The Birth Hour - A Birth Story Podcast 1000| IVF, Postpartum Preeclampsia, and Redemptive Repeat Cesarean Birth Story - Lauren Phillips
Aug 21, 2025
Lauren Phillips, an environmental lawyer and community organizer, shares her heartfelt journey through IVF and postpartum preeclampsia, shedding light on the emotional struggles of C-section recovery. She emphasizes the importance of community support and mental health for expectant mothers. Abigail Bertelsen, founder of Zenith Health, discusses innovative tools designed to help women access evidence-based pregnancy information. Together, they advocate for improved maternal health outcomes and share insights on the significance of informed healthcare.
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Multiple Risk Factors Compound Preeclampsia
- Lauren connected risk factors: induction, C-section, race, and prior COVID exposure increased her preeclampsia risk. She felt dismissed by providers who minimized her COVID-related risk and lack of postpartum guidance.
Prioritize Postpartum Mental Health Early
- Seek mental health support early if you feel depressed or anxious after birth, even when you know the cause. Start therapy or EMDR sooner rather than waiting for panic attacks to emerge.
Fresh Start And Different Mindset For Pregnancy Two
- For her second pregnancy Lauren sought a fresh start: new hospital, new doctor, and the same doula aiming for a VBAC. She prepared differently, accepting that she might still need a C-section but wanting to know she tried everything.