According to Samantha Venn, a size-inclusive home birth midwife sees the person first, always! And that’s her approach to care as a certified professional midwife.
Samantha is also a VBAC mom (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), a surrogate, a bereaved parent, and a former plus size mom. Her journey through motherhood’s diverse facets and extensive experience as a birth professional make her an invaluable guest on the Plus Mommy Podcast.
Samantha’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
She shares her experiences with raw honesty, from facing fatphobia during her first pregnancy to becoming a midwife dedicated to providing size-friendly care.
The Importance of Size-Inclusive Care
One of the most poignant aspects of Samantha’s journey is her transition from a hospital birth, marked by traumatic experiences, to embracing midwifery and home birth.
She highlights the significant differences in care and support she received from her midwives, who encouraged her to nourish her body and provided a nurturing environment throughout her pregnancies.
Samantha’s journey into midwifery began after her own challenging pregnancy experiences. She faced fatphobia head-on when a healthcare provider told her she was “too fat to eat.”
This painful moment led her to seek a different kind of care for her subsequent pregnancies, ultimately finding a supportive and inclusive midwife who encouraged her to eat and nourish her body.
As a midwife, Samantha focuses on seeing the person first, respecting their expertise about their own body, and providing care that meets their unique needs.
Inclusive Practices in Midwifery
As a midwife, Samantha emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices.
She ensures that her care is respectful and individualized, providing appropriate equipment such as larger cuffs and chairs without arms.
She always asks for consent before touching her clients and respects their preferences. Creating a safe and supportive environment for all is very important to Samantha.
Addressing Nutritional Needs
One of Samantha’s key insights is the importance of addressing nutritional needs without judgment.
She highlights the necessity of eating well and nourishing the body, especially during pregnancy, and warns against the dangers of food restriction due to societal conditioning.
Her approach is evidence-based and compassionate, focusing on the person’s well-being during pregnancy and the baby.
Home Birth Access for Plus Size Individuals
For those considering home birth, Samantha advises interviewing multiple midwives. This way you’ll find someone who truly understands and respects your unique needs.
She encourages expectant parents to trust their instincts and seek out size-friendly care providers who create inclusive and supportive environments.
Samantha’s Message to Plus Size Pregnant Individuals
Samantha’s message to plus size pregnant individuals is clear: you are the expert of your own body, and you deserve respectful, compassionate care.
Tune in to episode 222 of the Plus Mommy Podcast to hear Samantha Venn’s full story. We also honor the memory of her son, Bram, who tragically died due to a distracted driver.
Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 222
Resources Mentioned On The Show
- You can find Samantha Venn at Meadowsweet Midwifery, serving the greater Colorado metro area.
- Connect with Samantha on Instagram and Facebook for more insights and support on your pregnancy journey.