This week we chart the high seas with birth cartographer, author and artist Catherine Bell. A former marine biologist Catherine is now completing her PhD on 'Birth Mapping' which looks at how health care providers can work with birthing women to pursue mutually beneficial pathways in all birth settings. We cover: - What the difference is between a birth plan and a birth map - The importance of your birth partner and support person in birth - How to ensure your care provider is on board with your VBAC pathway - How we can facilitate true women centred care and decision making in birth We hope you enjoy our second bonus episode and find it a useful compass on your birth journey. ~ Notes ~ Catherine Bell - https://www.bellabirth.org/the-birth-map.html Catherine Bell on Instagram - @birthmapping Midwife Thinking Dr Rachel Reed - https://midwifethinking.com/ Dr Sarah Wickham - https://www.sarawickham.com/ Monty Python - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jg40EjBEWM0 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