Faithful Labor | Natural Birth, Pregnancy, Holistic, VBAC, Unmedicated

In this episode, I sit down with my husband, Hunter, to talk about his journey from being a passive observer to an active, faith-filled support partner in our birth experiences. Together, we share how his understanding of natural birth has evolved over the years, the ways he grew through education and experience, and why it’s so important for fathers to step into their God-given role in the birth space. From our early hospital births to our redemptive home births, Hunter opens up about how he came to trust God's design for birth, how doulas and preparation changed his confidence, and what it really means for a husband to support his wife in labor—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Whether you're a dad wondering where you fit into this process or a mama hoping your husband will be more engaged, this conversation is full of encouragement, real talk, and Christ-centered wisdom. What You’ll Learn: How Hunter’s role shifted between our first births and our later home births. Why education is powerful for dads, too. How husbands can be true team players in the labor room. Why doulas don’t replace husbands—but can help empower them. What it looks like to trust God through birth decisions together. The importance of not making birth choices out of fear. Free Resource:✨ Download my Scripture-Based Birth Cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during pregnancy and labor. Enjoy today’s episode?The best way to bless this podcast is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read every single one!), and by sharing this episode with a fellow mom—or dad—who needs some Christ-centered encouragement for their birth journey. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode! Join The Community!Natural Birth Prep for the Kinda Crunchy Christian Moms! Join My Bi-Weekly Newsletter Here! Want to connect with me directly?📧 Email: audrey@faithfullabor.com📸 Instagram: @faithful.labor Blessings,Audrey

If you’re hoping for an unmedicated birth and want to avoid an epidural, this episode is for you! Whether you’re newly pregnant, preparing for your first natural birth, or looking for a different experience after a medicated birth, I’m walking you through five essential steps to help you labor naturally with confidence as you forgo using the most common labor intervention in the 21st century. In this episode, you’ll hear:✨ Why education is KEY to overcoming fear and trusting God’s design for birth✨ How your birth team can make or break your natural birth plan✨ Practical pain management techniques to help you cope during labor✨ The mindset shift that can transform your birth experience✨ How fueling your body well sets you up for success 💛 You were created for this, mama! Resources & Links: 📖 Books & Resources Mentioned: Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth Optimal Care in Childbirth (The Case for a Physiologic Approach) by Henri Goer and Amy Romano The Good Birth Course by Brittany McCardle of the Biblical Birth School Episode 03. How To Relax in Early Labor Using the Limp Noodle Approach FREE Scripture-Based Birth Cards 🔗 Want more Christ-centered birth encouragement? 📩 Join my bi-weekly newsletter for faith-filled birth encouragement, tips, and exclusive content https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/newsletter 💬 Connect with like-minded mamas in my new (& free to join!) Facebook Community Group! 🌿 Follow along on Instagram (although I am currently inactive on there -- getting more eyeball time with my kids right now! @faithful.labor 🖥️ Visit my website for more resources: (coming SOON!) 🎙️ Did you love this episode?If this was helpful, please consider leaving a review, sharing with a fellow mama, and subscribing so you never miss an episode! Your support helps more moms discover the beauty of God’s design for birth. Until next time, keep trusting, keep seeking His will, and keep laboring faithfully with God & for His glory! 💛

Have you ever felt a wave of fear or anxiety hit you after seeing those two pink lines? The reality of living in a changing body, the possibility of sickness, the timing of adding to your family wasn't what you had planned... Maybe you’re further along in your pregnancy, and doubt is creeping in about how you’ll manage another little one or even just handle one baby if this will be your first... Hey. I see you, friend. And so does our gracious, Heavenly Father -- and today, I want to bring you three truth-filled reminders to anchor your heart back where it belongs—on the Lord, His Word & the steady hope we have in Him through His perfect love & unwavering care for us. In this episode, you'll hear me talk about:✨ The first and most powerful thing to do when fear arises—pray! (Yes, it’s simple, but it's also easy to lay aside if we're not intentional)✨ A reminder that God is not surprised by your pregnancy—His plans are always good and we can trust Him in His timing, always.✨ The Biblical truth that children are a blessing, not a burden (even if raising them IS hard and requires sacrifice), no matter what culture tries to say. 📖 Scriptures Referenced: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Isaiah 40:11 – “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” Psalm 103:14 – “For he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.” Psalm 127:3 – “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” Exodus 1:7 – “But the Israelites were exceedingly fruitful; they multiplied greatly, increased in numbers and became so numerous that the land was filled with them.” Mama, you are not alone in this. Your Father sees you, knows you, and will provide for you. Take a deep breath, grab a journal, and let’s press into His truth together today. 📩Want to connect with me - Please do!: 💻 Website: *coming soon!* 📸 Instagram: @faithful.labor 📧 Email: audrey@faithfullabor.com FACEBOOK COMMUNITY: Natural Birth Prep for Kinda Crunchy, Christian Moms Other links: Free Resource: Download my Scripture-Based Birth Cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during pregnancy and labor. Newsletter Sign-Up: https://faithfullabor.myflodesk.com/faithful 👉 If this episode blessed you, would you take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts? It helps more mamas like you find encouragement! 💛 With you in this Faithful Labor, Audrey

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the often-overlooked impact of epidurals on our precious babies. While many women are aware of how epidurals affect mom, the effects on baby are often swept under the rug. So whether you’re considering an epidural OR have already made the decision to avoid it & need some extra motivation to stay the course, this episode will give you 4 compelling reasons to pause and reflect on your choices surrounding this extremely common intervention. This episode is all about providing you with the education and empowerment to make a fully informed decision (no shame and guilt allowed <3 ) —so that you can trust God’s design for your birth and your baby’s health. What You’ll Learn: 4 ways epidurals can affect baby during birth How an epidural can interfere with the vital early bonding time and breastfeeding The potential long-term health implications of epidural use on your baby’s immune system Why trusting God’s natural design for labor can benefit both you and your baby Mentions: Link to submit your birth story Free Scripture-Based Birth Cards: Download these cards to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus during your pregnancy and labor. Enjoy today’s episode? The best way to let me know is by leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one & they truly bless my heart!) & by sharing this episode with a fellow mama who needs this encouragement today. Apple Podcasts Join Our Community:I don’t have a community group (yet!) but I’d love for you to stay connected and be part of this movement. If you’re looking for more resources, future community updates, or birth encouragement, make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast and following along on Instagram Want to connect with me directly? Please do! Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com Blessings,Audrey Sources: Study: "The Effect of Epidural Analgesia on Onset of Lactation" (Journal of Pediatrics, 2006) Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16549214/ Study: "Epidural Anesthesia and Its Effects on Neonates" (Breastfeeding Medicine, 2012) Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3481815/ Study: "Association of Epidural Analgesia With Cesarean Delivery in Nulliparous Women" (American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2014) Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25212169/ Study: "Fetal Heart Rate Changes After Epidural Analgesia" (Journal of Clinical Anesthesia, 2009) Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19329041/ Study: "Mode of Delivery and Its Impact on the Infant Gut Microbiota" (Nature Communications, 2019) Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-13014-7 Study: "Impact of Intrapartum Antibiotics on Neonatal Gut Microbiota" (Journal of Pediatrics, 2018) Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30154141/ Study: "Maternal-Fetal Neuroendocrine Signaling in Labor" (Physiology & Behavior, 2015) Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842330/ Study: "The Role of Beta-Endorphins in Natural Labor" (Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2020) https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2020.599531/full

But I thought you were "kinda crunchy"? Why are you talking about ePiDurAls? Well. Here's the thing, epidurals are THE most common childbirth intervention in the western maternity model of care and, just as with EVERYTHING else related to birth, I believe that being informed and educated about ALL your options (including this one) is extremely important. We need to know what we are saying "no" to AND what we are saying "yes" to when we decline or accept any interventions during labor. And I hope this little mini-series on epidurals equips you to be able to do just that! Some things you'll hear me cover in today's episode: The history of the epidural How the epidural works in the body How the epidural is administered Potential costs of the epidural A birth story submitted by one of my listener's! (Brittany Corn) Mentions: Have your own birth story to tell?? I'd love to read it & feature it on a future episode! Share it with me HERE Scripture-Based Birth Cards Enjoy today's episode? ***The best way to let me know you did is by leaving me a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one of them & they are truly such a blessing to my heart) & by sharing it with a fellow mama who could be helped or encouraged through tuning in to today's episode too! *** Want to connect with me directly? Please do! Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com Blessings, Audrey Resources: 1. History of Epidurals: - [National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): History of Epidural Techniques](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) 2. Administration of Epidurals: - [Mayo Clinic: Epidural Procedures During Childbirth](https://www.mayoclinic.org) - [Evidence-Based Birth: Epidurals](https://evidencebasedbirth.com) 3. Drugs Used in Epidurals: - [Healthline: Understanding Epidural Medications](https://www.healthline.com) - [Cochrane Library: Opioid Use in Labor](https://www.cochranelibrary.com) 4. Financial Costs of Epidurals: - [Parents.com: The Cost of Epidurals in Childbirth](https://www.parents.com) - [Consumer Reports: Hospital Costs for Epidural Services](https://www.consumerreports.org) 5. Luxury Epidural Options: - [Evidence-Based Birth: Innovations in Pain Management](https://evidencebasedbirth.com) Time Stamps (0:00) Introduction to the Epidural Mini Series(4:08) Understanding the Epidural: Pros and Cons(4:55) The Importance of Birth Stories(7:54) The History of the Epidural(7:54) How Epidurals Work: Administration and Effects(11:22) Cost of Epidurals and Insurance Coverage(17:17)Conclusion epidural, childbirth, birth stories, anesthesia, labor pain, maternal health, epidural history, birth experience, pain management, healthcare costs

In today's episode I have the absolute JOY of interviewing my friend and mentor Brittany McCardle of the Biblical Birth School. Brittany is a wife, mom to *almost* 7, a childbirth educator, certified doula & founder for the Biblical Birth School -- a certification organization which trains & equips birth workers with a robust education on all matters of birth through a CHRISTIAN perspective. I have completed Brittany's Childbirth Educator program and am currently enrolled in her Doula appointed program -- and let me just say, her programs are terrific. Thorough, FILLED with resources, book lists, community with like-minded, aspiring birth workers & ongoing, attentive support from Brittany herself. Cannot recommend her or her programs highly enough. We cover a WIDE variety of topics today like: What does the Bible say about eating your placenta Family planning & birth control What to do if I feel called to birth work but also feel woefully ill-equipped What does it look like to trust God in choosing your birth location How to represent Christ well when we speak about ANY topics (but obviously birth-specifically) on social media And more It's a mixed bag. I'm here for it & I hope you are too! Where can you follow along or connect with Brittany? The Biblical Birth School @thebiblicalbirthschool The Biblical Birth Podcast FREE "Is God Calling Me to Birthwork?" E-book! I pray this conversation blesses you as much as it did me & that you leave listening to it feeling encouraged & excited & full of deeper faith as you prepare to labor with God & for His glory! Enjoy! Want to connect with me directly? Please do! Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com Enjoy today's episode? ***The best way to let me know you did is by leaving me a written review on Apple Podcasts (I read EVERY one of them & they are truly such a blessing to my heart) & by sharing it with a fellow mama who could be helped or encouraged through tuning in to today's episode too! Blessings, Audrey

Top 8 Scriptures for Pregnancy // Birth: Psalm 94:18-19 – “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 26:3-4 – “You will keep Him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because He trusts in You.” Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Romans 8:18 – “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” Psalm 121:1-2 – “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” Mentions: Scripture-Based Birth Cards (Freebie) ”No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus” by Steffany Gretzinger Scripture Memory Tools//Resources: Dwell Bible app Sing the Bible by Slugs & Bugs Seeds Family Worship Scripture Memory Technique (see IG reels) Scripture Memory Technique 2 (see IG reels) I encourage you to take time THIS WEEK to choose at least ONE verse to start memorizing in preparation for your birth. God’s Word is a lifeline for us as believers friends, both in labor and beyond. I pray this episode blesses you & helps better equip you to labor faithfully with God & for His glory! Enjoy. Blessings, Audrey Want to connect with me directly? Please do! Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com Or send me a DM on IG @faithful.labor

YAY! You’re having a baby! Congratulations! In today’s episode, I want to give your brain a break from the potentially scrambling thoughts of, ”now what?” & offer up some simple, practical first steps you can begin taking to prepare for the rest of your pregnancy & your precious little one’s arrival. Step 1: Submit & Surrender Your Birth Plans Step 2: Dream, Pray & Journal About Your Ideal Birth Step 3: Subscribe To or Follow 2-3 Birth Accounts Step 4: Find & Consult With a Doula Step 5: Start Researching Providers Step 6: Take A Birth Course I pray this episode blesses you & helps equip you to labor faithfully WITH God & for His glory! Enjoy. *PSST* 1) Screenshot today’s episode 2) share it on IG 3) tag me @faithful.labor & you’ll be entered into my launch week giveaway where I am gifting one listener with an AquaTru Water Filter System -- winner will be selected & announced 12/14 Blessings, Audrey Want to connect with me directly? Please do! Email me at: audrey@faithfullabor.com Mentions: Birth Courses - Biblical Birth Course - Madeline’s Birth Course *free* - Pain Free Birth Course *pain free birth NOT guaranteed (obviously), but I took this course & really enjoyed the way Karen broke down physiological childbirth* Birth Accounts @mommamadeline @thebiblicalbirthschool @peacefulhomebirth @painfreebirth @madenewbirth @divinebirthco @birthfromabove

Catching yourself feeling kinda curious about taking a more natural approach to childbirth but aren’t quite sure if it’s the right path for you? Are you wanting to understand about God’s good & wise design for pregnancy, birth and postpartum but feel overwhelmed on where to even start? Do you trust that God REALLY does care about & wants to be involved in ALL the details of your life …. Including your birth experiences? Are you SO READY to start feeling more confident, at peace & even a excited about partnering with the Lord to bring forth new life into this world? If you answered yes to ANY of the above questions, you are in the RIGHT PLACE, friend In the Faithful Labor Podcast, you’ll learn about God’s incredible design for mother’s & their babies in pregnancy, labor & postpartum, gain full confidence in your birth decisions, hear positive & uplifting birth stories from Christian women who have gone before you & be regularly reminded to keep Jesus at the center of it all so you can feel prepared (and EXCITED!) to embrace the faith-deepening experience of physiological labor WITH God & for His glory. I’m your host Audrey Stinson! Bible-believing Christian, wife, former RN, Certified Childbirth Educator & mama to four—two born via C-section and two delivered at home. With my first two deliveries, I lacked sufficient education about how my body was designed for labor, I didn’t possess any confidence, I outsourced my birth decisions to others &, ultimately, I left the Lord out of my plans for pregnancy and childbirth. After experiencing two challenging surgical deliveries, I realized if I wanted different (or better) birth experiences with any future babies that God gave us, I would need to take a radically different approach and adopt a totally different mindset toward birth. This led me on a Holy Spirit prompted journey to educate myself, learn from other mamas who experienced birth the way I hoped to, gain confidence in my choices & above ALL prayerfully trust in the Lord as I entrusted my future births into His good and perfect hands. Now, after two incredibly redemptive homebirths, I’m on a mission to equip, encourage inform & HYPE UP Christian mamas about alllll things pregnancy, birth & beyond so that they too can experience God’s grace-filled faithfulness to them in labor. So! Whether you’re still discerning if natural birth is right for you, looking to navigate through a low-intervention labor, longing for some birth encouragement from someone who has been RIGHT where you are or just wanting to keep Jesus at the center of all your birth-binging consumption, this podcast is for YOU. So! Slip into your stretchy pants, fill up that water bottle - no really… go do it, gotta keep you & baby hydrated 😉 - & let’s get into it!