Welcome to Season 3 of VBAC Birth Stories! In today's episode we chat to Melbourne mum of two and registered nurse, Michelle. Michelle went into spontaneous labour with her first child but was recommended to have an emergency caesarean close to the finish line of her labour, but Michelle wouldn't say it was a true "emergency" in the sense of the word. Michelle returned to hospital in her second pregnancy but did not feel supported in her quest to have a VBAC - this coupled with a bit of perinatal anxiety and covid hospital restrictions Michelle took control of her second birth in the final trimester, and ultimately hired a private midwife to birth her baby boy at home. She speaks of the challenges with her recovery after having a VBAC too which is very insightful, and we thank Michelle for her honesty. We hope you enjoy listening to Michelle's story, we know there's a lot to take away from her journey whether you are on a VBAC journey yourself or a maternity care provider listening in. Please feel free to connect with Michelle on Instagram @michelleparis.mitchell ~ PATREON ~ Please consider joining our Patreon if you would like to show your support for the podcast from just AUD $2.00 a month: https://www.patreon.com/vbacbirthstories ~ AFFILIATES ~ Access discounts with our amazing affiliates: Birth Time film: USE DISCOUNT CODE: CICADA20 https://www.birthtime.world/a/2147503775/Eb2Kfvxt Partum Panties: USE DISCOUNT CODE: Vbacbirthstories https://www.partumpanties.com.au The Birth Store: USE DISCOUNT CODE: VBAC https://thebirthstore.com.au ~ Notes ~ Doula & Osteopath: Bonnie Maplestone https://www.bonniemaplestone.com.au Birth Photographer: kateleephotography.com.au VBAC Australia Support Group (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=vbac%20australia%20support%20group Post Natal Depression/Anxiety support: If you or anyone you know is affected by PND symptoms particularly at this time of COVID-19 please don't hesitate to contact the following support networks. The Gidget Foundation https://gidgetfoundation.org.au/get-support/, PANDA https://www.panda.org.au/info-support/pandas-national-perinatal-anxiety-depression-helpline Beyond Blue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support Cope https://www.cope.org.au **VBAC Birth Stories features women's lived experiences. It is not intended to replace medical advice. Should you have any concerns during your pregnancy please always consult your healthcare provider. Please connect with us on Facebook or Instagram: @vbacbirthstories