#445: Women Are Not a Formula: Debunking VBAC Myths with Sarah Stead

Dr. Stu hosts a special edition podcast featuring Sarah Stead, a registered massage therapist specializing in C-section recovery. Together they dive into various topics surrounding Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). They discuss the importance of informed consent, the flaws in using VBAC calculators, and societal and systemic issues affecting VBAC rates.

About Sarah Stead

Sarah Stead is a registered massage therapist based in Ontario, Canada, with over 12 years of experience and a five-year specialization in C-section recovery. After experiencing burnout in full-time practice, she transitioned her work to focus on microcurrent scar therapy, where she discovered a deep passion for supporting C-section healing.

Her interest in this work began while supporting her sister through C-section recovery and later witnessing her sister’s VBAC, which sparked a broader fascination with birth, healing, and informed choice. Though she doesn’t have children herself, she proudly calls herself a “birth nerd,” attending every Reclaiming Birth Conference to date and recently presenting her work there.

She is passionate about education, empowering clients with tools and information often missing from mainstream conversations, and supporting more informed, holistic birth and recovery experiences.

Website: thescarconnection.com

E-book: C-Section Recovery Guide

Instagram: @gingey91

Mentioned in this Episode

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Discussed in This Episode

Discovering Microcurrent Point Stimulation

Understanding the Impact of Scar Tissue

The History and Evolution of Cesarean Sections

The Importance of Informed Consent

Evaluating Risks and Benefits of VBAC vs. Repeat C-Section

Short-Term and Long-Term Consequences of C-Sections

The Importance of Provider Competence and Confidence

Hospital Policies and VBAC Support

The Role of Partners in VBAC Success

VBAC Calculator and Its Limitations

Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care

This show is supported by

• WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order, or wenatal.com/birthinginstinctswnp for the new Protein + offer.
• Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.
• Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 off
• Girls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% off

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Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

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