Born on The Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories

​KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, infertility, natural delivery, endometriosis ​Meet Andrea Sene - who's son was just five months old at the time of this recording! She describes him as a miracle baby, and here on the podcast, we LOVE hearing about miracle babies! ​Andrea endured years of mysterious pelvic pain through her early twenties, seemingly with gynaecological or urinary links. She was prescribed various antibiotics to treat suspected infections, chased medical investigations, and even considered that it might be cancer... before the cause was finally found. ​Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age globally - and in Andrea's case it had compromised her kidney and several surrounding organs. She bravely underwent multiple surgeries and trips to the UK for specialist medical care. Andrea knew that with her menstrual cycle halted due to aggressive hormonal treatments, her chances of pregnancy were now almost nil. ​Recovering in 2025 and accepting that her future as a mother was in doubt, Andrea describes the moment she and her partner's worlds turned upside down! It's great to hear Andrea describe her positive pregnancy journey and good - if lengthy - labour: 'it was a lovely experience.' ​We chat about adjusting to breastfeeding, parenting teamwork and family support - plus the difficulty in identifying endometriosis. Andrea hopes her story might help others receive more timely treatment for this chronic condition, especially if they want to start a family. For more information, please see links below. ​Many thanks to Andrea for sharing her Gibraltar Birth Story! (Recorded September 2026). Endometriosis support sites: https://www.instagram.com/endometriosis.uk?obrf=bWxnbWlhY29iOTlq https://www.instagram.com/the__endo__space?srtk= https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DUXpAwXjj/?mibextid=wwXIfr Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, natural delivery, posterior labour, single mum, blended family Suyenne Mauro knew she was pregnant in 2003 before taking any test.. as her body let her know! She and her then-partner were thrilled to learn that a little boy was on the way. It was a good pregnancy and Suyenne felt well, but scan images concerned her. She speaks about mother's instinct, and a very difficult, lengthy labour. Her baby was in back-to-back position and both were distressed, but with skilful midwife manouvering, Suyenne dodged a caesarean section. Her little boy was born safely, and she vowed she would never go through childbirth again. Her son was a very unsettled and hungry baby with allergies and respiratory issues emerging. We discuss those early months as Suyenne adjusted to motherhood, becoming a family of two as she split from her partner. She formed strong connections with other single parents, and had good family support in her son's life. Suyenne speaks so well about that protective 'mama-bear' feeling, of wanting to do whatever it takes to care for your baby... even once they're adults! There's a lovely twist in our story as she describes becoming a blended family with her new partner's similar-aged grown children... just don't call her 'step mum!' There's lots of honesty and positivity in this episode, and I'm grateful to Suyenne for sharing her Gibraltar Birth Story (Recorded September 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 3 births, natural delivery, baby loss, stillbirth, retained placenta, fetal growth restriction, induction, jaundice, Gilbert’s syndrome This episode was published on Baby Loss Awareness Day, globally known as the 'Wave of Light.' It’s an incredibly difficult story that is almost too painful to hear, but told so eloquently by brave local mother of three, Noelle Aldorino. In this episode she addresses the taboo topic of stillbirth, honours her daughter's memory and offers hope describing a ‘rainbow baby,’ – a child born after loss. *Please carefully consider where you choose to listen to this highly emotional episode.* _______________________________ Noelle's first pregnancy in 2015 was straightforward, with her first daughter born after a lengthy labour. She describes overwhelm adjusting to motherhood, especially as the first in a friend group to have a baby. She later became a single mother and went on to meet her current partner Justin: 'some people are just born to be Dads.' Noelle's second pregnancy saw her guide Justin through development stages and scans, as they excitedly prepared to meet their baby in 2024. But just days before the due date, their world changed forever when no heartbeat was found. Beyond devasted, Noelle gave birth to a daughter she would never hear cry. After surgery to remove retained placenta, Justin and midwives gently guided Noelle to meeting baby Rhiane. She praises the compassion of maternity staff throughout. In deep physical and emotional pain, the couple left hospital empty-handed except for items by local parenthood support charity, Baby STEPPs. Heart-broken herself, Noelle sensitively broke the news to her young daughter. The couple arranged Rhiane's funeral… around what should have been her due date. Noelle describes widespread tributes as the community rallied to show support. The family navigated grief together and marked the first anniversary of their loss, before happily, in 2025 another pregnancy followed. Noelle was closely monitored and hyper-vigilant: ‘I was obsessed!’ until the safe induced arrival of their little girl by a good, fast labour. Treatment for jaundice uncovered a harmless inherited condition. This is a profound story of unimaginable sadness… and yet there are moments of joy and laughter around happier parenting moments. There are several references to strong family support too. I’m so grateful to Noelle for bravely sharing her motherhood journey, with her three Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded September 2026). If you’ve been affected by issues in this episode, please find support at: Baby STEPPs (Support Through Early Parenthood & Pregnancies) Gibraltar https://www.facebook.com/BABYSTEPPSGIB/ GibSams: https://gibsams.gi or call free: 116 123 Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, infertility, emergency CS, postnatal depression, hyperlactation Gabriella Luque accepted that her future would be childless, being told as a teenager that she faced infertility. So becoming pregnant and crowned 'mummy,' turned her world upside down! It's an episode of modelling to her daughter personal growth... and modelling as First Princess for Mrs Gibraltar and Mrs Europe 2026 👑🇬🇮 ______________________________________ Gabriella wasn't always confident - at school she felt bullied and self conscious. As a teenager with irregular cycles, she was advised that she was infertile due to effects of essential medication. She came to terms with this news, and in her early twenties met her partner. Within just months she discovered she was pregnant - a massive shock for the expectant parents with opposite reactions! Gabriella describes self-doubt and disbelief, while juggling her new job and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Her labour became difficult, and a week before her due date in 2022 her daughter was born by emergency caesarean. Pospartum, Gabriella experienced painful engorgement that left her housebound, before her breastfeeding journey abruptly stopped. We have an interesting chat about the psychological impact of motherhood too, as Gabriella struggled with feeling connected or if she was doing things 'right.' With the support of her partner who already had a child, Gabriella's confidence grew and she entered the Mrs Gibraltar pageant...then Mrs Europe, being crowned First Princess in both! This was an inspiring chat about how mothers can feel guilty for pursuing self-care, yet how it supports good mental health which is so important to model for the next generation 💜 Thanks Gabriella for sharing this positive birth story about a very special little princess! (Recorded August 2026). https://www.facebook.com/GBCNewsroom/posts/flying-the-gibraltar-flag-congratulations-to-gabriella-luque-for-being-crowned-1/1700513095408994/ Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, natural delivery, recurrent miscarriage, second trimester loss, reflux, grandmother, 1980's From Geraldine Finlayson’s textbook first pregnancy, labour and easy baby, to becoming a doting grandmother, there’s a real sense of gratitude running through this episode… despite several devasting miscarriages inbetween. Her motherhood journey took her from love to loss – but then to HOPE: a group she founded to offer support to other parents after miscarriage and stillbirth. _____________________________ Married at 19 years old, Geraldine and her husband discovered they were expecting soon after trying to start a family. She fondly describes an enjoyable straightforward pregnancy before a fast labour with a good midwife. Geraldine felt no real ‘pain’ for her natural delivery. There’s humour in her descriptions of gender-appropriate clothing of the time, and learning to changing nappies. She had good family support, and established breastfeeding, though we discuss her baby’s reflux and advice that helped build Geraldine's confidence. Plus, what it’s like to have an ‘easy’ baby that sleeps well and cries little! In the years that followed, Geraldine sadly suffered recurrent miscarriages… each coming as a devasting blow. She describes a final crushing experience: a second trimester loss. *Please note that Geraldines description of her last baby’s birth is a difficult listen ⚠️ We discuss the impossible task of telling their son, and how isolating grief can be when you’re trying to be strong for others. Determined to turn her pain into purpose, Geraldine founded the Catholic Church’s HOPE group to support others facing baby loss, and offer a confidential listening service. We finish on a high as she describes the pure joy of becoming a doting grandmother. I’m so grateful to Geraldine for sharing her Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded August 2026). 💜 Call HOPE on: 200 418 17 Find support at BABYSTEPPS Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, emergency caesarean, VBAC, 1980's We’re going back to the 1980’s this week for the births of two boys, to Conchita Triay and her husband. The experiences were completely different, but equally challenging. There’s some lovely support referenced in this episode, and generational changes discussed too. _________________________________ Former teacher Conchita was in her early 30's when she married her husband in 1986, and we have a fun chat about their unconventional wedding. One of six children herself, she didn’t dream of motherhood but rather assumed she would start a family. Conchita had a straightforward first pregnancy, but a difficult labour that led to an emergency caesarean – for which she felt underprepared. She describes the (then-routine) enema as torture, a violent awakening from anaesthetic, followed by a brutal recovery in how stiches were removed. Thankfully Conchita describes great support from her sister and late mother… although nothing eases an unsettled non-sleeping baby! She navigated exhaustion and breastfeeding logistics as she returned to the classroom, at a time when mothers only received 12 weeks maternity leave: 'you just had to get on with it.' In 1989 Conchita experienced another straightforward pregnancy, followed by a vaginal birth after the previous caesarean (VBAC). Although less invasive, the experience was no less gruelling - although this time Conchita’s second son proved to be an ‘easier’ baby. She reflects on how becoming a mother is life-changing: ‘you’re no longer the most important person in your life.’ We discuss resilience, changing societal norms and parenting values, as well as advice she would go back and give herself. I’m so grateful to Conchita for sharing this honest insight to her two Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded July 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, post-pandemic, natural delivery, posterior labour, mastitis “My frontal lobe wasn’t fully developed!” That’s how local teacher Samantha Thorne reflects on a shock pregnancy discovery with her then-boyfriend in her early 20’s. She was just starting her career, and candidly describes some honest emotions in this week’s episode – as well as two completely different birth experiences. At the age of 22, Samantha was only months into a new teaching role she loved, and rebuilding her social life after the pandemic… when she learned in an unconventional way that she was pregnant. Blindsided by the revelation, it took some time to process before telling her partner. Was she really ready for this? Samantha describes how the shock news caused ripples within their family and friend groups – and how increasingly isolating she found the pregnancy as everyone else went about their normal lives, while her body and future were changing fast. Some people love being pregnant, but Samantha is candid about hating how poorly it made her feel. She’s a huge advocate for exercise and found this a valuable tool for both her physical health in labour, and mental health postpartum. After a quick labour, Samantha’s son was born safely. She faced breastfeeding struggles and overwhelm, but found support from other mothers in an unexpected place. The baby’s arrival also brought a shift with her partner: the reality saw him quickly embrace fatherhood and step-up. They married a few years later, and Samantha found a sweet way to tell her husband they were expecting again. The second pregnancy was difficult with sickness, and the labour was harder as the baby was in a back-to-back position. Samantha credits her own fitness stamina and midwife support for narrowly avoiding a caesarean, and shares an anecdote about choosing the baby’s name. Postpartum felt more healing this time with Samantha’s increased confidence in asking for help, plus a smiley ‘easy’ baby. She outlines things she did differently – and how this birth was met with less shock and more joy all round! Thanks Samantha for sharing how parenthood can find you – ready or not! (Recorded July 2026). Art in Movement Dance Classes: https://www.facebook.com/artinmovementgibraltar Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 4 births, natural deliveries, short age gaps, chicken pox, Down’s Syndrome We’re heading to the 1980’s in this week’s episode, with former MOD Early Year’s Coordinator Annette Zammit, her husband and their four children. The couple had two girls and two boys – with their youngest born with Down’s Syndrome. She speaks with resilience and positivity about her motherhood journey, and work co-founding the Gibraltar Down’s Syndrome Support Group (GDSSG). ________________________________________________________________________________________ Annette married her husband at 18yrs old, and after a straightforward pregnancy a few years later their first daughter was born on the Rock in 1979 and both recovered well. In 1985 they were studying and working in the UK when their second little girl was born in a hospital there - Annette describes differing maternity practices and how exotic their daughter seemed compared to other babies! Juggling studies alongside her toddler, life was busy when a critical situation struck just one month postpartum: her newborn caught chicken pox. Annette cites a study placement with a UK family that would have a poignant bearing on her own future parenting. The couple returned to the Rock again and welcomed their third child by fast delivery: a son born in 1987. While working, moving house and learning to drive – another pregnancy came along in 1988! Scans and anomaly tests were not commonplace in Gibraltar then, though Annette felt that the pregnancy was different somehow. She describes reactions when it became clear at birth that her son had Down’s Syndrome – and how negative medical outlooks contrasted with her family’s positive acceptance and support. It’s a real insight to the practicalities of parenting a child with additional needs alongside other young children, and how a chance conversation about housing turned the family’s fortunes around. Annette emphasises the importance of seeing the person, not the disability – and how those with Down’s Syndrome can live satisfying lives and reach their full potential. She's spent years raising awareness by co-founding the Gibraltar Down’s Syndrome Support Group (GDSSG). I’m so grateful to Annette for sharing her motherhood journey! (Recorded June 2026). Find more support here: https://www.facebook.com/DSSGG/ gibraltardisabilitysociety.com https://possabilities-gib.com/ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/downs-syndrome Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 pregnancies, induction, assisted delivery, natural delivery, mastitis, post-pandemic, cervical cancer It’s a powerful episode to start Season 6 with local journalist and co-founder of 'Little English' language school, Sophie Clifton-Tucker Hedley. She recounts the births of her two young sons... and what it’s like when abnormal smear tests threaten your future as a new mother. Sophie travelled around the world with her husband, before setting up the Rock’s first language school ‘Little English,’ – you could say it was their first baby! In 2022 they discussed starting a family – and became pregnant very quickly. Sophie had a good pregnancy journey, but went past her due date. There are some candid moments of humour as she describes the start of labour, and how birth plans can change! After an induction and long labour, there were concerns over mother and baby’s heart rates before her little boy was born safely by assisted delivery. Sophie is very open about the emotional rollercoaster after having a baby, and the difficult process of establishing breastfeeding. She describes the invaluable support of her husband, and other mothers in guiding and building confidence as she recovered. With her second pregnancy, Sophie describes a much faster labour for the birth of her youngest son in 2025. We discuss growing confidence, plus what it’s like introducing a toddler to their new sibling. However, her recovery was overshadowed by painful recurring mastitis… and abnormal smear test results. At just five months postpartum, the couple’s world came crashing down with Sophie’s diagnosis of stage 1 cervical cancer. She speaks honestly about the treatments, tests and procedures to reach an all-clear, just months before this recording. We highlight the importance of awareness, early detection and attending smear tests – with encouragement and tips to make it easier! Sophie considers words of advice she would give herself as a new mum - and expresses gratitude for her husband’s support. Thank you Sophie for sharing her motherhood journey with her two Gibraltar Birth Stories! (Recorded June 2026). _________________________________________________________________________ To book a smear test through the GHA, call the Cervical Screening team on 5600 4698 Find more info at https://www.gha.gi/public-health/cervical-screening/ Eve Appeal Gynaelogical Cancers Charity: https://eveappeal.org.uk/ Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📢 SEASON 5 of the podcast is complete! 🙌 No time to listen, but want to hear what the stories are about? Play the Season 5 trailer now! *Please note, this audio contains mention of baby loss* Brave local mothers told their unique birth stories over: 💜 11 episodes (April to July 2026) 💜 15 hours of audio 💜 From the 1980's to last year 💜 22 babies born! We love capturing these life-changing stories and building a powerful local library. GBC's 'Born on the Rock' podcast aims to provide a supportive resource for our community and beyond, normalising real conversations around parenthood. There's a huge range of topics covered... do any match your pregnancy experience? Thanks for listening, and to our guests for sharing! Do you want to be part of Season 6? Email Lucinda: bornontherock@gbc.gi Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 4 pregnancies, miscarriage, hyperemesis gravidarum, genetic testing, IVF, secondary infertility, caesarean, female sterilisation To complete Season 5, I’m thrilled to welcome back our first ever returning guest! Former nurse Tara Montegriffo recorded her daughter's birth story in November 2024 as part of Season 1. At that stage, she and her husband faced secondary infertility and a very uncertain future, as they tried to grow their family. After the couple welcomed their daughter in 2021, they suffered two devastating losses – one in the second trimester, due to a genetic condition. As time passed without conceiving, they embarked on IVF treatment at a fertility clinic in Spain... and in this episode, Tara walks us through what happened next. She describes the medical stages and genetic testing process, plus lifestyle approaches. Despite successfully becoming pregnant, Tara was unable to get excited due to first-hand experience of miscarriage... and the return of an old ‘friend’ – hyperemesis gravidarum. Her description of debilitating sickness and nausea is powerful – rendering her bed-bound and vomiting up to 30 times a day. She felt deep guilt at being unable to care for her daughter, and researched strong medications in a bid to manage the condition. We discuss the huge contrast between an emergency and a planned caesarean, before the safe arrival of the couple’s second daughter in December 2025. Tara allowed herself a slower, more peaceful recovery too. We have an honest chat about introducing an older child to a new baby, and family planning decisions too. Despite significant physical, emotional and financial challenges, it's encouraging to hear how Tara navigated secondary infertility and completed her family… as we complete season 5 of the podcast. I’m so grateful to Tara for returning to share the second chapter of her Gibraltar Birth Stories! (Recorded June 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, caesarean, retroverted uterus, failure to thrive (FTT), postpartum hypomania, bipolar disorder (BPD), obesity, maternal mental health (MMH) Emily Adamberry Olivero (MBE GMD MBPSS) is the Chairperson of Clubhouse Europe, and former chief director and founder of Clubhouse Gibraltar – a local charity providing mental health support. In this episode she gives an honest account of her motherhood and mental health journey through the 1980’s and 1990’s. Emily grew up in the 1950’s as one of eight siblings. She married and was expecting in 1983, but through pregnancy her weight provoked unwelcome comments. Due to a tilted uterus, Emily had a caesarean. Her daughter was an ‘easy’ baby, but didn’t gain weight for many weeks. We discuss mother's instinct, and the feeding journey. Emily returned to work and seemed to adapt well to motherhood - at first. But she felt ‘wired,’ and barely slept, as a colleague urged her to seek help. Her postpartum hypomania and subsequent bipolar disorder took time to diagnose, and she describes referrals to doctors in Spain. Emily went to great lengths to avoid admission to KG5, the psychiatric hospital… where three of her brothers had also received care. With medication, time and her spiritual faith, Emily recovered and founded the first psychological support group on the Rock in 1992. As she gained qualifications, she also gained confidence that she now had a mental health ‘safety net,’ to have another baby. An easier pregnancy and recovery saw the birth of her second daughter, a decade after her first. Worldwide, around 13% of women who have just given birth experience a mental health disorder.* Untreated, it can become so severe that it impacts daily functioning and care for the baby... and may even pose serious risk to the mother's life ⚠️ But maternal mental health disorders are treatable; as Emily says - "there IS life after a mental health episode.' She's passionate about empowering all in our community to live satisfying lives, and you could say she 'gave birth' to Clubhouse Gibraltar! Thank you Emily for sharing two Gibraltar Birth Stories on such important - and often taboo - topics (Recorded May 2026). Local Resources : If you’re facing a mental health crisis, call the GHA on 111. Local support info: https://www.gha.gi/public-health/mental-health/ For more on Clubhouse: https://clubhousegibraltar.com/ GibSams: https://gibsams.gi/ Maternal Mental Health Resources: *World Health Organisation (WHO): https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/perinatal-mental-health Maternal Mental Health Alliance: https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/about-maternal-mental-health/perinatal-mental-illnesses World Maternal Mental Health Day: https://wmmhday.org/ Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 3 births, adolescent pregnancy, natural deliveries, miscarriage, hypotension, advanced maternal age, large age gap, jaundice, grandparent This week’s guest is Kationa Matto: a mother of three with qualifications in child development, wellness and yoga… and a parenting career spanning four decades! From a teenage pregnancy in the 1990’s to a last baby in her 40’s, she’s had a fascinating journey with her husband by her side. At the time of recording, her children were aged 34, 30 and 10. Kationa explains what it was like to discover pregnancy... as she prepared to finish school at sixteen. Despite family support, she eloquently describes the weight of shame she carried through her trimester, and for years after. Kationa and her husband wed, and after a long labour she delivered their son at the old St Bernard’s hospital in 1992. The couple felt ready to grow their family four years later, and conceived easily. Kationa embraced this pregnancy, though had a more painful labour for the birth of their daughter in 1996. There’s a sweet story about the siblings meeting with a gift as they settled into life as a four, believing the family to be complete. But in 2014, Kationa researched books and meditation resources to approach parenting challenges – and it marked the start of a powerful journey of self-discovery. She describes the strong vision of having another child with her husband – “I had to.” Sadly the couple faced a first trimester loss, before a healthy pregnancy with their last child. Kationa explains the connection with her baby before his fast birth, and feeling truly ready this time as well as proud... not ashamed. These are three totally different experiences that Kationa tells so well, and I’m so grateful to her for sharing her Gibraltar Birth Stories! (Recorded June 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, induction, natural delivery, step-parent Our guest this week is Davina Barbara – a mother with plenty of experience in local culture and broadcasting, and with a very unique date of birth herself! It’s an empowering listen as she shares her positive parenting journey. From a step-mother ‘soft launch,’ to expecting a baby with her husband, Davina describes an easy conception and a good pregnancy. She gives an account of the induction process, after going 10 days past her due date in 2009. Her husband was by her side at birth… along with her midwife sister, who delivered the baby!* Davina was grateful for the trust and support in her ‘dream team,’ …although her recollection of time spent in active labour was different to her sister’s! It was a textbook delivery compared to others in hospital at the time and Davina recovered well, although she reflects very honestly about the challenge of establishing breastfeeding. Davina describes what it was like to return from maternity leave to a full-time role in the public eye (she worked 18 years at GBC), as well as the huge value of family support in navigating motherhood. We discuss how powerful women are, and changing perceptions of self-identity over time, plus how parents can actually learn from children. It's such an engaging listen, and I’m so grateful to Davina for 'broadcasting' her Gibraltar Birth Story! (Recorded April 2026). *Bonus listen!* Davina's midwife sister recorded her birth story with the podcast - check out Episode 13: 'A Midwife Special, with Denise Camilleri.' Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, induction, fast delivery, ventricular septal defect (VSD), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), jaundice, postpartum depression (PPD), pandemic It’s a story that grows in drama this week with Stephanie Piri, her husband and two pandemic pregnancies. Stephanie describes how her body let her know she was expecting, days before tests confirmed it! Despite social distancing, she had pregnancy company with her sister giving birth in the same week. Stephanie describes going past her due date and being induced, before the fast arrival of her little girl. There’s a lovely story about discovering their second pregnancy after the couple conceived quickly. Everything changed at the 20-week scan however, with the a heart issue identified. The rest of the pregnancy became a blur of appointments, trips to Spain and multiple scans. Worryingly, a second condition was identified: Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). Their son measured small… and then stopped growing. Stephanie was induced at 37 weeks and believes this saved his life. She had a choice on delivery preference and experienced another fast birth, with a very small placenta. Her son arrived just before Christmas 2022 and recovered well from jaundice. There was positive news about his heart issue too. Stephanie speaks honestly about the impact of the pregnancy stress on her mental health. She sought postpartum counselling support, with encouragement that it’s OK to ask for help. Stephanie highlights the importance of measuring placenta during scans, speaking up in appointments and practising self-care… plus how her family took surprise positive inspiration from a children’s TV show! I’m so grateful to Stephanie for sharing her two Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded May 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, retroverted uterus, caesarean, miscarriages, premature, grandmother Local cooking enthusiast and author Jessica Montado serves up a flavour of what motherhood was like in the 1980’s and 1990’s this week – and what it’s like to be a grandparent now. In fact, there are touching references to her own mother and grandmother’s influences throughout our chat. Jessica married in 1987 and was pregnant with her first son at the age of 24 the following year. There was an unusual twist to her pregnancy tests, and a ‘near miss’ situation in the first trimester, before an induced labour and caesarean due to her tilted uterus. We discuss the concept of not feeling fully ‘ready,’ for motherhood, plus differences in maternity care and the short period of leave that was usual in those days. Jessica also highlights the challenges of accessing support and information – relying on advice from other women in the community, as opposed to the internet now. She references two miscarriages before becoming pregnant with her next son - another 'bun in the oven' - in 1994. Jessica’s second birth was a harder experience as her son arrived eight weeks prematurely. He remained in Gibraltar and although both mother and baby recovered well after the C-section, she describes the lasting impact of that emotional time. We discuss adapting to life as a family of four, navigating the teenage years and what it’s like to become a grandmother – “the best thing that ever happened to me.” Jessica’s own grandmother was a big influence in her life, as captured in her recipe book full of home-cooked family meals and memories that she herself passes down now to her children and grandchildren. She reflects on great positive advice she would give to her younger self too. Thank you so much Jessica, for ‘serving up’ this great episode! (Recorded May 2026). Jessica’s book is out now: “CosyKitchenCorner: A Legacy of Recipes from Lely's Kitchen.” https://www.facebook.com/Cosykitchencorner Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 1 pregnancy, triploidy syndrome, partial molar pregnancy, termination for medical reasons (TFMR) ⚠️Trigger warning: please note this episode involves emotional discussion of baby loss In this powerful episode, local teacher Aidele Casciaro-Beazley bravely describes a whirlwind journey with her husband… from the high of discovering pregnancy on honeymoon, to the low of a loss by the second trimester, due to a rare chromosomal condition. Aidele had a good start to pregnancy, though everything changed at her 12 week scan. Nuchal scan measurements indicated anomalies, requiring further investigations in Spain. Devastatingly, findings confirmed that their baby had Triploidy syndrome: a chromosomal anomaly that is incompatible with life. Aidele explains the details of the fatal diagnosis, and the small comfort in discovering their baby’s gender. The newlyweds were given bleak options that no parent should have to face - including termination for medical reasons. She reflects that their much-wanted baby Aliza Natalie was simply ‘not meant to be here,’ and their heart-breaking choice was made purely through love 💜 It’s an incredible difficult listen as Aidele outlines the procedure that followed, risks to her own health, and reflects on key issues in this situation. She's grateful for the compassion shown by medical staff during her surgery and recovery, as well as huge family support. Aidele speaks very eloquently about this emotive, taboo topic – and so soon, too: with bittersweet irony this episode was recorded on Triploidy Awareness Day, and just one day after Aidele’s due date. It’s her wish that Aliza’s legacy may help others in a similar impossible situation – and it’s my wish that we can invite her back in future with a happier story, as the condition is not genetic. Thank you so much for bravely sharing your story, Aidele (Recorded April 2026). If you've been affected by issues in this episode, please find support at: Sands https://www.sands.org.uk BabySTEPPS (Gibraltar) https://www.facebook.com/BABYSTEPPSGIB Gibsams : https://gibsams.gi Disclaimer: views expressed in podcast episodes are those of guests, and do not reflect the views of GBC. Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 1 birth, aortic valve displacement/replacement, blood clot, advanced maternal age, premature, caesarean, hip dysplasia Meet poker manager Colette Stewart, who had a high-stakes journey to motherhood! It’s an extraordinary listen as Colette describes a complication with her artificial heart valve, that led to her daughter’s emergency caesarean… alongside her own heart surgery in the same procedure. Colette moved to the Rock in 2000 with a managed heart condition. There were known risks to becoming pregnant, but her medication was adjusted and she conceived with her then-partner. She had a good textbook pregnancy with a due date the end of January 2013, however as she entered her third trimester, Colette felt crushing fatigue. An emergency check-up confirmed the frightening presence of a heart complication. What followed was a dramatic race to Cadiz for emergency care, as a team of specialists urgently consulted: how to save both mother and baby? With huge risks, uncertainty and a language barrier, Colette faced the real possibility that she might not survive to meet her baby. It’s an emotional listen as she describes undergoing a caesarean AND a heart valve replacement… within the same hour. More surgery followed to fit a pacemaker, and five days passed before Colette could meet her premature little girl. Thankfully both recovered well and returned home for Christmas. We discuss how Colette’s daughter was treated for hip dysplasia, but has since been in excellent health with no inherited heart issues... and is now actually taller than Colette! It’s heart-warming to hear about the invaluable support she had from friends and family, as Colette beat the odds to become a mother. She tells this incredible journey in such a down-to-earth way! Thank you Colette, for sharing your birth story (Recorded March 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 5 pregnancies, missed miscarriages, second trimester loss, birth trauma, retained placenta, D&C, cervical lip, assisted delivery, autism, thyroiditis, pandemic Angelique Cavilla describes her parenting journey involving five pregnancies and her three sons… so please note this episode contains discussion of loss, including the second trimester. Angelique and her husband were expecting their first baby in 2013. It was a good pregnancy, although the induced delivery of their little boy was tricky with Angelique’s cervical lip. Over time, she noticed her son’s development differed from other babies, and he received a diagnosis of autism as a toddler. Angelique’s second pregnancy in 2016 went well, with a delivery similar to her first although more intense. Their second son was born quickly and Angelique recovered well. Despite nights of poor sleep and communication issues with her eldest, she expressed the feeling: “I’m not done yet.” However the journey to reach their third child saw two devastating losses – in the pandemic year of 2020. At almost 16 weeks the couple’s world fell apart at a gender scan, when instead, they discovered no heartbeat. It’s a harrowing description of traumatic delivery… while background TV’s announced lockdown. Angeliques explains the cruelty of a ‘missed miscarriage,’ – when the body gives no sign that a pregnancy has ended weeks before – and the hardest part: explaining to her young sons. Social distancing meant Angelique’s recovery was lonely, while working and home-schooling. It was a bleak time, made harder by the discovery of another missed miscarriage at 8 weeks. A rollercoaster of emotions followed – and another pregnancy. Thankfully Angelique reached full-term, before a difficult labour and forceps delivery of her longed-for son. We discuss the bond between her boys, family life, plus coping with health anxiety and physical repercussions after her births and losses. Angelique hope her story of a 'rainbow baby' shows that hope can exist after loss. I’m very grateful to Angelique for so honestly sharing her Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded March 2026). If you've been affected by topics in this episode, please find local support online: Baby STEPPs (Support Through Early Parenthood & Pregnancies) Gibraltar or with https://gibsams.gi for a free confidential listening service. More support is available at: https://www.tommys.org/ and https://www.sands.org.uk/ Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, non-identical twins, caesarean, ulcerative colitis, pandemic During her twin pregnancy, local artist Kyrane had other double trouble to contend with: her own autoimmune disorder and the pandemic. Kyrane and her husband were childhood sweethearts who married in 2018 – and when they conceived, her bump showed quickly! There’s a humorous description of the moment the couple discovered they were expecting not one, but two babies. The pregnancy also had a surprising effect on Kyrane’s existing ulcerative colitis: her often debilitating chronic inflammatory bowel condition. As Kyrane entered her second trimester… the world entered lockdown. She describes cancelled appointments in 2020 with restrictions and isolation, at a time when most expectant mothers are enjoying family contact. Happily she made it to full-term and her non-identical twin boys arrived safely – although she had a difficult recovery from the elective caesarean. The boys were well, though Kyrane later describes a dramatic health scare with one, plus a serious UC flare up that saw her hospitalised for a month, when her boys were still babies. She talks about these frightening incidents in such an engaging way, and we have a great chat about the boys’ bond, and her strong family support. Fun fact – Kyrane is the daughter of our guest from episode 47! 🤩How amazing to hear the baby from that story all grown up, and describing her own babies now! Thanks so much Kyrane, for sharing your twin Gibraltar Birth Stories (Recorded February 2026). Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.