Ep 85 Jenny Patterson on Birth Trauma, Midwifery Burnout, Resilience and Healing

Ep 85 (http://ibit.ly/Re5V) Jenny Patterson on Birth Trauma, Midwifery Burnout, Resilience and Healing

@PhDMidwives #research #midwifery @NHS_Education @ScotlandRCM @EdinburghNapier @CapacitarInter1 #PTSD #potatoes @Dianethemidwife

Research link - ibit.ly/KgViA

Ever wondered how a passion for midwifery can transform lives, not just for mothers but for the midwives themselves?  Jenny Patterson, a trailblazer in the field, joins us to recount her unlikely journey from setting aside her childhood dream to embracing midwifery as a life mission. Discover how her personal experiences of giving birth at home rekindled her passion, leading her down a path of advocacy, independent practice, and eventually, groundbreaking research. Jenny's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one person can make in the face of systemic challenges.

Join us as Jenny sheds light on her transition from independent midwifery to research, a narrative shaped by regulatory hurdles and the absence of insurance options. Her journey illustrates the delicate balance between clinical work and academia, revealing insights into PTSD and trauma related to childbirth. Jenny shares how her involvement in the Birth Project Group and collaborations with top researchers propelled her into a PhD that challenges the conventional understanding of birth trauma. This episode offers a profound look at the intersections of personal, professional, and academic pursuits, offering lessons in adaptability and courage.

As we wrap up, Jenny talks candidly about the realities of midwife burnout, the emotional toll on caregivers, and the urgent need for systemic reforms. She highlights the importance of support networks, both familial and professional, in overcoming self-doubt and achieving one’s aspirations. With a promising future ahead, including a lecturing role and an exciting book project on love in midwifery, Jenny’s narrative is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of passion and persistence. Tune in to learn from Jenny’s rich tapestry of experiences that continue to shape the field of midwifery today.

Chapters

• 0:00 Journey to Midwifery Practice
• 9:15 Transition From Independent Midwifery to Research
• 14:55 Embarking on PhD Research Journey
• 23:09 Balancing PhD Work and Sanity
• 28:46 Impact of Birth Experience on Trauma
• 41:09 Impact of Midwife Trauma and Burnout
• 54:21 Celebration, Transition, and Future Plans
• 1:04:14 Celebrating Writing Success and Future Plans