Claudia's Birth Story: Why She was Born in a Hospital and Why I Regret It (Unassisted Birth)

Paying $10,000 to exchange one set of risks for another set of risks and the fallacy of "informed consent." Today I share the story of my 8th pregnancy and birth, how fear-mongering kept us from our unassisted birth and how emotional and relational trauma are just as real as physical trauma. (I got a little emotional telling my story. Bear with me!)

[@pammccabe7535]

I can’t help but think if her prior experiences with the health system weren’t so traumatizing, she may have gone in to see someone months (or years) before she passed. As in tune with herself and her body as she was, she had to know something was wrong. As a cancer survivor myself, I knew, just knew in my heart, something was wrong with me. I didn’t want to go to the doctor to be told what I knew. But thank God I did, because I am still here. And I wish Andrea was too. She has beautiful children who miss and need her so very much.

[@jami29841]

That’s how my mom was. She’s already been through cancer once years prior. My brother was diagnosed and passed away, and after that she was scared to go to the dr. She knew something was wrong but didn’t want to face it. She passed from pancreatic cancer 10-24-19.

[@kezza138]

The sad thing is that when Andrea passed Tom tried to get her home, he did everything he could. They got the careflight organised and the prescription for pain meds and as soon as she landed they would not let him have the pain meds and take her home. She had to be in a hospital (which they did not tell him) so she died on a hospice centre, when she could have been home. They also hurt her by putting her in the ambulance very roughly. Then they gave her a shot of pain meds so high you literally saw her lose any consciousness she had left. They lied to Tom about her going home. They knew it wasn't going to happen. At least she was close to home when she passed and able to have every single loved one with her.

[@mommy2kdk]

Andrea you are missed! You were a light in this world that we needed. Thank you for all your knowledge. 💜

[@Livebreatheatsleep]

I'm training to be a Midwife in Ireland. What I get from you talking in this video is that nobody listened to what you really wanted. Our job is to protect normal birth and be with the woman in her choices. Thanks for sharing, I'll try to take your experiences on board and be with women as best I can and care for them and their baby as best I can.

[@Livebreatheatsleep]

Maternity care is free in Ireland, yet we have just as high the amount of interventions in labour. I truly believe many times, institutional medical patriarchy causes women to loose their voice about what they know to be best for them. It's the phenomenon of 'fish can't see water', medical professionals can't see past what's 'done' despite there being better choices out there.

[@galady8632]

Livebreatheatsleep ... Due Andrea's willingness to share her story she has touched so many lives on levels beyond her expectations. Your response shows your willingness to accept, learn and grow in your field of expertise. That is awesome! I wish all Doctor's were as receptive to learning from such experiences. Listening is part of medical care.

[@saras7722]

Andrea you are my hero. I consider you a mentor. You are the biggest reason for my unassisted birth. I will miss you so.

[@julietannOsfan1972]

Andrea had such a special way of explaining things & was a lovely person. x I will really miss her & her videos. x

[@TammiP2182]

Also you should write a letter to the hospital director. Tell him/her about your experience and how hurtful it was. It might make a change for other women.

[@hgib3]

Perhaps sending them a link to this video may be helpful also. This is ridiculous how they treated her, especially that doctor and the first nurse who couldn't give the IV and yet poked her over and over instead of getting someone else who could get the job done right the first time.

[@wife97]

I doubt very much that a letter to the hospital director would make a difference. If only it were so!

[@claudiarobinson9888]

Claudia will always have the story of her birth in her sweet momma's words.

[@elizabethbryant5622]

I am a RN... I often tell anyone one that I care for or their family members to never be afraid to advocate for yourself or for someone you love. Doctors are not perfect nor is their knowledge. You know yourself better than anyone else. I too had a difficult birth with one of my children. It left me scarred. I pray that you find the healing that you need.

[@cats6540]

Elizabeth Bryant

[@mrsgundlach1]

This is the first video i had watched of Andrea , and i was hooked ever since , i was about to have my fourth child and was terrified because my third was so traumatizing, she was literally the first person i had ever heard admit to feeling violated and not just the response of "well at least you got a healthy baby out of it", i will miss Andrea so badly i have been crying for days i am sure the pain you all are experiencing is ten fold to mine but thought i wld share how she has impacted my life ....on a lighter note i told my husband he cld buy a 3D printer cause i figured Andrea would teach me some cool stuff to do with it , i am going to miss her so much

[@S.Patierno]

Your feelings about emasculating men is correct .. and I find it so amazing that you processed all of this in a way that allows you to reflect and share everything .. my trauma occurred 13 years ago and I still am coping .. thank you for your vulnerability and sincerity ❤️

[@coffeeandcraftinmama6054]

I finally was able to set aside enough time to watch this and my heart just aches for you. I appreciate how "real" you are and how brave you are, to share this story. I wish I could just hug you!

[@CalledtoCultivate]

You are so strong Andrea. Thank you for sharing your story. I'm thankful Claudia was alright, but of course I understand how difficult it must have been to heal from that birth situation. I'm a huge natural birth advocate. Women need to know their options and have a chance to experience what birth can truly be like.

[@desireebunderson3717]

Andrea, I'm so amazed at your intelligence, your courage, and your compassion. I love watching your videos. I love your spunkiness with those people who are commenting in a judgemental way!! I'm praying for you and your family and your new addition!

[@bbybam12]

I wanted to cry during this when you cried. My heart hurts you had to go thru that. :(

[@marilynb8136]

I am an RN and have worked in labor and delivery. Many of the practices I witnessed were not natural and horrifying. I believe that having a good midwife and delivering at home is better for mom and baby. I'm so sorry that all of these bad things happened to you!!!

[@msgrl4254]

I'm not sure if you know but unfortunately Andrea(the woman in the video)passed away a few weeks ago.

[@bekahmaery]

I really wish I had known you earlier, but heaven will be sweeter knowing you will be there. I’m sorry your children and husband don’t have you anymore. Is it a great loss. You were truly a great gift. I would have loved having you as a close friend.

[@mereditha688]

Extremely insightful account of your birth experience. Thanks for sharing. I am a PA and this story reminds me to be empathetic to my patients and understanding of their unique needs.

[@karagreskamp6122]

I love how Claudia is watching you talk and mimicking you in the beginning. Smart baby!

[@emily3764]

I just learned about the link between pitocin and postpartum depression and being a lot more emotional. I never occurred to me but if you do a little research, it's pretty amazing. I just had a hospital birth at 16 days past my due date. I had planned a peaceful water birth at home. But being 37 years old and showing no signs of labor after trying everything natural to get it going, so I was induced. I truly feel for you. thank you for sharing your story.

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

I use Raspberry Leaf tea, but brewed extra strong. You take a whole ounce of dried leaves (about 12 teabags-worth) and steep them in a pint of hot water for 30 minutes. Then drink the whole amount as hot as possible. (I read about it in Rodale's Encyclopedia of Home Remedies.) It tastes awful, even with a lot of honey. I've had blood-work done after giving birth using it that showed so little blood loss that the doctor said it seemed as if I hadn't even given birth.

[@emilyexorcismzombie]

I am not very familiar with its properties unrelated to pregnancy, do you think it would help with menstrual symptoms such as bad cramping on the first day?

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

+Emily Joy It should help. Vitex also seems to really help with cramps and other period problems.

[@largefamilylivin9629]

Andrea Mills I also use raspberry leaf tea and I've had 8 babies pregnant with #9 now my last birth I was told it's the cleanest birth they had seen

[@hagarfamilyadventures4203]

Nurse Girly it works amazing for those of that suffer from endometriosis. I no longer suffer immense debilitating menstrual pain after drinking that and taking evening primrose oil!

[@christyrohrbaugh8334]

@@emilyexorcismzombiebioidentical progesterone cream prevents my cramps.

[@fredrose9285]

Andrea is so missed! Wished I had seen this video earlier as would have loved to talk with her; their birth experience sounded like ours. Her wisdom and articulation are incredible. Prayers for Tom and the family.

[@brookepearlstein3715]

I am really sorry you had such a difficult time at the hospital !! I mentioned your experience to my husband who is a nurse and he thought you may have been able to sue, for how they pressured you to induce (which is unethical) and they forgot to have you sign a consent form for the epidural. It sounds like it was a night mare. We have had our four children at home and I can't imagine having the experience in the hospital. Thank you for making such great videos!

[@kathleenramirez1928]

28 years ago I had my 4 th baby. She was to be my 3rd home birth. She was close to 2 weeks past due and breech. We had known she was breech for quite awhile, but we were still trying for the home birth. After 24 hours , my cervix started swelling and my midwife thought I should go to the hospital for pitocin. As soon as I got here, the rushed me in for a c section without any discussion. I kept saying that all I wanted was pitocin to give me the push to go on. I was sobbing like a crazed woman all the way to the OR....not at all like my normal demeanor. I was treated very badly because they were so angry that I was attempting a homebirth. I was very depressed for a long time because I felt that I was cheated of my experience and that my body had failed me. In all honesty, I'm still grieving over it, though it's been so long and I'm now the grandmother of 10. As women, we have so few chances to experience birth in our own way, even if we, like you, have 8 children. Eight times in a lifetime is not very many. I had only four children, but I wanted to birth in my own way. I'm so sorry for your experience.

[@cherrynurse05]

I am so happy that you talked about the rejection you felt. Our first took some extra time to cry and they took her for intervention. It was like my mind subconsciously started detaching from her and it took some extra time to bond. I have always felt super guilty for that. I am glad your approached that subject.

[@ajcurtis1019]

I just want to tell you how inspiring you are to me. I have no children yet, but watching your shows me what kind of mother I want to be one day. I am so glad I found your channel. Thank you for being such a wonderful and inspirational person.

[@NatalieWarren13]

This sounds so traumatizing. I’m so so sorry. I can’t believe they did all of that to you. That doctor should not be practicing. Wow. You are so so strong. Thank you for sharing this.

[@mrsadept]

I could not watch all of this without crying with you. I also had a traumatic hospital delivery with my last child, and every time I think about his birth it brings tears.

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

When I made the video, I thought I was to a point where I could talk about it without crying. Obviously I wasn't! It takes a long time to heal, doesn't it?

[@mrsadept]

Yes, it does.

[@aurie6895]

This is heartbreaking. Just want to give you a hug. The thought of giving birth, in hospital or at home, terrifies me. I'd love to hear your positive birth stories. You don't tend to hear a lot of them

[@beckyemerson]

I tried having a home birth. I was so stressed out about it that even though I was in hard labor for 31 hours my body didn't dilate at all. My midwife suggested I go to the hospital since my water broke 24 hours ago. When we got in the car to the hospital I felt relieved to go. After a quick drive, the nurse checked my dilation in triage and discovered that in fifteen minutes I dilated 5cm more. My father is a medical professional and many of my friends also work in the medical field. For many people home is where they feel safe to have a baby but for me I prefer the hospital. I love the idea of having a home birth but my gut won't let me. I had two children with hospital midwives that were very respectful. The midwife didn't pressure me into anything, turned the lights down low, made everyone speak quietly, didn't cut the cord until it stopped pulsating etc. It was a beautiful experience and the best of both worlds in my opinion.

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

You are exactly right. Some women don't feel safe at home. Likely it's a result of culturally produced subconscious fears, but whatever the reason, if you only feel safe in a hospital, that's where you will birth the easiest.

[@worshipcatalyst1]

I'm at a place where i dont trust people (and i dont like being touched) but i would love to have the option of having an unassisted hospital birth just in case the baby needed to come out fast. unfortunately most cases that i've seen/heard/read are not like yours - they very much want to restrict mom and expedite the birthing process for their own gain.

[@yasminchea7314]

I just found your videos today and have to say you are a woman after my own heart! Hearing you talk about this hospital experience and remembering every detail brought up some memories of my own 3 hospital births, memories that I think my brain blocked out. I'm currently pregnant with our 4th child and am planning on a home birth this time. I did start off this pregnancy with a visit to my OB where I told them I was planning a home birth and of course their whole demeanor and attitude towards me change right away. Oh well! Lol I can't wait to watch more of your videos!

[@phoebebirskys6072]

this video made me realise how hard it is to be pregnant. my mum found it hard to become pregnant, and I think she had like three or four miscarriages before the ivf was successful and she had me. she was 38 when this happened, and then two years later she had another daughter, completely naturally and such a surprise! you were so brave to go through this and you went through so much.

[@frankie7616]

You are a very strong woman! I admire you so much, I've only watched 3 videos on your channel and I think of you as a role model. Don't let doctors tell you what you have to do, even though they can give suggestions you don't have to take them. You have beautiful children!

[@khurtsmom]

You are so wonderful. I'm watching Claudia's story and it is reminding me of my Ehvanjaleen's delivery and my heart is breaking with you and for you. I just want to give you a big hug. I have been watching your videos every day since I found you (possibly a week ago?) You are an amazing woman and so wise and Joyful, I really really get encouragement and motivation from you in so many things. Thank you for being you and for sharing yourself and family with us

[@ItsAWonderfulLife]

My son passed away shortly after birth of the rare genetic disorder Pallister-Killian Syndrome. As a mother who has experienced a genetic disorder first hand I find it completely disgusting that anyone would needlessly scare you with that possibility. I am incredibly sorry you had to experience that.

[@calisahardy4845]

I am so sorry for your loss...

[@lenamcmillin1591]

It'sAWonderfulLife yes, I have a friend who’s baby sister had Trisomy 18 who died 5 hours after birth. Trisomy 18 is something that doctors can’t control or treat (it means you are born with an extra 18th chromosome) and age has absolutely nothing to do with it. It’s disgusting that someone would scare you with that.

[@aliciashort2359]

I wasn't sure how I would feel about this video. I am a registered nurse and work in an emergency room, but I really thought you made some very valid points. I have often times said, "people trust doctors without even thinking." When you began to talk about informed consent, I couldn't agree more. Patients will let doctors do spinal taps on them without even knowing the possibilities of complications. I too received an epidural (saddle block) with my births, which was solely encouraged by the nurses and doctors at the hospital where I delivered. I do value doctors and modern medicine, but I am really impressed with the amount of knowledge and education you have given yourself. I think that is the most important thing. Don't just take the doctors word, investigate the symptoms and treatment and make sure you are comfortable with the course of treatment. I commend you for your honesty in discussing these "controversial" topics.

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

I _truly_ appreciate you watching my video and sharing with me.

[@aliciashort2359]

I found your channel when I was searching the ACE curriculum. I too homeschool my children using it. I have watched several of your videos and enjoyed the content very much. I also enjoyed the video your husband posted about having 8 children. I love how how passionate you guys are about following your heart and not following the societal norms. Keep up the good work!

[@smiles4miles276]

oh goddess this makes me tear up from this horrible situation! god bless claudia, tom, and andrea!

[@nzneph1715]

I came across your channel because of some tiny house movement posts I had been viewing and was suggested your post on "How we fit six boys in one bedroom", I thought it was odd when I was suggested it but was soon quite thankful. I used to watch a beautiful family some time ago now but their posts ended up being just so full of advertising and became less and less sincere - having viewed so many of your posts on youtube here I've felt like I know your family really well so this story was quite touching to me and I'm incredibly sorry you and Tom had to go through with the entire experience, seems if only you had been given a script for labetalol to start with then none of everything thereafter would have been necessary. I also just wanted to note that I think it's ridiculous to have no option but to pay such high prices for medical care and am very thankful that healthcare in my Country is free. Your family is beautiful, thank you for sharing with us all.

[@ladykatherine2939]

You may not be billed directly for the costs of labor and childbirth, but it is FAR from "free". You and everyone else pay for it, but not directly!

[@EmmaHope88]

@@ladykatherine2939 We know that. People always make it sound like we don't know. But at least we don't have to worry about how much a doctor's visit is going to be at any given time, or god forbid, how much it would cost if someone got seriously ill. We can go to regular check-ups, or can give birth, and won't get a single bill handed for it. I much prefer it this way over the US way. I lived in Massachusetts for a while and have seen doctor and hospital bills. The people who got them actually had decent health care and the bills were still ridiculously high. Medical bankruptcy is not a thing where I live, neither is the question about preexisting conditions when signing up for health insurance.

[@tamaraali6651]

I am crying for you right now! This is horrible! I am so sorry that this happened to you and none of it was necessary. Lots of Love to you and your family.

[@carriemoore4380]

Andrea was a woman warrior and will be missed dearly 💕💕

[@graciewilliams5968]

This saddens me. I'm from the UK and home birth etc is very much explained to you as a new mum and a lot of support in place if you choose to take this route. I'm sorry you experienced this and am glad you are home and happy with your marvelous children x

[@CookieCrumbFun]

Thank you for sharing this with us. I was crying along with you. God is good. Your daughter is beautiful and so happy. I love seeing her looking at you while you talk at the start of the video.

[@sammyhammy124]

Andrea, I just started watching your videos last night, and I can't get enough. I feel like I have learned so much about organizing and home birth. I am pregnant with my first baby, and I have always said since I was a young girl that I dont want to give birth at a hospital, I want to be at home,comfortable,relaxed, and everyone around me has been pushing me to not do so. I am so glad I found your videos because I truly feel my decision and thoughts have been okay all along. Thank you for sharing your family and your story

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

Thank you, Samantha. How far along are you? I remember being pregnant with my first baby. It was so wonderful and all I thought about all the time!

[@Aggie_Fehr]

I can hardly believe how you were treated! I'm so sorry for your sorrow, and I truly hope it impacts a lot of women to be more thoughtful about birth. your a beautiful light in a dark world😊.

[@crafternoonfriend]

I am wanting to train as a nurse in the near future and your birth story has inspired me to be the nurse that is the opposite of the nurses and doctors that you have mentioned. It has inspired me to try to improve the health system and try my hardest when/if i am a nurse. Your story is inspiring. I do live in a different country to you but believe that these same things will be happening all over the world to many people. Thankyou for sharing your story

[@faithchurch1495]

I'm so so so sorry this happened to you!! I have had all of my 8 children in hospital and know exactly the bullying situations you are talking about. I'm just so happy you and your baby are happy and healthy but I know exactly how you feel.

[@europeblue]

Thank you for sharing your story, sorry for all the pain you had to endure...I appreciate you doing all the research about high blood pressure during pregnancy, as many women are concerned with that, enjoy your precious little girl !

[@joelpenn6185]

Very honest video. Clear thoughts. I absolutly agree. Thank you to share with us.

[@lellachu9933]

Ugh! Hugs, Andrea! I understand. All five of mine have been born at home, but I have had midwives and doctors try to scare me and pressure me into unnecessary interventions. So heartbreaking, but God will use it for His glory. Praying your next pregnancy and birth bring you tremendous healing! ❤️

[@lellachu9933]

One of our babies had a folded over ear, too, along with some other genetic syndrome markers. A little pediatrician noted "possible Down Syndrome" on her chart at 4 months. So, I know that gut-wrenching feeling of rejection one feels and the way it can change everything. Our daughter is now a healthy 7 year old, but the first year was not as it should have been while we waited to see if she would develop normally.

[@tammyhanson7843]

Andrea, I was introduced to you just after your passing. You are such a good mom and wife. I love you so much already. Thank our God above that your children have the KZbin documentation of you. All of your babies and your husband will forever have you to watch.

[@SisterCarolee]

She passed away?

[@sydney88888]

carolee C yes she did unfortunately

[@brandimonahan4721]

Thank you so much for your strength to share this with us. I'm expecting my first in 2 weeks and you sharing your story just further confirms my desire to have an unassisted home birth because I agree so much with how this system can emasculate the fathers and peer pressure mothers when there is often not a need for these interventions. I've been watching a lot of your videos and have gained so much knowledge and comfort. Thank you so much for sharing, my heart aches for what you were put through when you were seemingly fine and healthy.

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

I'm _so_ happy for you! I hope when things calm down after the baby arrives that you'll come back and share how everything went. You can find me on Facebook, too.

[@brandimonahan4721]

Andrea Mills thank you so much, I don't have Facebook but as long as I remember I'm happy to come back and share!!

[@LivingEclectic]

A great story! Thank You for sharing this... you make great points in this story that many of us can learn from. 💚

[@scarletmd1344]

I know she is gone. But what she is saying is so true. Everything we do carries a risk. I am a Surgeon. I had my children in the hospital and lucky for me I knew what they were doing so I could not allow it. I do concur that at times it seems like a bunch of bull. This sweet lady deserved nothing but the best in life. Such a terrible tragedy she is gone.

[@patriciamontagne1470]

Various antibiotics, and medications sometimes can do more harm than good. I am a retired Surgical Nurse, and I have seen a lot of expected mothers come into the emergency room with numerous health related issues such as high blood pressures, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, extremely high blood pressure. Upon administering antibiotics, it is important for women present your medications Records to the Doctor on staff in the emergency room. Always carry your list of medications on you and the reason why you are taking them. I am 100% for consuming organic foods, it is healthy for the pregnant mother, and the unborn baby. But, for the expected mother take heed of warning of organic medications. Organic medications sometimes can do more harm than good to the mother and the unborn child. Do your homework, and talk it over with your Doctor and midwife before you do anything that you may regret.

[@mjsmith1569]

I am so so glad i saw this video. I follow your channel and it has given me such confidence, faith, and motivation to have the family I have always wanted. We have been preparing for an unassisted birth (but have had regular OB visits for the sake of record) for our second child and 2 days ago my OB gave me the same fear mongering due to low blood pressure for baby. He has been awesome up until this time and I believe he planned it this way all along. He said my natural plan just got tossed out the window and they may have to give me a C-section. I cant describe the fear I felt. I came home, my husband and I prayed and decided to see for ourselves; got an ultrasound and bought a doppler that day (had only been using stethoscope) and her BPM have been %100 normal for 2 days. I am so so grateful I didnt go, I know their plan was to induce me and my husband and I both feel even stronger and more confident now knowing we didnt fall for it. God Bless you for all the advice and guidance you give young mothers :)) !!!

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

I was just checking in to find out how your birth went, if you ever have time to share.

[@shelleykeys533]

What an amazing story. Im sad I did not know of Andrea before she passed but feel blessed that I found her and will be watching more of her videos. I am heartbroken for a family I have never met. I can tell by some of the videos that Andrea and Tom's relationship was very special. I can just feel the love between all of the family members through the videos. Like Tom has said many times, We may not always understand God's plan but I think maybe part of his plan was to get Andrea's story out to more people and again I am blessed to be one of those. Many prayers for the family and you will continue to be in my thoughts. Tom feel free to come talk to us when ever you need to vent or cry or just get something off your chest because we are here for you.

[@CarolineJuneee]

Wow, what a strong woman you are. I feel sad for you that you had this experience but amazed by your stregnth and ability to learn from it. you are an inspiration:)

[@Mindful-Kim]

Wow. I'm so sorry for this terrible experience that those people inflicted apon you. ((hugs)) 🙁 I avoid medical people like the plague. I've never had a good experience. We are trained to believe we can't/shouldn't speak up and bullied by fear mongers. My labour/birth gave me post traumatic stress for years. I hope you reported those people with their greedy adjenda. 💚

[@cristyhilton4037]

Andrea, you are so brave for sharing your story. Birth Trauma is a real thing. Interventions led to my three emergency c-sections and emergency hysterectomy.

[@CreatingEssence]

Firstly, I am so-so sorry about the way you were bullied. That is horrible. The fear mongering and literal obstetrical assault toward you and your baby is horrifying. As a doula, it is part of my job to help women who DO deliver in hospitals to avoid this kind of abuse. It hurts my heart FOR you to hear the trauma you all endured. Secondly, I absolutely agree with you on the informed consent. There is so much manipulation that happens in the moment when practitioners want to do something they know the mother is likely to object to if she knows the full scope of things. Thank you for sharing your story. It is sadly, not uncommon. The more we share hopefully the more greater society will begin to hold the obstetrical world accountable.

[@sarawheeler2672]

As a future nurse (and possible midwife) this is such a great story to hear about patient choice and truly listening. I'm so sad to hear that your birth did not go as planned and that your choices were not honored throughout your pregnancy. Also, go you for doing your research! I've learned so much from your story that I will definitely use in the future!

[@poohisadork]

OMG you have me in tears. My heart goes out to you. This is a subject so close to my heart. I totally agree with you about the "informed consent" issue and the "potential risks". Although my situation is different, I have learned so much about advocating for myself and the birth experience I want. sixteen months ago I finally had a homebirth after two unnecessary cesarean births. So amazing and healing.

[@dawnlivingston3373]

Thank you so very much for sharing your story of Claudia's birth. More importantly for sharing your beliefs. What an eye opener. I never thought about things quite like that and because of you I now am. Thank you for that. You are the first person that I have listened to that has made sense. Many blessings to you and your family especially little Claudia, who is adorable. Thank you again :)

[@ccgerrity]

My heart hurts for you and the experience you shared. You're incredibly brave and strong. Thank you. I'm so sorry.

[@LifeByJen]

Oh Andrea, I had no idea how difficult this was for you. I had seen this video title but never clicked on it. Having insomnia and missing my dose of Mills family videos, I decided to watch. I cried along with you. I've never had a child so I can't totally understand but being a woman my heart was breaking right along with you. I am not a fan of traditional medicine and my family and I have came to odds because of it. About 2 years ago I got sick and it was evident that I needed medical attention. I was ultimately diagnosed as being septic. I was in the hospital for 2 weeks in iv antibiotics. Every day I was there they pushed test upon test on me from X-rays to Pap tests and everything in between. I reached my limit and said no more. My infectious disease Dr scheduled me for a test where they were to put a scope down my throat into the area behind my heart to check for infection. I was never informed until less than an hour before the test. I refused and the Dr became extremely rude telling me I was more than likely going to die. I calmly explained that I knew he was much smarter than I was but I didn't feel this was right for me. At that point he threw my chart down told the nurse to feed me (they had withheld breakfast for the test) and send me home. The staff Dr told me he saw no need for the test and I was more than likely fine. I was horrified and slightly traumatized. I'm sorry for this long comment I guess the moral of my very long ramble is I understand having treatment forced upon you although a different circumstance. I'm so glad everything turned out well (considering). God Bless you!!

[@libermama]

This is so much like my experience with my 12th baby. First, it turned out my midwife (after we had paid her) could not deliver our son at home because I was overdue. (Stupid laws that force women to the hospital-- don't get me started!) Then I ended up in the hospital, high intervention medical, epidural, the works. I was stuck for my IV 11 times before they could get it in! :'-( So even though I had had eleven other births-- four of which were home births-- it ended up being one of the worst births I had ever had. Our mental state really DOES make a difference in our labor experiences!!! {{{HUGS!!!}}}

[@Johnathonsmum]

Your children are so blessed to have your for their mother. This was an amazing video, so much for us to learn from it.

[@RaeBehrs]

I am so sorry that you had this experience. I have had to go through a lot of the same emotions from the birth of my daughter and your channel has inspired me to take charge of my own care for my next baby.

[@emilyexorcismzombie]

I am so sorry about your traumatic hospital experience, as nurses yes we do need to explain the risks but we also need to respect and be open to every decision patients make. You NEVER push your own opinions on a patient. I also think it was wrong that the nurse told you that story about her daughter or whoever having a devastating experience. My mom had me at 39 and I turned out juuuuust fine. It really upsets me that because of that midwife all of this happened! See how bad it is to push an opinion on a patient? it leads to traumatic experiences. I am hoping to specialise in labour and delivery some day. I will likely have to go back to school to get my BScN but its so worth it to me. My ultimate dream is to be a midwife myself, which is why this story really hurts my heart to hear. I actually think it may be a good idea to pursue legal action if you feel you want to, I literally almost cried hearing this.

[@jenniferjones6228]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and heart on this subject! I think you are spot on! Thank you for taking a stand! ❤

[@abigail967]

They didn't treat you well. My heart hurts for you. I am so sorry. You are a strong woman and I think that you will encourage many other mamas with your story.

[@caroldeaton619]

I didn't comment on this video when I watched it the first time. I just watched it again and just see the pain that she went through it's heartbreaking and I believe everything she says about a husband and wife and how it's personal between them two and not to bring that third party in at the birth of a child. I never looked at it that way but if you stop and think about it it all makes sense and it all is so personal. You sure was an angel here on Earth and I don't know why God takes the good and the Young away from us. I was always taught never to question God but it just makes you think. Fly high Angel Andrea.💜

[@alymi4066]

I am so happy that you and baby Claudia are okay!! I'm so so sorry that you had to go through that. Praises to the Lord, I thank Heavenly Father for watching over you, there's no other explanation as to why your labor started when and how it did and the fact that the epidural was unaffected and your blood pressure was under control. ♡♡♡ Thank you so much for sharing your story, I can tell it was not easy to relive it but you have truly blessed me with this video. I know exactly how you felt that day, I felt the exact same way a year ago when my daughter(baby #6) was born. Really the only difference was that instead of high blood pressure they told me I had low amniotic fluid and my baby was at risk and I needed to be induced immediately(later I found out my amniotic fluid was NOT low). I felt all those emotions that you described, I previously had 2 unassisted homebirth before my last regrettably hospital birth, my first 4 boys were born in the hospital. Thank so much again for this video, I felt so alone before watching! ♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

[@TheMillsFamilyVlog]

It's sometimes hard for people to understand what the big deal it, but when you've had a baby unassisted, you know.

[@peacheypeachez10]

I'm so glad I saw this before I have children I will be researching unassisted births

[@livnicole6422]

Me too. This video broke my heart. I would rather have a Midwife birth/Unassisted birth one day . Im a very nervous person and hate hospitals so when I have children a home birth is definitely on my plan

[@prolifemama]

To be fair, this is not a normal experience. Definitely traumatizing! I've had all 4 of my babies at the hospital and have had nothing but positive experiences! In fact, due to an unforseen complication, my first baby and I are here today thanks to my doctor's intervention! Let this video educate you but don't let it scare you!!

[@lisebedard7247]

Tom. And Family, I am so sorry for your great loss...I have watched quite a few of the videos and in the last oneI feel I got to know what a remarkable woman Andrea was.An amazing wife and mother,so very close to God.May Andrea Rest In Peace .God Bless you all.

[@benyacob5763]

Thank you for sharing your story. I love all birth stories, I laugh or cry right along with the mom. You know, for the husbands, I think they just feel so helpless....then the "professionals" are telling/scaring them that all these awful things not only could happen, but are likely to happen....and they truly don't know what to do...they just don't want to lose either one. When I found out I was pregnant with our 4th son, I was in my first semester of nursing school (I wanted to be a L & D nurse) and was a couple of months from turning 40 years old. Advanced maternal aged......then we had our 5th son right after I turned 45 and I have to say it was the best experience of all of the births. Yes, it was a little harder on me physically than when I was in my 20's, but the experience was the best. We had a midwife that worked under an OB and had to deliver at a hospital The office and the hospital were so good and supportive of our decisions. I was never made to feel like the "old" woman having a baby. They stuck their head in every now and then to check on us, but otherwise left us alone. You are so right about it being such an intimate time for a husband and wife......though I had never had a particularly bad experience at any of the other hospitals.....I never realized what it could be like. Anyway, I'm glad everything turned out well for you and your beautiful baby girl. I just found your channel recently and subscribed.

[@cassandra5516]

This story breaks my heart. Andrea, Tom and Claudia I am so sorry for what all three of you experienced and the way you were assulted. I stand with you in solidarity as a woman who has experienced both an unnecessarily forced birth and beautiful homebirth and I understand the difference in experiences. I want to thank you for sharing your experience and your thoughts and feelings because you are empowering other mothers and fathers to not only demand better care but to understand what informed consent actually is. Bravo to you, Andrea. Despite being induced, YOU birthed. YOU carried, YOU birthed and YOU are the heroine in this story!

[@lynnwilson665]

Thank you for your openness and willingness to share this Trumatic experience. We had something very similar happened to us… And this just is helping me process many years ago what happened. Somehow I could never put it in perspective and your story has helped me be able to do this.. I trust the Lord will allow you to have another little bundle of joy and in a beautiful setting where you would want it at home privately.

[@kimdavis7058]

Also, you have been such a blessing to me by sharing your story, Im sure this has made your faith so much stronger, I know it has mine. God Bless you.

[@tabathabarrilleaux5989]

I'm truly sorry you had to go through that. You're a very strong woman and I wish I had half of your strength. May God bless you and your family.

[@DanielleRoy23]

I'm so sorry you had to experience this trial. Hopefully sharing your story will encourage other moms to be strong and have a voice even when it is so difficult. I am just like you and have a hard time voicing my concerns when I'm around doctors or midwives. I'm glad you were blessed with another perfect baby. Despite it all, things worked out. Good job. :)

[@francinelaurin520]

Am listening to you with my heart Andrea and feel your pain..I also feel intense rage ..a feeling I rarely felt in my life..I cannot possibly share what I am thinking about the hospital staff..what I blame them for..your sharing will hopefully help many other expecting mothers ..you are one strong woman..a fabulous wife, most nurturing mother..you are so missed.. hopefully i meet you one day soon 💕😖💕👶💕 .. moi, canada 🇨🇦

[@ChihuahuaMama54]

I'm so sorry you went through this Andrea. I would definitely report the staff, and the hospital for being so unprofessional and traumatizing you. I can't imagine the way they made you feel that day. Please know that you're in my thoughts❤️

[@katherineejessup]

so I am an agnostic and don't really agree with a lot of your ideas. I can still see our similarities and am so drawn to you. and interested in your ideas and ways of life.

[@katherineejessup]

Also so sorry about your traumatic birth. I have had one child and it precipitous birth. They took my son away because he was a big baby (8lbs and 15oz) because I am overweight. Said he had diabetes even though be hadn't ever tested positive for it. His sugar was slightly high cause i hadn't at had food that day. He was born at 1pm so no breakfast or lunch because of the off feeling of being in labor. you made a lot of great points about people making money off of birth

[@theresaschwed9405]

Andrea I pray to have your strength. I too have had the peace of my husband delivering our babies but not till after many hospital pressure sessions. I am a mother of 11 and recently lost#12 . My prayers for your husband and all those precious babies I know you were thankful to serve the Lord for.

[@EvadoCouto]

Theresa Schwed I’m sorry for the loss of your baby.

[@kscholz1231]

Oh my goodness, how gut wrenching!!!! I am so sorry to hear of your horrible experience!! I am pregnant with my third and now I am in panic mode after watching this video, lol!! Prayers for you for strength to recover from such a traumatizing experience!

[@p00dlequ33n]

Tom I’ve been watching videos that have been popping up and Andrea was so wise beyond her years about doctors!! I will miss her so much and her calm voice 😢I was also so sad that she left us so fast until I watched this video. It help me realize that she didn’t want to be there long and God was ready for her and didn’t let her suffer long in a place where she didn’t want to be.

[@stickbug7728]

I am so sorry you went through all of that. May God Bless you and your family.

[@elizabetharcher7109]

Thank you so much for your videos. I love them! We are a family of six living in a 1,000 sq. ft. house, and it is nice to watch someone I can relate to. I'm so sorry about this birth experience. I personally wanted to have my kids at the hospital in case something went wrong, but I respect your choice to want an unassisted birth and I am sad they ruined your experience. I can totally relate to them pushing things on you. My nurses were so pushy about doing things I didn't want or need. I basically wanted to do it myself and was only there in case something went wrong. The most off putting part was that with 2 of my births the nurse literally screamed at me because the baby was ready to come and I was pushing and they didn't want me to have the baby without the doctor in the room (I am guessing they couldn't charge me as much if the doctor wasn't there when I delivered). Anyway, thanks again. I have a great respect for all you do 😊

[@drummerlovesbookworm9738]

Broke my heart here. What a mama you are.

[@KrisFasseBooksandButterflies]

This reminds me of situations I went through having my babies. I completely understand the feeling of being dehumanized. I hope many couples view this one.

[@kellyscott7184]

I want to commend you and say that I think you are so brave for posting this and letting us into this personal emotional area of your life. It absolutely sickens me the things that you were put thru and told during your labor, delivery and afterwards! I do not understand why for so many doctors/nurses that birth has become such a "directed" experience to where if things do not progress when they think they should or if it is not a "text book" perfect birthing that they have to interfere and intervene when it is simply not necessary. Yes I do know that many births do need assistance in some way or another and there are many risks but many times it just seems to be what pleases them or makes there day easier is what they will do. I to was diagnosed with preeclampsia and the whole time they had me scared to death that I was going to have a stroke that it made my pressure even worse and my experience, while it was the greatest day of my life, was not at all pleasant. Thank you for voicing

[@adjones87]

So sorry you went thru this! I have had good and bad experiences in the hospital and I’m so thankful to have found my new “baby friendly” hospital (home birth is illegal in AL). I feel comfort in the hospital, I think they sense my comfort and let me make decisions based on my approach. Versus if I gave the vibe that I didn’t want to be there. I hope Hannah’s birth goes just the way you want!

[@tracymccormack3697]

A beautiful soul has left but first she gave the world a wonderful heartfelt love and 9 great loving lives of the heart. Your missed but an angel in heaven

[@harleyperri5731]

I'm so sorry that happened to you. I've had some pretty brutal experiences at the hospital (not pregnancy related) Every experience helps us to be a better self advocate. I'm way to scared to have a home birth, but it's good to know that we can advocate for better birth experiences.

[@dmoore3887]

I am so sorry to hear about your experience in the hospital. I am a strong believer that God designed our bodies to have children naturally. As a now 37 year old home-birth mother of 6 (youngest is nearly 1) I have been fortunate to control much of my birthing experience. I can't imagine being in your situation....made me feel blessed to have such supportive midwives.

[@Cemommster]

God also has given us medical knowledge for those that do have high risk pregnancies, such as myself.

[@kimdavis7058]

Andrea, Im so sorry you went through all of this. Makes me so mad. I know this, your lil baby is so beautiful. Your a great mom and I love you.

[@rachelselby5469]

I have been dealing with fatty liver syndrome and potential type 2 diabetes so I've done a lot of research online. It turns out that the doctors push you to take the insulin medicines, they tell you it's incurable, and they don't mention that a change in diet can cure all this. Obviously if I just change my diet no one makes any money out of it. I'm so sorry for your bad experience and I agree with all your analysis about the hospitals.

[@thewatergal5770]

You're not going forget it, not ever. It will always be this painful when you resell this story, no matter how many years it has been.

[@Majesticmama]

I totally can relate to you. I had such a bad birth story for my first child very similar to yours, i literally had to go to therapy to get over it. hugs

[@mindbodyandsoul.myjourneyt9797]

Oh Andrea you had me in tears, I know this is an older video but this made me cry,, wow what an awful experience. Not all hospitals are like this but this was awful.. In the end you have a beautiful daughter,,, and she is perfect. That lady needs to be turned in,,that is such emotional abuse and some physical as well...

[@jennifermartin17]

Love watching your videos. So sorry you had to go through all of this.