Ep 1. They Can Take Your Baby Away

Born Behind Bars follows the lives of incarcerated women who are pregnant and giving birth while serving their time in various prisons across the United States. The show provides an intimate look at the challenges these women face and the love, support, and hope they receive from each other.

In season 1 episode 1, titled "They Can Take Your Baby Away," viewers are introduced to several women who are preparing to give birth while in prison. The episode begins with a scene at the Indiana Women's Prison, where we meet Judith, who is pregnant with her third child. Judith speaks candidly about feeling scared and alone, and expresses her fears about potentially losing her baby once it's born.

We also meet Cynthia, who is pregnant with her fourth child and due to give birth in less than two weeks. Cynthia's husband is also incarcerated, so she won't have any family members present during the birth.

The episode also introduces viewers to the various rules and regulations surrounding pregnancies in prison. For example, the women are often required to wear extra clothing to conceal their pregnancies, and they must undergo more frequent medical check-ups to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

As the due dates draw nearer, tensions rise for the women. Judith is facing the possibility of having her newborn taken away by Child Protective Services, while Cynthia is struggling with the thought of being separated from her baby immediately after giving birth.

The emotional stakes are high, with the women often expressing their fear and anxiety about what's to come. But they also find support and strength from each other, forming close bonds and offering words of encouragement.

The episode concludes with the women giving birth and experiencing the highs and lows that come with it. Some mothers have to be separated from their babies almost immediately after birth, while others are able to spend some time bonding before saying goodbye.

Overall, "They Can Take Your Baby Away" provides an emotional and thought-provoking look at the lives of incarcerated women who are navigating pregnancy and childbirth while behind bars. It sheds light on the unique challenges these women face and showcases their resilience and strength in the face of adversity.