Not every birth goes according to plan and that can be really hard to talk about. In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln is joined by OB-GYN Dr. Maryanne Garvie and nurse Courtney Dimmick, who share a uniquely personal and professional perspective on what happens when things take an unexpected turn. Maryanne was Courtney’s doctor during her delivery and they also work together at the same hospital, offering a rare look at both sides of the experience. Through Courtney’s story and their shared insight, they unpack how quickly situations can change, what’s happening behind the scenes during emergencies, and how to navigate the emotional impact when birth doesn’t go as planned.

We Talk About...

• What it really means when “things don’t go as planned” during birth

• Postpartum hemorrhage, emergency interventions, and what’s happening behind the scenes

• Why birth trauma is personal and not defined by outcomes alone

• How to prepare for the unexpected without spiraling into fear

• What support, communication, and informed consent should look like in real time

• Processing a difficult birth experience and why your feelings are valid

Pre-Order The Birth Book: An OB-GYN's Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery here!

Follow your host @drjenniferlincoln

Episode Links & Resources:

1. Postpartum Support International: Resources for postpartum depression, anxiety, trauma, and more

2. Make Birth Better — UK-based organization with excellent informational PDFs

3. Birth Trauma Association — UK-based, extensive information and support

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