The Labor Room

#34. From A Traumatic Birth To 4 Successful VBACs & How This Mama Turned Her Trauma Into Her Full Time Career As An OBGYN with Naomi Whittaker

Heather Knezic, RN Season 1 Episode 34

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In this empowering episode of The Labor Room, I sit down with Dr. Naomi Whittaker, an OBGYN and mom of five (soon to be six), to discuss her inspiring journey of reclaiming her birth experiences after a traumatic first delivery. Dr. Whittaker shares how her first birth, a primary cesarean due to a misdiagnosis of Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD), shaped her determination to achieve four successful VBACs.

We dive into her transformative birth stories, exploring the emotional and physical aspects of healing from trauma and navigating VBACs. Dr. Whittaker also opens up about how her personal experiences influenced her decision to become an OBGYN and how she’s now making a difference for moms navigating their own pregnancy journeys.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • Dr. Whittaker’s traumatic first birth story and what she learned from her misdiagnosis of CPD.
  • How she successfully achieved four VBACs, even after a challenging start.
  • The connection between her personal birth experiences and her professional career as an OBGYN.
  • Practical, actionable advice for moms on advocating for themselves and their ideal birth experience.

Whether you're preparing for a VBAC, healing from a past birth trauma, or just looking for inspiration to feel empowered as a birthing mom, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and expert advice.

Resources Mentioned:
The Birth Plan Accelerator Course
The FREE BIrth Plan Blueprint
The Reel that connected Heather & Naomi
 The Reel Heather mentioned about a resident who pushed her over the edge
The Reel Naomi mentioned about C-Section preferences
The Reel Naomi mentioned about sewing up a chicken breast

Connect with Heather:

Connect With Naomi: 

The Birth Plan Accelerator is your ultimate step-by-step guide to creating a birth plan that works for you. This course empowers you to confidently communicate your preferences, navigate unexpected situations, and ensure your birth experience feels supported and informed. Whether you're planning a hospital delivery, home birth, or anything in between, you'll gain the tools to make your voice heard, reduce fear, and feel prepared for the birth you’ve envisioned. Take charge of your birth journey with clarity and confidence—because every mom deserves to feel in control on the big day.

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