Breaking the taboo
Breaking the taboo
Podcast Description
'Breaking the Taboo' is my new podcast on women’s health. In series one, I’ll be looking at the issue of birth trauma by speaking to affected mothers, families, healthcare professionals and campaigners for practical advice.
Like many women - my daughter's birth was not straightforward and this led me to chairing the UK Birth Trauma Inquiry as an MP in Parliament. So listen in and let’s break the taboo!
This podcast is sponsored by the law firm Irwin Mitchell. (https://www.irwinmitchell.com/ppc/irwinmitchell1?gclsrc=aw.ds&&ds_lpt_start&ds_lpt_end&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD86blBu0ya7VbzCyHqr9DNrTMn1Q&gclid=Cj0KCQiAy8K8BhCZARIsAKJ8sfS9YCgZE8pEGVI_xaDbjDKPVZUIPj1tUBztX0kJ_sza3VG2PzzS8H8aAhStEALw_wcB)
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores various themes around birth trauma, including its impact on mothers and families, mental health challenges, and recovery strategies. Episode topics feature practical advice on maternal mental health, workplace reintegration post-birth injury, and physical recovery processes, with discussions led by healthcare professionals and affected individuals.
Like many women – my daughter’s birth was not straightforward and this led me to chairing the UK Birth Trauma Inquiry as an MP in Parliament. So listen in and let’s break the taboo!
This podcast is sponsored by the law firm Irwin Mitchell.
Ailsa Adams is a mother of three—first a singleton, followed by twins—who experienced a severe birth injury (Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury, OASI) during her second delivery in 2020 whilst living in London. The repair surgery she underwent immediately after birth was later found to have been inadequately performed, leaving her with physical and mental challenges that have impacted every aspect of her life. In 2024, she underwent colostomy surgery as part of her ongoing recovery. Navigating life post-OASI has been complex, with limited guidance or healthcare pathways following such an injury. While still managing the effects of her experience, Ailsa is determined to support others facing similar challenges and advocate for improvements in maternity care and post-birth recovery resources. Ailsa works as a physiotherapist for the NHS and now lives in Scotland with her husband and three children.
Leena Savjani is a Partner at national law firm Irwin Mitchell and a specialist in medical negligence law with over 19 years of experience in the field. She has acted on some of the most complex and sensitive cases in the field, often involving serious injury and systemic failings in healthcare. Leena has a particular expertise in maternal injury cases, including those involving obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI) where she is recognized for her compassionate client care and deep understanding of the long-term impact on women’s lives. Known for her rigorous legal mind, empathy, and unwavering commitment to her clients, she is a trusted advocate for driving accountability and improving maternity safety.
Birth Trauma Association: https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org/
MASIC: https://masic.org.uk/downloadable-guides/
PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service): https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/hospitals/what-is-pals-patient-advice-and-liaison-service/
AvMA (Action Against Medical Accidents): https://www.avma.org.uk/
Instagram: @colostorymum @IrwinMitchell
This podcast is sponsored by the law firm Irwin Mitchell.
DISCLAIMER: This show is not intended to be medical advice please seek advice from a GP or Doctor.
Website: http://www.theo-clarke.org.uk/podcast
Instagram: @theoclarkemp
Breaking The Taboo production team:
Producer: Natasha Feroze
Researcher: Max Austin and Elliott Malik
Designer: Emily Ryder
Social media: Bella Carter
Studio manager: Adam Woodward
Studio: Studio 55 part of Wolfe Power Club
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