mamas in my new (& free to join!) Facebook Community Group!
🌿 Follow along on Instagram (although I am currently inactive on there -- getting more eyeball time with my kids right now! @faithful.labor
🖥️ Visit my website for more resources: (coming SOON!)
🎙️ Did you love this episode?If this was helpful, please consider leaving a review, sharing with a fellow mama, and subscribing so you never miss an episode! Your support helps more moms discover the beauty of God’s design for birth.
Until next time, keep trusting, keep seeking His will, and keep laboring faithfully with God & for His glory! 💛

13. Wanting a Natural Birth? Here Are The Top 5 Things You Can Do to Avoid an Epidural (Mini Series Part 3A)

If you’re hoping for an unmedicated birth and want to avoid an epidural, this episode is for you! Whether you’re newly pregnant, preparing for your first natural birth, or looking for a different experience after a medicated birth, I’m walking you through five essential steps to help you labor naturally with confidence as you forgo using the most common labor intervention in the 21st century. 
In this episode, you’ll hear:✨ Why education is KEY to overcoming fear and trusting God’s design for birth✨ How your birth team can make or break your natural birth plan✨ Practical pain management techniques to help you cope during labor✨ The mindset shift that can transform your birth experience✨ How fueling your body well sets you up for success
💛 You were created for this, mama! 
Resources & Links:
📖 Books & Resources Mentioned:
Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth
Optimal Care in Childbirth (The Case for a Physiologic Approach) by Henri Goer and Amy Romano
The Good Birth Course by Brittany McCardle of the Biblical Birth School 
🔗 Want more Christ-centered birth encouragement?
📩 Join my bi-weekly newsletter for faith-filled birth encouragement, tips, and exclusive content https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/newsletter 
💬 Connect with like-minded mamas in my new (& free to join!) Facebook Community Group!
🌿 Follow along on Instagram (although I am currently inactive on there -- getting more eyeball time with my kids right now! @faithful.labor
🖥️ Visit my website for more resources: (coming SOON!)
🎙️ Did you love this episode?If this was helpful, please consider leaving a review, sharing with a fellow mama, and subscribing so you never miss an episode! Your support helps more moms discover the beauty of God’s design for birth.
Until next time, keep trusting, keep seeking His will, and keep laboring faithfully with God & for His glory! 💛

12. Feeling Anxious About Adding to Your Family or Going Through Pregnancy? 3 Biblical Reminders to Root You In Truth

Have you ever felt a wave of fear or anxiety hit you after seeing those two pink lines? The reality of living in a changing body, the possibility of sickness, the timing of adding to your family wasn't what you had planned... Maybe you’re further along in your pregnancy, and doubt is creeping in about how you’ll manage another little one or even just handle one baby if this will be your first...
Hey. I see you, friend.
And so does our gracious, Heavenly Father -- and today, I want to bring you three truth-filled reminders to anchor your heart back where it belongs—on the Lord, His Word & the steady hope we have in Him through His perfect love & unwavering care for us. 
In this episode, you'll hear me talk about:✨ The first and most powerful thing to do when fear arises—pray! (Yes, it’s simple, but it's also easy to lay aside if we're not intentional)✨ A reminder that God is not surprised by your pregnancy—His plans are always good and we can trust Him in His timing, always.✨ The Biblical truth that children are a blessing, not a burden (even if raising them IS hard and requires sacrifice), no matter what culture tries to say.
 
📖 Scriptures Referenced:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Isaiah 40:11 – “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
Psalm 103:14 – “For he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.”
Psalm 127:3 – “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
Exodus 1:7 – “But the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them.”
Mama, you are not alone in this. Your Father sees you, knows you, and will provide for you. Take a deep breath, grab a journal, and let’s press into His truth together today.
 
📩Want to connect with me - Please do!:
💻 Website: *coming soon!*
📸 Instagram: @faithful.labor
📧 Email: audrey@faithfullabor.com
FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: Natural Birth Prep for Kinda Crunchy, Christian Moms
Other links:
Free Resource: Download my Scripture-Based Birth Cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during pregnancy and labor.
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/faithful
👉 If this episode blessed you, would you take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts? It helps more mamas like you find encouragement!
💛 With you in this Faithful Labor,
Audrey

11. Pregnancy After 40 & Leaving a Legacy of Holistic Health with Fertility Coach Susan Gladstein

In today’s episode, we’re diving into faith, fertility, and holistic health—particularly when it comes to conceiving after vasectomy reversal, pregnancy after 40, & caring for the bodies God has given us in a holistically mindful way. 
My guest, Susan Gladstein, is a holistic fertility practitioner, health coach, and mom of seven. After being faced with the challenges that come with trying to conceive following a vasectomy reversal, she became passionate about helping other mothers and couples couples navigate the journey to pregnancy with hope, faith, and holistic wellness.
Susan’s testimony includes having a miracle baby at 40, experiencing a miscarriage, and now being pregnant again at 44—all while leaning into God’s faithfulness & prioritizing her health.
She shares her wisdom on why medical labels like “geriatric pregnancy” shouldn’t define your journey, how faith sustains you through fertility struggles, and why your health choices today impact generations to come.
So whether you’re trying to conceive, preparing for birth, or needing encouragement as a mother, this episode will give you faith-filled wisdom and holistic health insights to trust God’s plan for your fertility and pregnancy journey.
Some topics we cover:
The impact of holistic health on fertility and pregnancy after 40.
Why the term "geriatric pregnancy" is misleading—and how to reject fear-based labels.
How faith strengthens you through miscarriage, pregnancy loss, and waiting seasons.
Why your health today shapes your children’s future and family legacy.
Mentions:
Connect with Susan!:
Instagram: @coachsusangladstein | @conceivingaftervr
Podcast: Conceiving After Vasectomy Reversal
Website: www.susangladstein.com
Email: susan@susangladstein.com
Free Resource: Download my Scripture-Based Birth Cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during pregnancy and labor.
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/faithful 
Enjoy today’s episode?
The best way to let me know is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one & they truly bless my heart!) & by sharing this episode with a fellow mama who needs encouragement today.
🎧 Apple Podcasts
Join My Community:
***COMING NEXT WEEK***
If you’re looking for more resources, future community updates, or birth encouragement, make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast and following along on Instagram.
Want to connect with me directly? Please do!📧 Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Blessings,Audrey
 
Time Stamps: 
00:00 Introduction to a Unique Mission02:50 The Journey into Holistic Health06:01 Embracing Parenthood at 4008:44 Faith and Fertility Challenges11:29 Navigating Miscarriage and Trusting God13:59 The Power of Faith in Fertility16:55 Expectations vs. Reality in Birth Experiences23:02 Embracing the Unknown in Parenting Choices24:59 Holistic Health: A Foundation for Recovery26:15 Redefining Geriatric Pregnancy28:34 Challenging Societal Norms on Age and Parenthood30:03 The Importance of Mindset in Health and Fertility34:15 Assessing Health for Better Fertility Outcomes36:40 Mindset Shifts for Healthier Pregnancies41:39 Encouragement for Moms Considering More Children
 

10. Still Unsure About The Epidural? Here's 4 NEED-To-Know Ways It Can Affect Your Baby (Mini-Series Part 2)

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the often-overlooked impact of epidurals on our precious babies.
While many women are aware of how epidurals affect mom, the effects on baby are often swept under the rug.
So whether you’re considering an epidural OR have already made the decision to avoid it & need some extra motivation to stay the course, this episode will give you 4 compelling reasons to pause and reflect on your choices surrounding this extremely common intervention. 
This episode is all about providing you with the education and empowerment to make a fully informed decision (no shame and guilt allowed <3 ) —so that you can trust God’s design for your birth and your baby’s health.
What You’ll Learn:
4 ways epidurals can affect baby during birth
How an epidural can interfere with the vital early bonding time and breastfeeding
The potential long-term health implications of epidural use on your baby’s immune system
Why trusting God’s natural design for labor can benefit both you and your baby
Mentions:
Link to submit your birth story
Free Scripture-Based Birth Cards: Download these cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during your pregnancy and labor.
Enjoy today’s episode?
The best way to let me know is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one & they truly bless my heart!) & by sharing this episode with a fellow mama who needs this encouragement today.
 Apple Podcasts
Join Our Community:I don’t have a community group (yet!) but I’d love for you to stay connected and be part of this movement. If you’re looking for more resources, future community updates, or birth encouragement, make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast and following along on Instagram 
Want to connect with me directly? Please do!
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Blessings,Audrey
 
Sources: 
Study: "The Effect of Epidural Analgesia on Onset of Lactation" (Journal of Pediatrics, 2006)
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16549214/
Study: "Epidural Anesthesia and Its Effects on Neonates" (Breastfeeding Medicine, 2012)
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3481815/
Study: "Association of Epidural Analgesia With Cesarean Delivery in Nulliparous Women" (American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2014)
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25212169/
Study: "Fetal Heart Rate Changes After Epidural Analgesia" (Journal of Clinical Anesthesia, 2009)
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19329041/
Study: "Mode of Delivery and Its Impact on the Infant Gut Microbiota" (Nature Communications, 2019)
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-13014-7
Study: "Impact of Intrapartum Antibiotics on Neonatal Gut Microbiota" (Journal of Pediatrics, 2018)
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30154141/
Study: "Maternal-Fetal Neuroendocrine Signaling in Labor" (Physiology & Behavior, 2015)
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842330/
Study: "The Role of Beta-Endorphins in Natural Labor" (Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2020)
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2020.599531/full

09.How Overcoming Birth Trauma Led a RN to Understand & Trust God's Design for Birth with Aly McClain

Have you ever felt like birth was something to endure rather than embrace? Or maybe fear of the unknown made you outsource every decision to the “experts” without considering what aligns with God’s design?
In today’s episode, I sit down with Aly McClain(host of the Peaceful Homebirth Podcast), a registered nurse whose own journey through birth trauma led her to unlearn mainstream narratives, question the fear-based approach to birth, and rediscover the beauty of God's design. She shares how she moved from total fear and avoidance to confidently choosing home birth, and how this process deepened her faith and understanding of God’s heart for birth and motherhood.
Some things you'll hear us cover in today's episode:
• How birth trauma led Aly to re-evaluate the medical model of birth• Why fear often causes women to surrender decision-making to providers• The importance of asking, "What aligns with God's design for birth?"• How home birth became her default choice (and why she believes all women should consider it first)• The spiritual and emotional healing that can happen through pregnancy and birth
Mentions
 Have your own birth story to share? Submit it HERE for a chance to be featured in a future episode!
Listen to Part 1 of my interview on Aly's Podcast HERE
Listen to Part 2 of my interview on Aly's Podcast HERE
 Scripture-Based Birth Cards
 Connect with Aly McClain: IG- @peacefulhomebirth, Schedule a free 30 minute Birth Strategy Call with Aly HERE,Join her FB community HERE
Enjoy today’s episode?
The best way to let me know is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one & they truly bless my heart!) and by sharing this episode with a fellow mama who needs this encouragement today.
Want to connect with me directly?
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Blessings,Audrey

08. What IS an Epidural, Anyway? (Mini-Series Part 1)

But I thought you were "kinda crunchy"? Why are you talking about ePiDurAls?
Well. Here's the thing, epidurals are THE most common childbirth intervention in the western maternity model of care and, just as with EVERYTHING else related to birth, I believe that being informed and educated about ALL your options (including this one) is extremely important. 
We need to know what we are saying "no" to AND what we are saying "yes" to when we decline or accept any interventions during labor. And I hope this little mini-series on epidurals equips you to be able to do just that! 
 
Some things you'll hear me cover in today's episode:
The history of the epidural
How the epidural works in the body
How the epidural is administered
Potential costs of the epidural
A birth story submitted by one of my listener's! (Brittany Corn) 
Mentions:
Have your own birth story to tell?? I'd love to read it & feature it on a future episode! Share it with me HERE
Scripture-Based Birth Cards 
Enjoy today's episode? 
***The best way to let me know you did is by leaving me a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one of them & they are truly such a blessing to my heart) & by sharing it with a fellow mama who could be helped or encouraged through tuning in to today's episode too! ***
Want to connect with me directly? Please do! 
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Blessings, 
Audrey
 
Resources:
1. History of Epidurals:
   - [National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): History of Epidural Techniques](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)  
2. Administration of Epidurals:
   - [Mayo Clinic: Epidural Procedures During Childbirth](https://www.mayoclinic.org)  
   - [Evidence-Based Birth: Epidurals](https://evidencebasedbirth.com)  
3. Drugs Used in Epidurals:
   - [Healthline: Understanding Epidural Medications](https://www.healthline.com)  
   - [Cochrane Library: Opioid Use in Labor](https://www.cochranelibrary.com)  
4. Financial Costs of Epidurals: 
   - [Parents.com: The Cost of Epidurals in Childbirth](https://www.parents.com)  
   - [Consumer Reports: Hospital Costs for Epidural Services](https://www.consumerreports.org)  
5. Luxury Epidural Options:
   - [Evidence-Based Birth: Innovations in Pain Management](https://evidencebasedbirth.com)  
 Time Stamps
(0:00) Introduction to the Epidural Mini Series(4:08) Understanding the Epidural: Pros and Cons(4:55) The Importance of Birth Stories(7:54) The History of the Epidural(7:54) How Epidurals Work: Administration and Effects(11:22) Cost of Epidurals and Insurance Coverage(17:17)Conclusion
 epidural, childbirth, birth stories, anesthesia, labor pain, maternal health, epidural history, birth experience, pain management, healthcare costs

07. Confused About What Doulas Actually Do? Let's Fix That! Bringing Clarity to a Doula's Role with Emily Errington

In today's conversation, my dear friend Emily Errington, a birth doula & the owner of Wildflower Doula Co. based in Lubbock,Tx, shares her insights on the various roles of doulas in supporting families during pregnancy, childbirth & postpartum.
Some topics you'll hear us discuss are:
The importance of birth education for BOTH parents
The dynamics between doulas & husbands  
How to navigate hospital birth plans
The differences between nurse vs. doula support 
Navigating the complexities of various birth experiences
The importance of emotional support during postpartum
The role of faith in navigating labor's challenges.
Where can you follow along or connect with Emily? 
Wildflower Doula Co. on IG
I pray this conversation blesses you as much as it did me & that you leave it feeling more clear on WHAT a doula actually does & if hiring one for your upcoming birth is the best call for you.
Want to connect with me directly? Please do! 
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Enjoy today's episode? 
***The best way to let me know you did is by leaving me a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one of them & they are truly such a blessing to my heart) & by sharing it with a fellow mama who could be helped or encouraged through tuning in to today's episode too! ***
 
Blessings, 
Audrey
 
Time Stamps
(0:00) Introduction(3:08) Understanding the Role of a Doula(6:05) Want an Epidural? Here's What You Need to Know(8:57) The Importance of Education in Birth(11:53) Navigating Hospital Birth Plans(14:58) The Role of Nurses vs. Doulas(17:50) Advocating for Your Birth Preferences(29:40) Navigating Birth Plans and Interventions(31:52) Postpartum Support and Emotional Healing(36:01) The Role of Doulas in Birth Experiences(42:41) Faith and Peace in Birth Experiences(54:19) Final Thoughts on Birth Preparation and Support
What's covered today: doula, birth support, epidural, labor education, hospital birth, birth plan, maternal health, childbirth, doula role, birth experience, birth, postpartum, doula, emotional support, faith, interventions, labor, motherhood, healing, birth experience
 

06. Following, Obeying & Trusting the Lord in Birth, Birthwork & Beyond with founder of The Biblical Birth School - Brittany McCardle

In today's episode I have the absolute JOY of interviewing my friend and mentor Brittany McCardle of the Biblical Birth School. 
Brittany is a wife, mom to *almost* 7, a childbirth educator, certified doula & founder for the Biblical Birth School -- a certification organization which trains & equips birth workers with a robust education on all matters of birth through a CHRISTIAN perspective. 
I have completed Brittany's Childbirth Educator program and am currently enrolled in her Doula appointed program -- and let me just say, her programs are terrific. Thorough, FILLED with resources, book lists, community with like-minded, aspiring birth workers & ongoing, attentive support from Brittany herself. 
Cannot recommend her or her programs highly enough. 
We cover a WIDE variety of topics today like: 
What does the Bible say about eating your placenta
Family planning & birth control 
What to do if I feel called to birth work but also feel woefully ill-equipped 
What does it look like to trust God in choosing your birth location 
How to represent Christ well when we speak about ANY topics (but obviously birth-specifically) on social media
And more
It's a mixed bag. I'm here for it & I hope you are too!
Where can you follow along or connect with Brittany? 
The Biblical Birth School
@thebiblicalbirthschool
The Biblical Birth Podcast
FREE "Is God Calling Me to Birthwork?" E-book!
I pray this conversation blesses you as much as it did me & that you leave listening to it feeling encouraged & excited & full of deeper faith as you prepare to labor with God & for His glory! Enjoy!
 
Want to connect with me directly? Please do! 
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Enjoy today's episode? 
***The best way to let me know you did is by leaving me a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one of them & they are truly such a blessing to my heart) & by sharing it with a fellow mama who could be helped or encouraged through tuning in to today's episode too! 
 
Blessings, 
Audrey
 

05. My HBA2C (Homebirth After 2 C-sections) Story

Yes, I know it's odd that I am choosing to share about my SECOND home birth // VBAC delivery before I share about my first, buuuuut 
#1 I've actually already shared about my first homebirth on my friend Aly's podcast The Peaceful Home Birth Podcast (go take a listen!) 
#2 WHEN I share about my first homebirth on here, I want to do it in an interview format WITH my husband so he can share his unique perspective on how husband's can support and take an active role in supporting their wives during labor! 
So keep your eye out for that sometime in the future! 
MENTIONS: 
Birth Song 
Birth Playlist
Share your birth story or apply to be interviewed on the podcast here!
FREE Scripture-Based Birth Cards that my sweet daughter read over me during labor 
Birth Supplies! -- including my labor outfit 
I pray hearing my story encourages, inspires and excites you to partner with the Lord in your OWN upcoming labor! 
And remember, God is forever faithful. His loves endures forever. He will never leave you nor forsake you and He will be with you even until the end of the age (so, yes, that includes during your birth). Trust & believe & receive that Truth, friend. 
Blessings, 
Audrey
Want to connect with me directly? Please do! 
Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com
Enjoy today's episode? 
The best way to let me know you did is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or by taking a screen shot of today's episode and tagging me at @faithful.labor