Podcasts about cesarean sections

What if the way we talk about birth is shaping the way we experience it—before it even begins? Joining me to unpack this is journalist, professor, and author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section, Rachel Somerstein.   Together we explore:   The hidden biases and ingrained language that shape how we view birth—why terms like "failure to progress" reinforce harmful narratives. Why flexibility is a powerful tool in birth and parenting—and why we so often slip into rigidity when we feel anxious or out of control. The societal pressure to “do birth right” and how it impacts a birthing person's experience. The troubling reality of whose life we prioritize in birth and what that says about our values in America. Why do some births lead to trauma while others don't? What the research reveals about the difference. The importance of preparing for a c-section—even if it's not part of your birth plan—so that you feel safe and supported if it happens. Simple but impactful shifts that could make c-sections a more positive experience.   With 1 in 3 births resulting in a c-section, this is a conversation every birthing person deserves to hear. Tune in for a thought-provoking deep dive into the realities of modern birth and what we can do to reclaim agency in the process.     LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:

April is Cesarean Awareness Month, and we're re-releasing this incredibly important conversation to spotlight the complexities, emotions, and real stories behind C-sections.On this solo episode, Kayleigh is discussing all things c-section. She shares a few different studies highlighting the data on c-sections and PTSD, as well as how they compare to other modes of delivery. Kayleigh also touches on TOLACs and planned cesarean sections after birth trauma. In this episode:- Types of C-Sections- C-Section and birth trauma- Communication and Support as mitigating factors- Delivery decisions after birth trauma (TOLAC v. planned c-section)- C-Sections under general anesthesiaStudies Discussed:Garthus-Niegel S, von Soest T, Knoph C, Simonsen TB, Torgersen L, Eberhard-Gran M. The influence of women's preferences and actual mode of delivery on post-traumatic stress symptoms following childbirth: a population-based, longitudinal study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2014 Jun 5;14:191. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-191. PMID: 24898436; PMCID: PMC4053555.Orovou E, Iliadou M, Chatzopoulou MT, Dagla M, Eskitzis P, Rigas N, Antoniou E. The Relation between Birth with Cesarean Section and Posttraumatic Stress in Postpartum Women. Maedica (Bucur). 2023 Dec;18(4):615-622. doi: 10.26574/maedica.2023.18.4.615. PMID: 38348064; PMCID: PMC10859197.Rowlands IJ, Redshaw M. Mode of birth and women's psychological and physical wellbeing in the postnatal period. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2012 Nov 28;12:138. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-12-138. PMID: 23190575; PMCID: PMC3533875.For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.Why This Episode Matters: C-sections are the most common major surgery performed on women, yet they're often misunderstood and under-supported. Whether you're a birthing parent, a partner, a provider, or a friend—this episode offers insight and empathy that can shift how we talk about and hold space for C-section experiences.For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance, views, or positions of The Birth Trauma Mama Podcast. The content shared is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or medical advice and/or endorsement.

Founder of the best VBAC informational site in existence, Jen Kamel discusses her journey and some of the many lessons learned along the way.

This week, Jacquelyn (IBCLC) & Ruth (CBD) discuss what you can expect in your birthing experience in China when you plan to deliver by C-section. They focus on details and facts, skipping over why an individual might choose to plan a C-section to focus on what's important to "know before you go", including some considerations when evaluating potential deliver sites. If you know a C-section is in your future (and maybe even if you don't), you need this information!***Enjoying the Having A Baby In China Podcast? Leave us a rating or write a review in your favorite podcast app, share us with your friends, or contact us on Instagram!***Visit the Having a Baby in China Website: https://www.havingababyinchina.com/Follow @HavingABabyInChina on Instagram Check out Having a Baby in China: The Course - A Video Course to learn about it all!

In this episode Cassie comes on the podcast to share her pregnancy and birth journey! Cassie tried to get pregnant for over 2 years and shares her long journey through unexplained infertility. She also shares her birth story which turned into a planned cesarean that she remembers still as the best day ever. ____________________ If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share with your mama friends! wanna be on the podcast? https://www.whatthebumpclt.com/podcast  connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthebumpclt  our website / blog: www.whatthebumpclt.com  Cassie on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazycass37?igsh=cGpxdXN1dzVsYW0= therapist mentioned: https://mindspacecounseling.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/what-the-bump/support

Welcome back, Mamas, to this week's episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today, we're joined by Rachel Somerstein, a powerhouse in maternal health journalism and the author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section. Combining personal stories, investigative research, and historical insights, Rachel's work seeks to drive essential conversations around c-sections and maternal health.We in-depth on:The ups and downs: in her motherhood journeyThe Unseen Side of C-Sections: Rachel shares the profound and often overlooked realities surrounding cesarean sections, which are the most frequently performed operation worldwide. Changing the narrative: The societal and medical structures that impact maternal well-being and how storytelling can influence systemic change.I hope this conversation leaves you feeling informed and empowered. If you found it valuable, please share it to help mothers everywhere access the support and information they deserve.ABOUT RACHEL SOMERSTEIN:Rachel Somerstein is the author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section (Ecco 2024), a groundbreaking book that investigates the history and nuances of c-sections through a unique blend of memoir, research, and reporting. Her work has appeared in The Boston Globe, The Guardian, Longreads, The Washington Post, Women's Health, and more, and she has been featured on NPR. With a PhD in mass communications and an MFA in creative writing, Rachel is committed to using narrative and rigorous research to elevate critical discussions on maternal health. She is currently an associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz.RESOURCES:Website: www.rachelsomerstein.comLinkedIn: Rachel SomersteinInstagram: @rachelesomerstein Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel is a professor, an author, and a VBAC mom who is here to share her story from a traumatic C-section birth through a VBAC. This episode really dives deep into how picking the right provider is key to improving your chances for a VBAC. They give practical questions to ask your providers, more than just yes or no, to really get to know their birth philosophy and what qualifications and experiences your provider might have that would make them a better fit for VBAC chances. Rachel and Meagan also give a lot of validation and advice on how to start the process of overcoming birth trauma; it's reality and to not be ashamed of it. You're not alone. Through the many important messages of this episode, they both mention many times to trust your intuition. If something feels off, listen to that. And if a change in provider is necessary…it is never ever too late to change. Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean SectionHow to Naturally Induce LaborHow to Turn Prodromal Labor into Active LaborMembrane Sweeps for VBACHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello everybody! Welcome to the show! I am so honored to have Rachel Somerstein on with us today. She is a friend of ours from New York. She is a writer and an associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz. She is an author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section.  And her writing has also appeared in the Boston Globe, The Guardian, The Washington Post, and Women's Health. She lives in Hudson Valley, NY with her husband and her two children and is here to share her stories with you today. Rachel had an unplanned Xesarean section with her first child and the experience was anything but routine. I know that there are many of us who have been through this journey and on this podcast, maybe listening today, that also had an unexpected experience and it may have left us with trauma, or doubt, or fear, or all the feelings, right? And so she is going to be talking to us today about her experiences, but then also we're going to talk about some guidance on how to find peace and to offer ourselves grace and to set ourselves up for a much better experience next time. We do have a review of the week, so I want to get into that and I'm going to turn the time over to Rachel.This review is by Deserie Jacobsen. The review title is “Thank You.” She actually emailed this in and it says, “This podcast and parents course is amazing. I am not a VBAC mom, but I have been listening since 2020. I binge listen near the end of every pregnancy to remind me of everything I need to remember in birth and process through my previous births. This time around I felt more prepared than ever before, having plans in place just in case. We were able to have a quick birth of my 5th baby. I love the education, passion, and love this podcast gives. I recommend it to everyone I know, and I have learned so much from it. I am so grateful for this podcast, thank you.”Thank you so much Deserie for your review! Seriously you guys, I just love hearing that people are finding the information that they need, they're finding community, they're finding that they can do this too. Just like them, and all these reviewers and all the people that have shared their stories and all these reviewers you guys can too. This birth, VBAC, is possible too. Better experience is possible. A healing CBAC; it's possible. You guys, all it takes is getting the information, the prep, finding the provider, to have a better experience.Meagan: Alright Ms. Rachel, welcome to the show and thank you again so much for being here with us. I kind of talked about this a little bit before we started recording about how I think your episode is going to be so powerful and deep and raw too. You've got these feelings and these words. I love it. I love reading your book and I can't wait to hear it from your own mouth. Which speaking of book, can we talk about that a little bit? What kind of just inspired you, jumpstarted you into writing a book about this?Rachel: Well, I'm a writer. And I wrote an essay about my birth about two years after I had my baby, my first birth, my C-section. And I realized I had a lot more to say and also I heard from a lot of moms when that came out and that made me start thinking that I think there was a bigger project. Meagan: Absolutely. And an amazing project that you completed.Rachel: Yes.Meagan: And remind everybody before we get into your stories where they can find your book. I actually have it here in my hands. It's Invisible Labor. So where all can they find that? And we'll make sure that we link it. Rachel: Sure, thank you! Yeah, so it's Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of The Cesarean Section. And you can get it on Amazon, you can get it from Barnes and Noble, you can get it from your local bookstore, you can get it as an audiobook? Or you can also get it as an ebook.Meagan: For the audiobook, did you record it?Rachel: I did not. The narrator is Xe Sands and she did a great, great job. It sounds excellent. Meagan: Awesome. We'll be sure to link that. I think it's definitely a book that everyone should check out. There's a lot of power in that book.Rachel: Thank you.Meagan: And it's not even just your story. I mean there's a ton. Like if you go through the note section there's a ton of research in there, and history and studies, and so many really great things. Well okay, let's hear about the story that started the inspiration and behind this amazing book.Rachel: Sure! Thank you. So like so many moms, I had an unplanned C-section that I was completely unprepared for, which is another reason I wanted to write this book because I think a lot of people go into pregnancy just assuming they're going to have a vaginal birth and like me, I didn't even read the parts of the books about C-sections, I skipped them. Because I was not going to have a C-section. Which is whatever, hindsight is everything, right? But I had a totally textbook pregnancy. I switched to a different group of midwives and OB's about halfway through because I just didn't have a connection I felt with the providers in the first one. And frankly, I didn't have a connection with the providers in the second one either, but by that point, I was like well whatever, it's fine. Which I think is actually, if I could go back and do it again I would have changed that. But you kind of are like, I don't want to, could I possibly change again? And I think that for people who are VBACing, yes you can and sometimes you actually really need to, even like late on in your pregnancy, people will switch groups or providers even late in the third trimester, so. Meagan: Even if you're changed already, you can do it multiple times.Rachel: Exactly.Meagan: It's not a bad thing to find the right provider for you. It's not. Rachel: It's not. And It's hard. And you can feel like, Oh my god. Am I really going to send all my records over? It can feel like so much effort and it can really be worth it. I just wanted to say that as someone who switched once and then was like, Okay, I'm done, and wished I'd switched again. So anyways, it was late in week 39 I went into prodromal labor but I didn't know that prodromal labor even existed because nobody told me about it.  And it was my first baby. So I was like is this labor? I think I'm having contractions, these are not Braxton Hicks. And in the end, we talked to the doula I was working with, and in the end they ended up petering out. And at that, I think that that for me marked the beginning of, this is not going to look like the way I had expected it to look. And again, hindsight is everything. What I wish I had known at the time– and I think this is really relevant to some VBAC moms is that sometimes prodromal labor means that your baby is not in the best position for having a vaginal birth. And I can't exactly say oh I would have done this or that differently if I'd known it, but it would have helped me understand what I was going into with the labor and the birth. So anyway, I eventually went into labor in the middle of the night. It was exactly my due date and I knew it was different. I could just feel this is labor. And I was really eager to get it going quickly. And again, I wish someone would have said, “Rachel, rest. It's early. You're going to need your strength. You're going to need your energy however your baby is born.” And instead I quite literally was running up and down the stairs of my house to try to push labor along. Which is, I have compassion for myself, I understand why I was doing that. What I really needed to do was get in the bath, or I don't know, lay over the birth ball. Watch a silly movie, right? The feelings I was having were real pain and I was scared. But you kind of can't run through this, especially a first labor as we all know, those take a long time, right?Meagan: Yeah. And if we were having prodromal labor, our body may be kicking into labor, but still might need some time to help that baby rotate and change positions. Rachel: Exactly, exactly. And this is the kind of education that is so missing from birth classes. And that is one reason why this kind of podcast is so helpful because that's how I learned about these different things. I didn't ever learn about them from a provider being like, “Let's talk about what will happen in your birth, and let's talk about why you had prodromal labor.”So anyway, we went to the doctors office where we met a midwife and my doula for a labor check. And I was hardly dilated, I was at a 2 but I was in extreme pain. And I have to say, I have a very, very high pain tolerance and I now know I was having back labor. Meagan: Baby's position.Rachel: Exactly. And the contractions were like boom boom boom boom. They were not, I didn't have any rest in between them. Which again, I think my baby was like I gotta get in the right position, this isn't working out, I'm freaking out, ah! Plus my mom is running around, ah! Right?Meagan: Yeah. Rachel: So we went to the hospital and I was checked in and the midwife who checked me in was like, “Oh you're actually not even 2 centimeters, you're just 1 centimeter dilated.” And they checked me because I was in so much pain I think. And I don't know that that was necessarily wrong,  but again, no one was sort of explaining, “Here's what we think is going on.” And it's partly because I believe those providers thought I was exaggerating what I was experiencing physically. They didn't know me. Well, they didn't know that I'm usually pretty stoic. They didn't know that I'm not a squeaky wheel. And I wasn't like screaming or crying or pounding. I was like quiet and I was like I'm in a lot of pain.Meagan: An intense quiet.Rachel: Intense quiet. Exactly. But that doesn't look like what we think pain looks like to people. And the fact is that people are very individual and how they express pain especially during labor where you're already kind of like leaving the regular plane of reality.Meagan: Yes. Rachel: So an important takeaway is like, even experienced providers cannot read your mind and make mistakes in assessing what's truly going on with you. And this comes up later in my second birth, but my husband now does a much better job of saying, “You might look at Rachel right now and think she looks like she's doing great, but this is what's really going on with her.” And he does that in a way that's not like he's speaking for me in a way that's annoying, but it's like I actually can't advocate for myself, I can't express this. So anyways, I asked for an epidural. They said that the anesthesiologist was busy. Which may have been true, but may have been they were trying to put me off because I was hardly dilated. And they told me to get in the birth tub. And I remember hanging over the side of the tub and staring at the clock on the wall and being like, I actually don't know if I'm going to survive this hour. I was just in so much pain. Incredible pain from back labor that was incessant. Eventually he showed up. They hooked me up to all the monitors. At that point, one of the nurses was like, “Oh, you are having monster contractions.” Like the contractions that were being measured were so intense they were going each time to the edge of what was measurable. And now that the computer said it it was like oh…Meagan: You're validated now. Rachel: Exactly. Right. And the anesthesiologist, it took him three tries to get the epidural working properly which would echo problems to come. But he did, and it took away the pain. And then I was just in the bed and kind of left there. And the nurses and the midwife did not use a peanut ball, they didn't move me around. And obviously, listen, I'm attached to the monitors. You know you cannot really move that well, the belt slips, and that increases the chances you'll have a C-section. And there are still things that can be done. It's not like you're a loaf of bread, you just lay in a bed. But they didn't do that stuff and I wasn't dilating. The nurse and doula eventually basically were like, “Well, we're going to go out for dinner and we'll be back in a few hours and we're going to give you this thing to sleep and if you haven't dilated by the time we get back you're going to have a C-section.” And at that point I was exhausted. It's evening now, I've been up since the middle of the night. I'm totally like, what is happening with this birth? No preparation; I took birth classes, I read books, no preparation suggested that this series of events could take place. I felt completely abandoned by my providers, including my doula who I was paying out of pocket. And one thing that came up at this time also was I had this colposcopy in college, like scraping of cervical cells. I didn't hide it from anybody, I was open. And the midwife said well maybe that's why you're not dilating is because of this colposcopy.Meagan: Do you think you got scar tissue?Rachel: That's what she said. And I remember at the time being like why are we only talking about this now? Why has nobody brought this up in any of the prenatal visits that I've done? And I felt blamed. This thing about your body is defective. After a few hours when the midwife and the doula came back and I rested and it was quiet, I had dilated to a 9. And I think what that's about is that I had been in too much pain to dilate. I was so frozen up and tense and also extremely scared.At this point people are like, “Oh wow.” And finally my water broke,y water hadn't broken. So you know, things are kind of continuing and I am starting to actually feel even more fear and my room is getting really crowded with people. And the midwife asks me to start pushing. And I was afraid and I was excited. They turned on the baby warmer, and they were like, “Okay, your baby is going to come out.” And I started to push but I couldn't feel what I was doing. I had no idea. And the midwife was like, “Do you have an urge to push?” And I was like, “No.” The epidural that hadn't gone well from the beginning had then come down with a very heavy hammer and I felt total numbness. It was not helpful. I needed someone to have turned it off or something, or turned it down so I could feel an urge to push and feel how to push, where to push, what muscles to use. And at a certain point I could tell something was going not right and it turned out that my baby was having heart rate decelerations. So just to sketch the scene. At this point it's 1 o'clock in the morning, I've been awake for 24 hours. I'm exhausted. My husband is exhausted. Neither of us has any idea that things could have gone like this. The midwife says I think it's time to do a C-section. And I don't disagree with her. I don't even know what to think at that point. I'm also feeling tremendous fear. I was like I'm afraid I'm going to die, I'm afraid my baby's going to die. And the overall sense in the room…and people were like, “Oh no, you're going to be fine”. And the sense in the room was that I was hysterical and I was not in my right mind. Which I wasn't in my right mind; I had been awake for a long time, I'd been trying to have this baby, nobody really told me what was going on and I felt totally unsupported. Actually, my response was completely reasonable given the circumstances and nobody really attended to that and saw that and recognized that as completely valid. Plus, I don't have evidence to stack this up absolutely, but I have since come to find out that there is a medication that some laboring women are given to help them rest and one of the side effects is an impending sense of doom. And I have a friend who had a baby at this same hospital and had the same response after having been given something to rest during her labor. I could go back and look at my records and I may do that but I'm like, well that would explain also why I had the response I did. Meagan: Mhmm.Rachel: Anyway, we go to the OR. I hunch my back for the spinal that the anesthesiologist has to do a couple of times to get it right. I'm still contracting at this point. My body is still like, Come on, let's get this baby out. Let's get this baby out. And I'm so uncomfortable. And you know that advice to not lay down flat on your back when you're pregnant, but that's what you have to do when you're in the OR. The whole thing felt like I was going to choke under my stomach and very exposed like you are in the operating room. Meagan: Yeah, it's cold and it's bright and you're very exposed. And you can't move your body normally, especially if you've had a spinal. Rachel: And also in retrospect, again I'm like I cannot believe that the first time I learned what happened in a C-section was in my C-section. I really should have at least learned about this even though it would have still been scary and I still would have been surprised. So when the OB goes to operate, he starts his incision and I say, “I felt that.” And he says, “You'll feel pressure.” And I say, “I felt that.” And he continues operating and I was not numb. I felt the operation. And according to his notes..parts of this I don't remember…but he wrote it down and my husband has also told me that I was screaming, my legs were kicking. There's no question that I was in tremendous pain. And I was moaning and it was horrible. And it was horrible for the people in the room too by the way.Meagan: I'm sure. Rachel: Right? Like it's really important to say that. My OB didn't listen to me. That is a super common thing that happens in healthcare, especially for women. Especially for pregnant women. He's not a sociopath. He didn't want to be evil, but he didn't listen and the consequences were so steep and so dire. And I think that it was traumatizing to him and I know it was traumatizing to some of the other providers in that room, the nurses to watch this. He kept going and when the baby was born, which I don't remember, apparently they held her up to my face and they put me under general anesthesia and sent my baby and my husband away and stitched me up. Then I woke up in recovery. The doula and the midwife had gotten the baby to latch while I was unconscious and were talking about me without knowing that I was awake about her latch which really, really bothered me because it just underscored how it felt like I was just a body. And even people who were supposed to be there to take care of me and be tender and advocates, I felt they disregarded me. And under other circumstances I really would have wanted to breastfeed my baby like right away. But I wasn't even there to say yes I want to do this or no I don't want to do this. It was a terrible birth and I would not wish it on anybody. Meagan: And I think, kind of talking about what you were just talking about with breastfeeding and stuff, these people in their hearts and in their minds were probably like this is what she would have wanted. We're trying to help. But in whole other frame of mind over here, I'm not present. I haven't said those things. And I know you're trying to help and I know that's where your heart is, but I'm not okay with this. Rachel: Totally.Meagan: And I think sometimes as doulas, as birth workers, as any one of you listening, remember that words matter. Actions matter. These moms' feelings matter and it's sometimes in our minds we're trying to do what's best, but it might not be. Rachel: Totally. Absolutely. Yes and I again, it's so important to point out. Yes they were coming from a good place. They really were coming from a good place. But it wasn't the way that I felt it or experienced it. Meagan: And it left you with trauma and angst and heartache. Rachel: Absolutely. Totally. Yeah. Meagan: Well that definitely sounds like a really rough birth. And it's so crazy because it's like you went from not progressing to baby in a poor position, to getting an epidural. I love that you talked about that. That can be an amazing tool. A lot of people are very against epidurals, and there are pros and cons with epidurals. We've talked about those. Fetal heart decels is one of them. I don't think, maybe in this situation it sounds like a lot of other things happened; baby's position being one of the biggest ones. But that can really be a tool that helps you just relax and be more present and have less trauma. We talk about this in my doula practice of where there's a difference between pain and suffering. And pain, progressive positive pain that's bringing our baby to us that's one thing. But when we're suffering and we're so tense that our body's not even able to try; that epidural could come into great play. But again, we're not that loaf of bread in a bed and it is important to move and rotate. And it doesn't have to be drastic. It doesn't have to be crazy big movements. Just subtle movements to change the dynamics of the pelvis and to encourage our baby to keep coming down. So there were so many things that just went poorly but also went well, and then poorly again and then well and then real poorly there at the end. Rachel: And I think like to your point, I went into my birth I should say, I was planning on having an unmedicated vaginal birth. I was like I'm not going to have an epidural. And I think that if my providers had different skills I would have, I may have been able to have that baby vaginally. And I say that based on what happened in my second birth. So it's not just like wishful thinking, right? And I'm really glad I had that epidural. I really needed that. I was suffering. The pain I was experiencing was not productive pain. And an epidural can help you with suffering, alleviate your suffering. But it can't and doesn't substitute for emotional support. And I think that's what was missing for me, throughout that first birth. Even if I had gone on to have ok fine, a cesarean, or even a vaginal birth, I still think I would have been like that wasn't a good birth because I didn't feel emotionally supported. And an epidural can't do that. Meagan: Yeah. No an epidural cannot do that. And I, for anyone listening who supports birth, or even who are going for a birth you kind of mentioned it. You're in this other land and sometimes it's hard to advocate and open. You might be thinking something and you might so badly want to say it. It's right here, coming out. And you can't say it for whatever reason. It's a weird thing, it doesn't make sense sometimes but it can happen. But really being heard, validated, understood; which are so many things you weren't. Right? And when we're not heard and when we don't feel safe, and we don't feel supported, those things leave us with PTSD. In fact there was, in your book, I'm just going to read it. It says, “2022 study by anesthesiology and obstetrics professor Joanna and colleagues found that what's important about women who feel pain during childbirth is how mothers feel about their pain. And how their providers communicate with them overall…”You were communicating, and no one was communicating to you. “...feeling positively about pain and heard by providers protects a mother from developing PTSD.” And I mean it goes on which is why you need to get the book so you can read more about it. Rachel: Yep. Meagan: But really, feeling heard. Rachel: It's not just crunchy whoo-hoo feels good, feels right, sounds good. It really matters. And I have to say that I'm participating in and helping to work with providers on designing some studies about providing different pain options for moms during C-sections. We literally had a conversation about this yesterday. And one of things we were talking about is it's not just the pain. It's not just pain relief. It's also being listened to. Because there will be people who are like, I might say I'm in pain, but that doesn't mean I need an epidural or want an epidural. But I'm feeling pain and I want to be heard and I want somebody to…even if you can't express this. You can't even express it because you're the one having labor. What you're needing is someone to see you and look you in the eye and be like you're going to be okay. And I think as mothers we totally are experienced with that all the time. When your child is hurt or sick, part of your job obviously is to get them the help they need, but it's also to assure them this nosebleed is going to end. You're not going to have a bloody nose for the rest of your life. Which, when you're going through something really hard you can sometimes forget, right? And you're pointing out from the studies this helps to prevent people in birth, in labor, from developing PTSD. The stakes are really high. They matter so much. Meagan: When you were just talking, I don't know if you saw my eyes kind of well up a little, but I connected a lot with my first birth when I was clinging to a bed, literally clinging. And I was looking at my husband and I'm like, “Do something!” I had a baby in a poor position. I was being jacked full of pitocin. My water had broken, there was a lot of discomfort going on. I had told him I didn't want an epidural and he's like what do you want me to do? And I was like I don't know, I just need something! And I was terrified and desperate. And he was just like… It wasn't fair for me to put him in that position either but at the same time he was like I don't know, I don't know what to do, right? And the nurses were just like we'll just get you an epidural. And I was like no, I don't want an epidural. And then it just was like epidural, just went down from there. And I wish so badly that there was something else. Let's get you out of the bed. Let's get you in the shower. Let's give you some nitrous. There was so much more that I could have had, but wasn't even offered. And I think too, I needed someone to tell me that nosebleed was going to end. Rachel: Yes. Meagan: And it was going to end and it was going to come back every five minutes and it was going to end again and I was going to be okay. And I was going to survive that. And just hearing you talk about that, why my eyes got all welly, is that I don't know if I realized how much that impacted me until just barely. And here I am, my daughter is almost 13.Rachel: Just like how powerful these things that, I don't know, this is part of why we have these conversations. They shed different corners of light on our experiences that it's like oh my gosh, I didn't even know I knew that. And that's so why we, even though I'm not postpartum immediately, it's valuable for me to talk about it too; to hear what you're saying, you know?Meagan: Yeah. Ah, so after a not-so-amazing experience, going into that postpartum, you've talked a little bit about that in your book. Well, not a little bit, you've talked about that a lot. Tell us about that journey and then what led you to deciding on VBAC and ultimately going and having a VBAC. Rachel: So I should say, I was really…Talk about not realizing things right away. It took me a long time to figure out how traumatized I had been by that birth. And I was about two years postpartum and I was having a procedure for something else and I just completely, I had a panic attack. I had never had a panic attack before, I didn't know what it was and couldn't have explained what was happening. And when the anesthesiologist who did this procedure was like have you ever had any issues with anesthesia, which is exactly the question that should be asked, and I had said what had happened he was so taken aback. He was shocked and didn't know what to say and walked out of the room.Not in the way of, I'm abandoning my patient, but just like from his perspective here's this kind of routine thing. This patient is crying and shaking and talking about this very traumatic incident which I had not talked about. I didn't go to therapy. I had talked about it with friends and my family, it wasn't a secret, but I felt a lot of shame. I felt like I must have been this total freak of a person that this had happened to me. And after that I remember saying to my husband, I just don't know if I'm ever going to be able to get over this trauma enough to have another baby. And I didn't even know if I wanted another baby, like separate from the trauma. In therapy I started to see that I felt very stuck in my life and that included how and whether to grow my family. And that was actually because of the traumatic birth. It just like made this big block. I think one thing that's important to think about for those who have had a traumatic birth is that sometimes that can show up in your life in ways that you don't expect. Meagan: Yes. Rachel: And so to be compassionate with yourself about that and also to be open to that. We're in the era of warnings and trigger warnings and those are important, but sometimes for a traumatized person the things that are triggering or activating are not what you would think. Like for me, I couldn't watch a scene of a hospital birth even if it was happy without getting very uncomfortable and having to walk away and there wouldn't be a content warning on that. So it's just to say be patient with yourself. Accept that…don't, I guess if you've had a traumatizing birth you don't have to struggle against these things. As horrible as they might feel, as uncomfortable as they might feel it's normal and it's ok and it shows up differently for everybody. Rachel: Yeah so I had this big question and then I was like ok, it took awhile for me to be like I do want to have another baby. But I wasn't ready emotionally. And so I waited. And then about, let's see, October of 2019, I was like I think that I'm ready to try to have another baby. And we had met this midwife who lived in our community, who my daughter actually made friends with her niece at our public pool which is so beautiful. I ran into her one night while she was walking her dog. She was like your husband shared a little bit with me, if you ever want to talk. And this, I feel like, I could not be more grateful that this person came into my life. She just is, her skills are phenomenal. Just as a clinician in terms of trauma-informed care, and I've felt safe enough going to her for prenatal care to decide that I was ready to get pregnant. My joke is that I should tour high schools and be like it only takes once to have unprotected sex to become a parent. And I was really lucky that I got pregnant right away and at that point I was 37. So I should say I had my first baby at 33 and I got pregnant again at 37. And that's not always the case for people. Obviously it can take a long time and especially after a C-section, secondary infertility is real. Meagan: It is. Rachel: Yeah. Not talked about enough. Really not talked about enough. Meagan: There's a lot of things, right, about C-sections that is not discussed about. For personal, for the mom, for the individual, the infertility, adhesions, all those things. Just the emotional and the physical. Then even the baby. There's risks for the baby, the allergies, the microbiome getting messed up. All the risks, it's just not discussed. Rachel: No, it's really not. And you kind of only find out later if you've had a C-section and you've had a problem down the road that you're like, maybe that's because of my C-section. It's ridiculous.So we got pregnant and I was not sure if I wanted to have a VBAC, but I started thinking about it from the beginning. And I also was like, if I don't have a VBAC how am I ever going to get myself into an OR, I just don't know. And I really think that VBAC is the under-discussed pain point for moms. And I'm preaching to the choir here but we're talking about half a million moms every year have to make this decision, if it's even available to them. Meagan: I was going to say, if it's even offered. Rachel: If it's even offered. Which is totally not a given. But theoretically, they do have this decision and I really have not…I should say, in the course of writing this book, but also just being a mom who had a bad C-section and then had a VBAC, I hear from people a lot about their journeys just like on the playground. Every person I've talked to, they agonize over it. No matter what they choose, no matter what. Why is that not talked about more? I mean that part of what this podcast is doing that's so important, but I still can't believe how under the radar it is, yet it's such a big deal when you're going through it. So anyway, I told myself I did not have to decide right away about a VBAC or a C-section. My midwife was like you can totally have a VBAC, you can totally have a C-section. Even if you have a C-section you can keep seeing me. I was worried like oh would I get bumped out of midwifery care. One of the things I'm really fortunate about and that I think is really good about that practice is that she has a very close relationship with one of the OB's there. Like they kind of share patients, I should say that. And that's because she's worked with him for a long time and he really respects her clinical skills and vice versa. The other thing about her that's unique and that I didn't know how important it is she's a Certified Nurse Midwife, so she attends births in the hospital. But she previously had been a homebirth practice and at a birth center as a CNM. So her skills are, like I said are phenomenal. A C-section is truly like we have to do this. I've run out of my bag of skills or like the baby or mom's health suggests that like we need to do this now. She worked with me to work with the scheduler so that I saw her for every visit which helped me to learn how to trust her and she didn't pressure me. Either way she was completely open. She also worked with me to make sure that I could see her for virtually every visit so that way she earned my trust. And I got to show her who I am. She got to understand me which was really important to the birth. Meagan: Yes, which I want to point out. There are a lot of providers these days that are working in groups. And I understand why they're working in groups. They're overworked, definitely not rested. There's reasons why, both midwives and OBGYNs are working in these big practices. But the thing is it's really nice to have that established relationship but for some reason specially for VBAC it's so important to have that one-on-one relationship. So if you can, during your search for finding providers, if you can find a provider that is going to be like Rachel's midwife where she's just like I want to get to know you, I want to establish this relationship. Yes, we have this OB over here but I want to be your person. I definitely think it's impactful.Rachel: I totally agree with you and I didn't even know that was possible. And she works for a big group and even so she told the schedulers, hey make sure you schedule her with me. She didn't just do that with me by the way, it wasn't just a special favor for this traumatized patient. And frankly it's better for the providers too because they're not coming in cold. Like ok who's this person, and she's saying this. And what's her prenatal care like? What's her pregnancy like? Of course they're looking at the notes, but it's not the same. Meagan: It isn't. And I love that she said that. But I also want to point out that you can request that. If you're in a group and you can connect whole-heartedly with someone and you feel it's definitely who you need, it's ok to ask hey. I know that I am supposed to meet Sarah Jane and Sally, but can I stay with whoever. And maybe you might not get every visit, but if you can get more visits than only that one? It's worth asking. Rachel: Totally. And also then you know their style. So like she was not an alarmist. Let's say I was over 35; I had to see a MFM just because of my age. That went fine, but if something had come up, like let's say I had a short cervix or there was something I found in an appointment with an MFM specialist I would know her well enough to take that to her to be like, put it to me straight. How worried should I be about this? As opposed to maybe this one's an alarmist, this one is more like ahh let me put this in…And the only way you're going to learn about that is from meeting with them again and again. And for VBAC that's so so important. Meagan: It is. It kind of reminds me of dating. It's weird. I had said this with my provider when I didn't switch. I was like, I feel like I'm breaking up with him. Like he's my second boyfriend, it's just weird. It's not really boyfriend but you know what I mean. But it is, we're dating them. And anyone, in my opinion, can come off really great for that first date because they're wanting to make that impression. They're wanting you to like them. But the more you get to know them, the more they may show their true colors. And you also may realize, I don't think I'm the right person for you. My desires aren't something that aligns with you and so I don't want to put you in this situation. And so if we date our providers, “date our providers,” a little bit more than just one time it really will help us know. And like you said, if something were to come up you could have that trusted person in your corner, which is so important for VBAC, that you can go to. Rachel: Totally. Yeah. So yeah, so pregnancy went well. And then right as I entered my third trimester it started to be COVID. Meagan: Mhmmm. The joys. Rachel: Nobody saw that coming. And then you know, things for the entire society obviously went completely off the rails. Obviously something like COVID is, we hope, not even once in a generation. Once in a hundred years experience. But given all the stuff that was up in the air, boy was I glad that there was one provider who I trusted. Who I could be like ok what do I do, what do I do. And I have to tell you that she and my daughter's pediatrician…I'm a professor. So I should say I'm in the classroom with young people who, you get sick a lot anyways. They're living in dorms, like they're not taking the best care of themselves. So COVID was circulating, and we live right outside New York City, COVID was circulating early here and I have a lot of colleagues that ended up getting it. And both my midwife and my child's pediatrician told me early you need to stop going in person, it's too dangerous for you. And I trust my daughter's pediatrician a lot, you know we have a nice relationship and I really trusted my midwife. Right? So I followed that advice and was really fortunate because boy. You know what you don't want while pregnant? COVID. And you know what you really didn't want? COVID in 2020 when you were pregnant and nobody knew anything, you know?Meagan: Right? Rachel: So, the blessing in disguise was that I was able to work from home. And it was super stressful because I had my daughter and my husband was here and you know, my husband is a photographer…I mean the funny thing is that I ended up, not my head but my body, being in these different photos he ended up taking and my belly was getting bigger and bigger and we kind of had to hide it. I'd be holding a book, or cleaning something. It was an absurd, crazy, isolating, scary, and also funny time. You know the blessing in disguise was that I wasn't on my feet as much and I think that that was really good for me as a pregnant person. There is also data that preterm birth went down during the lockdowns because people got to stay home and they don't necessarily get to do that leading up to birth, which tells us a lot about what we need and the rest we need and aren't getting. So anyway, at first everything went virtual and then when I started going in again for my appointments I had met the OB who works closely with my midwife. And we talked about what would happen if I went over 40 weeks. And he was like well, we're not going to automatically schedule a C-section, we would talk about potentially waiting or induction. And I really appreciated having that conversation with him because I understood where he was coming from and it wasn't again like we're going to schedule a C-section right now. So we know if you get to 40+3 and you haven't had the baby, bing bang boom. And that was very important information about his risk tolerance and his stance. Just like with my first birth I went into prodromal labor a few days before my due date. I had had a membrane sweep with my midwife. My in-laws came to stay with my daughter and we went to the hospital on a Saturday night. I didn't know this but my father-in-law told my husband I think she's getting ahead of her skis. And he was right in the end. So we get to the hospital and my contractions stop. And I'm like oh no. And my midwife was like, they put me on the monitor to get a strip which is like you know, what happens. Meagan: Normal.Rachel: And my midwife was like listen, your baby, he's not looking that good on the monitor. I want you to rest for a little bit and let's see. So I'll check back in with you in like half an hour. And I was so upset. I remember being like I can totally see where this is going to go and I had learned about VBAC in terms of like what could increase the chance of rupture or not and I was like I'm going to end up with another C-section and I'm going to be caught in the net. I didn't even have a shot, is what I felt. And then she came back half an hour later and she was like, “He looks great. I think he was just sleeping, and if you want to go home you can go home.”  And it was like 1 o'clock in the morning. And I was like, “I think we should go home.” I just felt like he's not ready. He's not ready to be born.  And remember, I trusted her so much. She would not tell me this if she thought that there was something…Meagan: If there was something wrong. Rachel: Exactly. She wasn't trying to be my friend. She was my provider. And so it felt really weird to leave and come home and not have a baby. And I thought was this the wrong thing to do, because I live like half an hour from the hospital, and was like no this is it.And then everything was quiet for a few days. And then just like my first labor, my daughter, I went into labor in the middle of the night and I had intense back labor, and I knew like this is the real deal, here we are. And this time I tried to rest. I did like cat/cow and just like anything, child's pose, just anything to feel more comfortable. And I called my midwife at 7 in the morning and she was like, “Okay, I want you to come in and be prepared to go into the hospital from this appointment.” So we did that and at that appointment, I had a headache, I had higher blood pressure, I was dilated to a 6, and she said to me, “Listen. Just so you know, they're not going to let you go home. You're going to the hospital, no matter what if your contractions stop or not whatever. This is what's happening because of how dilated you are, the fact that you have this headache, this BP readings, whatever.” And I was like that's completely reasonable, I felt that way too. You know what I mean? But I really appreciated she communicated that with me so clearly and explained why. So I planned initially to try to have an unmedicated, vaginal birth. My midwife and I had discussed these saline boluses you can have in your, by your, what's it called. Like the triangular bone in your back? I'm totally blanking. Meagan: Your sacrum?Rachel: The sacrum. Yeah, that that can alleviate some pain. And very quickly the pain was, I found it to be unbearable. And I asked for an epidural. And the anaesthesiologist came right away and did a very good job. And the nurses and the midwife who were at the hospital were using a peanut ball and helping me move and really supportive emotionally. And I was still really scared, right? Because I had had this terrible birth before, I thought something would happen to me. And nobody treated me like I was exaggerating or you know like, unreasonable. And that mattered a lot. And I think what's important is you shouldn't have to have gone through a bad birth for people then to take you at face value. With your first birth, it should be the standard for everybody. Meagan: Such a powerful saying right there. Rachel: And they were wonderful, truly, clinically and beside.Meagan: Good.Rachel: And then my midwife surprised me by showing up. She was not on call, she came in at like 9 o'clock, no she came in at like 5 o'clock, like once she'd seen her patients and I was just like oh my god,  so moved to see her. And you know, I was pretty far along at that point and she kind of helped me get into different positions and then it was like okay, it was time to push. And they had managed that epidural so I could feel when it was time to push, and I could feel how she and the nurse were telling me to like push here, right? Like use this, make this go. The pain was really intense but it wasn't suffering, like okay, I'm getting instruction. And as I was pushing I could feel that it wasn't going to work. I was like he's not, his head…I could just feel it. Apparently he was kind of coming and kind of going back up, like his head forward and back. And my midwife was like do I have permission from you to try and move his head? I think his head is not in the best position. And I said yes, and she tried to do it and she couldn't. Her fingers weren't strong enough and then she went to the OB and she told me this later.She said to him can you come and move his head? He'd been trained by midwives in the military, by the way, which is one reason his clinical skills are so amazing.Meagan: That's awesome. Okay.Rachel: Awesome. And at first he apparently was like, oh she's a VBAC, like I can't believe you're asking me to do this. And my midwife, again they trust each other right, and she was like the baby's doing great and the mom's doing great. I really think this is going to work. And he was like okay. So he came in, asked my permission, I said yes and he moved my son's head. My water had not broken again, right? So it's like the same thing as the first one. And once he got in position and I started pushing my water broke in an explosion all over my midwife. That's why they wear goggles, now I know. And she went and changed her clothes. I pushed for 45 minutes and then he came out.Meagan: Oh my gosh. Rachel: It was amazing and I felt so proud and I was completely depleted. I was so high and also so low. And I think what's amazing to me is that it was almost the same labor as my daughter, which just tells me that's how my body tends to do.Meagan: Your pelvis. And some babies need to enter posterior or even in a weird position to actually get down. So that can happen. Rachel: Thank you. And also my water didn't break until the very end so there was buoyancy to be moved, right? And again who knows what would have happened if I had been with this provider the first time. Like maybe these decels really meant that my daughter had to come out like then. That is possible. And that first team did not have the skills of the second team. None of this was even brought up, wasn't even a possibility. And I should say that first birth, I didn't even mention this. The OB that gave me that C-section, later told me that my daughter's head was kind of cocked when he took her out. Which suggests that it was just like my son. And how I'm grateful for my epidural. I'm grateful for, you know, all the things that technological kept me safe, but it was these skills of facilitating vaginal birth that made the difference for me to have that VBAC. Meagan: Absolutely. And the hardest thing for me is seeing that these skills are being lost. Rachel: Yes.Meagan: Or maybe it's not that they're being lost, they're being ignored. And I don't know which one it is. I really don't know because I see people using them. So I feel like it's got to be there. But then I go to other births and I'm like, wait what? You're not going to do anything to help her right here? Or you know, it probably could have been a vaginal birth if we had a provider come in and be like we have  a little asynclitic head, why don't we change into this position and let me see if I can just ever so slightly help this baby's head turn. It just isn't even offered. Rachel: Yes. Meagan: And that's something that I think needs to be added to questions for your provider. In the event that my baby is really low and coming vaginally, but is in a wonky position, what do you do to help my babys' position change to help me have a vaginal birth. And then even further what steps do you take past then if it doesn't work and my baby's so slow. Do we do assisted delivery? What do we do, let's have this conversation. So if it does come up, you're aware. Rachel: I love that. Meagan: I was going to say if your provider says, I don't know/I don't really help, then maybe that's not your right provider. Rachel: And I think what's so smart about that framing is that it's not putting the provider on the defensive of like, what's your training, right? Then it's like, what is your problem? But you're actually asking about their skills and you're asking about their approach, without coming from a place of seeming doubt. Just like, I'm just curious. Meagan: Yeah. Like what could I expect if this were to happen, especially if in the past. Say your C-section was failure to descend, mostly based off on position, we know that this is a big thing. But if your past cesarean was failure to descend, ask those questions to your provider. What steps can you take? What steps can we do together, you and I, to help this baby come out vaginally? Rachel: Totally. And I think also, that way, let's say the VBAC doesn't work out, you won't then be looking back over your shoulder and being like I should of/could of/why didn't I/if only. And you know, what do you want out of your birth experience? Well a lot, but part of it is a sense of peace. Right? That I did the best that I could. That my team did the best that they could.Meagan: Yes. Yeah and really interviewing your provider. Again, dating your provider and asking them the questions, learning more about them and what they do and their view. Taking out the yes and no questions and really trying to get to know this provider and letting them get to know you. I think it's just so impactful. I also, kind of like what you were saying with your first birth, also learning the other types of birth that could happen, you know learning about assisted birth. This is a new thing. Learning if assisted birth trumps a cesarean for you. Would you rather go for an assisted birth, even if it may end in cesarean, would you rather attempt that? Or would you just rather skip that and go right to the cesarean. Really educating yourself and trying not to push off the scary even though it can be scary. Rachel: Yes, yes. I love that you're saying this and I was just thinking about this and talking about this with a friend; there's stuff we hope doesn't happen. But not talking about it or thinking about it isn't going to protect us from it happening, it's just going to mean you're not prepared. Meagan: Yeah.Rachel: If it does happen. And yeah. Meagan: It's a disservice to ourselves. And it's weird. And it's hard to hear those stories. It's hard to hear the CBAC stories, it's hard to hear the uterine rupture stories that we do share on this podcast. Kind of what you're talking about the trigger warnings earlier, yeah it might be a trigger. It really might. But if we know all the signs of uterine rupture leading up to, we can be aware. And it's not something to hyperfocus on. We don't want it to be like oh my gosh I have this weird pain, right now, I don't know. It's not to make you scared, it really isn't. It's to just help you feel educated. Kind of what you were saying too. I don't know what a C-section looked like until I was in my own C-section. Rachel: Yeah. I've been talking about this recently with an anesthesiologist, some anti-anxiety medicine which you might get during a C-section, can cause memory loss. That's a side effect. So the time to decide…Let's say you're not planning on having a C-section. And then you're having a C-section and you're really anxious, really reasonable. The time to decide whether to take that anti-anxiety medicine which might cause memory loss; you should have an opportunity to reflect on that and talk about that  and think about that not only in the moment when you're scared and should I take it right now or not. Meagan: Yeah.Rachel: It's just like that's not a good way to make a decision, you know?Meagan: Yeah. And also learning about alternatives. Okay, these are the side effects of this medication, and I don't think I'm willing to accept that. So let's talk about other medications and those side effects so we can see if we can switch it up.  They have a whole bunch of things in their toolbox when it comes to medication. Rachel: Exactly. Meagan: For nausea. You know I had a medication and it affected my chest. It went all the way into my chest and I had to consciously focus on my chest moving. It was the weirdest feeling. Rachel: Terrifying, yeah. Meagan: I wish I would have known the alternatives to that. Right? So having these educated discussions, learning as much as you can. It's hard and it's scary and it's intimidating to not learn what you don't want. It's understandable, too.Rachel: Completely, completely. But that's informed consent, right? The risks, the benefits, the alternatives. And to go back to the anti-anxiety thing. You might be like okay, what could you do for me non-pharmacologically? Let's say I have a C-section and I'm feeling really anxious. Can I have a doula with me there who's giving me a massage? Can I have a doula there who's maybe put some lavender essence on a washcloth to hold to my nose. Can the anesthesiologist hold my hand and tell me it's going to be okay? And then you start actually opening up real options. Like wow I can have a doula with me?Meagan: Yes. That is something that I am very passionate about. We need to get doulas in the OR way more than we are. And I understand that it's like oh we don't have PPE, or oh it's an extra body, and oh it's a very big surgery, like I understand that. But I have been in the OR a good handful of times. And I understand my position in that room. I understand and respect my position in that room. And I always let an anesthesiologist know, if at any point something happens where I need to leave this room you just tell me. I will leave. No questions asked. But please let me be here with my client. Please let me stroke her hair. Please let me talk to her when dad goes over to baby so she's not alone. When you were put under general anesthesia to be there by your side, whether or not you were waking up in the OR. Because sometimes you could wake up sooner, or waking up in post-operative. Let's get these people here. Let's play music. Let's talk to them. Let's communicate the birth.I mean with my first C-section, they were complaining about the storm outside, they weren't even talking to me, right? And it would have impacted my birth in such a more positive light if I would have been talked to. And I wouldn't have felt like, what's going on. You know and all those things, you talked about it in your book. This drape that is separating us from our birth, it's just wild. So one of the questions we ask when you sign up to be on the podcast is topics of discussion that you would like to share, and one of those things is you said, why it's important to balance preparation for VBAC with an understanding of the systemic forces that promote C-sections. We're kind of talking about that, but do you have anything else to say on that? Rachel: I think that there is so much self-blame for having a C-section, when you wanted to have a vaginal birth. And go back to pain and suffering, that causes suffering. And it's heartbreaking to see that and to feel that. And when I think about it, I think what's important to keep in mind is like there are the particulars of your experience, right? Like your providers had the skills or didn't. They listened or they didn't. Your baby had decels or didn't. Like all that is real. And you're not the first or only person any of that is happening to. So why are we hooked up to electronic fetal monitoring, EFM, as soon as we walk into the hospital? Well that is because of how technology reigns supreme right now in every aspect of our society, but medicine too. And also that like it's an efficient system and medical birth, medicalized birth is all about efficiency and making as much money as possible frankly. Meagan: And there's even deeper history, we talk about that in our VBAC course, about why that was happening around cerebral palsy and what it actually did for cerebral palsy rates. All of these things. It's pretty fascinating when you get into it and understand one, why they do it and does it work? Does it make sense? They do it and just became practice and norm, but it did it actually impact the things that, okay how do I say this. Does it impact the things that they were originally creating it to impact? Rachel: Right. Totally. And it's actually the opposite; it was supposed to bring down the number of C-section rates, or the number of C-sections, when the number was like 4.5% in the early seventies and it's just gone in the opposite direction.There's so much evidence that you use it and it makes you more likely to have a C-section. And so yeah, okay, not your fault. That's the system. And I don't mean it in this way like, that's the system, give up, lay down, don't try to make your own feet, but also just to accept that that's what you're operating in and that's what your providers are operating in too. Right? Use it as a way to let go of the guilt and the shame and the, I messed up. My body messed up. Meagan: Yeah. Because there's so many of us that feel that. Rachel: Yes. Meagan: And it goes into the next topic they were saying that I think really can help us walk away with less of, I messed up. My body messed up. My baby failed me. You know whatever it may be. And doing effective research about the hospitals and their employment patterns and the chances of you even having a VBAC. That does kind of go into the balls in our court where we have to get the education and understand. But even when we do that, even when we don't have the best experience, in the end we're still going to look back at it as we did, WE did, the best we could. Right? And it takes less of that blame on us in a way because we know we did everything we could. Rachel: Yes.Meagan: And sometimes it just still happens. Even if you have the doula. Take the VBAC course. Read all the VBAC books, listen to all the podcasts, understand all the risks. Sometimes it still happens. Rachel: Totally. And I mean I think about in my case, like let's say my midwife hadn't come in for me and my OB hadn't been the one who had been attending that night, maybe I would have had a C-section. Because maybe the people there wouldn't have known how to effectively move my son's head. Even though I like did my best and that's okay. It has to be okay because you can't kind of change it. And again, not to be defeat-ist. But to find peace, just to find peace. Meagan: Yeah. I wish that for our VBAC community is finding peace and giving ourselves grace along our journeys. Because we've had 100's of podcast stories and there are so many of us who are still searching for peace. And still not offering ourselves grace, and putting that blame on us, or whatever, right? Everyone's so different and again, we talked about this earlier, it's just different. But I would love to see our community offering themselves more grace and finding more peace with their experiences along the way. And I don't exactly know what that healing looks like and how that peace is found. Do you have any suggestions on ways you have found peace with a very very very traumatic experience that not only led to trauma in that experience, but even in future procedures, in future experiences you know. Do you have any tips on just, guidance on finding peace? Rachel: I mean, I struggle with this still. And it sounds counterintuitive, but I think like not pushing away your feelings. And in the sense of not wallowing, but also not like struggling against them, trying to quiet them, make them be like ugh I hate this. Ugh I hate that I feel this way. Ugh if only I could get over it. So I'll say like, when I go to the doctor now, I get really scared especially if it's a new person and my blood pressure goes up and sometimes my heart rate goes up and it just sort of happens. And I hate it. And there are times when I'm like ugh I hate this part of me. I just hate it.But then when I'm kind of more accepting and it's like, this is how my body responds. It's understandable that this is how my body responds. And I take a Xanax actually. I say that to really take away the stigma I think that still exists around medical trauma and taking medication to manage your symptoms. I take a low dose Xanax before I go to see a provider and it helps me with my suffering. And also just like accepting. Because also there's this saying, if you struggle against the feelings of suffering, then you kind of suffer twice over. Right?Meagan: You do. Rachel: So I would say that, and then specifically for people who feel they had a traumatic experience, I've found EMDR treatment to be very effective, to deal with stuff in the body. That was pioneered more to deal with people who've been in like combat trauma, but it's very effective for traumatic birth. Tapping is another thing that can be very effective. And you can find that online, like there are different…Meagan: I was gonna say, you can go to YouTube and google trauma tapping or anything like that, and you can actually find some pretty great videos for free on how to do that. And it's pretty wild actually how well it works. Rachel: It really is. Meagan: Sometimes it's like wait, how is this working? It really does work. Rachel: Totally. And also I would say like in terms of again, peace, I think it's really important to speak openly about what has happened to you. And to the extent possible, we're conditioned to be like I'm just going to tie this up with a bow and it's okay. Someone says to you, you've expressed something hard, and they're like oh I'm so sorry and you're like it's okay, I'm going to be okay. Like you don't have to worry so much about reassuring your listener. You can be like yeah I had this C-section, and I'm still kind of upset about it. And yeah, that's how I feel. You don't have to self-qualify that. You know, but my baby is healthy. But I'm okay. But I love my baby. We do that; there's a lot of pressure to do that. And it's okay not to do that. It's okay to be like these are my feelings. And two things can be true at the same time. You can love your baby, and you can also be like I'm not that thrilled with the birth. Meagan: Awe yes. Julie and I have talked about that for years. They don't have to be separate. They can go together. You can love your baby and feel connected to your baby and really not like your birth experience. And you can also, we have found that people prep and then they have a vaginal birth and they're like I actually didn't really like that either. So you know, they don't have to just always be separate. You can be really happy and really be upset at the same time. It's okay to have those feelings, right? I have had things in my life where I've done something and I'm like dang. I really like how it turned out, but I hated the journey to getting there. And that's okay. So I love that you pointed that out. Rachel: Yes. or if you think about how you feel on your children's birthdays. So like I have very different feelings on my daughter's birthdays then my son's birthday. I had a good birth with my son. And it was good not because it was a VBAC, but because I was respected and I felt safe. That's what made that a good birth. Right? Just to be totally clear. I'm really glad I had a VBAC, I'm happy I got what

Crohn's disease is one of the two major inflammatory bowel diseases - but just because you get diagnosed with a disease doesn't mean you have to live in pain forever. In my 3rd most popular episode, you'll learn: - signs & symptoms of Crohn's disease - the difference between IBS and IBD - genetic and lifestyle factors that might predispose you to inflammation - how to lower inflammation and get yourself into remission from Crohn's ... and more! Show Notes: Coursework from the Master's in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine at the University of Western States Clinical trial: vitamin D3 treatment in Crohn's disease - a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study Vitamin D deficiency associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: a meta-analysis of 55 observational studies Antibiotic use and the development of Crohn's disease Vitamin D and Inflammatory Bowel Disease The relationship between urban environment and the inflammatory bowel diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis Oral contraceptives, reproductive factors and risk of inflammatory bowel disease Cesarean Section and the Risk of Pediatric Crohn's Disease Epidemiology and clinical course of Crohn's disease: Results from observational studies Appendectomy is followed by increased risk of Crohn's disease Diet and risk of inflammatory bowel disease You can learn more about me by following on IG or Tiktok @imperfectlypaigewellness or by checking out my blog, freebies, and offers on my website: https://imperfectlypaigewellness.com Please share with #PaigeTalksWellness to help get the word out about the show - and join the Imperfect Health Fam over on Facebook.

What happens when a professor discovers that her real strength lies in her journalism skills and academic experience?For Rachel Somerstein, it's a critically acclaimed book. Rachel is an associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz and author of "Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section." We sat down with her to talk all about her author journey.From platform building to time management challenges as a busy professor and parent and the dedication required to see a book through to completion, Rachel shares her struggles and tips for those navigating the writing and publishing of a book. She provides an inside look at the publishing process, like securing an agent through the CLMP conference's “speed dating” event and navigating deadlines and legal reads. Her insights are pure gold if you're about to embark on your own author journey.Resources: Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-somerstein-1aab2610/Connect with Rachel on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/rachelesomerstein/Connect with Rachel on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/rachesomerstein?lang=enCheck out Rachel's work here: https://www.rachelsomerstein.com/Join Bethany & Fran for their Read Like a Writer Book Club here: https://www.bookboundpodcast.com/clubProduced by Share Your Genius https://shareyourgenius.com/

Send us a Text Message.In dieser Folge besprechen wir die Arbeit von Yang et al. zum Einsatz von Dexmedetomidin plus Esketamin zur Schmerzreduktion während der Sectio Caesarea:Yang JR, Li YY, Ran TJ, et al. Esketamine Combined with Dexmedetomidine to reduce Visceral Pain During elective Cesarean Section Under Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia: A double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2024;18:2381-2392. Published 2024 Jun 18. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S460924Mit im Studio dabei: Dr. Eike Pfefferkorn, wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter der Klinik für Anästhesiologie

TRIGGER WARNING: Traumatic birth story, c-sections, health anxiety. In this episode, Melissa sits down with Rachel Somerstein, author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section, associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz, and writer for The Washington Post, Wired, and many other publications. Rachel shares the birth story of her first child, which she delivered via

Links: Visit babypeek.com/birthhour to request access to the revolutionary genetic test that unveils your baby's potential traits as early as 10 weeks gestation. Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 off) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Become a Birth Hour Patreon member for amazing perks!!

Welcome to the Limitless Health podcast, where we empower you to take control of your well-being and unlock your full potential. In today's episode, we have a special guest, the inspiring Tina Bajac, founder of Mommy's and Tummies Fitness. Tina discusses the importance of pelvic floor health for women, especially during and after pregnancy, shedding light on the common issue of diastasis recti. She emphasizes the connection between pelvic floor strength, overall balance, and physical resilience. Tina's passion for guiding women through their fitness journey shines through her insights on exercise during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the need for proactive women's health education. Together, with hosts Amanda Golightly and Kate McDowell, they explore the transformative impact of personalized fitness training and the holistic approach to women's wellness. Join us as we delve into Tina's invaluable advice, her dedication to helping women achieve optimal health, and the undeniable importance of strong support systems. Tune in, and let's embark on this empowering journey together.Guest bioTina Bajac's passion for fitness and helping others began in 2007 when she stumbled upon personal training. She soon discovered a common trend among the women she worked with—abdominal insecurities, especially in those who had children. Determined to provide proper guidance, she delved into prenatal and postnatal fitness research and obtained a certification in this specialized field. Today, Tina is dedicated to educating women on proper workout techniques and nutrition, particularly during and after pregnancy, to help them feel confident and strong in their bodies.Timestamp00:00 Passionate about teaching fitness, especially for women.03:52 Teaches healthy living and budget-friendly meal planning.09:33 Test pelvic floor strength by lifting shoulders.11:01 Women 50+ focus on pelvic floor for pain.15:27 Move your body, don't wait for permission.20:16 Exercise preparing for labor, building strength endurance.23:14 Challenging aging norms, embracing women's health.26:17 Connection, support, movement, and exercise for all.28:02 Grateful for your support and valuable message.Resources:Connect with Tina Bajac at Mommies and Tummies FitnessFacebook: Mommies and Tummies FitnessInstagram: Mommies and Tummies FitnessEmail: tina@mommiesandtummies.caPhone: 519.572.5945Website: www.mommiesandtummies.caContact Kate & Amanda at Aligned Natural HealthBook a FREE discovery call HEREwebsite - https://www.alignednaturalhealth.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alignednaturalhealth/*** This podcast is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein, we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.  

You asked - we answered all of your burning questions about Cesarean Sections! Our discussion includes optimal time between pregnancies after a C-section, factors affecting type of wound closure post-C-section, and reasons why some people might choose an elective C-section even when not medically necessary.  Consider downloading our Birth Preferences Guide or signing up for our free Birth Preferences Mini Course! For a deeper dive into all things pregnancy, birth & labor, postpartum and those first few weeks with your newborn, consider signing-up for our Pregnancy to Parenthood Masterclass, which includes 5 modules, bonus materials with subject matter experts, inside looks into birthing spaces, and so much more!  And for bonus credit, here are the several other super informative episodes and guides we reference in relation to C-Sections! To TOLAC or not to TOLAC… That is the question!!! Twin Pregnancies! Double the fun and double the trouble! C-Section Scar Recovery with Janette Yee Top 5 Reasons for Cesarean Birth Silicone Scar Sheets Download our FREE Perineal Massage Guide!  

Show Notes for Episode 79: Still Looking Pregnant? 10 Things Your Doctor Didn't Tell You About Your Postpartum Belly Hey there, beautiful mamas! Welcome back to the podcast. Today, we're diving into a topic that many of us find ourselves puzzled over after giving birth - why does it look like I'm still pregnant, and why didn't anyone warn me about this? The Great Transition: Pregnancy does a number on our bodies. Hips widen, rib cages shift, organs play musical chairs, and the baby arrives. But contrary to what some of us might hope, our bellies don't just "deflate" overnight. A lot is going on under the surface that keeps that postpartum belly around longer than expected. Personal Insight: I was that mom who stayed active during pregnancy. Walks, core training, weights - you name it. But even with all that effort, my belly didn't bounce back immediately after birth. And that's perfectly okay. I am addressing why in this episode of New Mom Naturopath!! We'll explore these points in depth, backed by recent studies and a bit of motherly wisdom, to give you a comprehensive understanding of what's happening to your postpartum body and why it's all part of the incredible process of bringing life into the world. Remember, mamas, everybody is unique, and the journey to “recovery” or “normalcy” post-birth is not a race. It's a deeply personal journey that deserves compassion and understanding, both from the world and ourselves. Ready to dive deeper and embrace your body's journey? Press play, and let's get into it together. You're not alone on this journey, mama.   References: Fukano M, Tsukahara Y, Takei S, Nose-Ogura S, Fujii T, Torii S. Recovery of Abdominal Muscle Thickness and Contractile Function in Women after Childbirth. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021. Fan C, Guidolin D, Ragazzo S, Fede C, Pirri C, Gaudreault N, Porzionato A, Macchi V, De Caro R, Stecco C. Effects of Cesarean Section and Vaginal Delivery on Abdominal Muscles and Fasciae. Medicina (Kaunas). 2020.

In this episode Aly shares both of her cesarean birth stories! ____________________ If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and share with your mama friends! wanna be on the podcast? https://www.whatthebumpclt.com/podcast connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthebumpclt our website / blog: www.whatthebumpclt.com find aly at http://restfulbaby.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/what-the-bump/support

On this solo episode, Kayleigh is discussing all things c-section. She shares a few different studies highlighting the data on c-sections and PTSD, as well as how they compare to other modes of delivery. Kayleigh also touches on TOLACs and planned cesarean sections after birth trauma. In this episode:- Types of C-Sections- C-Section and birth trauma- Communication and Support as mitigating factors- Delivery decisions after birth trauma (TOLAC v. planned c-section)- C-Sections under general anesthesiaStudies Discussed:Garthus-Niegel S, von Soest T, Knoph C, Simonsen TB, Torgersen L, Eberhard-Gran M. The influence of women's preferences and actual mode of delivery on post-traumatic stress symptoms following childbirth: a population-based, longitudinal study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2014 Jun 5;14:191. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-191. PMID: 24898436; PMCID: PMC4053555.Orovou E, Iliadou M, Chatzopoulou MT, Dagla M, Eskitzis P, Rigas N, Antoniou E. The Relation between Birth with Cesarean Section and Posttraumatic Stress in Postpartum Women. Maedica (Bucur). 2023 Dec;18(4):615-622. doi: 10.26574/maedica.2023.18.4.615. PMID: 38348064; PMCID: PMC10859197.Rowlands IJ, Redshaw M. Mode of birth and women's psychological and physical wellbeing in the postnatal period. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2012 Nov 28;12:138. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-12-138. PMID: 23190575; PMCID: PMC3533875.For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @birthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Ep 74 (ibit.ly/Re5V) Sara Bayes on empowering preparation for cesarean sections and translating research into practice@PhDMidwives  #MidTwitter  @EdithCowanUni @MidwivesACM @CurtinUniresearch ibit.ly/zlXGhWhen Sara Bays, a seasoned midwife and Professor at Edith Cowan University, stumbled upon "Spiritual Midwifery" during her backpacking travels, her life took an unexpected turn. From a nursing career in palliative care to the birth rooms of midwifery, Sara's story is a testament to the profound moments that shape our journeys. This episode is a deep dive into the world of midwifery through Sara's eyes, exploring the emotional and professional highs and lows, and the innovative strategies that are reshaping how we think about birth.Our conversation with Sara reveals the untold stories of cesarean sections and the groundbreaking work being done to bring expectant mothers closer to the birthing experience. Her research not only highlights the challenges women face during planned cesareans, but also showcases interventions that are redefining the role of surgical patients in the birth process. From specialized classes to the removal of the surgical drape, Sara's insights offer a new perspective on how to empower women during one of life's most significant events.As we cast a lens on the future of midwifery in Australia, Sara paints a picture of an evolving landscape, where the role of midwifery unit chairs becomes indispensable in bridging the gap between academia and clinical practice. The emergence of these pivotal roles promises to bolster the profession, advancing both healthcare outcomes and the growth of midwives themselves.  Support the showDo you know someone who should tell their story?email me - thruthepodcast@gmail.comThe aim is for this to be a fortnightly podcast with extra episodes thrown inThis podcast can be found on various socials as @thruthepinardd and our website -https://thruthepinardpodcast.buzzsprout.com/ or ibit.ly/Re5V

Breaking down the most common birth interventions- Foley Bulb, C-sections, Cervidil, Breaking your waters, Epidural, Pitocin and MORE!We're talking about EACH ONE's purpose, pros and cons, and how each is administered. Get out your birth plan or note pad, because you'll want to take notes!Today's episode Amy from the Somatic Mother walks us through labor and delivery 101.Today's episode is going to cover these interventions:- Cervical checks pros and cons- IV's and monitoring pros and cons- Cervidil  pros and cons- Cytotec pros and cons- Foley Bulb pros and cons- Pitocin pros and cons- Artificial Rupture of membranes / breaking your water pros and cons- Assisted Delivery pros and cons- Episiotomy pros and cons- Epidural pros and cons- Cesarean Section pros and cons-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------IMPORTANT LINKS:- Sign up for the Learning To Mom Newsletter HERE:https://mailchi.mp/2dca1ad2573f/learning-to-mom-newsletter-opt-in- Shop HERE for the BEST Montessori toys and furniture at mylittlesongbird.com                  Connect with them on Instagram Here                   Use LEARNINGTOMOM15 at checkout for 15 percent off!!! - Shop HERE for the Flipping Holder at flippingholder.com                  Connect with them on Instagram Here                   Use LEARNINGTOMOM at checkout for 20% off and free shipping!!- Connect with ME on Instagram HERE or at @learningtomom.podcastHow to connect with Amy:- Her website Linked HERE-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------what interventions are safe in labor, should they break my waters, what to include on my birth plan, how to be informed about pregnancy and birth, Pregnancy symptoms, First trimester tips, Prenatal vitamins, Pregnancy diet, Safe exercises during pregnancy, Maternity clothes, ultrasound information, Pregnancy apps, Birth plans, Baby registry essentials, Morning sickness remedies, Prenatal yoga, Gestational diabetes, Baby development stages, Pregnancy books, Labor signs, Breastfeeding tips, Postpartum care, Childbirth classes, Maternity leave rights, Pregnancy health insurance, Fetal movement, Pregnancy support groups, Safe skincare during pregnancy, Pregnancy podcasts, Nursery decorating ideas, OBGYN recommendations, is pitocin safe in labor, are cervical checks safe in labor, all the medical interventions of a hospital birth

They say whenever you start looking for the path, the path arrives, eventually.Mubina's homebirth story after four cesareans is a testament to the immense power of the body.  Mubina was unaware but looking for answers right after the first cesarean but like they say babies come the way they are supposed to we have no control on life. However, we all find the power eventually , Mubina found it in her home birth.Part I is about the events that led to the decision of homebirth and leaves you at the onset of labor. Part II which will release next week brings you the description of labor , birth and postbirth events.About the guest: Mubina Ahmed is a homeschooling mother of four lovely children, a childbirth Educator and doula from KuwaitFind ongoing classes : https://www.birthagni.com/eventsVote for the podcast for HTSmartcast: https://events.htmedia.in/podmastersCategory: Health and WellbeingPodcast Name: Birth AgniSupport the showPrepare for Birth, explore Prenatal and Postnatal Preparation Classes, visit www.birthagni.comSupport the show: If you like what you hear, leave us a rating on Spotify app and answer the question at each episode! a review on Apple podcasts. Share on Whatsapp/Insta/FB Share on Insta and tag us @divyakapoorvox Support the production by making a donation at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/birthagni. This ensures the continuity and quality and a good coffee on sleepless recording nights! Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at https://www.birthagni.com/#subscribe and receive DISCOUNTS, SALE updates and GIFTCARDS on our premium 'Own your Birth' program You can book a 20 min FREE Discovery call at https://www.birthagni.com/bookfreesession ...

Join me as I talk with Kay Kay Lineweaver, a Functional Nutritionist. Kay Kay experienced many challenges with her two births. One planned Birth Center birth that turned into an unexpected breech and a forced Cesarean Section, and a second birth that left Kay Kay fighting for her rights to have a VBAC with an unusual scar and seeking a provider to support her. Kay Kay's story is full of up's and downs, but amazing VICTORY in the end! You can find KayKay and her amazing services at: https://www.facebook.com/GreenBriarNutritionandWellness/ https://www.instagram.com/greenbriarnutritionandwellness/ https://www.greenbriarnutritionandwellness.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healingtraumamamas/support

Crohn's disease is one of the two major inflammatory bowel diseases - but just because you get diagnosed with a disease doesn't mean you have to live in pain forever. In this episode, you'll learn: - signs & symptoms of Crohn's disease - the difference between IBS and IBD - genetic and lifestyle factors that might predispose you to inflammation - how to lower inflammation and get yourself into remission from Crohn's ... and more! Show Notes: Coursework from the Master's in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine at the University of Western States Clinical trial: vitamin D3 treatment in Crohn's disease - a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study Vitamin D deficiency associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: a meta-analysis of 55 observational studies Antibiotic use and the development of Crohn's disease Vitamin D and Inflammatory Bowel Disease The relationship between urban environment and the inflammatory bowel diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis Oral contraceptives, reproductive factors and risk of inflammatory bowel disease Cesarean Section and the Risk of Pediatric Crohn's Disease Epidemiology and clinical course of Crohn's disease: Results from observational studies Appendectomy is followed by increased risk of Crohn's disease Diet and risk of inflammatory bowel disease You can learn more about me by following on IG or Tiktok @imperfectlypaigewellness or by checking out my blog, freebies, and offers on my website: https://imperfectlypaigewellness.com Please share with #PaigeTalksWellness to help get the word out about the show - and join the Imperfect Health Fam over on Facebook.

We are often told by our doctors why we need a cesarean and how routine they are. But there are a lot of reasons to be wary. Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss what you should know to help make that informed decision and then break down a popular YouTube podcast.Prepare to be enlightened as they unravel the intricate truth of cesarean sections – the most common surgical procedure in the US, and yet, one fraught with overlooked risks and consequences. Unleash your curiosity as we dissect the power of informed consent, the seriousness of risks linked to cesarean sections, and the importance of effective communication in the doctor-patient relationship. The conversation takes a deeper turn as Dr. Stu and Blyss disclose alarming insights about the potential risks of not having a vaginal delivery. The factors discussed range from the baby missing out on exposure to natural bacteria that aids immunity, to an increased likelihood of allergy, asthma, autism, and ADHD. Our exploration of the Amish population, their low rates of chronic disease and autism, and their preference for vaginal deliveries will definitely make you rethink conventional childbirth procedures.Wrapping up, they bring to light the grim reality associated with cesarean sections - the five times higher maternal mortality rate and the increased risk of abnormal placentation. Brace yourselves as we challenge the status quo and question the influence of litigation and politics on medical practices. By the end of the episode, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding childbirth and the potential downsides of cesarean sections. Listen in as Dr. Stu and Blyss transform your perspective on childbirth and equip you with knowledge to prepare you to be your own advocate to get the birth you want. Key highlights:How Covid lockdowns failed usAction bias and why doctors feel they have to intervene Most people don't know their birth story, so does your birth story matter? Effects of c-section on the babyExploring the downsides of cesarean SectionsRisks and procedures of cesarean sectionConsequences of cesarean section delivery for both mother and babyEpisode resources:@katythedoula on InstagramYouTube video: Change in birth plan, considering a C-section & revealing our secretYouTube video: Mom Postnatals - You Are AmazingThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderNeeded | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com Call-in line: 805-399-0439

This week on The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast, we're talking about a twin birth story. But it's not just any old twin birth story - it's about MoMo twins! MoMo twins are the rarest type of twins out there - occurring in less than 1% of twins, and .1% of all pregnancies. Most people don't realize that when it comes to twins, it's not just fraternal versus identical. There are actually quite a few types! Molli joins me on the podcast to share her story of pregnancy and birth with MoMo twins. Molli did a fabulous job of telling her story and shedding light on the medical, emotional, and physical aspects of a MoMo twin pregnancy and birth. Want to feel in control before birth?  Use our FREE Birth Plan Templates to take the first step towards the birth experience you desire. Have an even better birth! CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth classes that will help you feel prepared and in control - no matter how you deliver. And be sure to follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over half a million for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum! Sponsor Simply Magnetic Me Simply Magnetic Me offers GOTS certified 100% organic cotton essentials like footies, coveralls and bodysuits—all featuring safety-tested magnetic closures. No fumbling with tiny snaps or buttons during those middle of the night diaper changes. You can get baby dressed quickly so everyone can get back to sleep! You may have heard of Magnetic Me. Simply is their new sister brand that offers the same beloved magnetic closures at a more affordable price. You can create a custom bundle on their website, combining the prints, styles, and sizes you want, with outfits as low as $15. The more outfits in your cart, the more you save. And trust me, babies need a lot of outfits. Say no to snaps and head to simplymagneticme.com to stock up on no-fuss essentials and use code MLN20 for 20% off your order.

Liz, a doula and pharmacist from Saskatoon, SK joins me on this episode of Moony Birth Stories to share the pregnancy and birth story of her daughter Marjorie.  Liz and her partner, Pete, were able to conceive with no complications after a few months of trying and while she'd hoped for a home birth, Liz explains the factors that ended up leading her in a different direction.  She opens up about her struggles with a labour experience that felt out of her control and not supported by her medical team in the ways she should've been.  She talks about her path to processing and healing after birth trauma as well as her struggles with postpartum anxiety.Support the show

This week on Parent Tell, Kaila talks with fellow podcaster Daisy Davis-Marcelo about her experience with C-Section recovery. Daisy has been through 3 Cesarean Sections, each of their labor journeys vastly different from one another. Daisy shares with Kaila the painful (unfortunately, pun intended) realities of physically and mentally recovering from a C-Section and the two moms openly discuss how hard giving birth is, why conversations like these are still a must, and the importance of taking care of yourself amidst going through matrescence. You can check out Daisy's podcast, The C-Spot, here and follow/support on IG hereFollow Parent Tell on InstagramSupport Parent Tell on PatreonSend Kaila an email with your parenting story at parenttellpod@gmail.com

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Rebecca Seagraves, DPT, who is revolutionizing the way occupational and physical therapists serve clients in the hospital. Dr. Seagraves focuses on training acute care therapists to support individuals undergoing birth and pelvic surgery within 24 to 48 hours. The importance of this work becomes evident when considering that cesarean sections are the most common surgery in the United States, outnumbering knee replacements.Dr. Seagraves emphasizes the need for equitable care and highlights the alarming rates of maternal deaths in the country, particularly among black women. By expanding the role of therapists in the hospital setting, Dr. Seagraves aims to make a life-saving impact during the critical first few days after surgery. She has already trained therapists in over 60 hospitals and continues to create job opportunities for acute care therapists. The podcast concludes with a discussion on the potential for greater impact by addressing the needs of patients earlier in their healthcare journey. A message from Dr. Rebeca Segraves, DPT:"After undergoing several major surgeries to correct the length of my leg, I have a deep appreciation for the mental, physical, and financial impact that's associated with recovery. I recognize that our current medical, educational, and business models simply do not include the time and resources needed to prioritize wellness and maximize success.I am dedicated to enhancing women's health and financial literacy throughout the lifetime and enabling those I teach to do the same.We deserve to perform at our best. Our autonomy is a priority." Connect with her:Twitter | @pelvicnetwork  @rebecasegravesInstagram | @rebecasegraves_  @pelvichealthnetworkWebsite | Pelvic Health NetworkProgram | Enhance Recovery After Delivery

On this week's episode of Parent Tell, Kaila talks with Kelly, a mom who has had 3 children and 3 Cesareans. Kelly shares her raw and honest thoughts on what it was like to have multiple C-Sections, from the anxiety she felt the night before, to what recovery is like when a toddler wants to bounce on your incision site, and what she has come to think about her scar and postpartum body. The moms also discuss  various vital parenting truths, like how sometimes it's just necessary to put your kid in the football hold in order to leave the park, and that high-waisted pants are LIFE. Follow Parent Tell on InstagramSupport Parent Tell on PatreonSend Kaila an email with your parenting story at parenttellpod@gmail.com

Dimitri wonders what giving birth was like, and Linh tries her best to explain it… slowly… Check out Linh's app, Not Phở, a cook that introduces the user to Vietnamese cuisine, especially dishes other than Phở. It runs on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It also have an iMessage sticker pack so that you can share with all your friends and family. App Store: https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1525104124?pt=14724&ct=Podcast&mt=8 Website: https://notpho.app Follow us on Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@LinhAndDimiChan Follow Dimitri on Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@dimitribouniol Follow Linh on Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@linhbouniol Follow Linh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linhbouniol

Listen to our newest podcast with Dr. Jamie Kroft, the author of "Surgical Outcomes Between Routes of Hysterectomy in Patients with a Previous Cesarean Section," where she shares her findings for different modes of hysterectomy from her Canadian database!

One of the most critical areas of nursing care is labor and delivery, an area where timely decisions and action can mean the difference between life and death. Karen Harmon, a labor and delivery expert, shares her experience both as an obstetric nurse and an LNC who reviews labor and delivery cases. Karen explains, as someone who has worked in hospitals with different qualities of obstetrical care, that a rural hospital setting may not provide as speedy a mobilization as a large urban one. However, the guidelines are the same for all obstetrical units. The failure to observe them has caused many medical malpractice suits, which, when successfully pursued, yield large payouts. Some hospitals allow nurses greater initiative to make emergency decisions to order a C section. This flexibility has saved many maternal and infant lives. A key practice to prevent infant and maternal mortality is fetal monitoring, a procedure that has evolved greatly over the years. Several lawsuits are based on the failure to correctly follow this procedure and to recognize when trouble looms. Karen provides the LNC reviewing a case several important questions to ask about the case. These alone make the podcast worth a listen or a read. You will want this podcast in your toolbox Join me in this episode of Legal Nurse Podcast to learn about an Emergency Cesarean Section - Done Quickly Enough? Karen Harmon What causes delayed deliveries? What is the 30-minute rule? What do different levels assigned to hospitals mean? What does “hospital culture” mean for obstetrical nurses? How does improper fetal monitoring affect delivery? Listen to our podcasts or watch them using our app, Expert.edu, available at legalnursebusiness.com/expertedu. https://youtu.be/mYsc2oyZwY8 Join us for our 7th Virtual Conference! LNC Success is a Livecast Virtual Conference 3-day event designed for legal nurse consultants just like you! Pat Iyer and Barbara Levin put together THE first Legal Nurse Consulting Virtual Conference in July 2020. They are back with their 7th all-new conference based on what attendees said they'd find most valuable. This new implementation and networking event is designed for LNCs at any stage in their career. Build your expertise, attract higher-paying attorney clients, and take your business to the next level. After the LNC Success Virtual Conference, you will leave with clarity, confidence, and an effective step-by-step action plan that you can immediately implement in your business. Your Presenter of Emergency Cesarean Section - Done Quickly Enough? Karen Harmon Karen Harmon is an LNC with 28 years of experience in labor and delivery. Karen can be contacted at karenharmonmedlegal@yahoo.com

About one in three births are delivered by Cesarean Section, though this varies by province, country, and even community. About half of those are planned, also called “elective,” while the other half are emergency, or unplanned. Keep in mind that the term “emergency cesarean” is used to mean that delivery via cesarean section was not a birth preference, but does not always mean a true medical emergency which has to be performed as quickly as humanly possible. Join Drs. Sarah and Alicia as they share with us the top reasons Cesarean Sections are performed, both elective and unplanned. For additional info, check out our episode on  What is Placenta Previa? Taking you from anxious and overwhelmed to confident during your childbirth experience: Pregnancy to Parenthood Online Prenatal Masterclass 

This is a show that shares true experiences of getting pregnant being pregnant and giving birth to help shift the common cultural narrative away from the glossy depictions of this enormous transition you can find on social media, and other media more broadly, to a more realistic one.  It also celebrates the incredible resilience and strength it takes to create another person and deliver them into the world. I'm your host, Paulette Kamenecka. I'm a writer and an economist and the mother of two girls.In this episode Aliza shares ways to manage contractions...she also talks about some important strategies to help you get a birth closer to the one you want; everyone who has been through birth knows that it's really the baby who is driving the process, but there are things you can do to potentially impact your experience, and Aliza talks about some of them here, as well as other doula secrets.For extended show notes, see: https://warstoriesfromthewomb.com

The light after loss.  In this episode, Jenna continues her journey with us by sharing about her Rainbow baby and pregnany after loss. Jenna has an unplanned cesarean and she walks us through what that looks like ending in an OR when you planned a vaginal birth.  If you are open to hearing Jenna's loss stories including a stillbirth, scroll back to episode 155 that was released on Tuesday.  XOXO- Heidi PS. I would love for you to choose Birth Story Academy for your online childbirth education with me. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF!

Famously in Shakespeare's play, Macbeth, the title character becomes convinced he cannot be killed because the witches tell him he cannot be killed a man “of a woman born.” It is only when it is too late that Macbeth learns his nemesis, Macduff, was “from his mother's womb untimely ripped”, in reference to a cesarean surgery, that Macbeth learns of his ultimate fate. Shakespeare's inclusion of cesarean section in his play comes at a time when medical science and religious doctrine were questioning the viability of this procedure in a heated public debate. In 1581, French surgeon Francois Roussett published “The Hysterotomotokie or Caesarian Birth” which argued women should have cesarean as a viable option for birth during difficult deliveries. His publication caused quite a stir in medical society, with surgeons across Europe speaking out publicly to condemn the very suggestion. The heated conversation traveled all the way to England where a man contemporary to William Shakespeare, named Simon Forman, would write about cesarean sections in his publication “Matrix and the Pain Thereof.” True to form, it seems William Shakespeare's play, Macbeth, was full of poignant and extremely timely cultural references to a huge political debate that was happening right when the play was written. Here today to help us understand the history of cesarean sections during Shakespeare's lifetime and exactly how controversial it might have been to include cesarean sections in his play, is our guest, professor of the history of medicine and author of “Women, Health, and Healing in Early Modern Europe”, Mary Fissel.

Jenn, from Saskatoon, SK shares her two pregnancy and birth stories on this episode of the podcast.  She opens up about her and her husband's struggles with infertility and their journey with IVF.  Once Jenn was pregnant with their first daughter, it was discovered later on that she had a very rare placenta issue and would require a scheduled c-section to ensure that labour would not start on it's own.  She also had gestational diabetes which she was able to manage with an appropriate diet.  After deliver, they were hit with some unexpected issues that required a difficult stay in NICU. Once they were able to take their baby home, postpartum went well and after about 10 months, they decided to start trying for their second baby, again with IVF.  Jenn got pregnant surprisingly quickly this time and was able to go on and have a successful VBAC delivery.Soraya -Be Convinced! Sharing Lifechanging Stories of HopeHost Soraya Coffelt shares lifechanging stories of hope to encourage and motivate you.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

On this week's return to the Weekly Show Proud and Ursi chat - what a surprise! Topcs include: Faceless Void, the PA persona, Marci, Proud's mastery of Slark, Falcon Blade, the longest-running worst hero reins, Riki, Hurricane Pike, Diffusal Blade, Ogre Magi, Shadow Fiend, and much more!

The most common abdominal surgery.. should it be a standardized best practice on how to perform or should the surgeon decide her/his own preferences?

We are facing what continues to be a global cesarean section crisis. The overuse of cesarean sections, especially in the United States, is not new, but it has continued to become more prevalent here and globally over the past 30 years. Joining me this week is obstetrician/gynecologist and world leader in women's reproductive rights, Marleen Temmerman, MD. Listen in as we talk about the dual problem of both the overuse and under-access of cesarean sections for women around the world, and the impact of both of these on women's health and safety. I know you'll be as moved and inspired as I am hearing Dr. Temmerman's story and important research findings.      Aviva and Marleen discuss:      The why's behind the overuse and increase of cesareans   Misconceptions about cesarean sections, natural births, and breeches    The importance and role of midwives and why every birthing person needs one    The various impacts and long-term effects of cesareans on babies   Tools available to reduce the number of cesarean sections   The ways women can advocate for themselves during childbirth and prevent unnecessary cesareans         Dr. Marleen Temmerman has served as a senator in the Belgian parliament, as the director of the World Health Organization's Department of Reproductive Health and Research, and as the founding director of Ghent University's International Centre of Reproductive Health. After retiring from the WHO, she moved to Kenya, where she is now with the Aga Khan University in Nairobi and is Director of their Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health. Most recently, she has played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the overuse and under-access of cesarean sections to the obstetrics world internationally as senior author of a series of focus articles published in The Lancet, one of the world's oldest and most respected medical journals. "    Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. 

 Today's show shares the conclusion of Nina's experience as a pregnant 40 year old, trained in psychiatric nursing. She experiences many challenges, some unexpected, and other's that are less surprising. She talks about navigating an unwanted C section and peripartum and postpartum depression.  

Today's show features a guest that can give us some perspective on the current climate around two important topics: abortion and postpartum depression. She's a psychiatric nurse practitioner, who experienced an abortion in the 1970s and peripartum and postpartum depression in the 1990s. She's written about her experience. In a piece, titled “No Stranger”. Here are some excerpts from her writing. First, she writes:“How do you know?” the patient might ask. I lean forward a bit in myoffice chair, a magic mix of science and empathy, or so I would like tothink. The woman sitting across from me may be dabbing at her eyeswith her fingers. If her nails are chewed to bloody shreds, I will fold myown more tightly in my lap.“I've been a nurse practitioner for a long time,” I will say. “Morewomen than you think go through this. It's hormonal…”And a little later in the piece she writes:Early on I figured that postpartum depression wasa risk for me, but expected I could balance my emotional happiness andstability against my physiological tendency towards clinical depression,if I was ever so lucky as to get pregnant. And besides, I was aprofessional. With training and resources.So here's the thing with training and resources: Depression robsyou of the clarity to use any of those skills or supports.Let's get to her storyFor extended show notes, see: https://warstoriesfromthewomb.com/

In this episode, Kendra Mitchell walks us through her experience with birth and she tells us about how elective cesarean sections can be beneficial. She was diagnosed with Arnold Chiari malformation after her first baby, which is a hemorrhage of the brain stem into the spinal cavity. So, straining to push a baby can be dangerous. Kendra's first two births were at home with a midwife, but she knew that women with Chiari don't usually have natural births. After moving away from their hometown, there weren't a lot of options for having a natural birth. So for the birth of her youngest, she had to give birth in a hospital. Listen to the rest of her story on our podcast! Available on all major podcast stations. Just search for the 'Birth Boot Camp Podcast' on your favorite app, and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss out on the latest information from the Birth Boot Camp headquarters team!   Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!  

Janette is an Athletic Therapist and Registered Massage Therapist that has renamed herself a perinatal therapist because she focuses her practice on the most intense sport in the world…pregnancy. Janette knows how to get an athlete back on the field and she realized that there isn't the same care and rehabilitation for the most gruelling sport with a 100% guarantee of injury at the end. Pregnancy, labour, and delivery, affect a persons body immensely and it is even more intense when it ends in major surgery- a cesarean section. So what do we need to do? Step one…as Janette! Listen to someone who talks real about pregnancy, labour, delivery, and post-partum care and is doing some amazing work to ensure these athletes get back to their optimum function. 2rmtsandamic.com conedinstitute.com massagetherapymedia.com

Dr MaryJoy Time Stamps 0:33 what to expect from a patient's POV with a C-Section 9:54 Prep for surgery 12:08 Clear drapes 14:45 Baby out 15:17 Cut the cord 16:35 Repair mother 17:21 Mother in Recovery 18:39 Addressing complications 18:52 Mother goes to room 19:58 Long-Term Risks 22:00 Scar Tissue 23:33 Bladder Issues associated with C-Sections 24:05 Bowel issues associated with C-Sections 24:40 Placental Attachment 27:19 Cesarean Hysterectomy 28:51 Radiology Intervention option before Cesarean Hysterectomy Summary: During this episode of Cocoa Pods, Dr. MaryJoy gives the audience and to-be mothers the straightforward truth about all the details of what to expect when delivering a baby in the hospital via Cesarean Section. She walks through the meticulous and redundant questions that are asked for the safety and consent of the patient. She gives insight on the roles of all those who attend the birth, and exposes the necessity of trust in working as a team all for the purpose of the health of mother and baby. Dr. MaryJoy reveals the indications of when C-sections are needed and discloses the risks of one or multiple C-sections. Ultimately, the conversation closes with the acknowledgement of what situations call for Cesarean Hysterectomies and one other advanced measure that can be taken to preserve the life of the mother when bleeding becomes an issue. #CSection #Surgery #POV #Family #Baby #Birth #CesareanSection #BikiniCut

Kayla shares her story on this episode of the podcast.  The story begins with her and her husband Jordan conceiving after about 5 months of trying.  The pregnancy went generally well but she struggled with nausea and vomiting and ended up being diagnosed with Gestational Hypertension early on in the pregnancy.  Although some care providers had talked about induction very early on, she was able to avoid it until the very end of her pregnancy.  They did end up inducing Kayla around her due date and she goes into detail about the lengthy process which ultimately ended in a c-section and her needing to be fully put under general anesthesia.  She then shares the next intense part of the story involving her son having breathing issues and needing to be flown to a NICU in another city with her husband while she had to stay behind.  & HappinessJoin & Happiness on our quest to explore the bold question "what makes us happy?" Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Consciously CluelessWant to change the world? Start with you. Sustainability | Mindfulness | Wellness | VeganListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Cesarean Section, Childhood Trauma & Accidents, Surgery, Stroke Recovery, Genetic Disorders. Whoa! That's a lot. Chelsea & Nate discuss their experiences with chronic pain and how they treat/live with it. Sobriety introduces a different spin on treating pain and they address this as well as a naturalistic approach to the “idea” of pain and body memory. This is all delivered with Chelsea & Nate's classic banter and a lighthearted approach to a serious topic. Join Chelsea and Nate for a candid and hilarious take on life- nothing is off limits. They tackle everything from their sobriety, the queer spectrum, where do we go in “dreamland” and so much more! Get to know Chelsea & Nate as they get to know each other! You know Chelsea Rose Fitzy from her hilarious Tiktok account with over 150k followers, portraying all of our favorite characters from the restaurant business and as the founder of The Lobster Clam Lighthouse Shanty Sea Shack. Nate is a podcast host and producer and has created and produced The Sobriety Diaries and The Influence: A Social Media Podcast. Together they bring a raw and uncensored look at their own lives, the world around them, and of course, their Unqualified Opinions. Subscribe now so you don't miss a beat! New episodes every Friday! IG @unqualifiedopinionsofficial unqualifiedopinionsofficial@gmail.com Leave us a voice message here: https://anchor.fm/nate-kelly9/message Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unqualified-opinions-with-chelsea-nate/id1622978816 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7dTGzFJ3Wt9H3EOTbGTawy Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy85NWVjNjA5MC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjw3taatvP3AhWVmGoFHVptCaUQ9sEGegQIARAC Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3922a05e-cb41-43d7-ac87-1e1a63d81fb2/unqualified-opinions-with-chelsea-nate iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-unqualified-opinions-with-96607841/ Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Unqualified-Opinions-with-Chelsea-Nate-Podcast/B09ZRBQ2L9?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp&shareTest=TestShare --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/nate-kelly9/support

Dr. Bender explains the complex answer to a common patient question: what is your rate of cesarean delivery? Learn more about why cesarean delivery rates are higher than in the past, the importance of choosing an obstetrician you trust, and more.

Dr. Lori Atkins of FĒNOM on Cesarean Sections. Good morning. I’m Lori Atkins with FĒNOM Women’s Care. Cesarean delivery is probably the most common surgery done in the United States, and it’s also pretty feared by a lot of women when they’re pregnant. April happens to be Cesarean awareness month. So with that in mind, I thought I would just talk with you about it both generally and specifically. In the end, I really look forward to any questions that you might have.

Join hosts Dr. Mikaela Rush, an OBGyn, and Dr. Anne Sharkey, a Podiatrist, for an episode detailing the history of the Cesarean section.  A Caesarean section, also known as C-section, or cesarean delivery, is a surgical procedure where a baby is delivered through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus.  Dr. Rush shares the interesting history of Caesarean sections in this episode.  It is truly amazing to learn the remarkable progress that has been made in just recent history!   --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/from-tits-to-toes/message

There is no known threshold below which the number of repeat cesarean deliveries can be guaranteed to be uncomplicated. In this episode, Dr. Abdelhak discusses having multiple cesarean births.   Integrative OBSTETRICS Social Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Instagram @integrativeobgyn Maternal Resources Social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maternalresourceshackensack |nstagram: @maternalresources Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, & Stitcher and leave a review!