In this episode, Rikki shares her experience of becoming a mother for the first time and choosing a natural home birth with her daughter, Ruby.

After initially following what felt like the “standard” path, Rikki began to explore her options more deeply during pregnancy — leading her to realise that there was more than one way to approach birth.

With the support of a private midwife and a strong sense of alignment, she chose a home birth experience that felt intimate, calm, and true to her.

In this conversation, we explore:

• Rikki’s journey into motherhood and deciding she wanted children
• Conceiving naturally after coming off long-term contraception
• Navigating pregnancy as a first-time mum
• The decision to choose a home birth and what led her there
• Moving through external opinions, doubt, and social pressure
• The role of a supportive midwife and partner
• What labour looked like at home — from a slow start to active labour
• Unexpected moments during birth, including baby’s positioning and adapting in the moment
• The experience of pushing and birthing her baby in her own space
• The immediate postpartum bubble and early days at home
• Reflections on postpartum care and the importance of supporting yourself as well as your baby

Rikki shares honestly about the moments of doubt, the power of feeling supported, and the deep sense of trust she developed in her body throughout the process.

Her story is a reminder that while birth can look different for everyone, feeling informed, supported, and aligned in your choices can shape the entire experience.

Want more?

You can find episode photos over at:

⁠https://www.instagram.com/wearemotherspod/⁠

You can find me at:

⁠https://www.instagram.com/iamsarahcusack/⁠

You can find Rikki at:

https://www.instagram.com/rikkibwabe/

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Birthing Mum Midwifery

https://www.instagram.com/birthingmum/

The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/3gQRikeOcaHkJjWTtcT1B1?si=52dca2d52298439f