In this powerful conversation, Kayleigh sits down with Dr. Cheryl Tatano Beck, one of the most influential researchers in postpartum mood disorders and psychological birth trauma. Dr. Beck shares how her clinical work as a nurse and nurse-midwife led her into research, how she “fell into” traumatic birth as a focus, and why listening to mothers’ own words and metaphors changed everything.

Together, they explore breastfeeding after birth trauma, the role of dignity and respect in preventing trauma, and the possibility of post-traumatic growth—not as a silver lining, but as a real, complex outcome of surviving something life-shattering.

This episode is for survivors, clinicians, nurses, midwives, OBs, lactation consultants, and therapists who want to better understand the lived experience of birth trauma and the research that gave it language.

Together, Kayleigh and Dr. Beck explore:

 ✨ How she found her way into researching postpartum depression and traumatic birth
 ✨ Why qualitative research (and metaphors!) can crack open truth in a way numbers never could
 ✨ The powerful two-path framework for breastfeeding after trauma
 ✨ What surprised her most after decades of listening to survivors
 ✨ Post-traumatic growth and the ways some parents rebuild after everything collapses
 ✨ How clinicians can prevent trauma by protecting dignity, autonomy, and humanity

Resources & Links

💜 Connect with Kayleigh: @thebirthtrauma_mama

🌐 Learn more at HoldingHopePerinatal.com

For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.

Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.