18 | Christina - Multiple Miscarriages, PCOS, 2 Vaginal Births, Induction vs Unmedicated Birth

In this episode, host Victoria Gaba sits down with Christina Ayala to discuss her journey through plus-size pregnancy, PCOS, endometriosis, and pregnancy loss. As a mother who has navigated six pregnancies, Christina sheds light on reproductive health when facing chronic conditions and medical bias. She opens up about miscarriages caused by low progesterone, the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Lavinia, and the emotional toll of compound grief, highlighting the critical need for early medical intervention and supportive maternal healthcare.Christina shares the birth of her son, Isaac, conceived unexpectedly after managing PCOS with Metformin. This pregnancy exposed gaps in patient support, from fighting for early progesterone to experiencing severe morning sickness. Facing preeclampsia signs, she was induced at 39 weeks. Pressured into an early epidural, her labor stalled, leading to a medicalized delivery where she pushed on her back for three hours with zero sensation. Postpartum challenges multiplied when her son’s milk-soy protein intolerance (MSPI) cut breastfeeding short, compounding into severe postpartum depression, anxiety, and sleep deprivation.Following the tragic loss of her sister Jenny, Christina remarried and faced secondary infertility. Turning to Heartland Fertility in Omaha, Nebraska, she underwent treatments using Letrozole and an HCG trigger shot to conceive her daughter, Ruby. This pregnancy brought new hurdles, including gestational diabetes and a liver enzyme spike at 34 weeks. To avoid stillbirth risks, doctors induced labor at 36 weeks.Drawing on a high pain tolerance from endometriosis, Christina navigated a rapid, completely unmedicated birth by utilizing movement and listening intuitively to her body’s natural pushing urges.Postpartum, Ruby spent a week in the NICU for jaundice and an underdeveloped stomach. Excellent NICU care and a referral to Milk Works helped Christina achieve a triumphant 14-month breastfeeding journey. Now channeling her experiences into advocacy, she is training to become a birth doula and a death coach.See more from Christina on Social Media! TikTok - @lady_monreauxResources Mentioned:Heartland Reproductive Center (Omaha, NE) – Fertility and reproductive care clinic.Milk Works (Omaha & Lincoln, NE) – A non-profit community lactation center providing breastfeeding support, equipment, and consultations.Connect With Us:TikTokInstagramFacebookYouTubeIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe! Your support helps us reach more plus-size women and share the stories that matter.Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy and health needs.