Podcasts about Breech

In this re-aired fan-favorite episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Rixa Freeze, research professor and president of Breech Without Borders, to challenge everything you think you know about breech birth. Together, they unpack the real facts, not the fear, behind breech birth, from what it actually is to the true statistics and why the right provider can change everything. Dr. Freeze breaks down short- and long-term risks for both mom and baby, exposes how outdated research continues to shape today's birth practices, and explains how upright birth positions can dramatically improve outcomes. You'll also hear what's really going on behind the scenes when families try to find breech-competent providers (and how to advocate when your baby's got their own plans for positioning!). Whether you're currently expecting a breech baby or just want to be prepared for anything, this episode is packed with evidence, empowerment, and that signature HeHe honesty that helps you feel calm, confident, and in control of your birth choices. Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of infant and maternal mortality statistics. 00:00 Introduction and Common Misconceptions About Breech Birth 00:52 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:01 Black Friday Sale Announcement 02:15 The Birth Lounge: Comprehensive Childbirth Education 04:48 Special Offers and Membership Perks 08:51 Exclusive Black Friday Deal Details 09:38 Re-airing Popular Episodes During Maternity Leave 10:51 Introduction to Breech Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze 11:55 Understanding Breech Birth Basics 16:18 Safety and Risks of Breech Birth 25:46 Maternal and Long-term Outcomes of Breech Birth 29:24 Understanding Long-Term Effects of Birth Decisions 30:34 Insights on Preterm Breech Births 31:08 Discovering a Clean Brand: Just Ingredients 33:40 Hospital vs. Home Birth Data for Breech Births 36:47 Encouraging Breech Birth Training for Providers 42:53 Labor and Birth Positions for Breech Births 54:33 Final Thoughts and Resources   Guest Bio: Dr. Rixa Freeze holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Iowa and is an internationally recognized researcher, professor, and mother of four. As president of Breech Without Borders, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, she specializes in vaginal breech birth and advocates for autonomy and human rights in childbirth. Her work bridges history, research, and education to bring evidence-based, respectful care to every birth setting. Dr. Rixa blogs at Stand and Deliver (rixarixa.blogspot.com) and is passionate about all things birth- and breastfeeding-related.    This is a re-air of episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze, which you can find here:  https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-179-the-safety-of-breech-birth-with-rixa-freeze/ INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Breech Without Borders on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   .

The ARRIVE Trial and the Term Breech Trial reshaped modern birth practices in ways researchers never intended. From skyrocketing inductions to the loss of vaginal breech training, these studies reveal how even “gold-standard” science can miss the human side of birth.Clara invites you to take a mindful pause: to look beyond the data, question how evidence gets translated into policy, get curious about how the research was designed, and remember that true evidence-based care must center the individual—not just the research.You'll Learn:What the ARRIVE Trial and the Term Breech Trial actually found (and what they didn't)How these studies shifted policy, practice, and training worldwideWhy over-reliance on “evidence” can erase skills, intuition, and personal choiceHow to bring mindfulness into your decision-making about induction, breech birth, or any medical recommendationWhy traditional and holistic birth practices still matter—even if they've never been studiedMindful Reflection“Mindfulness isn't about ignoring evidence—it's about pausing long enough to ask, ‘Does this research apply to me, in my body, in this context?' True evidence-based care is a dialogue between research, clinician experience, and your own wisdom.”Resources MentionedDownload Clara's Free Birth Plan Template, used at over 5,000 births.Ready for an evidence based birth class? Check out A Path to A Powerful BirthThe Birth Advocacy Toolkit is a great option for expectant parents who have already taken a class but want to make sure their preferences are heard and want evidence based information to help make their decisions. Evidence Based Birth: Evidence on the ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 WeeksEvidence Based Birth: Evidence on Breech BirthGrobman WA, et al. Labor Induction versus Expectant Management in Low-Risk Nulliparous Women. NEJM, 2018.Evidence Based Birth: “Evidence on the ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 Weeks.”Nethery E, et al. Obstet Gynecol, 2023. Post-ARRIVE induction impact study.Hannah ME, et al. Planned Cesarean vs Planned Vaginal Birth for Breech. Lancet, 2000.Kotaska A. BMJ, 2004. “Inappropriateness of RCTs for complex intrapartum phenomena.”Goffinet F, et al. PREMODA Study. Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2006.RCOG Green-top Guideline No. 20b (2017).ACOG Committee Opinion No. 745 (2018).SOGC No. 384 (2019).Get 20% off your first monthly subscription with NEEDED Vitamins 

Ep. 396 Twins Untangled: The Data Behind Safe Twin Birth with Dr. Stu In this week's episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Stu Fischbein to unpack the truth about twin births, and it's probably not what your provider has told you. They dive into why C-sections have become the default for twins in the U.S. (hint: it's not because it's safer), and how our medical system continues to over-manage what can often be a normal variation of birth. Dr. Stu breaks down what's really happening with rising twin pregnancies, how assisted reproductive technology plays a role, and why evidence still supports vaginal twin births when handled by skilled providers. You'll hear them talk about: How to find a provider who's actually experienced with vaginal twin births The real deal on ECVs, breech twins, and what “mono-mono” and “mono-di” really mean How to advocate for your birth plan even when you're having multiples If you're expecting twins, or just want to understand how broken our twin birth system has become, this episode is your blueprint for making informed, confident choices and protecting your power in the birth room. 00:00 Introduction to Twin Births 01:07 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:14 Black Friday Sale Announcement 02:29 The Birth Lounge Overview 09:52 Special Guest: Dr. Stu Fischbein 10:21 Challenges and Misconceptions About Twin Births 11:25 Dr. Stu's Background and Expertise 12:48 Navigating Twin Births in the Medical System 14:15 The Importance of Informed Consent 15:51 Current Landscape of Twin Births 20:49 Training and Skills in Obstetrics 35:34 Risks and Realities of Twin Births 57:29 Legislation and Training in Midwifery 59:07 Economic Incentives in Birth Practices 01:00:16 Personal Experience with Baby Gear 01:03:31 Cost Analysis of C-Sections vs. Vaginal Births 01:04:50 Hospital Policies and C-Section Rates 01:08:44 Historical Perspective on Birth Practices 01:14:08 Twin Births: Hospital vs. Home 01:20:30 Challenges in Breech Deliveries 01:24:27 External Cephalic Version (ECV) Insights 01:30:42 Timing and Risks in Twin Deliveries 01:40:07 Final Thoughts and Advice for Expecting Mothers   Guest Bio: Stuart J. Fischbein MD is a community-based obstetrician and an Associate of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, published author of the book “Fearless Pregnancy, Wisdom & Reassurance from a Doctor, A Midwife and A Mom” and peer-reviewed papers Homebirth with an Obstetrician, A Series of 135 Out of Hospital Births and Breech birth at home: outcomes of 60 breech and 109 cephalic planned home and birth center births. After completing his residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Stu spent 24 years assisting women with hospital birthing and, for the last 13 years, has been a homebirth obstetrician who works directly with midwives. Since retiring from attending home births in 2022, Dr. Stu has turned his focus to traveling around the world as a lecturer and advocate for reteaching breech & twin birth skills, respect for the normalcy of birth and honoring informed consent. He hosts a weekly podcast with co-host Blyss Young and together they offer hope, reassurance and safe, honest evidence supported choices for those women who understand pregnancy is a normal bodily function not to be feared. Follow him on Instagram @birthinginstincts. His websites are www.birthinginstincts.com & www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Dr. Stu on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS/RESOURCES MENTIONED: Check out our episode with Dr. Stu's cohost, Blyss Young (ep. 232)    Listen to episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze    Here's a link to the Primitive Reflexes episode Dr. Stu references   https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0313941   www.birthinginstincts.com   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683   www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30305050/   https://static1.squarespace.com/static/52ca1028e4b05c5f2d7b157d/t/62e02090874eae67b683bc67/1658855570428/A+Maneuver+for+Head+Entanglement+Published.pdf

Sponsor: Learn more about Zenith Health's Pregnancy Evidence Navigator -Penny- tool and their Pregnancy Evidence Project at www.zenithhealth.io The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon! 

It's tea time with the Holy Wild Birth crew, and this week's conversation is full of real-life updates, laughter, and the beautiful chaos of transition. Lauren shares the excitement (and gratitude) over her new office space, Brooke gives a long-awaited update on her Transit van adventures, and HJ's graduation sparks heartfelt reflection on growth and change. We also chat through the realities of menu planning for big families, the mental load moms carry, and a little breech birth workshop talk sprinkled in for good measure.Fair play book - https://a.co/d/gSZrzigA better Share book -https://a.co/d/7xsMka1Blank playing cards - https://a.co/d/4gJ8RkaVanilla Tulip meal plans - https://www.thevanillatulipstore.com/Breech workshops with Nicole Morales - https://restorybirthwork.com/workshops/Jessica's double breech twin story - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/zGzq0X2YUXbHearthmother Journey - rootedeineden.org/hearthmother-journeyConnect:Email us to say hi: ⁠⁠⁠holywildbirth@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠Put in a request for future topics and/or submit a question for future Q&A episodes: ⁠⁠⁠Fill out the form⁠⁠⁠Apply to tell your birth story on the podcast: ⁠⁠⁠Holy Wild Birth Podcast : Guest Application⁠⁠⁠Hang out with us and other Holy Wild Women in our private community (off Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠Rooted in Eden PMA⁠⁠⁠Become a holy, wild birthkeeper with us inside ⁠⁠⁠Hearthmother Journey⁠⁠⁠From Lauren:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠Midwifery consults: Email  ⁠⁠⁠rootedinedenpma@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠From Brooke:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trust God, Trust Birth Workshop⁠⁠⁠ - a 5-part high-level roadmap to a confident home birth (pay what you can)⁠⁠⁠Faith-Filled Home Birth Workshop ⁠⁠⁠- a free, 3-part video series delivered to your inbox⁠⁠⁠Embrace Birth Journey ⁠⁠⁠- comprehensive and holistic faith-based home birth preparation (courses + private community)Intro and Outra Music Credit -Betty Dear By ⁠⁠⁠Blue Dot Sessions⁠⁠⁠ is licensed under a ⁠⁠⁠Creative Commons License⁠⁠⁠.

What if the skills that make breech and twin birth safe have been intentionally erased from modern medicine?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Stuart Fischbein, an OB-GYN and longtime advocate for physiological birth. After nearly three decades in hospitals and over a decade attending home births alongside midwives, he's become a leading voice in reteaching the lost art of vaginal breech and twin delivery. Together, we dig into how this knowledge disappeared, what replaced it, and why practitioners are no longer taught to trust birth.Dr. Stuart exposes the ripple effects of fear, policy, and profit that shape today's obstetric system. We look at the flawed studies that reshaped global practice, the quiet politics behind “standard of care,” and the consequences of replacing skill with surgery. There's a reason breech birth became a lost language, and a growing movement to relearn it.You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[03:17] Why the medical system stripped doctors of individuality and decision-making power[12:05] How one flawed study reshaped global birth practices overnight[19:59] Who qualifies for vaginal breech birth[31:33] When “hands off the breech” isn't enough[36:46] How doctors rationalize ignoring evidence that contradicts hospital policy[40:52] The hidden conflicts of interest behind vaccine and medication recommendations[56:36] Why hospitals prioritize liability and revenue over individualized, physiological care[01:03:41] Rediscovering birth as a human experience[01:08:25] When medicine loses its humanityResources Mentioned:Fearless Pregnancy by Stuart Fischbein, Victoria Clayton, and Joyce Weckl | BookTwin Home Birth by Fischbein, S. | ArticleBreech Birth At Home by Fischbein, S. and Freeze, R. | Article“Home Birth” With An Obstetrician by Fischbein, S. | ArticleTerm Breech Trial (2000) by Hannah, M. et al. | ArticleHealthy as a Mother episode #135 on The Truth About Ultrasounds: Risks & Benefits | Apple or SpotifyBirthing Instincts Podcast | Apple or SpotifyLearn more from Dr. Stuart on his website. You can also follow him on Instagram, Facebook, and X.Find more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

In this episode, we speak with Tori about how a broken leg at 32 weeks changed the course of her first birth, and shaped the way she approached her VBAC.Tori had hoped for a straightforward first birth, but a series of cascading events starting with breaking her leg and ending with a premature, face presenting baby at full dilation saw to it that she had anything but. After a traumatic caesarean and being labelled 'not suitable for VBAC' Tori explains how she wasn't sure she could go back to have more children. Then, she started listening to the stories of other women and decided she was the expert in her body and she knew she could have a VBAC.Throughout her second pregnancy, she explored her options, connected with a new hospital, brought along her sister who had become a doula and another wonderful student midwife, and ultimately approached birth with a stronger sense of confidence. She explains how important education was over this journey, and shares with us the exhilarating experience of pushing out her baby. Thank you so much Tori, for sharing your powerful story - we know you're all going to love it!Please join us on our journey to bringing you all kinds of VBAC stories from across the country from here on in by subscribing and following us on social media, @australianvbacstories on Instagram and Australian VBAC Stories on Facebook. If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to rate or review, and tell your friends!If you are feeling that you might benefit from mental health support after listening to our podcast, please reach out to one of the organisations below:PANDA https://panda.org.au/Gidget Foundation https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/COPE Australia https://www.cope.org.au/If you've experienced mistreatment or disrespectful care in your pregnancy, birth or postpartum and are seeking advocacy support, please contact one of the following organisations:Maternity Choices Australia https://www.maternitychoices.org/Maternity Consumer Network https://www.maternityconsumernetwork.org.au/Thank you for tuning in to our podcast.

Chris and Steve are joined by John Breech for his thoughts on the rest of the AFC

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have Abby Abby is a mama of one who's always been in allopathic medicine as a nurse and in different areas of health care and business.But even before she became pregnant, she was beginning to lean into a more holistic ways of living. And after attending a womb healing, she felt this deep, undeniable call to motherhood, and with it came the knowing that she was meant to birth at home. From there, she began a conscious conception journey, immersing herself in education and preparation, and developed a real passion for physiological natural birth.She's now here today to tell her story as a first-time mama who had a fast three-hour home birth at 41 weeks with gestational diabetes, and to her surprise, a breech baby. Curious about Abby? Find her on Instagram as @of_earthandher

No one wants to hear that their baby has turned breech... To be honest, that has always been something I worry about with my babies since the first 2 were! When Logan turned breech we had to start doing research and making choices... so today I wanted to share my experiences and my mindset, as well as what I would do different if we did it over again! Breech Resources https://www.breechwithoutborders.org/  https://www.spinningbabies.com/ Don't forget to... Join the Email List and get a 10% off coupon at https://www.rootedinfaithfamilyfarmlife.com/sign-up Join my Brand New Podcast Subscription at https://www.rootedinfaithfamilyfarmlife.com/product/Rooted-In-Podcast-Subscription   Nursing Queen Clothing! For all your breastfeeding accessible clothing needs check out https://www.nursingqueen.com/?ref=rootedin   Toups and Co - I love them for their deodorant and use of Tallow! https://toupsandco.com/lindsayspurrier   Cloth Diapering Needs! www.greenmountaindiapers.com use the code ROOTEDPFW10 - For your cloth diapering needs!   Hair, Skin and Wellness Products - www.lindsayspurrier.mymonat.com   Some of the above links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you use them. As always, that you for your support of this podcast and in turn our family! Love, Lindsay Spurrier

Links: Today's episode is sponsored by Motif Medical. See how you can get Motif's Luna or Aura Glow breast pumps covered through insurance at motifmedical.com/birthhour.  Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (use code 100OFF for $100 off) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Get more episodes and extra perks via Patreon! Caitlin's 1st birth story can be found here.

Send us a textIn this episode of our Homebirth Transfer Mini-Series, we speak with Sarah, who shares her two very different birth experiences—both at the same hospital, but under two very different models of care.Her first birth, under the care of a private midwifery group within the hospital, involved a long stretch of prodromal labour, an induction at 42+ weeks, and an artificial rupture of membranes where meconium was present. After a lengthy labour, Sarah made the decision to take control of the situation and have a caesarean.Her second pregnancy began with plans to birth at home, supported by a privately hired midwife. When her waters broke at 39 weeks, Sarah waited several days, carefully monitoring her health and signs of infection. On her second visit to hospital, she was transferred into the public system, where they discovered her baby was in breech position. Faced with limited options, she chose to have a caesarean.Throughout her journey, Sarah weighed up the risks and benefits at every turn, advocating for herself and her baby by asking questions, doing research, and making decisions as she navigated the challenges of labour, birth, and postpartum.Support the show@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have PhoebePhoebe is a pediatric acupuncturist and herbalist who supports families through natural healing. She's also a gardener, a student of culture, and a lifelong learner. Phoebe lives off-grid in an intentional community, in a home her husband built, where she shares life with her three teenage step kids, two dogs, and their six-month-old baby girl.Today she shares the story of birthing her breech baby girl, supported by her midwife, squatting as her husband catches their baby.A story full of birthing wisdom I can't wait to share with you all.Curious about Phoebe? Find her on Instagram as @abundantnaturalhealing

At Garrett's 36 week appointment, she learned that her baby had flipped breech since her last 34 week appointment. Today, Garrett solocasts over a 3 day period documenting what she is doing to try and flip her baby, as she also contemplates "what now?" with her birth plan, given the most common recommendation for breech babies is c-section. Will she have to say goodbye to her physiological birth plans? Tune in as she documents what she does to try and get baby girl to flip, and what seems to work, or not! __________________ ___________________________ GROWING WITH GARRETT NOW LIVE - watch below ⁠www.informedpregnancy.tv⁠ Code: GK30 ___________________________ Need The Nipple Diaper now? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop on Amazon today!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us: TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozemama⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@kozekozemama ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@garretnwood⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SHOP with 20% off, use THANKYOU20 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.kozekoze.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email Garrett: garrettkusmierz@kozekoze.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay, Mama, this one is tender, faith-filled, and downright empowering. Rachel (mom of two under two in Michigan) brings us into her living room for an unmedicated home birth that was calm, supported, and so her. From a late-pregnancy breech scare to a Spinning Babies breakthrough, from Olive Garden eggplant parm to a labor playlist featuring Maverick City's “Use To This,” this story sparkles with surrender, community, and a baby girl who absolutely heard her mama's voice in the womb.Well Cover: 05:40 — Breech at 37 Weeks: Plus a quick framework for handling a late-pregnancy curveball (educate, pray/meditate, assemble team, talk to baby).15:30 — How She Turned Baby Head-Down: A Spinning Babies session,  chiropractic care, belly banding, and talking to her baby. 24:45 — Home Birth Setup That Saved Chaos: Pre-staged tub/hoses, dim lights, hot/warm towels and a husband who went on an ice run. 34:55 — Coping Like Intervals (Active Labor) Treat contractions as 60-second sprints, why low moo-ing works, and when to get in/out of tub.47:20 — When the Water Would Not Break, To A Healthy Baby In Three Pushes: What a bulging bag of waters feels like, getting consent, why AROM sped things up, then three-push delivery and golden hour at home.Before you go, I want to remind you that Rachel didn't just “luck out” with a calm, empowering home birth. She trained for it. She learned how to advocate when her first birth wasn't aligned, she knew how to talk with her midwives about breech, and she had practical tools ready for every stage of labor. That kind of confidence doesn't just happen… It's built.That's why I'm always shouting from the rooftops: a birth course changes everything.Birth is one of the most physically intense, emotionally charged, and spiritually transformative events of your life. If you'd prep for a marathon, why wouldn't you prep for birth?When you join the My Essential Birth Course, you're literally stacking your tool belt so that when the curveballs come (breech, stalled labor, induction talk, strong emotions, partner nerves), you've already practiced your lines, your moves, your mindset. That's what makes space for the magic: singing your labor song in the tub, laughing between contractions, eating yogurt in your own bed with a brand-new baby on your chest. Learn more and join today >> https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedGet the "Rise & Birth Pack" now through October 7th when you purchase the My Essential Birth Course!The Rise & Birth Pack comes with the full step-by-step training that's helped thousands of mamas prepare for birth PLUS Downloadable Affirmation Audio Track & Affirmation Cards helping you rewire your thoughts and prepare for a calm, confident birth experience. Get the "Rise & Birth Pack" now through October 7th when you purchase the My Essential Birth Course!The Rise & Birth Pack comes with the full step-by-step training that's helped thousands of mamas prepare for birth PLUS Downloadable Affirmation Audio Track & Affirmation Cards helping you rewire your thoughts and prepare for a calm, confident birth experience. GET IN TOUCH!

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Victoria Flores shares her rare expertise in supporting twin and breech births safely at home. With decades of hands-on experience and a deep respect for the body's wisdom, Dr. Flores walks us through the nuanced risks, benefits, and criteria she uses to guide families. She also reflects on how spirituality and faith ground her confidence in this sacred work, and why reviving the art of physiologic breech and twin birth is so essential today.What You'll Learn:Why breech and twin births don't always need to be managed as “high risk”The rigorous criteria Dr. Flores uses to assess safety for out-of-hospital birthHow spirituality and faith support confidence in birthworkThe challenges of navigating “forbidden territory” in maternity careWhy skilled, spiritually attuned practitioners are needed now more than everGuest Bio:Dr. Victoria Flores, MD, is a trailblazer in home birth and holistic obstetrics. She brings rare expertise in the vaginal birth of twins and breech babies in the home setting, safely guiding many families through births often deemed too risky for outside of hospitals. With a passion for restoring dignity and spirituality to childbirth, Dr. Flores speaks powerfully about honoring both the body's wisdom and the faith traditions families hold dear.Links and Resources Mentioned:Dr. Victoria Flores IG: @victoria_MD_birthingWebsite: victoriamdbirthing.comPodcast mentioned: Birthing Instincts with Dr. StuCall to Action:If you found this episode inspiring, share it with a friend who is exploring their birth options. Don't forget to subscribe to the Born Wild Podcast so you don't miss future conversations with leaders in birthwork.Connect with Us:@sophiabirth @bayareahomebirth @bornwildmidwifery

Former Bengals Kicker & All-Time Leading Scorer Jim Breech Cincinnati Bearcats Broadcaster Terry NelsonWe'll cover:• The Bengals' 17-16 victory over the Browns• Rookie standouts like Shemar Stewart • Isaiah Foskey signing news• The return of Orange jerseys vs. the Jaguars• What it means as the Bengals get ready for JacksonvilleDon't miss the best Bengals talk in the city — straight from the Moerlein Lager House! Drop your thoughts in the live chat & join the conversation!#Bengals #WhoDey #CincinnatiBengals #NFL #Bearcats

On this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast Roxanne welcomes Briana to share her experience of a vaginal unmedicated birth at a freestanding birth center. Briana discusses the challenges she faced when she discovered her baby was breech at 36 weeks and the steps she and her husband took to turn the baby. They eventually opted for an external cephalic version (ECV) procedure which led to a successful head-down position for the baby. Briana then details her birth experience, from laboring at home to giving birth in a birthing tub, and her journey through a challenging postpartum period characterized by exclusive pumping. The episode also features helpful advice on navigating pregnancy and birth with confidence, plus support resources for postpartum recovery.00:00 Introduction to The MamasteFit Podcast01:14 Meet Briana: Preparing for Pregnancy and Birth03:29 Navigating a Breech Baby at 36 Weeks06:14 The External Cephalic Version Experience13:17 Labor and Delivery: From Early Signs to Birth23:58 Postpartum Challenges and Exclusive Pumping29:59 Resources and Support for New Mothers36:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

From a young age, Sophia felt a powerful calling to support babies entering the world. By the time she became pregnant with her first child, she was already deep into her midwifery training, and ready to welcome life, both professionally and personally. She gave birth at home, surrounded by care and familiarity, with a trusted colleague by her side. But soon after her son arrived, it became clear that something wasn't right. He was quickly diagnosed with VACTERL, a rare and complex combination of birth defects. At just 36 hours old, he underwent his first surgery — the first of many. When Sophia became pregnant again, she hoped for a smoother path. But her second baby was breech, leading to a cesarean birth and more unexpected complications after delivery. Through both of these challenging journeys, Sophia learned to navigate the medical system with resilience and grace, finding her voice as a mother and an advocate, not just for her children, but for others walking a similar path. Sophia Henderson is a certified home birth midwife and host of the Born Wild Podcast. With over 16 years of experience, she blends traditional wisdom and evidence-based care to support families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Passionate about reproductive autonomy and the transformative power of birth, Sophia creates calm, connected spaces for families to welcome their babies in safety and love.  Find Sophia on Instagram @sophiabirth and @bornwildmidwifery  Born Wild Midwifery Born Wild Podcast If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

Today Steph Claire Smith returns to share her second birth experience with daughter Billie. After Harvey's induction at 41 weeks, Steph was determined to experience spontaneous labour this time around. Her journey included navigating a breech presentation, trying every trick in the book to encourage baby to turn, and ultimately achieving the birth she'd always dreamed of. Sponosor: To celebrate reaching 20 million downloads of the podcast, we are running a sale. Enjoy 20% off everything! Use the code: 20Mil. offer ends soon. Head to Australian Birth Stories See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textPart 2 of our conversation with Amie with Servant's Heart Midwifery Services is here! In this powerful episode, we dive deep into topics every expecting mother, husbands, and birth professional should hear. We discuss breech baby birth options, nuchal cord (cord around the neck) myths and facts, how to support healthy maternal blood sugar levels during pregnancy, and ways to recognize and respond to medical gaslighting in maternity care.Whether you're planning a home birth, preparing for a hospital birth, or simply seeking to understand your options, this episode will give you evidence-based insights, practical tips, and empowering perspectives from an experienced midwife.We cover:•Breech birth safety and options•Cord around the neck: risks vs reality•Blood sugar balance during pregnancy•Medical gaslighting in obstetrics•Empowering informed decision-making & more.

In this third part of Into the Breech the gang goes over the B&B packs first brush with real combat, and we get one step closer to uncovering the mystery. Want to Talk to us?Website:  Rage Across the InternetJoin the Forums to get the Code for our discord and come chat with us!Email: rageacrosspodcast@gmail.comTwitter: @rageacrossFacebook: Rage Across the InternetWe've got a YouTube too, check it Right HereSeason 5's theme is: No Culture by Silent Partner

In this deeply moving episode, we speak with Hannah, a midwife and lactation consultant from the Southern Highlands, who shares her profound journey through two very different birth experiences. Hannah takes us through her first pregnancy with daughter Beatrix, including the unexpected discovery of a breech presentation, her decision to pursue vaginal breech birth at Westmead Hospital, and the challenging NICU journey that followed. She then courageously shares the story of her son Alby, whose life was tragically cut short at 17 months due to complications from congenital CMV - a preventable condition that Hannah is now passionate about raising awareness for. This episode is both heartbreaking and educational, highlighting the importance of CMV screening in pregnancy and the incredible strength of families navigating complex medical journeys.__________ Australia's trusted baby sleepwear brand ergoPouch has launched the Drift Home Baby Monitor and Smart TOG Guide—the only monitor combining real-time environmental insights with evidence-based sleepwear recommendations. Drawing on 15+ years of safe sleep expertise, this device integrates monitoring with their globally trusted What to Wear guide, helping parents dress babies appropriately based on room temperature for confident, calm bedtimes. Exclusive ABS Offer: Purchase the Drift Home and entire ergoPouch range exclusively at ergopouch.com.auABS listeners get 20% off sitewide with code AUBS — valid until 11:59 p.m. on 18th August 2025 (exclusions apply). Plus, ergoPouch is launching something new and elevated next week!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textAt 28 weeks, Jessie found out her baby was breech—but instead of panicking, she trusted her gut. She felt strongly that her baby was meant to be born this way. After initially planning a home birth, Jessie began exploring other options and considered traveling to Pennsylvania for a hospital birth with experienced breech providers.But when labor started at 39 weeks, everything shifted. Mid-drive to Pennsylvania, Jessie and her husband decided to turn around and head to Yale New Haven Hospital. There, an OB team unexpectedly supported her birth plan, and her baby was born breech and vaginally—with ease.In this episode, Jessie shares her story of intuition, flexibility, and trust in her body and baby. It's an inspiring reminder that sometimes birth doesn't go according to plan—and that's exactly what makes it beautiful.**********Our sponsors:Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample packUse promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.Primally Pure: From soil to skin, Primally Pure products are made with down-to-earth ingredients that feel and smell like heaven for the skin. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for 10% off. ENERGYBits: Get the superfood Algae every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for 20% off. Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.comInstagram @downtobirthshowCall us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! Work with Cynthia: HypnoBirthingCT.com Please remember we don't provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Ep. 20 | Demystifying Breech with Nicole Morales by Sofia Scheuerman

After a peaceful, scheduled Cesarean for breech presentation, Erika knew she wanted a VBAC—even before becoming pregnant again. When red flags appeared with her original provider, she switched to a supportive OB who stayed steady even when Erika had doubts. Erika prepared deeply with The VBAC Link Podcast episodes, blogs, pelvic floor PT, chiropractic care, and a skilled doula. Her healing VBAC brought immediate skin-to-skin, a dreamy uninterrupted gold hour, and ultimately helped detect a rare condition of AVM that saved her baby's life. Needed Website: Code VBAC20 for 20% OffCoterie Diapers - Use code VBAC20 for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

John Breech of CBS Sports joins Afternoon Drive on The Fan. He talks about the optimism surrounding the Browns, how they should operate the four-man quarterback competition, the competition in the AFC North, and more.

Nick and Jake are joined by John Breech of CBS Sports. Also, they react to Shane Gillis' jokes at the ESPYs, and they discuss Shedeur Sanders' involvement in the community ahead of training camp.

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for up to 40% off your first order (including their already discounted plans and subscriptions) at thisisneeded.com. The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon! 

Can you really have a safe breech or twin birth at home? What if your OB told you yes?In this powerful episode, Karen sits down with Dr. Victoria Flores, a Southern California-based home birth obstetrician who specializes in breech and twin births. After decades inside the hospital system, Dr. Victoria made a radical shift—leaving behind a broken model to fully support women outside of it.From childhood, Victoria was fascinated by breech birth. But after 20+ years in the medical system, the soul-crushing grind took a toll on her health and spirit. Now, she's taken the reins of Dr. Stuart Fischbein's legendary practice and brings her unique intuition, deep knowledge, and unwavering belief in women's bodies to every birth she attends.Tune in to hear:The spiritual and intuitive shift that led Dr. Victoria to leave hospital birth behindWhat she really sees inside the birth canal (hello, x-ray vision)Common myths vs. medical truth around breech birth safetyWhy head entrapment is often used to scare women out of vaginal breechThe #1 reason most OBs won't support breech births—even if they canWhat qualifies someone as a good candidate for breech or twin home birthA shocking 11-hour wait between twin births A radical story of a triplet home birth you'll never forgetConnect with Dr. Victoria: https://victoriamdbirthing.com/ Use code PODCAST to get $50 off the Pain Free Birth E-course HERECONNECT WITH KAREN:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/painfreebirthInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/painfreebirth/Spotify Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/5zEiKMIHFewZeVdzfBSEMSApple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/pain-free-birth/id1696179731Website - https://painfreebirth.com/Email List https://pain-free-birth.mykajabi.com/website-opt-in

Paul and Jay take a deep look at the results of the state of the franchise survey -- and they are startling. -- Don't forget to sign up for the BetMGM app and use the Bonus code GROWLER for a $1500 bonus bet offer-- Why and how dramatically trust in those charged with leading the Bengals is eroding. -- Season volatility and what happens when faith is challenged-- John Breech, NFL writer for CBS Sports and son of Ring of Honor nominee, Jim Breech, joins to talk about closely monitoring the ROH process, view on potential changes, confidence in the direction of the Bengals, moves made in the AFC North and always rooting for Andy Dalton. -- Jay takes on Quarterback Season 2 in unparalleled detail. Primary takeaways on the inside look at QB1. -- Jay's Got Stats on Burrow's TDs under duress and an interesting trend to track in 2025. -- ARBIES on TJ Houshmandzadeh and Jay's barbershop banterWatch and subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGrowlerPodcastThe Growler on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-growler/id1733476604The Growler on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70iJjqgPQrVzQ2pdOwVvDYLinks to all socials, podcast platforms, merchandise from Cincy Shirts and more: https://linktr.ee/thegrowlerpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Karen sits down with holistic birth doula and mom of two, Lauren McEnulty, as she shares her incredible story of planning and executing a successful vaginal breech birth. Despite being pressured into a C-section by her original birth center and rejected by multiple providers, Lauren stayed true to her intuition and her baby's needs.She shares the emotional and physical toll of trying everything to flip her baby—including spinning babies, acupuncture, and moxibustion—only to later discover that her baby's short cord and positioning made flipping impossible. After being dismissed by her original providers, Lauren sought out a breech-trained midwife over an hour away and finally found someone who believed in her.This episode is a beautiful testimony of maternal instinct, perseverance, and the truth that women's bodies are capable of birthing breech when supported by the right providers.Tune in to hear:How Lauren navigated the emotional and physical stress of learning her baby was breechWhat she tried to flip her baby naturally, including spinning babies, acupuncture, and moxibustionThe moment her providers gave up on her—and how she refused to give up on herselfHow she found a breech-trained midwife after being turned away by multiple birth centersThe powerful moment she discovered why her baby never flippedHer labor experience, from water breaking in a hotel to giving birth surrounded by supportA vivid, hands-off breech birth story that was calm, safe, and deeply affirmingHer advice to moms navigating a breech diagnosis and how to find the right providerConnect with Lauren:https://www.waves-doula-care.com/ Get 10% off the Pain Free Birth E-course HERECONNECT WITH KAREN:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/painfreebirthInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/painfreebirth/Spotify Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/5zEiKMIHFewZeVdzfBSEMSApple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/pain-free-birth/id1696179731Website - https://painfreebirth.com/Email List https://pain-free-birth.mykajabi.com/website-opt-in

What if breech didn't automatically mean cesarean? In this episode, I sit down with my good friend and midwife Bonnie Baker to talk all about breech babies—how they're born, when it's safe, and what your options really are (especially outside of a hospital setting). Whether you're a birth junkie or you just found out your baby is breech, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.Show Notes HERE!Where to find Bonnie:WebsiteInstagramLinks Mentioned:My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramGET IN TOUCH!

Send Kiona a Text Message!Heather dives deep into the details of what each of her three pregnancies was like for her. She also touches on the importance of postpartum support and following your intuition because she had to do so for her second pregnancy, which was her first home birth experience. This led her to discover that her daughter was a footling breech at home. Want to find out what happened? Tune in to this episode and let me know what you find out! Support the showThank you so much for tuning in to this episode! If you like this podcast, don't hesitate to share it and leave a review so it can bring the podcast to the attention of others. If you want to share your own birth story or experience on the Birth As We Know It™️ Podcast, head over to https://birthasweknowitpodcast.com/ or fill out this Guest Request Form. Support the podcast and become a part of the BAWKI™️ Community by becoming a Patron on the Birth As We Know It Patreon Page! And don't forget to join in on the fun in the Private Facebook Group!

Send us a textDevon Stockton was deeply rooted in health and wellness and armed with years of medical experience. She had only ever envisioned a natural, low-intervention birth and took all of the necessary steps to prepare herself. But her birth took an unexpected turn upon arrival at the hospital when she discovered her baby was footling breech and a cesarean would be necessary. Devon recounts the emotional shift, the support of her husband, and the unexpected calm of her labor before surgery. She shares the relief of a healthy baby girl, the kindness of her medical team, and the surprising positivity of her C-section experience, including immediate skin-to-skin and clear drapes. Devon also reflects on the lingering "what ifs" and her hopes and plans for a VBAC in the future. This story demonstrates how a mother can feel at peace with her birth knowing it was a necessary cesarean, and yet also can feel the sadness and longing for the vaginal birth she dreamed of. Devon's Instagram: @nourishandbloom.wellness**********Our sponsors:Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample packENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeedingUse promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.comInstagram @downtobirthshowCall us at 802-GET-DOWNWatch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.comInstagram @downtobirthshowCall us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! Work with Cynthia: 203-952-7299 HypnoBirthingCT.com Work with Trisha: 734-649-6294 Please remember we don't provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Hi friends!  We're in the thick of kidding season, and today I'm sharing about a new kidding experience I had a couple days ago, assisting a doe with a posterior (breech) kid.  We've had lots of breech kids before, but never one that I couldn't safely get the back legs repositioned, so this was a new one.  Goats never stop teaching me new things.  I'm also sharing some tips on how to be prepared for emergencies before they happen, which is vital.  Let's get to it!   All the Best! Millie     Mentions:   Fill Your Freezer with Premium Meat: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com/pages/collection-page   Goat Medicine, 3rd Edition (affiliate link)   Other Related Episodes:   52 | What's in My Kidding Bucket and the Supplies You Should Have On Hand When Your Goats Kid   50 | Get Ready for Kidding: Order Your Tags in 4 Easy Steps       Get your Goat Meat here: https://drycreekheritagemeats.com/pages/collection-page   Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider   Join the FB Community: https://www.getgoatwise.com/community   Connect with me:   Email: millie@getgoatwise.com   See what's happening on the ranch: www.instagram.com/dry.creek.livestock   *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

What if you were told your baby was breech—and you still gave birth at home, unmedicated, and without fear? In this episode of the Pain Free Birth Podcast, Tayler Magee shares how she dismantled years of fear around childbirth, trusted God's design for her body, and delivered her breech baby at home as a first-time mom.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Her mindset shift: “Your body births even in a coma” 05:01 – From fear of birth to home breech birth 13:18 – How she dismantled fear & found faith in God's design 18:15 – “I chose not to tell anyone—protecting my peace” 28:25 – Going into labor early & her peaceful home environment 34:00 – Mastering the rhythm of contractions without fear 36:59 – Transition & vocalizing fear: “I'm afraid” 43:18 – The pushing stage: “It felt like reverse vomiting” 47:00 – Breech baby born—calm, powerful, and fast 50:00 – The power of shutting off your brain and trusting your body 54:45 – Tips on choosing providers, preparing mentally, and creating safety   Connect with Taylor: www.taylershealthhub.com   Get 10% off the Pain Free Birth E-course HERE https://painfreebirth.thrivecart.com/pain-free-birth/   Grab the Healing Birth Trauma Course HERE https://painfreebirth.com/healing-birth-trauma/   CONNECT WITH KAREN: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/painfreebirth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/painfreebirth/ Spotify Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/5zEiKMIHFewZeVdzfBSEMS Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/pain-free-birth/id1696179731 Website - https://painfreebirth.com/ Email List https://pain-free-birth.mykajabi.com/website-opt-in

In this week's episode, I sit down with the lovely Ana, a mother of two boys living in Portugal, as she shares her inspiring journey from a medicalised breech birth to a midwife-supported VBAC at home.Ana's first birth in late 2019 ended in a caesarean after going to 41+5 with a breech baby and navigating a tough hospital system. Her initial private OBGYN was unsupportive, pushing decisions without much collaboration—until Ana found a new provider who honoured her options and helped her feel seen. Although her first birth ended in surgery, it was the spark that set her on a mission to reclaim birth on her own terms.With her second baby, Ana took radical responsibility—diving deep into birth education, training as a doula, and choosing a supportive team of midwife and doula well before she even conceived. During her pregnancy, Ana felt like a goddess—nourished, empowered, and surrounded by care that truly respected her.At 41+5, she went into spontaneous labour and spent 25 powerful hours navigating intensity, pain, and deep inner strength. With her husband by her side and her compassionate birth team surrounding her, Ana vaginally birthed her baby in the safety of her own home—a healing and empowering VBAC journey that she now shares to inspire others.In this episode, we explore:✨ Why Ana chose a midwife-attended homebirth after a breech caesarean ✨ The power of birth education and training as a doula ✨ How Ana prepared for her VBAC and stayed grounded during a 25-hour labour ✨ The importance of being surrounded by a supportive birth team ✨ The joy and healing that came through trusting her body and her baby

Ceiba's labor with her first child began after an orgasm (oxytocin, much?). The only midwife in her small Mexican town was called, but she happened to be away for the night. Feeling no fear, Ceiba birthed her baby—who arrived feet first—in under an hour, describing the experience as ecstatic. This birth left her in an expanded state of consciousness for a week. Follow Ceiba @uteroamor If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

In this episode, Dr. Berlin shares his personal journey from childhood aspirations in healthcare to becoming a chiropractor, massage therapist, and birth advocate. He discusses combining chiropractic care, bodywork, and birth advocacy to support women in having informed pregnancies. Dr. Berlin explains the importance of collaborative care, the benefits of chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy, and the significance of the Webster Technique. The conversation also delves into the complexities of fetal positioning, specifically addressing breach and asynclitic babies, and the broader implications for childbirth. The episode underscores the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes. 03:33 Introducing Dr. Elliot Berlin 08:13 Dr. Berlin's Inspiring Journey 17:38 The Power of Chiropractic Care 31:09 Understanding the Webster Technique 36:09 Chiropractic Care for Breech and Asynclitic Babies 37:20 Understanding Breech Baby Statistics 38:39 Structural and Functional Reasons for Breech Babies 40:54 Chiropractic Techniques for Breech Babies 42:46 Mother's Day Special: Cozy Bamboo PJs 44:34 Discussion on Breech Birth Choices 47:50 The Term Breech Trial and Its Impact 54:54 The ARRIVE Trial and Its Implications 56:26 Chiropractic Care for Posterior Babies 01:00:59 The Role of Doulas in Birth 01:02:35 Fetal Positioning in Traditional Medical Models 01:06:36 Informed Pregnancy Media and Resources 01:08:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Dr. Elliot Berlin is an award-winning prenatal chiropractor, childbirth educator, labor support bodyworker, filmmaker, co-founder of Berlin Wellness Group in Los Angeles, California and the host of the Informed Pregnancy Podcast. Dr. Berlin graduated Summa Cum Laude from Life University of Chiropractic in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Atlanta School of Massage.     Dr. Berlin's Informed Pregnancy® Project aims to utilize multiple forms of media (podcasts, YouTube series, documentaries, and online workshops) to compile and deliver unbiased information about pregnancy and childbirth to empower new and expectant parents to make informed choices regarding their pregnancy and parenting journey.     Dr. Berlin lives in Los Angeles with his wife, perinatal psychologist Dr. Alyssa Berlin, and their four fantastic kids. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube Connect with Dr. Elliot Berlin on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Informed Pregnancy Podcast   One way or a Mother Podcast    Heads Up, the Disappearing Art of Vaginal breech Delivery Documentary   Trial of Labor Documentary   

Join us on this episode of the Birth Journeys as Brynna shares how her first baby was a surprise breech delivery at home and her second birth was a head down waterbirth. She shares the difference in her births, recovery and her struggles with breastfeeding. This episode covers midwifery care, homebirth, and breech birth. 

Dr. Elliot Berlin joins us again, this time to chat about vaginal breech birth, as well as a little about VBACs, the 4th Trimester, and more! Our focus, vaginal breech birth, is not usually an option for moms in the hospital, but it should be! We discuss why in this episode, as well as why you need to consider future pregnancies, include VBAC, if you choose to have a cesarean for a breech baby (or for any other reason).Resources Mentioned:Informed Pregnancy+: https://www.informedpregnancy.com/ipInformed Pregnancy: https://informedpregnancy.com/Informed Pregnancy podcasts: https://informedpregnancy.com/podcast/Check out Informed Pregnancy+https://www.informedpregnancy.tv/ Full Well Code: TNBT10https://fullwellfertility.com/Tighten Your Tinkler Testimonial & Signature Program Code: TNBT50https://youtu.be/FjV7KYGv2ag https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com/signatureprogram NOW IT'S YOUR TURN! The NaturalBirth Site- TheNaturalBirthSite.com SIGN UP for the NaturalBirth Education course to best prepare your body & mind for natural birth (only $65) Read natural birth stories- and submit your own SHARE OUR PODCAST with anyone you know who is interested in natural birth! Check out our HELPFUL PRODUCTS GUIDE

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have Another Surprise Breech Birth, today by a mama and a sacred birth worker graduate of mine Jessica who chose a wild pregnancy with her 4th baby.Jessica begins her story by sharing about her surprise breech baby at home and how she for the first time had felt a lot of fear before this birth. Her intuition told her this birth would be different from her 3 previous who had all been “easy” natural births.She told me at one of our last mentorship sessions that she felt a lot of fear rising and she went and sat with it, listened and gathered all her strength and resilience and it ended up serving her as she and her husband were faced with a bum instead of a head in birth.If you're carrying a breech bubba close to your heart then the last two episodes (and all the other breech stories on here) will serve you well in listening to. Breech truly is a variation of normal and we need to normalize them by sharing these stories!If you're planning a natural birth whether you are having a breech or head down bubba then go and check out my The Natural Birth Blog. I just shared a blog on how to prepare for a natural birth! And there's more to come! Find it at sacredbirthinternational.com/blog or via the link in the show notes.And if you're curious about Jessica. Find her on Instagram as @sacredcircleskeeper Want to work with Anna or join The Sacred Birth Worker Mentorship?Find Anna's Website, about her Mentorship & How to Work with Her, as well as all Links & Resources she mentions in the episode here:www.sacredbirthinternational.com/links-podcast

Today on The Natural Birth Podcast we have Victoria.Victoria is a mama of one and a bonus mum of two. She is an Irish immigrant now living in Ohio. She is an EMDR therapist and works with clients who have ptsd, depression and anxiety. She has her own practice called Anima Counseling, in Dublin, Ohio. Today she shares her surprise breech birth at home with her pastor doula and home birth midwife with a medical student tag along and of course her husband. I just can not get enough breech stories on here displaying how normal and ordinary they are.And of course absolutely magical as all other births are too.Curious about Victoria? Find her on instagram as @randomhysterics.Did you know you can join our private Podcast FB Community? And in it this week we share Victorias Breech Birth Video where you get to see all the magic unfold!Just go to the link in the show notes or visit our facebook page called @sacredbirthinternational to find the community and join for free!It's a vibrant and wonderful community consisting of podcast guests and fans where you can interact with each other and connect!I hope to see you there!Want to work with Anna or join The Sacred Birth Worker Mentorship?Find Anna's Website, about her Mentorship & How to Work with Her, as well as all Links & Resources she mentions in the episode here:www.sacredbirthinternational.com/links-podcast

In this episode, we review the high-yield topic ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Breech Presentation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠from the Obstetrics section at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Medbullets.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Medbullets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on social media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/medbulletsInstagram: www.instagram.com/medbulletsofficialTwitter: www.twitter.com/medbulletsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbullets

Today, I have an incredible guest joining me for a second time—someone who has been a true pioneer in the world of birth, especially when it comes to breech birth and challenging the status quo of modern obstetrics.   Dr. Stuart Fischbein is an OBGYN with nearly 40 years of experience, specializing in supporting women who choose to birth outside the hospital system. He's co-host of the Birthing Instincts Podcast with homebirth midwife Blyss, and he's dedicated his career to helping women reclaim their autonomy in birth. He's was also here just a couple weekends ago in person, for the Reteach Breech Workshop—which we'll talk about later in the episode!   But first, we're going to kick things off by talking about the predicament doctors are in that prevents them from learning skills like breech birth, his story on how he was pulled into the Homebirth world and the problem with Stage 1 thinking and why this is the only way the Medical system thinks. Dr. Stu has seen it all, and I can't wait for you to hear his perspective.   We'll also be diving into: A behind the scenes look at his experience at the Maha ball. Who'd he talk to, what'd they talk about and so much more… How government policies impact birth culture in America Why homebirth increased 40% over covid and why the culture is so indoctrinated to believe that birth belongs in the hospital And finally, Dr. Stu's best advice for first-time moms considering homebirth Ep 68 Dr. Stu's first Peaceful Homebirth appearance Click to fill out an Application for the Peaceful Homebirth Collective   Connect with Dr. Stu: www.birthinginstincts.com IG- @birthinginstincts  The Birthing Instincts Podcast   Connect with Aly: IG- @peacefulhomebirth FB Group- www.facebook.com/groups/peacefulhomebirth

This episode of the MamasteFit Podcast's Birth Story Fridays features Georgia sharing her two birth experiences. Her first pregnancy involved a breech baby that ended in a C-section after extensive efforts for a vaginal birth. The second pregnancy was a successful VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) at home. Georgia discusses her emotional and physical journey through both pregnancies, the importance of informed decision-making, and how she prepared differently for her VBAC. The episode highlights the significance of empowerment, autonomy, and the supportive role of fitness and education in the prenatal and postpartum periods.00:00 Introduction to MamasteFit Podcast01:20 Georgia's First Pregnancy Journey02:31 Challenges of a Breech Baby06:06 Labor and Delivery of the First Baby19:46 Postpartum Recovery and Reflections21:10 Second Pregnancy and Preparation22:31 Facing New Challenges in Second Pregnancy26:53 Deciding on a Home Birth30:11 Starting the Labor Journey30:26 Early Contractions and Nesting Instincts31:43 Labor Progresses and Partner Support35:59 Midwife Arrives and Active Labor38:15 Counting Through Contractions40:19 Pushing and Birth50:14 Postpartum Reflections and Recovery58:26 Empowering Birth Choices and EducationFind Georgia Here:Instagram @georgiatrainmusic Check out Georgia's song about infertility struggles on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wUqY-evgh0w?si=ViC9YXJyieq4vuCj——————————Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

Originally aired in June 2019 as our 73rd episode, we still often think back to this amazing first conversation we had with Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young!Now, almost 6 years later, the information is just as relevant and impactful as it was then. This episode was a Q&A from our Facebook followers and touches on topics like statistics surrounding VBAC, uterine rupture, uterine abnormalities, insurance companies, breech vaginal delivery, high-risk pregnancies, and a powerful analogy about VBACs and weddings!Birthing Instincts PatreonBirthing BlyssNeeded WebsiteHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hey, guys. This is one of our re-broadcasted episodes. This is an episode that, in my opinion, is a little gem in the podcast world of The VBAC Link. I really have loved this podcast ever since the date we recorded it. I am a huge fan of Dr. Stu Fischbein and Midwife Blyss and have been since the moment I knew that they existed. I absolutely love listening to their podcast and just all of the amazing things that they have and that they offer. So I wanted to rebroadcast this episode because it was quite down there. It was like our 73rd episode or something like that. And yeah, I love it so much. This week is OB week, and so I thought it'd be fun to kick-off the week with one of my favorite OB doctor's, Stuart Fischbein. So, a little recap of what this episode covers. We go over a lot. We asked for our community to ask questions for these guys, and we went through them. We didn't get to everything, so that was a bummer, but we did get to quite a bit. We talked about things like the chances of VBAC. We talked about the chances of uterine rupture and the signs of uterine rupture. We talked about inducing VBAC. We talked about uterine abnormalities, the desire of where you want to birth and figuring that out. And also, Blyss had a really great analogy to talk about what to do and how we're letting the medical world and insurance and things like that really contemplate where we or dictate where we are birthing. I love that analogy. You guys, seriously, so many questions. It's an episode that you'll probably want to put on repeat because it really is so great to listen to them, and they just speak so directly. I can't get enough of it. So I'm really excited for you guys to dive in today on this. However, I wanted to bring to your attention a couple of the new things that they've had since we recorded this way back when. I also wanted to point out that we will have updated notes in the show notes or updated links in the show notes so you can go check, them out. But one of the first things I wanted to mention was their Patreon. They have a Patreon these days, and I think that it just sounds dreamy. I think you should definitely go find in their Patreon their community through their Patreon. You can check it out at patreon.com, birthinginsinctspodcast.com and of course, you can find them on social media. You can find Dr. Stu at Birthing Instincts or his website at birthinginsincts.com. You can find Blyss and that is B-L-Y-S-S if you are looking for her at birthingblyss on Instagram or birthinblyss.com, and then of course, you can email them. They do take emails with questions and sometimes they even talk about it on their podcast. Their podcast is birthinginsinctspodcast.com, and then you can email them at birthinginsinctspodcast@gmail.com, so definitely check them out. Also, Dr. Stu offers some classes and workshops and things like that throughout the years on the topic of breech. You guys, I love them and really can't wait for you to listen to today's episode.Ladies, I cannot tell you how giddy and excited I have been for the last couple weeks since we knew that these guys were going to record with us. But we have some amazing, special guests today. We have Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young, and we want to share a little bit about them before we get into the questions that all of you guys have asked on our social media platforms.Julie: Absolutely. And when Meagan says we're excited, we are really excited.Meagan: My face is hot right now because I'm so excited.Julie: I'm so excited. Meagan was texting me last night at 11:00 in all caps totally fan-girling out over here. So Dr. Stu and midwife Blyss are pretty amazing and we know that you are going to love them just as much as we do. But before we get into it, and like Meagan said, I'm just going to read their bios so you can know just how legit they really are. First, up. Dr. Stuart Fischbein, MD is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and how much we love ACOG over here at The VBAC Link He's a published author of the book Fearless Pregnancy: Wisdom and Reassurance from a Doctor, a Midwife, and a Mom. He has peer-reviewed papers Home Birth with an Obstetrician, A Series of 135 Out-of-Hospital Births and Breech Births at Home, Outcomes of 60 Breech and 109 Cephalic Planned Home and Birth Center Births. Dr. Stu is a lecturer and advocate who now works directly with home birthing midwives. His website is www.birthinginsincts.com, and his podcast is Dr. Stu's Podcast. Seriously guys, you need to subscribe.Meagan: Go subscribe right now to their podcast.Yeah. The website for his podcast is drstuspodcast.com. He has an international following. He offers hope for women who cannot find supportive practitioners for VBAC and twin and breech deliveries. Guys, this is the home birth OB. He is located in California. So if you are in California hoping for VBAC, especially if you have any special circumstance like after multiple Cesareans, twins or breech presentation, run to him. Run. Go find him. He will help you. Go to that website. Blyss, Midwife Blyss. We really love them. If you haven't had a chance to hear their podcast guys, really go and give them a listen because this duo is on point. They are on fire, and they talk about all of the real topics in birth. So his partner on the podcast is Blyss Young, and she is an LM and CPM. She has been involved in the natural birth world since the birth of her first son in 1992, first as an advocate, and then as an educator. She is a mother of three children, and all of her pregnancies were supported by midwives, two of which were triumphant, empowering home births. In 2006, Blyss co-founded the Sanctuary Birth and Family Wellness Center. This was the culmination of all of her previous experience as a natural birth advocate, educator and environmentalist. The Sanctuary was the first of its kind, a full-spectrum center where midwives, doctors, and other holistic practitioners collaborated to provide thousands of Los Angeles families care during their prenatal and postpartum periods. Blyss closed the Sanctuary in 2015 to pursue her long-held dream of becoming a midwife and care for her clients in an intimate home birth practice similar to the way she was cared for during her pregnancies. I think that's , why Meagan and I both became doulas. Meagan: That's exactly why I'm a doula. Julie: We needed to provide that care just like we had been cared for. Anyway, going on. Currently, Blyss, AKA Birthing Blyss, supports families on their journey as a birth center educator, placenta encapsulator and a natural birth and family consultant and home birth midwife. She is also co-founder of Just Placentas, a company servicing all of Southern California and placenta encapsulation and other postpartum services. And as ,, she's a co-host on Dr. Stu's Podcast. Meagan: And she has a class. Don't you have a class that you're doing? Don't you have a class? Midwife Blyss: Yeah. Meagan: Yeah. She has a class that she's doing. I want to just fly out because I know you're not doing it online and everything. I just want to fly there just to take your class.Midwife Blyss: Yeah, it's coming online.Meagan: It is? Yay! Great. Well, I'll be one of those first registering. Oh, did you put it in there?Julie: No, there's a little bit more.Meagan: Oh, well, I'm just getting ahead.Julie: I just want to read more of Blyss over here because I love this and I think it's so important. At the heart of all Blyss's work is a deep-rooted belief in the brilliant design of our bodies, the symbiotic relationship between baby and mother, the power of the human spirit and the richness that honoring birth as the rite of passage and resurrecting lost traditions can bring to our high-tech, low-touch lives. And isn't that true love? I love that language. It is so beautiful. If I'm not mistaken, Midwife Blyss's website is birthingblyss.com.Is that right? And Blyss is spelled with a Y. So B-L-Y-S-S, birthingblyss.com, and that's where you can find her.Midwife Blyss: Just to make it more complicated, I had to put a Y in there.Julie: Hey. I love it.Meagan: That's okay.Julie: We're in Utah so we have all sorts of weird names over here.Meagan: Yep. I love it. You're unique. Awesome. Well, we will get started.Midwife Blyss: I did read through these questions, and one of the things that I wanted to say that I thought we could let people know is that of course there's a little bit more that we need to take into consideration when we have a uterus that's already had a scar.There's a small percentage of a uterine rupture that we need to be aware of, and we need to know what are the signs and symptoms that we would need to take a different course of action. But besides that, I believe that, and Dr. Stu can speak for himself because we don't always practice together. I believe that we treat VBAC just like any other mom who's laboring. So a lot of these questions could go into a category that you could ask about a woman who is having her first baby. I don't really think that we need to differentiate between those.Meagan: I love it. Midwife Blyss: But I do think that in terms of preparation, there are some special considerations for moms who have had a previous Cesarean, and probably the biggest one that I would point to is the trauma.Julie: Yes.Midwife Blyss: And giving space to and processing the trauma and really helping these moms have a provider that really believes in them, I think is one of the biggest factors to them having success. Meagan: Absolutely. Midwife Blyss: So that's one I wanted to say before you started down the question.Meagan: Absolutely. We have an online class that we provide for VBAC prep, and that's the very first section. It's mentally preparing and physically preparing because there's so much that goes into that. So I love that you started out with that.Julie: Yeah. A lot of these women who come searching for VBAC and realize that there's another way besides a repeat Cesarean are processing a lot of trauma, and a lot of them realized that their Cesarean might have been prevented had they known better, had a different provider, prepared differently, and things like that. Processing that and realizing that is heavy, and it's really important to do before getting into anything else, preparation-wise.Meagan: Yeah.Midwife Blyss: One of the best things I ever had that was a distinction that one of my VBAC moms made for me, and I passed it on as I've cared for other VBAC mom is for her, the justification, or I can't find the right word for it, but she basically said that that statement that we hear so often of, "Yeah, you have trauma from this, or you're not happy about how your birth went, but thank God your baby is healthy." And she said it felt so invalidating for her because, yes, she also was happy, of course, that her baby was safe, but at the same time, she had this experience and this trauma that wasn't being acknowledged, and she felt like it was just really being brushed away.Julie: Ah, yeah.Midwife Blyss: I think really giving women that space to be able to say, "Yes, that's valid. It's valid how you feel." And it is a really important part of the process and having a successful vaginal delivery this go around.Dr. Stu: I tend to be a lightning rod for stories. It's almost like I have my own personal ICAN meeting pretty much almost every day, one-on-one. I get contacted or just today driving. I'm in San Diego today and just driving down here, I talked to two people on the phone, both of whom Blyss really just touched on it is that they both are wanting to have VBACs with their second birth. They were seeing practitioners who are encouraging them to be induced for this reason or that reason. And they both have been told the same thing that Blyss just mentioned that if you end up with a repeat Cesarean, at least you're going to have a healthy baby. Obviously, it's very important. But the thing is, I know it's a cliche, but it's not just about the destination. It's about the journey as well. And one of the things that we're not taught in medical school and residency program is the value of the process. I mean, we're very much mechanical in the OB world, and our job is to get the baby out and head it to the pediatric department, and then we're done with it. If we can get somebody induced early, if we can decide to do a C-section sooner than we should, there's a lot of incentives to do that and to not think about the process and think about the person. There's another cliche which we talk about all the time. Blyss, and I've said it many times. It's that the baby is the candy and the mother's the wrapper. I don't know if you've heard that one, but when the baby comes out, the mother just gets basically tossed aside and her experience is really not important to the medical professionals that are taking care of her in the hospital setting, especially in today's world where you have a shift mentality and a lot of people are being taken care of by people they didn't know.You guys mentioned earlier the importance of feeling safe and feeling secure in whatever setting you're in whether that's at home or in the hospital. Because as Blyss knows, I get off on the mammalian track and you talk about mammals. They just don't labor well when they're anxious.Julie: Yep.Dr. Stu: When the doctor or the health professional is anxious and they're projecting their anxiety onto the mom and the family, then that stuff is brewing for weeks, if not months and who knows what it's actually doing inside, but it's certainly not going to lead to the likelihood of or it's going to diminish the likelihood of a successful labor.Julie: Yeah, absolutely. We talk about that. We go over that a lot. Like, birth is very instinctual and very primal, and it operates a very fundamental core level. And whenever mom feels threatened or anxious or, or anything like that, it literally can st or stop labor from progressing or even starting.Meagan: Yeah, exactly. When I was trying to VBAC with my first baby, my doctor came in and told my husband to tell me that I needed to wake up and smell the coffee because it wasn't happening for me. And that was the last, the last contraction I remember feeling was right before then and my body just shut off. I just stopped because I just didn't feel safe anymore or protected or supported. Yeah, it's very powerful which is something that we love so much about you guys, because I don't even know you. I've just listened to a million of your podcasts, and I feel so safe with you right now. I'm like, you could fly here right now and deliver my baby because so much about you guys, you provide so much comfort and support already, so I'm sure all of your clients can feel that from you.Julie: Absolutely.Dr. Stu: Yeah. I just would like to say that, know, I mean, the introduction was great. Which one of you is Julie? Which one's Meagan?Julie: I'm Julie.Meagan: And I'm Meagan.Dr. Stu: Okay, great. All right, so Julie was reading the introduction that she was talking about how if you have a breech, you have twins, if you have a VBAC, you have all these other things just come down to Southern California and care of it. But I'm not a cowboy. All right? Even though I do more things than most of my colleagues in the profession do, I also say no to people sometimes. I look at things differently. Just because someone has, say chronic hypertension, why can't they have a home birth? The labor is just the labor. I mean, if her blood pressure gets out of control, yeah, then she has to go to the hospital. But why do you need to be laboring in the hospital or induced early if everything is fine? But this isn't for everybody.We want to make that very clear. You need to find a supportive team or supportive practitioner who's willing to be able to say yes and no and give you it with what we call a true informed consent, so that you have the right to choose which way to go and to do what's reasonable. Our ethical obligation is to give you reasonable choices and then support your informed decision making. And sometimes there are things that aren't reasonable. Like for instance, an example that I use all the time is if a woman has a breech baby, but she has a placenta previa, a vaginal delivery is not an option for you. Now she could say, well, I want one and I'm not going to have a C-section.Julie: And then you have the right to refuse that.Dr. Stu: Yeah, yeah, but I mean, that's never going to happen because we have a good communication with our patients. Our communication is such that we develop a trust over the period of time. Sometimes I don't meet people until I'm actually called to their house by a midwife to come assist with a vacuum or something like that. But even then, the midwives and stuff, because I'm sort of known that people have understanding. And then when I'm sitting there, as long as the baby isn't trouble, I will explain to them, here's what's going to happen. Here's how we're going to do it. Here's what's going on. The baby's head to look like this. It not going be a problem. It'll be better in 12 hours. But I go through all this stuff and I say, I'm going to touch you now. Is that okay? I ask permission, and I do all the things that the midwives have taught me, but I never really learned in residency program. They don't teach this stuff.Julie: Yeah, yeah, yeah, absolutely. One of the things that we go over a lot to in our classes is finding a provider who has a natural tendency to treat his patients the way that you want to be treated. That way, you'll have a lot better time when you birth because you're not having to ask them to do anything that they're not comfortable with or that they're not prepared for or that they don't know how to do. And so interviewing providers and interview as many as you need to with these women. And find the provider whose natural ways of treating his clients are the ways that you want to be treated.Dr. Stu: And sometimes in a community, there's nobody.Julie: Yeah, yeah, that's true.Meagan: That's what's so hard.Dr. Stu: And if it's important to you, if it's important to you, then you have to drive on. Julie: Or stand up for yourself and fight really hard.Meagan: I have a client from Russia. She's flying here in two weeks. She's coming all the way to Salt Lake City, Utah to have her baby. We had another client from Russia.Julie: You have another Russian client?Meagan: Yeah. Julie: That's awesome. Meagan: So, yeah. It's crazy. Sometimes you have to go far, far distances, and sometimes you've got them right there. You just have to search. You just have to find them.So it's tricky.Midwife Blyss: Maybe your insurance company is not gonna pay for it.Meagan: Did you say my company's not gonna pay for it?Midwife Blyss: And maybe your insurance company.Meagan: Oh, sure. Yeah, exactly.Midwife Blyss: You can't rely on them to be the ones who support some of these decisions that are outside of the standards of care. You might have to really figure out how to get creative around that area.Meagan: Absolutely.Yeah. So in the beginning, Blyss, you talked about noticing the signs, and I know that's one of the questions that we got on our Instagram, I believe. Birthing at home for both of you guys, what signs for a VBAC mom are signs enough where you talk about different care?.Dr. Stu: I didn't really understand that. Say that again what you were saying.Meagan: Yep. Sorry. So one of the questions on our Instagram was what are the signs of uterine rupture when you're at home that you look for and would transfer care or talk about a different plan of action?Dr. Stu: Okay. Quite simply, some uterine ruptures don't have any warning that they're coming.There's nothing you can do about those. But before we get into what you can feel, just let's review the numbers real briefly so that people have a realistic viewpoint. Because I'm sure if a doctor doesn't want to do a VBAC, you'll find a reason not to do a VBAC. You'll use the scar thickness or the pregnancy interval or whatever. They'll use something to try to talk you out of it or your baby's too big or this kind of thing. We can get into that in a little bit. But when there are signs, the most common sign you would feel is that there'd be increasing pain super-cubically that doesn't go away between contractions. It's a different quality of pain or sensation. It's pain. It's really's becoming uncomfortable. You might start to have variables when you didn't have them before. So the baby's heart rate, you might see heart rate decelerations. Rarely, you might find excessive bleeding, but that's usually not a sign of I mean that's a sign of true rupture.Midwife Blyss: Loss of station.Dr. Stu: Those are things you look for, but again, if you're not augmenting someone, if someone doesn't have an epidural where they don't have sensation, if they're not on Pitocin, these things are very unlikely to happen. I was going to get to the numbers. The numbers are such that the quoted risk of uterine rupture, which is again that crappy word. It sounds like a tire blowing out of the freeway. It is about 1 in 200. But only about 5 to 16%. And even one study said 3%. But let's just even take 16% of those ruptures will result in an outcome that the baby is damaged or dead. Okay, that's about 1 in 6. So the actual risk is about 1 in 6 times 1 in 200 or 1 in 1200 up to about 1 in 4000.Julie: Yep.Dr. Stu: So those are, those are the risks. They're not the 1 in 200 or the 2%. I actually had someone tell some woman that she had a 30% chance of rupture.Julie: We've had somebody say 50%.Meagan: We have?Julie: Yeah. Jess, our 50 copy editor-- her doctor told her that if she tries to VBAC, she has a 50% chance of rupture and she will die. Yeah.Meagan: Wow.Julie: Pretty scary. Dr. Stu: And by the way, a maternal mortality from uterine rupture is extremely rare.Julie: Yeah, we were just talking about that.Dr. Stu: That doctor is wrong on so many accounts. I don't even know where to begin on that.Julie: I know.Dr. Stu: Yeah. See that's the thing where even if someone has a classical Cesarean scar, the risk of rupture isn't 50%.Julie: Yep.Dr. Stu: So I don't know where they come up with those sorts of numbers.Julie: Yeah, I think it's just their comfort level and what they're familiar with and what they know and what they understand. I think a lot of these doctors, because she had a premature Cesarean, and so that's why he was a little, well, a lot more fear-based. Her Cesarean happened, I think, around 32 weeks. We still know that you can still attempt to VBAC and still have a really good chance of having a successful one. But a lot of these providers just don't do it.Dr. Stu: Yeah. And another problem is you can't really find out what somebody's C-section rate is. I mean, you can find out your hospital C-section rate. They can vary dramatically between different physicians, so you really don't know. You'd like to think that physicians are honest. You'd like to think that they're going to tell you the truth. But if they have a high C-section rate and it's a competitive world, they're not going to. And if you're with them, you don't really have a choice anyway.Julie: So there's not transparency on the physician level.Dr. Stu: So Blyss was talking briefly about the fact that your insurance may not pay for it. Blyss, why don't you elaborate on that because you do that point so well.Midwife Blyss: Are you talking about the wedding?Dr. Stu: I love your analogy. It's a great analogy.Midwife Blyss: I'm so saddened sometimes when people talk to me about that they really want this option and especially VBACs. I just have a very special tender place in my heart for VBAC because I overcame something from my first to second birth that wasn't a Cesarean. But it felt like I had been led to mistrust my body, and then I had a triumphant second delivery. So I really understand how that feels when a woman is able to reclaim her body and have a vaginal delivery. But just in general, in terms of limiting your options based on what your insurance will pay for, we think about the delivery of our baby and or something like a wedding where it's this really special day. I see that women or families will spend thousands and thousands of dollars and put it on a credit card and figure out whatever they need to do to have this beautiful wedding. But somehow when it comes to the birth of their baby, they turn over all their power to this insurance company.And so we used to do this talk at the sanctuary and I used to say, "What if we had wedding insurance and you paid every year into this insurance for your wedding, and then when the wedding came, they selected where you went and you didn't like it and they put you in a dress that made you look terrible and the food was horrible and the music was horrible and they invited all these people you didn't want to be there?"Julie: But it's a network.Midwife Blyss: Would you really let that insurance company, because it was paid for, dictate how your wedding day was? Julie: That's a good analogy.Midwife Blyss: You just let it all go.Meagan: Yeah. That's amazing. I love that. And it's so true. It is so true.Julie: And we get that too a lot about hiring a doula. Oh, I can't hire a doula. It's too expensive. We get that a lot because people don't expect to pay out-of-pocket for their births. When you're right, it's just perceived completely differently when it should be one of the biggest days of your life. I had three VBACs at home. My first was a necessary, unnecessary Cesarean.I'm still really uncertain about that, to be honest with you. But you better believe my VBACs at home, we paid out of pocket for a midwife. Our first two times, it was put on a credit card. I had a doula, I had a birth photographer, I had a videographer. My first VBAC, I had two photographers there because it was going to be documented because it was so important to me. And we sold things on eBay. We sold our couches, and I did some babysitting just to bring in the money.Obviously, I hired doulas because it was so important to me to not only have the experience that I wanted and that I deserved, but I wanted it documented and I wanted it to be able to remember it well and look back on it fondly. We see that especially in Utah. I think we have this culture where women just don't-- I feel like it's just a national thing, but I think in Utah, we tend to be on the cheap side just culturally and women don't see the value in that. It's hard because it's hard to shift that mindset to see you are important. You are worth it. What if you could have everything you wanted and what if you knew you could be treated differently? Would you think about how to find the way to make that work financially? And I think if there's just that mindset shift, a lot of people would.Meagan: Oh, I love that.Dr. Stu: If you realize if you have to pay $10,000 out of pocket or $5,000 or whatever to at least have the opportunity, and you always have the hospital as a backup. But 2 or 3 years from now, that $5,000 isn't going to mean anything.Julie: Yeah, nothing.Meagan: But that experience is with you forever.Dr. Stu: So yeah, women may have to remember the names of their children when they're 80 years old, but they'll remember their birth.Julie: Well, with my Cesarean baby, we had some complications and out-of-pocket, I paid almost $10,000 for him and none of my home births, midwives, doula, photography and videography included cost over $7,000.Meagan: My Cesarean births in-hospital were also more expensive than my birth center births.Julie: So should get to questions.Dr. Stu: Let's get to some of the questions because you guys some really good questions.Meagan: Yes.Dr. Stu: Pick one and let's do it.Meagan: So let's do Lauren. She was on Facebook. She was our very first question, and she said that she has some uterine abnormalities like a bicornuate uterus or a separate uterus or all of those. They want to know how that impacts VBAC. She's had two previous Cesareans due to a breech presentation because of her uterine abnormality.Julie: Is that the heart-shaped uterus? Yeah.Dr. Stu: Yeah. You can have a septate uterus. You can have a unicornuate uterus. You can have a double uterus.Julie: Yeah. Two separate uteruses.Dr. Stu: Right. The biggest problem with a person with an abnormal uterine shape or an anomaly is a couple of things. One is malpresentation as this woman experienced because her two babies were breech. And two, is sometimes a retained placenta is more common than women that have a septum, that sort of thing. Also, it can cause preterm labor and growth restriction depending on the type of anomaly of the uterus. Now, say you get to term and your baby is head down, or if it's breech in my vicinity. But if it's head down, then the chance of VBAC for that person is really high. I mean, it might be a slightly greater risk of Cesarean section, but not a statistically significant risk. And then the success rate for home birth VBACs, if you look at the MANA stats or even my own stats which are not enough to make statistical significance in a couple of papers that I put out, but the MANA stats show that it's about a 93% success rate for VBACS in the midwifery model, whereas in the hospital model, it can be as low as 17% up to the 50s or 60%, but it's not very high. And that's partly because of the model by which you're cared for. So the numbers that I'm quoting and the success rates I'm quoting are again, assuming that you have a supportive practitioner in a supportive environment, every VBAC is going to have diminished chance of success in a restrictive or tense environment. But unicornuate uterus or septate uterus is not a contraindication to VBAC, and it's not an indication of breech delivery if somebody knows how to do a breech VBAC too.Julie: Right.Dr. Stu: So Lauren, that would be my answer to to your question is that no, it's not a contraindication and that if you have the right practitioner you can certainly try to labor and your risk of rupture is really not more significant than a woman who has a normal-shaped uterus.Julie: Good answer.Meagan: So I want to spin off that really quick. It's not a question, but I've had a client myself that had two C-sections, and her baby was breech at 37 weeks, and the doctor said he absolutely could not turn the baby externally because her risk of rupture was so increasingly high. So would you agree with that or would you disagree with that?D No, no, no. Even an ACOG statement on external version and breech says that a previous uterine scar is not a contraindication to attempting an external version.Meagan: Yeah.Dr. Stu: Now actually, if we obviously had more breech choices, then there'd be no reason to do an external version.The main reason that people try an external version which can sometimes be very uncomfortable, and depending on the woman and her parody and certain other factors, their success rate cannot be very good is the only reason they do it because the alternative is a Cesarean in 95% of locations in the country.Meagan: Okay, well that's good to know.Dr. Stu: But again, one of the things I would tell people to do is when they're hearing something from their position that just sort of rocks the common sense vote and doesn't sort of make sense, look into it. ACOG has a lot. I think you can just go Google some of the ACOG clinical guidelines or practice guidelines or clinical opinions or whatever they call them. You can find and you can read through, and they summarize them at the end on level A, B, and C evidence, level A being great evidence level C being what's called consensus opinion. The problem with consensus, with ACOG's guidelines is that about 2/3 of them are consensus opinion because they don't really have any data on them. When you get bunch of academics together who don't like VBAC or don't like home birth or don't like breech, of course a consensus opinion is going to be, "Well, we're not going to think those are a good idea." But much to their credit lately, they're starting to change their tune. Their most recent VBAC guideline paper said that if your hospital can do labor and delivery, your hospital can do VBAC.Julie: Yes.Dr. Stu: That's huge. There was immediately a whole fiasco that went on. So any hospital that's doing labor and delivery should be able to do a VBAC. When they say they can't or they say our insurance company won't let them, it's just a cowardly excuse because maybe it's true, but they need to fight for your right because most surgical emergencies in labor delivery have nothing to do with a previous uterine scar.Julie: Absolutely.Dr. Stu: They have to do with people distress or placental abruption or cord prolapse. And if they can handle those, they can certainly handle the one in 1200. I mean, say a hospital does 20 VBACs a year or 50 VBACs a year. You'll take them. Do the math. It'll take them 25 years to have a rupture.Meagan: Yeah. It's pretty powerful stuff.Midwife Blyss: I love when he does that.Julie: Me too. I'm a huge statistics junkie and data junkie. I love the numbers.Meagan: Yeah. She loves numbers.Julie: Yep.Meagan: I love that.Julie: Hey, and 50 VBACs a year at 2000, that would be 40 years actually, right?Dr. Stu: Oh, look at what happened. So say that again. What were the numbers you said?Julie: So 1 in 2000 ruptures are catastrophic and they do 50 VBACs a year, wouldn't that be 40 years?Dr. Stu: But I was using the 1200 number.Julie: Oh, right, right, right, right.Dr. Stu: So that would be 24 years.Julie: Yeah. Right. Anyways, me and you should sit down and just talk. One day. I would love to have lunch with you.Dr. Stu: Let's talk astrology and astronomy.Yes.Dr. Stu: Who's next?Midwife Blyss: Can I make a suggestion?There was another woman. Let's see where it is. What's the likelihood that a baby would flip? And is it reasonable to even give it a shot for a VBA2C. How do you guys say that?Meagan: VBAC after two Cesareans.Midwife Blyss: I need to know the lingo. So, I would say it's very unlikely for a baby to flip head down from a breech position in labor. It doesn't mean it's impossible.Dr. Stu: With a uterine septum, it's almost never going to happen. Bless is right on. Even trying an external version on a woman with the uterine septum when the baby's head is up in one horn and the placenta in the other horn and they're in a frank breech position, that's almost futile to do that, especially if a woman is what I call a functional primary, or even a woman who's never labored before.Julie: Right. That's true.Meagan: And then Napoleon said, what did she say? Oh, she was just talking about this. She's planning on a home birth after two Cesareans supported by a midwife and a doula. Research suggests home birth is a reasonable and safe option for low-risk women. And she wants to know in reality, what identifies low risk?Midwife Blyss: Well, I thought her question was hilarious because she says it seems like everybody's high-risk too. Old, overweight.Julie: Yeah, it does. It does, though.Dr. Stu: Well, immediately, when you label someone high-risk, you make them high-risk.Julie: Yep.Dr. Stu: Because now you've planted seeds of doubt inside their head. So I would say, how do you define high-risk? I mean, is 1 in 1200 high risk?Julie: Nope.Dr. Stu: It doesn't seem high-risk to me. But again, I mean, we do a lot of things in our life that are more dangerous than that and don't consider them high-risk. So I think the term high-risk is handed about way too much.And it's on some false or just some random numbers that they come up with. Blyss has heard this before. I mean, she knows everything I say that comes out of my mouth. The numbers like 24, 35, 42. I mean, 24 hours of ruptured membranes. Where did that come from? Yeah, or some people are saying 18 hours. I mean, there's no science on that. I mean, bacteria don't suddenly look at each other and go, "Hey Ralph, it's time to start multiplying."Julie: Ralph.Meagan: I love it.Julie: I'm gonna name my bacteria Ralph.Meagan: It's true. And I was told after 18 hours, that was my number.Dr. Stu: Yeah, again, so these numbers, there are papers that come out, but they're not repetitive. I mean, any midwife worth her salt has had women with ruptured membranes for sometimes two, three, or four days.Julie: Yep.Midwife Blyss: And as long as you're not sticking your fingers in there, and as long as their GBS might be negative or that's another issue.Meagan: I think that that's another question. That's another question. Yep.Dr. Stu: Yeah, I'll get to that right now. I mean, if some someone has a ruptured membrane with GBS, and they don't go into labor within a certain period of time, it's not unreasonable to give them the pros and cons of antibiotics and then let them make that decision. All right? We don't force people to have antibiotics. We would watch for fetal tachycardia or fever at that point, then you're already behind the eight ball. So ideally, you'd like to see someone go into labor sooner. But again, if they're still leaking, if there are no vaginal exams, the likelihood of them getting group B strep sepsis or something on the baby is still not very high. And the thing about antibiotics that I like to say is that if I was gonna give antibiotics to a woman, I think it's much better to give a woman an antibiotics at home than in the hospital. And the reason being is because at home, the baby's still going to be born into their own environment and mom's and dad's bacteria and the dog's bacteria and the siblings' bacteria where in the hospital, they're going to go to the nursery for observation like they generally do, and they're gonna be exposed to different bacteria unless they do these vaginal seeding, which isn't really catching on universally yet where you take a swab of mom's vaginal bacteria before the C-section.Midwife Blyss: It's called seeding.Dr. Stu: Right. I don't consider ruptured membrane something that again would cause me to immediately say something where you have to change your plan. You individualize your care in the midwifery model.Julie: Yep.Dr. Stu: You look at every patient. You look at their history. You look at their desires. You look at their backup situation, their transport situation, and that sort of thing. You take it all into account. Now, there are some women in pregnancy who don't want to do a GBS culture.Ignorance is bliss. The other spelling of bliss.Julie: Hi, Blyss.Dr. Stu: But the reason that at least I still encourage people to do it is because for any reason, if that baby gets transferred to the hospital during labor or after and you don't have a GBS culture on the chart, they're going to give antibiotics. They're going to treat it as GBS positive and they're also going to think you're irresponsible.And they're going to have that mentality that of oh, here's another one of those home birth crazy people, blah, blah, blah.Julie: That just happened to me in January. I had a client like that. I mean, anyways, never mind. It's not the time. Midwife Blyss: Can I say something about low-risk?Julie: Yes. Midwife Blyss: I think there are a lot of different factors that go into that question. One being what are the state laws? Because there are things that I would consider low-risk and that I feel very comfortable with, but that are against the law. And I'm not going to go to jail.Meagan: Right. We want you to still be Birthing Bless.Midwife Blyss: As, much as I believe in a woman's right to choose, I have to draw the line at what the law is. And then the second is finding a provider that-- obviously, Dr. Stu feels very comfortable with things that other providers may not necessarily feel comfortable with.Julie: Right.Midwife Blyss: And so I think it's really important, as you said in the beginning of the show, to find a provider who takes the risk that you have and feels like they can walk that path with you and be supportive. I definitely agree with what Dr. Stu was saying about informed consent. I had a client who was GBS positive, declined antibiotics and had a very long rupture. We continued to walk that journey together. I kept giving informed consent and kept giving informed consent. She had such trust and faith that it actually stretched my comfort level. We had to continually talk about where we were in this dance. But to me, that feels like what our job is, is to give them information about the pros and cons and let them decide for themselves.And I think that if you take a statistic, I'm picking an arbitrary number, and there's a 94% chance of success and a 4% chance that something could go really wrong, one family might look at that and say, "Wow, 94%, this is neat. That sounds like a pretty good statistic," and the other person says, "4% makes me really uncomfortable. I need to minimize." I think that's where you have to have the ability, given who you surround yourself with and who your provider is, to be able to say, "This is my choice," and it's being supported. So it is arbitrary in a lot of ways except for when it comes to what the law is.Julie: Yeah, that makes sense.Meagan: I love that. Yeah. Julie: Every state has their own law. Like in the south, it's illegal like in lots of places in the South, I think in Washington too, that midwives can't support home birth if you're VBAC. I mean there are lots of different legislative rules. Why am I saying legislative? Look at me, I'm trying to use fancy words to impress you guys. There are lots of different laws in different states and, and some of them are very evidence-based and some laws are broad and they leave a lot of room for practices, variation and gray areas. Some are so specific that they really limit a woman's option in that state.Dr. Stu: We can have a whole podcast on the legal decision-making process and a woman's right to autonomy of her body and the choices and who gets to decide that would be. Right now, the vaccine issue is a big issue, but also pregnancy and restricting women's choices of these things. If you want to do another one down the road, I would love to talk on that subject with you guys.Julie: Perfect.Meagan: We would love that.Julie: Yeah. I think it's your most recent episode. I mean as of the time of this recording. Mandates Kill Medicine. What is that the name?Dr. Stu: Mandates Destroy Medicine.Julie: Yeah. Mandates Destroy Medicine. Dr. Stu: It's wonderful.Julie: Yeah, I love it. I was just listening to it today again.Dr. Stu: well it does because it makes the physicians agents of the state.Julie: Yeah, it really does.Meagan: Yeah. Well. And if you give us another opportunity to do this with you, heck yeah.Julie: Yeah. You can just be a guest every month.Meagan: Yeah.Dr. Stu: So I don't think I would mind that at all, actually.Meagan: We would love it.Julie: Yeah, we would seriously love it. We'll keep in touch.Meagan: So, couple other questions I'm trying to see because we jumped through a few that were the same. I know one asks about an overactive pelvic floor, meaning too strong, not too weak. She's wondering if that is going to affect her chances of having a successful VBAC.Julie: And do you see that a lot with athletes, like people that are overtrained or that maybe are not overtrained, but who train a lot and weightlifters and things like that, where their pelvic floor is too strong? I've heard of that before.Midwife Blyss: Yep, absolutely. there's a chiropractor here in LA, Dr. Elliot Berlin, who also has his own podcast and he talks–Meagan: Isn't Elliott Berlin Heads Up?Dr. Stu: Yeah. He's the producer of Heads Up.Meagan: Yeah, I listened to your guys' special episode on that too. But yeah, he's wonderful.Midwife Blyss: Yeah. So, again, I think this is a question that just has more to do with vaginal delivery than it does necessarily about the fact that they've had a previous Cesarean. So I do believe that the athletic pelvis has really affected women's deliveries. I think that during pregnancy we can work with a pelvic floor specialist who can help us be able to realize where the tension is and how to do some exercises that might help alleviate some of that. We have a specialist here in L.A. I don't know if you guys do there that I would recommend people to. And then also, maybe backing off on some of the athletic activities that that woman is participating in during her pregnancy and doing things more like walking, swimming, yoga, stretching, belly dancing, which was originally designed for women in labor, not to seduce men. So these are all really good things to keep things fluid and soft because you want things to open and release rather than being tense.Meagan: I love that.Dr. Stu: I agree. I think sometimes it leads more to not generally so much of dilation. Again, a friend of mine, David Hayes, he's a home birth guy in South Carolina, doesn't like the idea of using stages of labor. He wants to get rid of that. I think that's an interesting thought. We have a meeting this November in Wisconsin. We're gonna have a bunch of thought-provoking things going on over there.Dr. Stu: Is it all men talking about this? Midwife Blyss: Oh, hell no.Julie: Let's get more women. Dr. Stu: No, no, no, no, no.Being organized By Cynthia Calai. Do you guys know who Cynthia is? She's been a midwife for 50 years. She's in Wisconsin. She's done hundreds of breeches. Anyway, the point being is that I think that I find that a lot of those people end up getting instrumented like vacuums, more commonly. Yeah. So Blyss is right. I mean, if there are people who are very, very tight down there. The leviators and the muscles inside are very tight which is great for life and sex and all that other stuff, but yeah, you need to learn how to be able to relax them too.Julie: Yeah.Meagan: So I know we're running short on time, but this question that came through today, I loved it. It said, "Could you guys both replicate your model of care nationwide somehow?" She said, "How do I advocate effectively for home birth access and VBAC access in a state that actively prosecutes home birth and has restrictions on midwifery practice?" She specifically said she's in Nebraska, but we hear this all over the place. VBAC is not allowed. You cannot birth at home, and people are having unassisted births.Julie: Because they can't find the support.Meagan: They can't find the support and they are too scared to go to the hospital or birth centers. And so, yeah, the question is--Julie: What can women do in their local communities to advocate for positive change and more options in birth where they are more restricted?Dr. Stu: Blyss. Midwife Blyss: I wish I had a really great answer for this. I think that the biggest thing is to continue to talk out loud. And I'm really proud of you ladies for creating this podcast and doing the work that you do. Julie: Thanks.Midwife Blyss: I always believed when we had the Sanctuary that it really is about the woman advocating for herself. And the more that hospitals and doctors are being pushed by women to say, "We need this as an option because we're not getting the work," I think is really important. I support free birth, and I think that most of the women and men who decide to do that are very well educated.Julie: Yeah, for sure.Midwife Blyss: It is actually really very surprising for midwives to see that sometimes they even have better statistics than we do. But it saddens me that there's no choice. And, a woman who doesn't totally feel comfortable with doing that is feeling forced into that decision. So I think as women, we need to support each other, encourage each other, continue to talk out loud about what it is that we want and need and make this be a very important decision that a woman makes, and it's a way of reclaiming the power. I'm not highly political. I try and stay out of those arenas. And really, one of my favorite quotes from a reverend that I have been around said, "Be for something and against nothing." I really believe that the more. Julie: I like that.Midwife Blyss: Yeah, the more that we speak positively and talk about positive change and empowering ourselves and each other, it may come slowly, but that change will continue to come.Julie: Yeah, yeah.Dr. Stu: I would only add to that that I think unfortunately, in any country, whether it's a socialist country or a capitalist country, it's economics that drives everything. If you look at countries like England or the Netherlands, you find that they have, a really integrated system with midwives and doctors collaborating, and the low-risk patients are taken care of by the midwives, and then they consult with doctors and midwives can transfer from home to hospital and continue their care in that system, the national health system. I'm not saying that's the greatest system for somebody who's growing old and has arthritis or need spinal surgery or something like that, but for obstetrics, that sort of system where you've taken out liability and you've taken out economic incentive. All right, so how do you do that in our system? It's not very easy to do because everything is economically driven. One of the things that I've always advocated for is if you want to lower the C-section rate, increase the VBAC rate. It would be really simple for insurance companies, until we have Bernie Sanders with universal health care. But while we have insurance companies, if they would just pay twice as much for a vaginal birth and half as much for a Cesarean birth, then finally, VBACS and breech deliveries would be something. Oh, maybe we should start. We should be more supportive of those things because it's all about the money. But as long as the hospital gets paid more, doctors don't really get paid more. It's expediency for the doctor. He gets it done and goes home. But the hospital, they get paid a lot more, almost twice as much for a C-section than you do for vaginal birth. What's the incentive for the chief financial officer of any hospital to say to the OB department, "We need to lower our C-section rate?" One of the things that's happening are programs that insurance, and I forgot what it's called, but where they're trying, in California, they're trying to lower the primary C-section rate. There's a term for it where it's an acronym with four initials. Blyss, do you know what I'm talking about?Midwife Blyss: No. Dr. Stu: It's an acronym about a first-time mom. We're trying to avoid those C-sections.Julie: Yeah, the primary Cesarean.Dr. Stu: It's an acronym anyway, nonetheless. So they're in the right direction. Most hospitals are in the 30% range. They'd like to lower to 27%. That's a start.One of the ways to really do that is to support VBAC, and treat VBAC as Blyss said at the very beginning of the podcast is that a VBAC is just a normal labor. When people lump VBAC in with breech in twins, it's like, why are you doing that? Breech in twins requires special skill. VBAC requires a special skill also, which is a skill of doing nothing.Julie: Yeah, it's hard.Dr. Stu: It's hard for obstetricians and labor and delivery nurses and stuff like that to do nothing. But ultimately, VBAC is just a vaginal birth and doesn't require any special skill. When a doctor says, "We don't do VBAC, what he's basically saying, or she, is that I don't do vaginal deliveries," which is stupid because VBAC is just a vaginal delivery.Julie: Yeah, that's true.Meagan: Such a powerful point right there.Julie: Guys. We loved chatting with you so much. We wish we could talk with you all day long.Meagan: I would. All day long. I just want to be a fly on your walls if I could.Julie: If you're ever in Salt Lake City again--Meagan: He just was. Did you know about this?Julie: Say hi to Adrienne, but also connect with us because we would love to meet you. All right, well guys, everyone, all of our listeners, Women of Strength, we are going to drop all the information that you need to find Midwife Blyss and Dr. Stu-- their website, their podcast, and all of that in our show notes. So yeah, now you can find our podcast. You can even listen to our podcast on our website at thevbaclink.com/podcast. You can play episodes right from there. So if you don't know-- well, if you're listening to this podcast, then you probably have a podcast player already. But you know what? My mom still doesn't know what a podcast is, so I'm just gonna have to start sending her links right to our page.Meagan: Yep, just listen to us wherever and leave us a review and head over to Dr. Stu's Podcast and leave them a review.Julie: Subscribe because you're gonna love him, but don't stop listening to him us because you love us too. Remember that.Dr. Stu: I want to thank everybody who wrote in, and I'm sorry we didn't get to answer every question. We tend to blabber on a little bit asking these important questions, and hopefully you guys will have us back on again.Meagan: We would love to have you.Julie: Absolutely.Meagan: Yep, we will.Julie: Absolutely.Meagan: YeahClosingWould you like to be a guest on the podcast? Tell us about your experience at thevbaclink.com/share. For more information on all things VBAC including online and in-person VBAC classes, The VBAC Link blog, and Meagan's bio, head over to thevbaclink.com. Congratulations on starting your journey of learning and discovery with The VBAC Link.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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