Podcasts about forceps

Curious about assisted deliveries? In this episode of The Pulling Curls Podcast, Hilary Erickson, The Pregnancy Nurse®, sits down with Dr. Tori O'Daniel, a board-certified OB GYN, to demystify vacuum and forceps deliveries. They explain when and why these tools might be used, how they work, the differences between them, and what you can expect if your delivery needs a little extra help. They also bust some common myths and share real-life experiences (including Hilary's own forceps story), plus get honest about risks, benefits, and postpartum recovery tips. Whether you're prepping for birth or just want to be informed, this episode has all you need to feel more confident about your options. Big thanks to our sponsor Laborie, makes of the Kiwi® Complete Vacuum Delivery System: https://www.laborie.com/product/kiwi/ Today's guest is DDr. Tori O'Daniel. She is a Board-Certified OB/GYN whom has been practicing for 14 years. For the past 11 years she has been an OB/GYN Hospitalist in OKC, Oklahoma. Dr. O'Daniel is the Medical Director for the OB Hospitalist and women's services. She also is the Medical Director for Women's Health Services at Mercy Hospital. She instructs educational classes and facilitates the OB Emergency Simulations for the nurses and physicians within her department. As an Adjunct Faculty at Oklahoma State University, she is the Director of the Medical Student Clinical rotations at her institution. She has been actively involved in the Society of OB/GYN Hospitalists (SOGH) for the past several years. She co-chaired the Simulation committee in 2020 & 2021 and Co-Chaired the ACM 2022 & 2023. She currently serves on the Board of Directors. Dr. O'Daniel is passionate about education and advocating for women's safety in health care. Thus, she actively teaches across the country about vacuum assisted deliveries, treating post partum hemorrhage and other OBGYN Emergencies. Links for you: Previous episode sponsored by Laborie (#246) about plus size moms in labor: https://www.pullingcurls.com/246-plus-size/ Timestamps: 00:00 Assisted Delivery and Labor Mechanics 03:22 Assisted Vaginal Delivery Options 06:26 Decline of Forceps in Deliveries 10:38 Vacuum-Assisted Delivery Explained 13:54 Vacuum Procedure Timing Guidelines 16:10 Assessing Delivery Options and Pelvic Adequacy 19:26 Challenges in C-section Deliveries 23:15 Forcep Use in Obstetrics 25:50 "Consent Challenges in Childbirth Decisions" 31:43 Forceps vs. Vacuum Delivery Risks 33:16 Birthing Risks: Maternal and Fetal 37:24 Considerations for Assisted Vaginal Delivery 39:56 Navigating Birth Plan Conversations 44:07 Normalize Asking for Help 46:57 Flexible Tubing Revolutionizes Vacuum Use 49:15 Flexible Neck Vacuum for Childbirth Keypoints: Assisted deliveries involve using tools like vacuums or forceps to help a baby out during vaginal birth, usually when there's exhaustion, fetal distress, or a tricky position. The difference between forceps (which look like fancy salad tongs) and vacuum devices (like the KiwiVac) was explained—with forceps generally having a higher risk for maternal tearing, while vacuums can be safer for the mother but have their own set of risks for baby. Forceps use is becoming rare in the US, and many younger doctors are not trained in both tools; most providers specialize in one over the other. The vacuum method, such as the KiwiVac, doesn't just involve pulling—the device helps rotate and flex the baby's head to ease passage through the pelvis, working in tandem with the mother's pushing effort. Not every provider can use both vacuums and forceps, and midwives in the US generally use vacuums regionally; outside the US, like in Europe, midwives may use vacuums more routinely. Assisted deliveries make up less than 5% of births, so most people will not need them, but knowing about the process can reduce fear if the situation arises. Before offering assisted delivery, doctors must ensure the baby is low enough, the mother's pelvis is adequate, and water is broken—these tools can't compensate for a truly “stuck” baby or incomplete dilation. Vacuums and sometimes forceps can even be used during C-sections if the baby is deeply engaged or in an awkward position, to help bring the baby up through the uterine incision. Consent and clear communication are vital—sometimes decisions have to be made quickly, so it helps when patients have discussed these possibilities in advance with their providers. The episode emphasized not to fear assisted deliveries—they're tools to reduce C-sections and make births safer when used by skilled, well-trained professionals, and advances like the KiwiVac improve outcomes for both moms and babies. Producer: Drew Erickson Keywords: assisted delivery, vacuum-assisted delivery, forceps delivery, Kiwi Complete Vacuum Delivery System, OB GYN, labor and delivery, childbirth, maternal exhaustion, fetal distress, vacuum system, assisted vaginal delivery, shoulder dystocia, c section, birth canal, perineal care, vaginal lacerations, episiotomy, pelvic floor therapy, chignon, subgaleal hemorrhage, cephalohematoma, labor nurse, midwife, family practice doctor, maternal risks, neonatal risks, delivery complications, birth plan, postpartum recovery, Laborie

Friedrich Merz a été élu de justesse par le Bundestag comme nouveau chancelier. En effet, pour la première fois dans l'histoire de l'Allemagne moderne, un chancelier a dû attendre le second tour pour être élu par son Parlement. Sa grande coalition formée entre son parti chrétien-démocrate, la CDU, et les sociaux-démocrates du SPD, s'est montrée plus fragile que prévu et avec peu de marge de manœuvre. Pourtant, avant même son élection, Friedrich Merz avait fait voter un plan massif d'investissement de 1000 milliards d'euros dans les infrastructures et la défense. Une initiative bien accueillie en Europe et notamment par la France d'Emmanuel Macron qui y voit un tournant pour relancer l'économie européenne. Le moteur franco-allemand est-il en train de redémarrer avec ce nouveau duo que certains baptisent déjà “Merzcron” ? 

In this in-person episode recorded at GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan, Alan once again sits down with the visionary Dr. Richard Golden. Following up on their previous conversation about Dr. Golden's journey as a dentist and multiple practice owner, this discussion dives deep into his passion for training dentists to thrive in the real world. Dr. Golden shares his perspective on the gaps in traditional dental school training, particularly concerning business acumen and clinical efficiency. He found that many new dentists, while clinically skilled, lacked the understanding of how to perform procedures in a time-effective manner that ensures practice profitability without sacrificing quality of care. Some links from the show: GoldenDent Physics Forceps GoldenDent Live Patient CE! Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you'd like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! -- Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you'll find anywhere! If you head over to verydentalpodcast.com/crazy and use coupon code “VERYDENTAL10” you'll get another 10% off your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! -- The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/wonderist! -- Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to verydentalpodcast.com/enova to see their whole line of products! -- CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even  their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you'll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at verydentalpodcast.com/CADRay!  

Katelyn is a mother of three beautiful daughters with three entirely different birth stories. Her first birth was a Cesarean after three forceps attempts, her second was a scheduled repeat Cesarean, and her third was a long, tough labor ending in a successful VBA2C! Katelyn talks about making sacrifices to switch providers, spirituality, prodromal labor, nuchal hands, and how to navigate a home birth transfer to the hospital. Though many parts of her VBA2C didn't go as she planned, Katelyn was able to listen to her intuition, pivot, and make wise decisions to have a beautifully healing experience. The VBAC Link Blog: VBA2C Facts and StatisticsUterine Rupture ArticleNeeded Website: Code VBAC20 for 20% OffHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull Transcript under Episode Details Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Chaque jour, écoutez le Best-of de l'Afterfoot, sur RMC la radio du Sport !

Jean Claude Van oooooh noooooo. Creepy DJs and 11 DUIs. Calgon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textToday, I'm joined by Bria—a mother of two, living in Grenada in the West Indies—who has embraced breastfeeding as more than just feeding. From her first-ever public feed on the London Underground to nursing a four-year-old despite outside opinions, Bria has navigated her journey with strength and conviction.She shares how witnessing women breastfeed before becoming a mother shaped her own openness, the pain and power of feeding through a medicalised birth, and the raw beauty of her second experience—free-birthing in an AirBnB just an hour before checkout, and feeling the deep, invisible connection between her newborn and her body.Breastfeeding, for Bria, is a message to the world: I am these children's mother—do not question me.Get 10% off Katie's courses - use code POD10 at checkout Pregnant or in the first few weeks after birth: The Feeding Couch For health professionals and birth workers: Breastfeeding & Lactation: the fundamentals online course Please support the show! Leave a review and BuyMeACoffee DisclaimerThe information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical or legal advice; instead, all information available on this site are for general informational purposes only. The Feeding Couch podcast reserves the right to supplement, change or delete any information at any time.The information and materials on the podcast is provided "as is"; no representations are made that the content is error-free. Whilst we have tried to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information we do not warrant or guarantee the accurateness. The podcast accepts no liability for any loss or damage howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.

We discuss the pressing issues surrounding operative vaginal deliveries, including trends in their usage and the disparities impacting delivery outcomes. Join us as we navigate these critical insights with expert guests Jamie Perry and Howard Herrell, revealing the complexities and nuances surrounding forceps and vacuum deliveries.• Examining the historical context of operative vaginal deliveries • Analyzing the decline in forceps and vacuum usage since the 1990s • Discussing the rise of cesarean deliveries as an alternative • Revealing racial disparities adjacent to delivery practices • Outlining effective techniques for both forceps and vacuum-assisted deliveries Learn more about this pressing topic and gain valuable insights by listening to our episode.00:00:00 ntroduction and Overview of the Episode00:01:18 The Decline in Operative Vaginal Deliveries00:05:24 Forceps00:24:21 Vacuums00:49:30 Advice For Trainees00:55:38 Four Tips for Forceps and VacuumsFollow us on Instagram @thinkingaboutobgyn.

Hi friends!  Today we're talking about entropian or inverted eyelids in goat kids and how to treat it.  We'll go over what causes it to happen, how to recognize it quickly, and the options for treatment, both with a veterinarian or on your own at home.  This episode will teach you how to easily handle what can be a scary situation, so let's dive in!   All the Best! Millie     Mentions:   Wound Clips and Forceps: https://www.premier1supplies.com/p/wound-clips-forceps-for-inverted-eyelids?criteria=clips   My favorite Eye Patch Kit: https://jefferspet.com/products/shut-eye-patches-cow-size-kit?_pos=1&_sid=aae872319&_ss=r&variant=44374467543229   Eye Patch Kit that comes with a bottle of Curicyn (I like the patches in the first kit better): https://jefferspet.com/products/curicyn-pink-eye-solution-3-oz?_pos=4&_sid=4a8d0e84e&_ss=r&variant=44379621327037   Terramycin Eye Ointment: https://amzn.to/4jHN2DY   Curicyn Pink Eye Solution: https://amzn.to/4jCJtz7       Join our email list and be first to get updates and special offers:  https://www.getgoatwise.com/insider     Join the FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/getgoatwise     Connect with me: Email: millie@getgoatwise.com   See what's happening on the ranch: www.instagram.com/dry.creek.livestock   *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases  

In this week's episode, Daisy, Charlotte and Olivia chat about the Fs – forceps, food and flatulence. _______________ Follow us on: Twitter - @RCPEHeritage Instagram - @physiciansgallery TikTok - @physiciansgallery Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PhysiciansGallery Sign up for our newsletter - https://www.rcpe.ac.uk/newsletter To support heritage at the RCPE, please donate: https://www.rcpe.ac.uk/donate _______________ The Team: Olivia Howarth (@oh_archives) - Researcher/Presenter Dr Charlotte Holmes (@_CCHolmes_) - Researcher/Presenter Dr Daisy Cunynghame (@RCPEHeritage) - Researcher/Presenter Laura Burgess (@laura.burgess.18) - Producer/Social Media/Presenter Dr Sarah Hayward - Editor/Producer

In this week's episode, Daisy, Charlotte and Olivia chat about the Fs – forceps, food and flatulence. _______________ Follow us on: Twitter - @RCPEHeritage Instagram - @physiciansgallery TikTok - @physiciansgallery Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PhysiciansGallery Sign up for our newsletter - https://www.rcpe.ac.uk/newsletter To support heritage at the RCPE, please donate: https://www.rcpe.ac.uk/donate _______________ The Team: Olivia Howarth (@oh_archives) - Researcher/Presenter Dr Charlotte Holmes (@_CCHolmes_) - Researcher/Presenter Dr Daisy Cunynghame (@RCPEHeritage) - Researcher/Presenter Laura Burgess (@laura.burgess.18) - Producer/Social Media/Presenter Dr Sarah Hayward - Editor/Producer

What was it like to undergo an operation in a world with no anaesthetic? How was the stethoscope invented? And when did surgeons first operate on a human heart? Talking to Lauren Good, Dr Carol Cooper explores the history of medicine through 12 pivotal objects – from the bone saw to the heart-lung machine. (Ad) Carol Cooper is the author of The History of Medicine in Twelve Objects (Quarto Publishing PLC, 2024). Buy it now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/History-Medicine-Twelve-Objects/dp/0711294623#:~:text=An%20award%2Dwinning%20non%2Dfiction,Carol%20is%20also%20a%20novelist./?tag=bbchistory045-21&ascsubtag=historyextra-social-histboty. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dans cet épisode des Causeries de la Rade, l'équipe revient la victoire avec bonus a Mayol contre le Racing 92 36 à 24Dans les news de la semaine on évoquera la grave blessure d'Ollivon et le retour de Cedric Abeillon pour lancer le Pilou-PilouEnfin, le dossier de la semaine : Faut-il prolonger Facundo Isa et Jeremy Sinzelle ? Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.

Today, we explore the fascinating histories of the inventors behind two handheld surgical forceps: DeBakey and Adson.

In this episode, Sunpreet Cheema will take a look at instruments used to hold tissue firmly, through the lens of two more surgical innovators: Emil Theodor Kocher and Oscar Huntington Allis.

Résumé de la semaine 9 et preview de la dernière semaine de compétition.

Our guest in studio with Keelin Moncrieff is Kelly Horrigan-Moore, a model, content creator and Mum of one (soon to be two) boys. They chat about loving pregnancy, the difference in raising boys and girls, toy sharing and the dreaded forceps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alice was induced at the end of her first pregnancy, which ended with a forceps delivery and an episiotomy. The trauma and intensity of this experience profoundly affected both Alice and her baby, who was bruised and cut from the forceps. In the aftermath of this birth and postpartum time, Alice's marriage ended - in part because of how difficult that first year was for them. But Alice found love again, and had a second chance at birth. This time, she chose a home birth with a midwife, which is a completely free and underutilized option within the UK's NHS system.  She had her second child peacefully, at home, with just her partner and the midwife. If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard

In today's episode I'm speaking to Rosie who had her baby girl Poppy 9 months ago. At her 12 week scan blood tests showed low levels of PAPP-A which resulted in multiple extra scans through her pregnancy and conversations starting early around a potential induction. As it turns out, Rosie's labour began spontaneously shortly before 37 weeks on the day she was supposed to be moving house. When her waters released the move was put on hold and she ended up giving birth at her mum's local hospital. She shares how the experience differed from what she imagined, the amazing high she felt in the weeks following the birth and how with hindsight she wishes she had got everything prepared a little bit sooner!    Rosie's IG: https://www.instagram.com/rosiefitzy1/  My website: www.serenalouth.com My IG: https://www.instagram.com/serenalouth/

This week's Listener Series episode, we welcome Claire. Claire is an LCSW and a Medical Social Worker in the oncology field. She shares with us her infertility journey, and her blissful pregnancy, and the quick turn of events into a traumatic birth. She shares vulnerably about her healing process and how important communication and accountability is in the recovery journey.On this episode, you will hear:- Infertility and IVF- Guilt and challenges in the postpartum period- The power of external validation and support- The importance of repair and validation in the healing process- Emotional and physical challenges in recovery- The role of therapy in healing and the power of sharing storiesFor 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.

Beginning surgery! ... Scalpel? Check! ... Forceps? Check! ... 3D printer?!!? What the—?

In today's episode, we sit down with Krista to hear her two birth stories. From the outset, Krista knew she wanted a homebirth, a decision she made even before trying to conceive. However, what followed was a journey marked by both heartbreak and triumph.Krista shares candidly about going into spontaneous labour with Salvatore (Sal) at 43+2 weeks, only to face a devastating realisation during labour—the absence of her baby's heartbeat. This heartbreaking moment led to a transfer to the hospital, where Krista gave birth to Salvatore, who was stillborn. She recounts the difficult experience of feeling unsupported by both hospital staff and her private midwife during this traumatic time.Despite the immense loss and mistreatment, Krista courageously chose to trust her instincts and pursue a homebirth for her second child, Theodore (Teddy). With a new private midwife by her side, she welcomed Teddy into the world in the comfort and safety of her own home.Throughout our conversation, Krista emphasises the critical importance of interviewing and carefully selecting care providers and individuals who will be present during childbirth. Her journey underscores how pivotal these choices can be in shaping the birth experience and ensuring emotional and physical safety for both mother and baby.Links:Bears of hopeRed nose - Hospital to homeLifelinePanda Grief lineSuicide call backHeartfelt Evidence Based Birth: The evidence on due dates Mothers & Babies Report - Stillbirths Death and Dying: how different cultures deal with grief and mourning. FUNERAL RITES ACROSS DIFFERENT CULTURESSupport the Show.@homebirthstoriesaustralia Support the show by buying us a coffee! Please be advised that this podcast may contain explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.The information, statistics, and research presented in this podcast are for informational purposes only and are not intended to constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. All information discussed can be found online and is provided in the links in the show notes. It is always recommended to conduct your own research and make informed decisions. We advise you to discuss any topics or concerns with your healthcare provider. While we strive to incorporate the most up-to-date research in our episodes, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information discussed on the show.

Dr. Rick Kapitan is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon specializing in cleft lip and palate surgery, orthognathic surgery, facial trauma repair, bone grafting, and dental implant reconstruction. As the Director of the Carolinas Center for Cleft Lip, Palate, and Craniofacial Surgery and the Clinicians Implant Academy, Dr. Kapitan is a renowned speaker who provides extensive clinical instruction in surgery. In this episode of Everyday Oral Surgery, he joins us to share his invaluable perspective on establishing a private cleft and craniofacial (CCF) practice. From obtaining the necessary training and experience to building a presence in a supportive community, Dr. Kapitan emphasizes the importance of providing holistic care. He also shares tips for finding mentorship, connecting with local mom groups, and letting your passion for your profession set you apart. If you're looking for practical advice that can elevate your practice and professional journey, don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field and gain actionable insights that will benefit your career and your patients. Tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:An overview of Dr. Kapitan's training and his current practice setup.Ingredients for establishing a private CCF as a single-degree surgeon.The personalized care and community resources that sets Dr. Kapitan's practice apart.Advice for pursuing craniofacial mentorship without a medical degree.Reasons that Dr. Kapitan believes that passion is the biggest differentiator.The importance of taking ownership of your profession and providing holistic care.Why a strong community presence, particularly in mom groups, is crucial!What it looks like to offer a complete surgical care package.A special shoutout to one of Dr. Kapitan's patients, Sarah Katherine.Recommended reads about work-life balance from today's guest.How his faith serves him in his daily life and his oral surgery.Forceps that Dr. Kapitan uses to extract tooth number 12.What he's watching right now and the quote he repeats most often.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Dr. Rick Kapitan on LinkedIn — linkedin.com/in/richard-kapitan-09115726Dr. Rick Kapitan Email — rkapitan@mycenters.com Dr. Rick Kapitan Phone — 704-620-1807Clinicians Implant Academy — cia-implants.comCarolinas Center for Cleft Lip, Palate & Craniofacial Surgery — mycenters.com/cleft-center El Paso Children's Hospital Cleftsymposium — elpasochildrens.org/cleftsymposium Ordering Your Private World — amazon.com/dp/0785288643Masters of the Air — imdb.com/title/tt2640044/ Everyday Oral Surgery Website — everydayoralsurgery.com Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgeryDr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

Quand on évoque spatules, forceps et ventouses, rien à voir avec des outils de cuisine. On parle bien d'accouchements où, parfois, la sage-femme ou le gynécologue ont besoin d'un peu d'aide pour sortir le bébé. Les trois instruments ont la même fonction: ils aident une phase d'expulsion trop longue.Si vous souhaitez voir à quoi ressemble des spatules, forceps et ventouse. Anna Roy est sage-femme depuis plus de dix ans, chroniqueuse aux Maternelles et autrice d'une quinzaine d'ouvrages de vulgarisation scientifique autour de la santé des femmes, celles des jeunes, des vieilles, des ados, des mères. Le podcast Tout sur elles est un moyen de partager le savoir académique qu'elle a acquis, et le savoir qu'elle a reçu des femmes dont elle a croisé la route. Et quand un sujet lui est moins familier, Tout sur elles n'hésite pas à tendre le micro à d'autres spécialistes.Tout sur elles est un podcast d'Anna Roy, présenté par Nina Pareja, produit par Slate Podcasts.Pour en savoir plus, il existe aussi C'est ma grossesse, ouvrage écrit par Anna Roy et Caroline Michel publié chez L'Iconoclaste.Direction éditoriale: Christophe CarronProduction éditoriale: Nina ParejaMontage: Victor BenjamouRéalisation: Aurélie RodriguesMusique: Victor Benhamou et Johanna LalondeSuivez-nous sur Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook et Twitter

In this enlightening episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we welcome Gina Mundy, a distinguished attorney, bestselling author, and devoted mother of three. Join us as Gina shares her invaluable insights and proactive strategies for ensuring a safe and empowered birth experience. As an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, Gina brings over two decades of expertise in analyzing the common mistakes made during labor and delivery. Drawing from her extensive experience, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," offering practical advice to help parents prevent these errors and prioritize the health and well-being of their baby. Tune in to discover Gina's proactive approach to birth preparation, where she emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, effective communication with healthcare providers, and advocating for your birthing preferences. Learn how to navigate the healthcare system with confidence, avoiding potential pitfalls and ensuring a positive outcome for you and your baby. Whether you're a first-time parent or preparing for another childbirth journey, this episode provides invaluable guidance on how to approach birth with empowerment and knowledge. Join us as we delve into Gina's proactive strategies for a safer and more fulfilling birthing experience.Don't miss out on this insightful conversation – because every parent deserves the support and resources to navigate childbirth with confidence and peace of mind. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and empower yourself with Gina Mundy's proactive approach to a safer birth journey. Website: www.ginamundy.comAmazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQInstagram: @‌GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/Twitter: @‌ginamundy _ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_Chapters00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message01:27 Welcome and Appreciation for Listeners03:01 Choosing the Right Delivery Team04:26 The Role of the Doctor in the Delivery Team09:31 Understanding the Risks of Pitocin13:30 The Importance of Labor and Delivery Nurses15:51 The Role of Doulas in Birth25:22 How to Have a Safe Pitocin Induction27:15 Preparing for Childbirth and Informed Decision-Making27:43 Understanding the Administration of Pitocin29:01 The Risks of Contracting Too Much on Pitocin33:30 The Importance of Monitoring the Baby's Heart Rate39:44 The Need for Adequate Staffing in Labor and Delivery Units49:26 Including Discussions about Forceps and Vacuum in the Labor and Delivery PlanSummaryIn this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Gina Mundy, an attorney and author, who shares tips on how to avoid needing an attorney after giving birth. They discuss the importance of choosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, and how doulas can play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive birth experience. They also highlight the common use of the drug Pitocin in labor inductions and the need for parents to be informed about its potential risks. In this conversation, they discuss the use of Pitocin during labor and the importance of understanding its administration. Gina emphasizes the need for doctors and nurses to agree on the protocols for Pitocin use and highlights the potential risks of contracting too much on Pitocin, which can stress the baby. Gina also discusses the importance of monitoring the baby's heart rate during induction of labor and the need for adequate staffing in labor and delivery units. She encourages parents to educate themselves about Pitocin and to have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.TakeawaysChoosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, is crucial for a safe and positive birth experience.Doulas can provide valuable support and advocacy during labor and delivery.Pitocin, a commonly used drug for labor induction, can have individualized effects and parents should be informed about its potential risks.Preparing for childbirth and making informed decisions beforehand can help navigate interventions and ensure a positive birth experience. Pitocin is commonly used during labor, but there is disagreement among doctors on how to administer it.Contracting too much on Pitocin can stress the baby and potentially lead to complications.Monitoring the baby's heart rate is crucial during labor when Pitocin is used.Adequate staffing in labor and delivery units is important to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.Parents should have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: https://birthbabypodcast.transistor.fm/Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

If you're in the mood for a birth story full of truths and just as many laughs, this one's for you. Suze started listening to the podcast years before she conceived so in early pregnancy, she started an evening ritual of going for a walk and listening to every episode from #1 (the very rustic eps!). She takes us through her MGP care, birth preparation and induced labour where she felt empowered to make informed decisions every step of the way. Today's episode is brought to you by an Australian brand I really love, The Sleepybelly Pregnancy Pillow. Worried about rolling onto your back during the night? Or maybe you're tired from tossing and turning? Experience a deeper and more restful sleep for mum and bub with Sleepybelly. The Sleepybelly is a three piece, adjustable pregnancy pillow designed to encourage safe side sleeping. Made from a super soft, air layer outer material and premium latex internally provides great support for your belly and back. Sleepybelly is Australian owned, has free shipping and comes with a 30-night trial. Take $10 off using the Australian Birthing Stories exclusive promo code ABS10 You can purchase the Sleepybelly online today at sleepybelly.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our friend, Kelsey, shares with us today what giving birth is like in Canada. From moving and traveling between provinces, Kelsey had experienced different models of care and when it came time to prepare for her VBAC, she was very proactive about choosing a birth environment where she felt safest. From a scary Cesarean under general anesthesia to an empowering unmedicated VBAC in a birth center, Kelsey's journey is entertaining, beautiful, and powerful. We love hearing the unique details of her story including giving birth at the same time as her doula just in the next room over! The personalized care she was given during her VBAC is so endearing and heartwarming. As her husband mentioned, it should be the gold standard of care and we agree! The VBAC Link Blog: Assisted DeliveryFetal Tachycardia in the Delivery RoomIs There Still a Place for Forceps in Modern Obstetrics?Forceps Delivery ComplicationsNeeded WebsiteHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull Transcript under Episode Details 07:36 Review of the Week09:27 Kelsey's stories11:47 Logistics of giving birth in Canada14:38 A normal pregnancy17:50 Arriving at the hospital21:37 Stalling at 7 centimeters26:22 Asynclitic and OP positioning29:31 Kelsey's Cesarean under general anesthesia34:50 Second pregnancy and VBAC prep41:07 Switching to midwives46:14 Beginning of labor51:07 Driving to the birth center54:49 Pushing baby out in two pushes1:00:24 Differences in care1:02:11 Enterovirus1:08:02 Risk factors for forceps and vacuum deliveriesMeagan: Hello, Women of Strength. We have our friend, Kelsey, from Canada. Is that correct? Kelsey: Yes. Yeah. Meagan: She's sharing her story with you guys today. Something about her first story of her C-section that stood out to me was that she had a forceps attempt that didn't work out. Sometimes that happens. I want to talk a little bit about forceps here in just a minute before we get into her story. Kelsey, I wanted to ask you that this is something that in our doula practice we will ask our clients. If it comes down to an assisted birth with forceps or a vacuum, what would you prefer? It's a weird thing because you're like, Well, I'm not planning on that, but a lot of people actually answer, “I would rather not do those and go straight to a C-section.” Some people are like, “I would rather do every last-ditch effort before I go to a C-section.” Did you ever think about that before? Had it ever been discussed before as their style? That's another thing. Some providers are really vacuum-happy. Some are really forceps-happy. I know it's a random question, but I was just wondering, had you ever thought of that before going into birth? Kelsey: So no. I didn't think about whether I wanted a C-section or a forceps delivery. However, I was really staunchly against having a C-section. That was primarily nothing against it, it was just that I have a really huge fear of awake surgery so with my forceps attempt, the OB who was there because it wasn't my provider. That's not the way Canada works. The OB who was there who was called in said, “Are you sure you want to do forceps? You could tear.” I told her, “I would rather tear than have a C-section.” That was just a personal preference for me because I was so terrified of having a C-section. Meagan: Yeah. I think that is very common and very valid to be like, “No, I would rather try this.” Kelsey: Yeah. Meagan: So I did. I wanted to go over just a little bit. I mean, I have seen a couple of forceps and they are not happening as often these days, but there was an article that said, “Is there still a place for forceps delivery in modern obstetrics?” I'm trying to say obstetricians and obstetrics. We're just going to stop. Kelsey: We know what you mean. Meagan: You know what I mean. There was an article and I was like, That's a really good question, because I think a lot of people think they shouldn't be done anymore or a vacuum shouldn't be done anymore either. It talked a little bit about the background. it says, that nowadays we are seeing a decrease in instrumental deliveries and a continuous increase of Cesarean rates. That makes me wonder if we were to increase vaginal and help instrumentally if that would decrease, but one of the things that I thought was interesting is that it says, “The prevalence of forceps delivery was 2.2% and the most common indication for a forcep delivery was fetal distress.” It is very common where it's really, really close, baby is struggling. Baby is so low and let's get baby out. That's 81.6% which is crazy. It says, “Among mothers, the most frequent complication is vaginal laceration,” which means we have tearing at 41% and third and fourth-degree perineal tears were noted. It says, “Regarding neonatal APGAR scores, around 8 around the first and the fifth minute,” which is around 91.2% and 98% of newborns which is pretty great. An 8 APGAR is pretty great. I think a lot of people worry about that. It says, “8.8% experience severe birth injuries like hematomas and clavicle fractures.” Those are probably shoulder dystocias. That's probably why they were having. It says, “Although fetal distress is the most common indication for forceps delivery, the vast majority of newborns were actually in good condition and didn't require NICU care.” That's something that was kind of cool. Obviously, there are a ton of more studies and deeper studies on that. This was just one, but it was kind of interesting. It was like, all right. That is a good question to ask as we are preparing for VBAC is hey, if for some reason a forceps or a vacuum is necessary, that's something to think about. What do we want to do at that point? I love how you were like, “Yeah, I didn't want a C-section. I feared that more than I did that.” Anyway, getting off that topic now so we can get this review and get on to your story but I think it's a topic we don't talk about and it's not something that we are thinking about so as you are preparing, Women of Strength, for your VBAC, it might be something that you want to discuss and learn more about both vacuum and forceps and discuss with your provider what their tool of choice is and just have that in the back of your mind. 07:36 Review of the WeekMeagan: Okay, so onto today's review. It is from laurenswat and it was back in 2023. It says, “Thank You.” It says, “I listened to as many episodes as possible when preparing for my VBAC. The stories on here were so encouraging to me and Meagan is so knowledgeable and reassuring. I am happy to say that I had my unmedicated hospital VBAC last week and I caught my own baby before the doctor even got in the room.” Oh my gosh, that is awesome. Seriously, catching your own baby is so amazing. I loved it personally myself as well and highly encourage it to anyone that is sort of interested because it is a really cool feeling. Thank you for your review and as always, we are looking for reviews. It is what helps people find this podcast. It helps us grow as a community. You can leave it on Apple, Google, email us, or whatever but we are so grateful for your reviews. 09:27 Kelsey's storiesMeagan: Okay, Kelsey. Kelsey: Yeah? Hi. Meagan: Hello. Welcome to the show. Kelsey: Thank you. I'm super, super excited. Meagan: Me too. Me too. I would love to turn the time over to you. Both of your babies were born in Canada. That's correct, right? Kelsey: Yes. Yeah. Meagan: Tell us the story. Kelsey: Yeah, so basically my husband and I got married in November 2019. Just prior to that, we had actually been living in New Brunswick. Just prior to getting married, we decided to move back because we are from Ottowa. We moved to Ottowa. We were living with his parents, his dad, at the time. We went to Mexico for our honeymoon and on our honeymoon, we decided to start trying to have a baby. We decided to start trying but not preventing it because we weren't sure how long it was going to take and there was no indication that it could take a while but my husband is actually an IVF baby. It had taken 7 years for his parents to conceive him. Meagan: 7 years, wow. They are amazing. That's a long time. Kelsey: He was actually their last attempt. When his mom got up to say our wedding speech, she was like my 1 in 7 or something like that and I was just bawling. So because of that, we decided to start trying and not preventing but there was nothing indicating it would take us a while. We started trying in December of 2019 and it just wasn't happening for us so around the year mark, we had a lot of friends who started trying around the same time as us and were getting pregnant really, really quickly. I was going to so many baby showers and crocheting baby blankets that just weren't for my baby. Actually, the year mark rolled around and I got my period the day of. My best friend gave birth the day of. I was trying so hard to be happy and stay positive and whatnot, but it was devastating. 11:47 Logistics of giving birth in CanadaKelsey: We ended up being referred to a fertility clinic. They did a full work-up on both of us and there was nothing. They didn't come up with anything. So they said, “You could keep trying or we could start IUI.” My husband and I said, “Let's do 3 more months of trying on our own, and then we will try for IUI.” Our fertility clinic was in Ontario and we ended up moving to Gatineau, Quebec in July 2020.The way it works in Canada is you have your healthcare which covers. You can go inter-provincially and give your card unless you are from Quebec. If you are from Quebec, it's kind of like living in another country. If you have a RAMQ card, you actually have to pay for your care in Ontario. The Quebec government will reimburse you but only for 30%. It's super weird. If you are from Ontario and go to Quebec, the Ontario government will cover you in Quebec. Meagan: What? So weird. This world is so weird. Kelsey: I know. It's super bizarre. So essentially we moved to Gatineau because the housing market was a little less expensive. I was working in Gatineau at the time as a teacher. I was extremely stressed out in my job especially once COVID hit. We were sent back to the classroom before any of the other provinces were. Anyway, I was extremely stressed out in my job and I decided to switch to the Ontario side because you can go between the two. Where I lived, you cross a bridge and you can get to Ottawa so you are in Ontario. Essentially, we went through the fertility clinic. They said that nothing was going on but because the Gatineau government will cover you for IVF and any fertility treatments up to a certain price so we had to be referred back to Quebec for IUI. The month that we were referred back to Quebec for IUI, it was the day before my appointment that I found out I was pregnant. Meagan: Oh my gosh, yay! Kelsey: Yeah, on our own. It super just happened and some weird funny things happened. The day before, my husband and I went for a walk around our neighborhood. I found a quarter and was like If pennies are lucky, then quarters must be super lucky. I picked up the quarter and put it in my pocket and the day after, I found out I was pregnant. These weird things kept happening. My pregnancy made me oddly psychic too which I'll get into after. 14:38 A normal pregnancyKelsey: I got pregnant in March. I was due November 28th. I had a super easy pregnancy. I was nauseous for the first little bit. I was working for a virtual school in Ontario so I didn't have to go into the school which was really nice. I just got to hang out in my basement and yeah. I mainly had nausea as a symptom but I was also extremely anxious because it had taken us so long to get pregnant. It felt like it was so long. It was about 15 months. I was super anxious. I had heard so many stories of miscarriage and whatnot, but luckily, we were followed by the fertility clinic because we were with them so we had a scan at 5 weeks and we had a scan at 8 weeks and then at 12 weeks once we graduated which was really nice. It was a really, really normal pregnancy. I ended up going back into the school in September and I was working as a French teacher. I went off work at 36 weeks. It was pretty normal. The reason I say that I was psychic during my pregnancy is that I kept saying all of these things about my baby. I had this gut instinct that he was a boy and sure enough, it was a boy. Mind you, it's because my husband's family only really has boys but then with certain things, people would say, “When do you think he will be born?” I'd be like, “Oh, I think December 4th.” I would make off-hand comments like, “Oh, he's going to have really dark hair.” My husband and I were both born at 5:00. I was born at 5:00 at night. He was born at 5:00 in the morning. I said, “Wouldn't it be funny if he was born at 5:00?” I said, “He's going to be over 9 pounds. I can just feel it. He's going to be 9 pounds.” Then the other weird thing is that I said he would be born December 4th, but someone told me, “No, you don't want him to be born on December 4th. He will share a birthday with your cousin.” I was like, “Okay, December 3rd.” December 3rd rolls around and I am 5 days past my due date. I wake up in the morning to go to the washroom and my water breaks. I had not been well-informed about birth. I was just going into it like, Yeah. Everything is going to be fine. I had a bunch of friends who just had babies and everything was smooth sailing. The only time I had heard of a C-section was when my aunt had two C-sections because she had a breech baby and a special scar and then they didn't give her an option for a C-section. I was like, Oh yeah. It's going to be fine. My provider told me, “If your water breaks, go straight to labor and delivery.” Meagan: Many do, by the way. Kelsey: Yes, I do know that. Meagan: It's a very normal thing for people to say, but we don't have to do that. Kelsey: Exactly. Meagan: I did the same thing, the same exact thing. 17:50 Arriving at the hospitalKelsey: Yeah, so we went into labor and delivery. Actually, we went slowly. My husband was like, “I'm going to take a shower.” I was under the impression that baby was going to be born in a couple of hours. I was like, “We've got to go.” He was like, “No, no. I've got to take a shower. First impressions are important.” I was like, “All right.” Then we went and we got Tim Horton's because I was super hungry. I figured This will be the last time I eat.We got to labor and delivery. They monitored me for two hours and I didn't have a contraction until 6:00 right as I was leaving and I was only a centimeter dilated. She was like, “Come back in 12 hours or sooner if your contractions get intense.” So I went home. I decided to go to sleep but I was having irregular contractions. I woke up probably around noon and I was starting to get uncomfortable. My contractions were starting to get closer together and they were more intense. I could feel them in my back and in my bum. I learned a lesson. Anyway, I'll get into that after. I could feel them mostly in my back and in my bum. My husband was like, “You look like you're really uncomfortable. We need to go to the hospital now.” He was afraid of getting stuck in traffic because I ended up giving birth in Ontario even though we lived in Quebec. The reason is the hospital I gave birth at actually takes your RAMQ card, the Quebec healthcare card so we weren't going to be charged for it or anything. The Gatineau hospitals are not known for being super well-equipped for much so we preferred to give birth in Ontario. We drove to Ontario which was a 30-minute drive so not super terrible, but traffic can be bad going across the bridge sometimes. The whole way there, I had really uncomfortable contractions. We got to the hospital and the doctor had me in the waiting room for 30 minutes, not terrible. The doctor meets with us and immediately, I just was not into him. He just put me off. He made an off-hand comment about nurses. He was like, “I see pain. Do you want pain medication? Do you want Advil or Tylenol?” I was like, “Whatever you can give me, I don't know.” I told him, “One of the things going into it is that my husband would really like to catch the baby. Can we do that?” He was like, “Well, do you think you can handle it?” I'm like, “Well, he was a firefighter so he's pretty okay with that kind of stuff.” Yeah. I can't even remember the comment now, but he made an offhand comment like, “Well, that's what nurses are for,” or something like that. I just was super put off by him. We went into our room and I didn't know at the time that maybe I could have asked for someone different or whatever. We go into our room and we get set up and they were like, “We have to monitor you for a little bit.” I was like, “I'd really like to labor in the tub. Can I get in the tub?” They said, “We need the monitor on you for an hour.” I'm like, “Okay.” They monitor me for an hour. They give me a shot of Demerol or whatever. I was under the impression and my mindset going into it was that when you give birth, you use pain medication as pain management. I hadn't researched anything else. I was just like, “I want the epidural as soon as I can get it and whatever you can give me for the pain is great.” 21:37 Stalling at 7 centimetersKelsey: I was monitored for about an hour and they let me get in the tub. For two hours, I laid in the tub and that's my best memory of my birth with my first. I laid in the tub and listened to music. My husband and I were in the dark. It was very calm, soothing, and relaxing. When I got out, the doctor was like, “We need to check you.” He checked me and I was at a 1 but he could stretch me to a 3. He said, “If you want your epidural, you can have it now.”I didn't know any better so I said, “Yeah, okay. Give me the epidural.” Overnight, I was progressing 2 centimeters every 2 hours. We got to 3:00 in the morning. I told a nurse, “I feel a lot of pressure in my bum.” I said, “I feel like I have to push.” She checked me and she was like, “No, no. You're only at a 7.” 5:00 AM rolls around. My nurse comes in again and she checks me and she's like, “Oh, you're at a 9.” Another nurse comes in right after and she says, “She's not at a 9. She's at a 7.”The two of them were like, “We need to get a doctor in here to confirm.” It's 5:00 AM. The doctor didn't show up until close to 7:45. He's like, “I'm not going to check you because the changeover will happen in 15 minutes and the new doctor is going to check you. I don't want to introduce any more bacteria.” The new doctor came in at 8:30. She checked me and she goes, “No, you're still at a 7. You've been stuck at a 7 for a few hours. We really need to start talking about a C-section.” It was the first time she had seen me. I had been lying in a bed now for almost 12 hours. They gave me the peanut ball for 2 hours and then they took it away I think because my son's heart rate had started to go funny or they lost it or something like that but he was doing fine. They lost it because he moved or whatever. They took the peanut ball away and nothing showed that he was under any distress at all but she was like, “You've been stuck at 7 for a while so I want you to talk about it with your husband.” I was in tears because again, the whole time, all I said to my own provider was, “I don't want a C-section. I don't care what happens. I don't want a C-section.” So I'm in tears. She's like, “Talk about it with your husband.” She comes back an hour later and we were like, “We want to wait a little bit longer.” She goes, “Okay, what we're going to do is put you on the highest dose of Pitocin.” She was like, “We're going to start you on Pitocin and every 5 minutes, we're going to increase it until you're at the highest dose. Then we'll wait 2 hours, check you again, and if you haven't gone anywhere, you'll have to have a C-section.” I didn't know any better so I was like, “Okay.” They started me on the Pitocin but I'm having intense pain and pressure in my bum. I'm like, “I feel like I have to push. My body feels like it is pushing.” I knew that if you pushed too soon, your cervix would swell. That's one of the few things I did know. They put me on Pitocin and I was crying because I was panicking. My husband was having to push my bolus every 15 minutes when it came on because I could feel everything through the epidural. The nurse was not super kind about it. She was like, “You need to stop pushing. If I check you now and you're not an 8, then you're going to have a C-section.” She just was not overly compassionate or anything. Well, finally, she suggests, “Why don't we put you on your hands and knees?” She put me on my hands and knees and I felt immediate relief. Something changed in baby's position. I sat there and I was able to talk. I was comfortable and I was fine. I think we got to an hour and a half and then they checked me because what happened was they put me on my hands and knees and my feet lost circulation and turned purple and went numb. Yeah, so then they put me on my back again. They checked me and they were like, “Oh, you're at a 9.5.” I'm like, “Yes.” I progressed. 26:22 Asynclitic and OP positioningKelsey: Finally, we got to 10 centimeters and I was a typical you push on your back type of thing. The doctor said, “We cannot wait to let baby descend. Your water has been broken too long.” Then she checks me and she's like, “Oh yeah, and baby's OP.” I should have learned. Had I done my research, I would have known all that pressure was my OP baby. So she said, “Baby is OP. We're going to start pushing.” I was so frustrated by her because she would leave the room and then she'd come back and she'd sit there just with her hand inside of me and checking her watch and stuff. She was just waiting for the hours to pass. I'm doing everything I can. Once they told me that I could push, I was like, “Yes. Let's get this baby out.” I pushed for 3.5 hours and then they said, “We'll give you 30 more minutes and if you cannot get baby out in 30 minutes, we'll try forceps but we'll need an OB to come in because if forceps fail, you will have a C-section.” I decided to push for 30 more minutes and the nurse came in and said, “Let's flip you.” They flipped me again and I lost all of my progress. They had also told me that not only was baby OP but he was asynclitic so his head was tilted to the side. They said, “That's probably what's happening.” But when I flipped, I lost my progress. There was a new nurse who couldn't figure out how to get the monitor on me so I couldn't push in that time. They were like, “Well, we're going to stop pushing because whatever.” 30 minutes passed and I had lost all of my progress. They're like, “Okay, we're going to get the OB in.” She comes in and she says, “You could tear.” I said, “I would rather tear than have a C-section. I don't want to have a C-section.” Then I said, “What are the chances that this will work?” She said, “I wouldn't do it if I didn't think it would work.” As she tried to get the forceps on, I could feel my body pushing. I'm like, “Can I push? Can I push?” She's like, “No, don't push right now.” My body is doing it for me and she can't get the forceps on so she's like, “I can't do it.” As she was trying to put the forceps on, baby started getting tachycardic so they said, “Things are going to get really scary for a minute because this is an emergency C-section. A lot of people are coming in here and we have to turn on alarms in the hallway because we have to get you to the OR really quickly.” Meagan: Wait, so baby's heart rate is high not low, and just because baby's heart rate went a little high, they treated it as a true emergency. Kelsey: Yes. Meagan: Okay. 29:31 Kelsey's Cesarean under general anesthesiaKelsey: They start throwing clothes at my husband. There were people piling in. I'm in a hospital that is French-speaking. I can speak French but not medical terminology. Nobody is talking to me. They're all just talking around me and they're rushing me down the hallway. I'm bawling and I'm like, “I don't want this.” I have no idea where my husband is. They're trying to push my legs together but baby is so low that it hurts to do that. I'm telling them to stop and whatnot. We get into the OR and I was inconsolable because I was terrified. They gave me my spinal which didn't take. They gave me the pinch test and I was like, “I can feel it. I can feel it.” I'm crying, “Please just put me out. I don't want to be awake for this. I'm scared.” They're not talking to me and that's the last thing I remember is saying, “I can feel that,” and they put me out. I was under general anesthesia and I woke up 2 hours later in recovery by myself. It was COVID. It was in December 2021. My husband couldn't be there. I asked where he was and they said, “Oh, he's in your room with your baby. Everything is fine.” I was sobbing. The first thing she said to me was, “Everything went great. You are a great candidate for a VBAC.” That stuck with me. The whole way back to my room, I was staring at the ceiling. I couldn't look at anyone. I was just devastated by how everything had gone. I didn't think I could ever look at my husband or my baby ever again. I was just like, What happened?I hear my husband. He is like, “You need to see. Our baby is here. You should see him. He is so beautiful. He has the most beautiful eyes.” He came around to my bed and he passed me my son and nothing mattered. None of it mattered. He was 9 pounds, 8 ounces so I was right. He was born on December 4th which I had said at 5:11 PM. Meagan: Oh my gosh. Kelsey: Yeah. He had a full head of dark hair. He was born in a snowstorm. That was the other thing. I said, “He's going to be born in a snowstorm,” because my husband and I were both born during a snowstorm and he was born during a snowstorm. Yeah, he was perfect. He was huge and he was chunky and he looked exactly like me. Normally, they look like their dads is what I've heard but he looked exactly like me and was so beautiful. Throughout my pregnancy, I don't like being pregnant because I don't like sharing my body I've learned. Throughout my pregnancy, I said, “I don't want another. I don't think I want another.” When he was born and I held him, I was like, “I will do this again in a heartbeat.” 34:50 Second pregnancy and VBAC prepKelsey: Postpartum was good. I ended up starting therapy 5 days after my C-section. He latched and he did not have breastmilk for his first feed which makes me really sad. I was devastated from the C-section because I didn't get to see my baby be born. I didn't get to hear his first cry. I didn't get to touch him first and my husband wasn't there. He wasn't allowed to be in the room. Postpartum was fine. I was seriously anemic. I was incredibly swollen. I had no knees because I was on fluids for so long and getting around was awful, but I just focused on our baby. He was perfect. He was so easy and 6 weeks rolled around and I was like, “Let's have another.” But we waited. We decided around 9 months to start trying again and loosely trying because again, we were wondering how long it would take. Meagan: Right. Kelsey: We ended up trying got 6 months and I got pregnant in April of 2023. My due date was December 29th. Again, super, super easy pregnancy throughout. Immediately after my C-section, I decided to look into VBAC because that stuck in my head. I had been listening to a different birth story podcast. I searched for VBACs and there weren't many and then I searched VBAC in general on Spotify and came across you guys.I started listening to VBACs before getting pregnant and I started doing lots of research about it. I learned about the cascade of interventions and how my case was really typical. I started learning about OP babies and how the pain I was feeling correlated with that. I wanted to try for a birth in a birthing center. Now, when I got pregnant with my second baby, I was living in Gatineau but we had a bunch of stuff happen. My mother-in-law ended up splitting up with her husband. We said, Hey, let's buy a house in Ontario together and we'll move in. I found out I was pregnant about 2 weeks before we put in an offer on a house and we moved in in July when I was 15 weeks pregnant. At the time, my GP was my provider for my first and I started off with her with my second as well. The thing was when I found out I was pregnant, I went to her. Sorry, I should have said. After my C-section, I went to her and said, “I was told I was a good candidate for a VBAC.” She said, “Yes, but you cannot go over your due date. We're going to monitor your baby to see how big it is because you had a big baby before. You cannot be induced. You need to have 18 months between pregnancies.” Typical. Meagan: All of the red flags. Kelsey: Yeah. This was before I started listening to your podcast. Then I started listening to your podcast and when I went in to see her when I found out I was pregnant before I had gone into a birthing center, I said to her– and I'm not an outspoken person. I struggle to advocate for myself. I said, “I want to try for a VBAC, but I do not want you to put limitations on me.” I said, “I know that I can safely have a VBAC even if there is less than 18 months between my pregnancies. From birth to birth, it was 2 years and a bit so it didn't matter. I said, “I know that big babies are 10 pounds+. That is macrosomia. I know that.” I said, “I know that I can't be induced.” In Canada, they generally don't do Pitocin for VBACs at all. They don't generally induce for VBACs at all. I said, “I do know that there are safe ways to induce though and I do know that I can safely go past my due date.” She said, “I believe in informed consent and if you understand all of this, I think that you are well prepared and we can move forward with a VBAC.” I said, “Great.” I had applied for birthing centers prior to this but it is really hard to get into them here. I ended up being able to get into one in Gatineau. I was concerned about moving over cross-provinces again. It ended up working out. I did stick with my GP until I was about 20 weeks pregnant just in case. It didn't work out with the birthing center after my move. What happened was, she was super, super supportive, but she would say things like, “Do you want me to book you an appointment with an OB just in case?” or “Do you want me to book you a C-section at 40 weeks just in case?” I was like, “No, I don't want you to.” She said, “Okay,” but around 20 weeks, my midwife was like, “We can keep you on even though you live in Ontario. It's no problem.” I said to my GP, “My midwife will keep me on.” My GP said, “You sound like a really good candidate so go ahead. I really hope it works for you. I hope that it's everything that you want.”Meagan: That's good. Kelsey: She was very supportive of it so I felt really good about it. 41:07 Switching to midwivesKelsey: I switched to the midwives full-time. My pregnancy was super smooth again, but there were little hiccups. I didn't pass my one-hour gestational diabetes test. They said, “If you have gestational diabetes and it can't be managed, we will have to transfer care.” Around 37 weeks, I started measuring large and they said, “We think we want to send you for an ultrasound just to be sure of how big baby is.” I said, “I know that those ultrasounds aren't super accurate so I'm not sure that's what I want.”I ended up getting a doula through The VBAC Link. I found a doula. Meagan: Yay!Kelsey: Yeah, what was funny about the doula is she was pregnant too and her due date was a week after mine and we found out that we were giving birth at the same place. Meagan: Oh my gosh. Kelsey: So she was like, “I'll keep you on and I'll do your prenatal appointments, but I probably won't be at your birth. I have a partner who is a nutritionist.” She ended up being amazing. My son was in daycare. I got sick a lot and I couldn't take anything for it so she would help me find natural ways of dealing with a cough. I think I had pregnancy rhinitis for the last trimester. I was constantly congested. I had terrible acid reflux. She originally had prescribed chest openers, but my midwife ended up putting me on medication for it because of the trigger to cough. She was afraid that my cough could trigger my water breaking too early. I couldn't give birth at the birth center if baby came before 37 weeks. I had to make it past 37 weeks. Yeah, so pregnancy was smooth. I was extremely nauseous in the beginning. It was really hard with a less-than-two-year-old. I kept him home because I'm a teacher. I'm home over the summer. I kept him home over the summer and it was rough because he just is needy and my 9.5-pound baby continued to stay in the 99th percentile for height and weight. He wanted to be carried everywhere but he is so heavy and he is still so heavy. I was a lot more active during this pregnancy than I had been prior. I tried really hard to walk and whatnot and do lots of stretches. Around 30 weeks, baby was still breech and I started to panic a little bit. I started doing Spinning Babies exercises and lots of inversions and whatnot.When I first met with my doula, I talked with her about everything. I was able to just spit out facts that I had learned from you guys. She was like, “I've never met someone who is this prepared or who knows this much.” She was like, “I have all of this stuff to go over with you, but you already know it.” She ended up as well becoming certified in HypnoBirthing so I took a HypnoBirthing class. I was really concerned about doing an unmedicated VBAC because I didn't know if I could handle the pain of it. I had originally wanted to VBAC in the hospital, but I watched– what is that documentary with Ricki Lake? Meagan: Um, okay, hold on. Kelsey: The Business of Being Born. Meagan: Yes, that's all I could think of was Born. The Business of Being Born. Kelsey: My entire perspective on birth completely changed. My husband watched it with me and he was blown away by it. He was just like, “I want that. I want that for us. I want to be a huge part of this. I want to help you through it and be an active participant. Let's do this.” We did the prenatal classes with my doula. He learned all of the pain management techniques. He was so excited for counterpressure and he wanted to be active. He was fully supportive and he wanted to catch our baby. This time around, we didn't find out the sex of our baby. We wanted it to be a surprise. I was 100% sure it would be a girl. I didn't even pick out a boy name. Anyway, we get to December 21st. I get checked and she can't even reach my cervix. It was so posterior. I was super discouraged, in tears discouraged because I was afraid of going past my due date and they were afraid that this baby was going to be so big because I was measuring large. 46:14 Beginning of laborKelsey: Overnight, I started to have contractions. They were kind of regular, but they were manageable. December 22nd rolls around and I'm still having contractions on and off and I start feeling sick. I had pulled my son out of daycare to prevent getting sick. I started to get a cough and I was really congested. I wasn't feeling well at all. I was supposed to go to Costco with my mom that day. I texted her in the morning, “I'm having contractions. Not feeling great. Let's cancel,” but because my son was home, things started to slow down with the contractions. I said, “You know what? Never mind. I need something to do today.” My mom picks me up and my husband and her are joking that I'm going to go into labor at Costco. We walked the entirety of Costco as I was having contractions. My 18-year-old brother is in the back of the car. I'm breathing through them and he's like, “What is happening right now?”I get home. I started timing them and they were 6 minutes apart. My husband decides that he is going to take our son. He was kind of off work so he took over care of our 2-year-old. I ended up going and taking a bath and all of the contractions stopped. That night, they started again and then on the 24th of December, they were still pretty inconsistent but my doula was suggesting things like, “Oh, if you're comfortable, have sex, then take a shower. Sit on the toilet and do nipple stimulation for 15 minutes on each side and see if that gets things going.” We had sex and then it all stopped. We kept trying things and then my doula was like, “I just think that maybe your body needs to rest and relax so let's try resting and relaxing.” Well then, the 25th is Christmas Day and I decided to host Christmas. Meagan: Because that would be a really good distraction. Kelsey: Yeah, I was like, “It's going to be fine.” My mother-in-law was like, “I'll cook Christmas dinner.” Prior to that, I had all of these ideas. I'm going to make bread by myself. I'm going to make all of these desserts. I'm going to make puppy chow. I'm going to wrap all of my kid's Christmas gifts. I'm going to put together his Pikler Triangel we got for him and wrap that. Just all of these things that I wanted to do for Christmas. By the 24th, I was so exhausted from the contractions that I didn't bake anything. There was no way. But I did host Christmas dinner and everyone told me, “Why? Why are you doing that?” I was like, “Well, it will be easy,” because my husband and I are both from divorced families. We'll just have everyone over for Christmas, and then we won't have to worry about going to anyone else. We had my mom and my brothers came over and his step-mom came over and my step-dad came over. It just was not great. Meagan: Like Christmas Vacation where the door keeps opening and all of the family members keep showing up. Kelsey: I know. I was still having contractions. I couldn't stand up or sit down without having a contraction. I was just exhausted and uncomfortable and felt huge. People are like, “How are you doing?” I'm like, “I'm surviving. Right now, I'm just surviving.” So anyway, finally Christmas Day is over and Boxing Day, I wake up at 7:30. I had a weird contraction. I went to the washroom and I had my bloody show. I was like, “I'm just going to try to go back to bed,” because my son and my husband weren't up but my back started to hurt. I was like, “Okay, I'm actually just going to get my son up and go downstairs.” My husband got up with me. We go downstairs. We started getting my son ready. I'm like, “I'm going to get in the bath and see if my contractions stop because I'm really uncomfortable.” I called my midwife from the bathtub and I said, “They are 5 minutes apart and they haven't stopped, but I'm scared to come in because what if this isn't real?” She said, “If you're in the bathtub and they are still going, this is real labor. You need to get here now.” 51:07 Driving to the birth centerKelsey: We get all of our stuff in the car. It was a 50-minute drive to the birthing center. Meagan: 50? 5-0?Kelsey: 5-0. Meagan: Okay. Kelsey: The good part was that they were regularly 4 minutes so I could look at the clock and know that I was going to have a contraction and I could breathe through it. I was managing pretty well at that point, but before we had left, my mother-in-law decided to stop me at the door. She was like, “So where are you feeling them?” I'm like, “I just need to go. Please just let me go. I can't talk to you right now.” My husband is trying to get me out the door too because he knows. We get to the birthing center. It was nice because I could choose the color of my room. They had options for the color of your room so I chose purple. I get into my room. It's now 10:00. I could hear in the next room a woman screaming, literally screaming. I start panicking. I can hear her yelling, “Get out of me already!” Meagan: Aww. Kelsey: My vagina is on fire! I'm panicking. My midwife says, “I need to monitor you for a little bit, so can you get on the bed? I'm going to monitor your baby's heart rate and then I'm going to monitor your contractions.” She could get baby's heartbeat and she couldn't get my contractions on the monitor. At this point, I'm starting to panic because I can still hear the woman screaming. My husband's like, “I'm going to get you your headphones.” He gets me my headphones. Meagan: Very good call. Kelsey: He gets me my headphones and puts on my birth playlist. I'm laying there and things start getting really intense really fast. I was panicking that the same thing that had happened with my son was happening again. But I started getting irate and my midwife still couldn't get the contractions on the monitor. I remember flinging my headphones off and just being like, “I need to go to the bathroom. Let me up. I can't lay here anymore.”She's like, “Okay. If you need to go to the bathroom, go to the bathroom.” I'm sitting there on the toilet. I'm crying and I'm telling my husband that I can't do this. In the back of my head, I know what that means, but I couldn't ration with myself at that point. My midwife hadn't checked me yet at all so she goes, “I really want to check you because we haven't done that.” I had to get off the toilet. I didn't want to and as I was getting off the toilet, I was so hot. I'm flinging my clothes off. I get to the edge of my bed and I'm like, “It's not me. It's my body. I'm pushing.” I saw my stomach contort. It was just like my whole body was not me at all. It was so wild to me. My midwife gets me on the bed finally and she checks me and she goes, “You're at the 7th centimeter.” She said, “You're a second-time mom so if your body feels like it, it remembers. You can start pushing whenever you want.” It was such a different experience from being told in the hospital, “Do not push,” when I'm at 10 centimeters to my midwife being like, “If your body is pushing, it's fine.” 54:49 Pushing baby out in two pushesKelsey: So she put me over a ball and then she called in the assistant midwife because she was like, “This is happening very soon.” The assistant midwife comes in and that was funny because she goes, “My name is Gabrielle.” I had a friend who had gone to the birth center who had Gabrielle. I turned to her and said, “You know my friend, Kelly.” She was just like, “Yeah.” I'm like, “I heard you're really good.” She's like, “Okay, let's–.”So over the ball, my husband tried to do counterpressure on me and I was like, “Don't. Don't do it.” But he pressed my tailbone down and that made a huge difference and I just kind of let my body do its thing. They had to flip me a couple of times and I ended up being put on my back to push for the final little bit because they needed to keep monitoring baby's heart rate. It kept going down every time I had a contraction so they were a little concerned. At one point, they said, “Don't panic, but we are going to call an ambulance just in case just because we keep seeing this. We're going to call an ambulance just so that they are here.” Yeah, so I pushed on my back for a while and I remember at one point, she said, “The head's right there. If you reach down, you can touch it.” I was like, “I'm going to have my baby vaginally.” My husband was like, “Yeah, you are.” I was just so excited. In one push, his head came out and she goes, “Ope, he's OP.” He was sunny-side up. My husband was like, “He's looking at me.” Well, sorry. That's a spoiler. “They're looking at me. I can see the baby. Their eyes are open. Their mouth is going.” And then she said, “Okay, next time, one really big push,” and he came out on the second push. My husband caught him and put him right on my chest. I was like, “What is it? What is it?” It was another boy, so spoiler alert. We didn't have a name. I got to hold him on my chest for 2 hours. We did delayed cord clamping. My doula made it in the last 15 minutes and she said to me, “I think Victoria is in the next room having her baby.” Meagan: Nuh-uh. I wondered when you were saying that. I was like, I wondered if that was her doula. Oh my gosh. Kelsey: Literally, our babies were born 2 hours apart. Meagan: Oh, that's so cool. Kelsey: We were in the birthing center at the same time which was wild. I got to see her on my way out which was really nice. Meagan: That's so special. Kelsey: Neither of us knew what we were having and we both had little boys. They weighed him and my super big baby was 8 pounds, 3 ounces. Meagan: Perfect. Kelsey: Perfect. Yeah. People were like, “That's a good-sized baby.” I'm like, “My first was 9.5 pounds. He's tiny.” My husband got to tell me the sex of the baby which was another thing I really, really wanted. We did delayed cord clamping. We had the golden hour. We just got to sit there and compared to my prior experience, I just felt so cared for. I remember a midwife putting a cold cloth on my head and I thanked her. Her response was, “I know you are grateful. Save your strength.” She was just like, “You don't need to tell me thank you at this moment. Just don't talk at all. I know you are thankful.”Meagan: Enjoy. Kelsey: Yeah, I was given water in between pushing. My doula sat there and rubbed my eyebrows so I wasn't tense because I learned about the fear/tension/pain cycle. My husband got to be a huge part of it and he got to cut the cord. He didn't get to do that with our first. He got to hold our baby. He touched him before anyone. It was just– my husband and I talked about it for a while afterward and he was just like, “You know, why is this not the gold standard for birth? Why is this not what we do every time? This is the most incredible thing.” We recorded the entire thing. Meagan: Yay. If you decide you want to share, post it in the community. Kelsey: There is a 30-minute video out there because my son was actually, so my first birth was 38 hours total. My second birth, I had my first real contraction at 7:30 AM. My son was born at 12:38 PM. There were 5 hours. Meagan: Another five, by the way. Kelsey: I know, so weird. I was not psychic for this birth because I had a boy. I was so convinced I was going to have a girl but he was a little boy and he was baby no-name for four days. We ended up naming him Oliver. 1:00:24 Differences in careKelsey: Yeah, I just felt so cared about and looked after. There were differences like my husband had to go out and search for food after I gave birth after my first. He was so exhausted, he couldn't get out of the parking lot so my mother-in-law had to drive in to bring us food. I ended up scarfing down Popeye's but I had been intubated and my throat hurt so badly. I ate the world's driest biscuit and thought I was going to choke and die. But with my second birth, they had a postpartum doula who was there. She offered me lentil soup and a grilled cheese so that was my first meal. Meagan: So much better. Kelsey: Yeah, lovely lentil soup and grilled cheese. My son had been placed on my chest but I still had my bra so they washed it for me before I left. Just small things like that, I felt like I was cared for. Meagan: Yeah, absolutely. Kelsey: We ended up leaving at 5:00 PM. We were home in time to eat dinner at home. Meagan: Yeah. Yeah. Kelsey: That postpartum experience was incredible. We literally, I was able to get up and walk and I wasn't dizzy or anything. I barely felt like I had a baby. I did have a second-degree tear but for some reason was just completely unbothered by it. My midwife came to me postpartum which was really lovely. 1:02:11 EnterovirusKelsey: However, one thing I did want to touch on was I had a cold during labor and this is something I wanted to mention because it is not something I knew about. I had a cough and five days postpartum, on New Year's Eve, my doula came. Not my doula, my midwife. As they do, she temped my baby and he was measuring a little hot. She temped him a second time and he was normal. Around 4:00 AM on New Year's Day, I realized he was very warm. I temped him and he had a fever. I only know Celsius but it was 39.9 which is really high. I temped him a second time and he was 39.2. Anything over 38 is a fever. I ended up having to take him to the hospital and I didn't know what the protocol was if your baby gets a fever below two months. We were pretty much admitted on the spot. He had the full workup. He had bloodwork done. He had a lumbar puncture done. He didn't have a birth certificate and had to have a lumbar puncture done because the problem was that they were looking for infections. When they did his lumbar puncture, they did find something. He had a virus called an enterovirus. In adults, it's just a common cold, but if you get it while you are pregnant, you can pass it through your placenta to your baby just before you deliver and your baby can be born with the virus. It can just present as a fever, but it can also progress to viral meningitis. Meagan: Oh, scary. Kelsey: My son was kept in the hospital for two nights. Because of the fever, he stopped nursing. He was super sleepy and they make you stay for two nights even if they perk up and are nursing and everything seems fine. They will keep you for two nights because they are looking for things to grow on the lumbar puncture. If a fever indicates an infection and because the blood/brain barrier is so thin, infections can spread super quickly to the brain. Meagan: Scary. Kelsey: He ended up being okay. He didn't have viral meningitis and I had the most incredible angel nurse while I was there. I was so grateful for her. I forgot my Peri bottle at home and she made me one. She did everything she could to prevent my son from being put on an NG tube while still getting the fluids he needed. She managed to get him nursing enough that we didn't have to switch to an NG tube. We didn't have to switch to bottle feeding. He continued to nurse. She stuck up for me when a resident came in and was like, “Well, what's his urine output like?” I was like, “I don't know. I have no idea.” She was like, “All of that is in his chart if you just check it. She's obviously very tired. Leave her alone.” I had a lovely angel nurse but it is something I wanted to touch on because I had never heard of enterovirus. I did know what to do if your baby got a fever, but it definitely is that you take them right to the emergency room. Generally, they will admit you for two days. But yeah, otherwise, my postpartum experience was night and day compared with my C-section. I was up and moving and I did experience baby blues with my first. I cried for weeks. With my second, I was just so over the moon. But yeah, that's my VBAC. Meagan: I love it. Thank you so much for sharing that. I had actually never heard of enterovirus.Kelsey: Enterovirus.Meagan: Enterovirus. I was like, What the heck? That's actually with an E. I didn't know that. I just Googled that so it's really, really good to know that's a thing. It does look like it's pretty rare but it's something to take seriously. Sorry, my dog was barking in the background. He's got something to say too.I'm so happy for you and I'm so happy that you could see that it was a very similar situation with an OP baby and things like that and you were still able to deliver vaginally. Maybe it was a little bit of that asynclitic position that maybe made it a little harder to get under that pubic bone. It sounds like in ways they were willing to help you, but they also didn't help you too much either. Kelsey: No. Meagan: Yeah. I just love that you were able to prove to yourself too. Not that we have to prove anything to ourselves or anybody, but it is definitely nice when you are like, This is the same situation and look, I did it. Yes, my baby was a little smaller, but it probably wasn't the size more than it was just a slight bit of position and probably the cascade. I love that.1:08:02 Risk factors for forceps and vacuum deliveriesMeagan: Okay, so before I let you go, I wanted to touch a little bit more on those risk factors for forceps and vacuum because we talked about that in the beginning and tearing. Tearing is definitely a risk. You even said with your VBAC baby that you tore a little bit which is really common with a posterior baby coming out vaginally too just to let listeners know. Tearing can happen. It can happen with any baby. We can get rectal pain. Posterior babies, oh my gosh. Amazing to not only labor with one but push one out. It is hard work. You did an amazing job. Yeah. It may have a lower chance or a higher chance of coming out vaginally just in general. For baby, that bruising to the head or even nerve damage. It's really rare but it is a thing. Temporary swelling, skull fractures– again, it's rare but it is a thing so these are all things to take into consideration. For vacuum, we've got weakened pelvic floor, tears as well, possible even larger tears weirdly enough so that's a thing and then yeah, for baby, the suction can pop off and need to be replaced or cause hematomas there. Just all things to take into consideration. In the show notes, I know this wasn't a complete forceps delivery, but because it was something within your story, I wanted to touch on that today and make sure we included links. If you guys want to learn more, check out the show notes. Also, I just think it's so fun that you and your doula were at the birth center at the same time giving birth at the same time. There are so many fun things about this story. Amazing support it sounds like from your husband, from your family, and from all of the things. I just loved your story and appreciate you so much. Kelsey: Thank you. Thank you so much for having me. Meagan: Absolutely. It's been such an honor. ClosingWould you like to be a guest on the podcast? Tell us about your experience at thevbaclink.com/share. For more information on all things VBAC including online and in-person VBAC classes, The VBAC Link blog, and Meagan's bio, head over to thevbaclink.com. Congratulations on starting your journey of learning and discovery with The VBAC Link.Our Sponsors:* Check out Dr. Mom Butt Balm: drmombuttbalm.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

On today's listener series episode, we welcome Lakshmi. Lakshmi is a dentist and also comes from a family with a long history of working in the medical field and a history of birth trauma. She shares about her experience and how having so much medical knowledge and family resources played into her processing what she was experiencing.On this episode you will hear:- PCOS- elective induction- delivering via forceps- episiotomy causing a 4th degree tear- benefits of pelvic floor therapy and continuing challenges with bowel control- postpartum depression and anxiety- stigmas and lack of communication- research on different modes of delivery and how it can effect one's wellbeingIf you have a birth trauma story you would like to share with us, click this link and fill out the form. 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.

In this episode, I sit down with New Westminster BC based Urogynecologist, Dr. Merry Gong to discuss: Operative vaginal birth (vacuum, forceps, episiotomy)What do these instruments look like and indications for their useIndications for operative vaginal birth vs. Cesarean birthRisks associated with vacuum and forcepsCanada has the highest rates of obstetrical traumaC-section rates risingWays to decrease rates of operative vaginal birth Ways to support those with pelvic floor injuries after birthDr. Merry Gong completed her medical undergraduate training, residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of British Columbia.She specializes in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, urinary and fecal incontinence. She has a special interest in treating postpartum patients with pelvic floor dysfunction. She currently works at Royal Columbian Hospital performing pelvic reconstructive surgery and providing obstetrical services for high risk pregnancies.LINKS MENTIONED:Be Pelvic Health Aware: www.bepelvichealthaware.caPelvic Floor Disorders Network of British Columbia: www.bcpfdn.netIUGA website: yourpelvicfloor.orgTHANK YOU TO THE EPISODE SPONSORSSRC: discount code and website: https://srchealth.com/?ref=Sto_l3PawmnH4PELVIC HEALTH SUPPLIES: https://pelvichealthsupplies.com/ with discount code: podcast15Thanks for joining me! Here is where you can find out how to work with me:  www.pelvicfloorprojectspace.com/Support the show

~Tough time getting pregnant due to an undiagnosed thyroid condition, Hashimotos.  ~Birth trauma (My daughter wasn't breathing when she was born so she was taken to the NICU immediately with my husband and I broke my tailbone during delivery, so recovering was unique/challenging in many ways)  ~Self-care after birth was non-existent and that's the way I thought it should be. Give everything to your child, nothing remains yours, that's what motherhood is.  ~After digging myself out of the darkness of postpartum depression I was determined to change the narrative on self-care for all mothers! ~I created The Great Days For Mom Method Program to empower moms to prioritize their own physical, mental & emotional health for just 2% of the day so that they can tame the chaos of motherhood, have more energy and ultimately experience more joy, resulting in MORE GREAT DAYS!  I am an experienced personal trainer, yoga instructor, CEO & business owner, but most importantly, a mother. Becoming a mother was a dream come true and a nightmare realized all at the same time. I struggled with postpartum depression, extreme mom guilt and anxiety dictating my decision making. Having struggled on my own for so long, I was determined to change the narrative on motherhood. I take pride in helping my clients transform their lives.  As a coach, I spend time understanding the root cause of the issue, set milestones throughout the process, and celebrate when goals and dream scenarios are achieved.  I've been recognized by moms of all ages, and stages of motherhood around the world, for my extraordinary commitment to empower them to feel their best, so they can give their best, to their families each day. Bottom line, I help moms have MORE GREAT DAYS! I teach moms through fitness, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, nutritional awareness, and overall self-care to carve out time each day to focus on their own health. I don't believe in weight loss programs, extreme dieting, or exercising for hours a day. I focus on transformational change that can last a lifetime! FIND HER HERE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatdaysbysarah/ Facebook Community group for busy moms looking to make their own wellness a priority: https://www.facebook.com/groups/timeoutformoms LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpariseWebsite: www.greatdaysbysarah.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/becoming-parents/message

On TODAY's Podcast What is the worst New Years resolution? What is the most inappropriate situation to be drunk? Recast the new Jumanji series with 90's actors Find out, on The Bar Banter Podcast! About the Bar Banter Podcast Hosts: Ben Trimmer, Drew Mullis, Rick Mattison, Travis Jennings Producer: Travis Jennings Editor: Travis Jennings Songs: The Floor Is Lava · Avocado Junkie, 30 Seconds Of Funk - Slap Bass · PremiumProductionTracks, funky-fortune-154575,bounce-114024 Link to full podlink: https://pod.link/1615139311 Twitter: https://twitter.com/the_barbanter Instagram: the_barbanter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPoVzNf3gTXU2mYvseo7PDA/ #barbanter #drinkinggames #podcast #satire #beer #alcohol #spirits #bar #banter #argue #debate #funny #comedy #indy #drinking #popculture #social #cheers #lastcall #wouldyourather If you want to show your support for the show, now you can! Help us pay for our "Bar Tab" by clicking the link below! https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/barbanter/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/barbanter/support

Ça passe !Au bout du suspens, l'OGC Nice franchit le cap des 32èmes de finale de la Coupe de France, en éliminant l'AJ Auxerre aux tirs au but.Face aux pensionnaires de deuxième division, le Gym présentait un visage rajeuni avec de de nombreux éléments issus du centre de formation ou généralement cantonnés au banc de touche. Pas de quoi enrayer la machine Farioli, globalement dominatrice tout au long de la rencontre et qui n'aura pêché, comme à son habitude, que par manque de réalisme devant les buts.Tout au long de l'émission, nous évoquons aussi largement les besoins identifiés par le board pour renforcer l'effectif niçois et plus particulièrement la dernière rumeur en date menant à Florian Thauvin. Émission enregistrée le 7 janvier avec Sky, Jérémy et AlrickRetrouvez Avanti Nissa sur votre plateforme ou votre réseau social favori Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.

Forceps assisted birth increases the risk of OASI (obstetric anal sphincter injury) significantly. Dr. Muraca breaks down her doctoral research on instrumental assisted birth to help provide informed consent for everyone giving birth. Being informed can help decrease the risk of injury.  Dr. Guilia Muraca is a perinatal epidemiologist and an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact at McMaster University.  Her research uses epidemiologic approaches to identify optimal intervention rates in birth  (e.g., cesarean delivery rate, induction rate) that minimize the frequency of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes (e.g., postpartum hemorrhage, obstetric anal sphincter injury, maternal sepsis, neonatal sepsis, birth injury).  Dr. Muraca's research program at McMaster University aims to produce evidence to support enhanced safety and satisfaction in the care of pregnant individuals and their children, with emphasis on care quality, accessibility and equity. Dr. Muraca Shares: How commonplace are forceps births?  What is the impact on the pelvic floor and long term issues with prolapse and incontinence after instrumental assisted birth?  Dr. Muraca's research has discovered that rates of trauma after Operative Vaginal Deliveries is higher than previously reported - let's dive into that.  What are some changes that could be made to make operative vaginal deliveries safer?  What are your thoughts on our rising cesarean birth rates? Factors at play? Concerns you may have, if any?  What do you wish more people knew about birth and recovery?  What are the biggest changes you would like to see made to the current state of obstetrics in Canada?  Asian-White disparities in obstetric anal sphincter injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis: 39% of women experience fecal incontinence after 3rd or 4th degree tearing (aka Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI). Your research showed that there is an increased risk from women who identify as Asian race vs White. Let's talk about why.   Show Notes:  For more of Dr. Muraca, please visit www.giuliamuraca.com X handles: @giuliamuraca1; @PERLLabMac

In today's episode, Chloe explains her choice to have public hospital pregnancy care so she could spend money on allied health services in postpartum. It was a choice that served her incredibly well as she had significant breastfeeding challenges and opted for at-home support from a GP + IBCLC specialising in perinatal health. Towards the end of her pregnancy, Chloe had multiple scans to check her baby's growth and when an induction was suggested, she used the BRAIN decision-making model to assist her. Despite the fact that her labour and birth wasn't what she planned, she felt like she had agency every step of the way and looks back with fondness on her experience because she felt heard, respected and supported (the foundations of a positive birth). ____________________________________ Check out  - our empowering, evidence based online birth education program that will help you confidently prepare for a positive birth experience.

The Positive Side of Forced Deliveries: Embracing Birth with Forceps Childbirth is a remarkable journey that brings forth new life and creates an everlasting bond between a mother and her baby. While the majority of births occur naturally, there are instances when medical intervention becomes necessary to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. One such intervention is the use of forceps during delivery. In this episode, we explore the positive aspects of assisted vaginal deliveries when forceps are used skillfully, highlighting the immense benefits they can bring to the birthing process. Understanding Forced Deliveries and Forceps: A forcep delivery, also known as an operative vaginal delivery, refers to a situation where the use of instruments is required to assist in the birth of a baby. Forceps, a specialized tool consisting of two curved metal blades, are used by medical professionals to gently guide the baby's head through the birth canal during contractions. They are designed to mimic the hands of a skilled practitioner and offer an external aid to help facilitate the birthing process. Preserving Maternal and Fetal Well-being: Forceps-assisted deliveries can be a lifesaving measure for both mother and baby. In cases where the baby's heart rate shows signs of distress or the mother's health is at risk, the use of forceps allows for a quicker and safer delivery. By carefully applying forceps, the obstetrician can effectively navigate through complications such as prolonged labor, exhaustion, or fetal distress, ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and child. Minimizing the Need for Cesarean Sections: One of the significant advantages of forceps-assisted deliveries is their potential to reduce the need for cesarean sections (C-sections). When used correctly, forceps can help guide the baby's descent, encouraging a vaginal delivery even in challenging circumstances. This is particularly beneficial for mothers who wish to avoid the risks associated with major surgery and recover more quickly postpartum. By opting for forceps-assisted deliveries, the chances of a successful vaginal birth increase, providing a positive birth experience for the mother. Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Birth Trauma: The skillful application of forceps can expedite the birthing process, shortening the duration of labor and reducing the need for interventions such as oxytocin augmentation. This not only saves time but also helps minimize the exhaustion experienced by the mother during prolonged labor. Additionally, by facilitating a quicker delivery, forceps can decrease the potential risks associated with prolonged compression of the baby's head, lowering the likelihood of birth trauma and related complications. Empowering Obstetricians and Improving Training: Forceps-assisted deliveries require a high level of skill and expertise from the attending obstetrician. By promoting the utilization of forceps, we encourage the medical community to further refine their techniques and gain proficiency in this valuable tool. This leads to continuous improvement in training programs, fostering a generation of obstetricians who are adept at managing complex deliveries and making informed decisions regarding the use of forceps. Forcep deliveries, when used skillfully, can be a positive approach to birth, benefiting both mothers and babies alike. By preserving maternal and fetal well-being, minimizing the need for cesarean sections, enhancing efficiency, and empowering obstetricians, forceps-assisted deliveries play a vital role in ensuring safe and successful childbirth. While it is essential to remember that each birthing situation is unique, understanding the potential benefits of forceps helps create a more holistic and informed view of operative vaginal deliveries. Through continued research, education, and collaboration between medical professionals and expectant parents, we can foster an environment that prioritizes the well-being and positive outcomes of both mother and child during childbirth. Our practice website can be found at: Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/ Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Please consider leaving us a review.  Send us an email with your feedback at info@maternalresources.org Our Social Channels are as follows Twitter: https://twitter.com/integrativeob YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/maternalresources IG: https://www.instagram.com/integrativeobgyn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeOB  

Rachel Campbell is a mom, doula, and leader in her local community. In this episode, she shares her two medicated hospital birth stories with her daughter and son. In this episode, we cover: Rachel's first birth, which was marked by a failed epidural, an extended pushing period, and a forceps-assisted delivery Her complicated postpartum period, which included an infection and difficult healing journey with a severe tear Rachel's second birth, which was remarkably similar to her first, but with a very different redemptive outcome Advocating for yourself with providers postpartum and taking care of your own medical needs, even when it seems like other people are not taking your concerns seriously A brief chat about the use of an SSRI medication to manage postpartum depression A doula chat with Heidi and Rachel about tips for staying hydrated during pregnancy, especially during hot weather XOXO -Heidi Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 off Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I'm Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I've supported the births of over a thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I'll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will often hear from many of the top experts in pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the sacred postpartum period. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

Obstetrical forceps have played a significant role in the history of childbirth assistance, but their use has declined in recent decades. One reason for this decline is the complexity and skill required to effectively and safely use forceps. Mastering the technique of forceps delivery requires extensive training and experience. The risk of complications increases when forceps are not applied correctly. As a result, the medical community has shifted towards alternative methods, such as vacuum extraction and cesarean sections, which are considered safer and more accessible for most healthcare providers. While forceps still have their place in specific situations, their limited use is due to the challenges associated with mastering their application For centuries, obstetrical forceps were hailed as an essential tool in aiding childbirth. Developed in the 16th century, these spoon-shaped instruments provided a means to safely extract a baby when the mother encountered complications during labor. Skilled practitioners utilized their expertise to maneuver the forceps with precision, ensuring the safe delivery of the infant. Several factors have contributed to the diminishing use of obstetrical forceps in contemporary childbirth. First and foremost, advances in medical technology have led to the development of alternative methods that provide safer and more controlled delivery options. Vacuum extraction and cesarean sections have become more prevalent, reducing the need for forceps-assisted deliveries. Obstetrical forceps, once a cornerstone of childbirth assistance, have gradually become a rarity in modern delivery rooms. Advances in medical technology, changing philosophies surrounding childbirth, and the emergence of alternative methods have contributed to their decline. While the art of using obstetrical forceps may be fading into history, it is a testament to the remarkable progress made in ensuring safer and more personalized birthing experiences. As we embrace these advancements, we honor the past and look forward to a future where every birth is a cherished and protected journey.   Our practice website can be found at: Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/ Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.  Please consider leaving us a review.  Send us an email with your feedback at info@maternalresources.org Our Social Channels are as follows Twitter: https://twitter.com/integrativeob YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/maternalresources IG: https://www.instagram.com/integrativeobgyn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeOB  

You can hear Carla's first birth in episode 188 which was a long labour and an emergency caesarean. Determined to achieve a VBAC for her second birth, she had a private obstetrician (known as the ‘VBAC queen') and a private midwife to ensure she had support at home and advocacy in the hospital. She laboured beautifully but her second stage was long and challenging and ended in a forceps-assisted birth and a week in hospital as her baby boy developed sepsis. For her third birth, Carla knew from the outset that she wanted the healing experience of a homebirth so she rallied her support system and achieved a dream labour, birth and postpartum experience.  --------------------- Prepare for a positive birth experience with my new book .

In this episode Amber takes us through her first pregnancy with the professional insight of ten years experience as a midwife. Determined to access continuity of care in a public hospital, she developed a beautiful sense of trust with her midwife, embraced birth preparation and actively planned her postpartum. When her hind waters started leaking she was devastated because she knew an induction was likely. Three days later her forewaters broke, induction began and she laboured beautifully all day but with the urge to push, her cervix became swollen and she requested an epidural. She was in theatre preparing for an emergency caesarean when the obstetrician confirmed she was fully dilated and baby Winter was born with forceps assistance. Unfortunately Amber knew she was at high risk for a postpartum haemorrhage but the severity of it left her very traumatised and significantly impacted her early breastfeeding experience.  --------------------- Prepare for a positive birth experience with my new book .

 May 19, 2023 Mark, Ray, and Scott talk about a question Dr. John Lin asked on a recent Noridian Mac Call about billing a Modifier -78 with POS 11 (hear the recording on the Thriving Urology Facebook Group).  Also, they answer 3 questions that came into the Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group.Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Evaluation of LEFT Distal Ureter:How would you code this? dr put 50949. Hello,We have a question for your regarding ADT injections/visits for:Eligard injection- HCPCS: J9217Camcevi injection-HCPCS: J1952We have recently hired an experienced NP to launch an Advanced Prostate Clinic. For our pts on ADT therapy, can they be seen by our NP and bill a level 3 or 4 office visit as she will be discussing bone health, sexual health, and incontinence issues?What are other clinics doing nationwide for this type of visit and what is appropriate/recommended? Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.I really enjoy your webinars, thank you so much for providing this service![To clarify, this would be for an E/M and therapeutic injection (ADT) in the same visit? ]Thank you,RileyIs there a cpt code for removal of a urethral stone using forceps, no cysto involved?  Every code I see is for cysto with removal. Can we bill a 52310 with a modifier 52 for reduced services? Or should we use unlisted code 53899?  Thank you! PRS Network Monthly Webinar Series Recordings:Maximizing Income and Efficiencies for Urology PracticesRegister for Entire Webinar Series - Free*Registration Now Open: Urology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement SeminarClick Here to Register Now  Las Vegas, December 1&2, 20238 am - 4:30 pm Friday, 8 am - 3:30 pm SaturdayReserve your spot and save!As a Urology Coding and Reimbursement Podcast listener, you get access to a discount (limited-time offer).Use code: 24UACRS733Get signed up today and get peace of mind knowing you will be prepared for all the upcoming changes.Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom.Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com 

In this episode, we discuss several new articles, including evidence about operative delivery in obese women, lactation, cookies, propranolol for labor arrest. We also discuss virgin birth in America, whether to place IUD's early in women who have had chorioamnionitis, and the history of hand-washing. Featuring guest co-host Jamie Perry, MD. 

It's time for our monthly Q&A episode with your Down to Birth Show hosts Cynthia & Trisha. After a quick chat about the brutally cold weather (how unoriginal), we jump right into our listener-submitted questions beginning with: How important or helpful is body-work for tongue-tied babies?Is there ever a legit reason for a cervical check in late pregnancy?When exclusively breastfeeding, when should you introduce a bottle and start saving milk for going back to work?What supplements should you take in pregnancy, particularly related to iodine?Can you take a bath postpartum after a vaginal birth?How do you manage boundaries and visits with family who uses harmful and excessive fragrances in their home?Should I have a medicated birth in case I tear? My OB suggested the idea. My OB said I should abstain from sex because I have a placenta previa. Is this true?And in the ad-free, extended version for our Patreon and Apple Subscribers, we answer a question about newborn transition, difficulty breathing and delayed cord clamping; the use of forceps and whether or not they are ever needed; the idea of ovulatory cycles and just how much "lifetime" ovulation is optimal; placenta accreta and how likely it is to recur, and more. Finally, we give our input on one woman's concern about her 16 month old breastfeeding "too much", according to her pediatrician.And, of course, we close out with a great round of quickies...be sure to catch the last one and don't be shy on sending us your guilty pleasures!Trisha's Pear Recipe:1-2 pears sliced or diced1 teaspoon of olive oil1 whole fresh squeezed limePink sea saltTouch of honey to tasteDown to Birth is sponsored by:Love Majka ProductsSilverette Nursing CupsPostpartum Soothe**********Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.comInstagram @downtobirthshowCall us at 802-GET-DOWN Work with Cynthia: 203-952-7299 HypnoBirthingCT.com Work with Trisha: 734-649-6294 Please remember we don't provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Jen is very much a type A personality. She loves to plan way in advance of events taking place. Even with all of her planning, she still wasn't prepared for how her first birth went. Her daughter was stuck and delivered by forceps. She had her clavicle broken in the process of being delivered. Jen ended up with a third degree episiotomy, and needed a lot of time to recover. Jen spent a few extra days in the hospital because she couldn't get out of bed. She needed extra help for her baby, so that her husband could help with her. She needed two additional surgeries to repair a fistula that resulted from her episiotomy. It was a traumatic experience for both Jen and her daughter. For Jen's second birth with her son, she opted for a scheduled c-section, and she loved it. For someone who is a type A personality, it was easier for her to plan this birth, and everything went smoothly. Her recovery was much easier compared to her vaginal birth. In this episode, Jen shares how she gladly accepted help after her first birth, and despite how unpredictable birth is, help and support is one thing that you can plan for. JenSalk.comLaborLessons.comEnjoy listening to Labor Lessons? Leave a review here! Let me know what your favorite episode is and why!Follow me on Instagram: Labor LessonsDisclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In today's podcast, we talk with Laurisa Paul, a Registered Nurse, EBB Pro Member and founder of Girls Who Know® about her journey towards teaching girls what they need to know and respect about their bodies.   Laurisa was the winner of our EBB Pro Member September Circle Community challenge, where she won the opportunity to have her work featured on the podcast. I am excited to share my conversation with Laurisa where she talks about her passion for helping others love themselves fully and feel their inherent worth and power. Laurisa resides in Texas where she is a mother of five and an outdoor adventurer. Medically trained, Laurisa stumbled across home birth when she was actively seeking to improve her own birth experiences and since then she has worked as a midwife assistant.   Laurisa is a mother of five, a writer, a Registered Nurse, home-birther and midwife advocate. She has a deep passion for diversity and a profound respect for people and their story. She is a lover of outdoor adventure and dreams of being a world traveler and story catcher.    In this episode, she discusses her own journey to motherhood and the experiences from her five births, ranging from high intervention births in a hospital to unmedicated and low intervention homebirths. Each experience shaped who she has become as a mother and as a nurse catapulting Laurisa into her passion of working with the next generation and educating high school students about the physiology of birth, not just how to prevent pregnancy. Laurisa is the founder of the organization Girls Who Know, which inspires girls to love who they are and to know and respect their bodies. Girls Who Know prepares girls with what they need to know to make courageous, informed decisions for their lives.   Content Warning: use of forceps & vacuum, episiotomy, forced to push on back, obstetric violence, trauma, suffering, postpartum hemorrhage, gendered language, discussion of a fatal motor vehicle crash Resources:  Check out Laurisa's organization Girls Who Know® here  Follow Laurisa on social media via Instagram here and her Facebook here  Go to our YouTube channel to see video versions of the episode listed above!! For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth®, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on:  TikTok Instagram Pinterest Ready to get involved?  Check out our Professional membership (including scholarship options) here  Find an EBB Instructor here  Click here to learn more about the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class.

In honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sarah shares her experience with breast cancer diagnosis in her second pregnancy. She urges everyone to check their breasts regularly because it was only when she was massaging stretch mark cream into her breast at 28 weeks that she felt a lump. An ultrasound showed a tumour and a biopsy confirmed she had stage 3 invasive ductal carcinoma; a triple positive cancer that feeds off hormones. She birthed her baby at 35 weeks and one week later, she started chemotherapy. Sarah is currently halfway through six rounds of chemotherapy and her baby, Pearl, is eight weeks old. She is particularly optimistic despite her fear and feels a responsibility to share her story and raise awareness.

Have you ever thought about what position you would like to use to give birth? Most movies and television series depict birthing positions such as back-lying or semi-sitting in bed. But many people, if given the choice, instinctively choose a more upright position for birthing their baby—such as hands-and-knees, squatting, or kneeling. What is the evidence on the different positions that can be used to help push your baby out? And why are the lying or semi-sitting positions so frequently recommended (or even required) in hospital settings? Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker, the founder of Evidence Based Birth, as we explore in-depth evidence on this topic! To learn more about the research on this topic, and to download a free 1-page handout, visit ebbirth.com/birthingpositions. This podcast is also posted on our YouTube channel in case you want to access the video. Content Note: perineal tears, the lithotomy position, forceps and vacuum deliveries, and obstetric violence related to being coerced or forced to push and deliver on your back.   Resources: For a full list of scientific references, see the blog post that goes along with this episode Check out our Signature Article and download our 1-page handout... Evidence on: Birthing Positions  Other relevant episodes: EBB 196: Pelvic Biomechanics and Movement in Labor EBB 221: Birthing Positions and Tried-and-True Midwifery Practices EBB Podcast Series on Protecting the Perineum EBB 224: Failure to Progress or Failure to Wait To listen to stories from parents who switched providers after learning the evidence, visit EBB Podcast episodes #127, 186, 208, 223, and 231 For more information and news about Evidence Based Birth, visit www.ebbirth.com. Find us on: TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@ebbirth) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ebbirth/ ), and Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/ebbirth/ ). Ready to get involved? Check out our Professional membership (including scholarship options) (https://evidencebasedbirth.com/become-pro-member/ ). Find an EBB Instructor here (https://evidencebasedbirth.com/find-an-instructor-parents/ ), Click here (https://evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirth-class/ ) to learn more about the Evidence Based Birth  Childbirth Class.

Episode 180: Ear Forceps The Gaylords celebrate MAMAMOO's new comeback with…Umma (2022)! Stacie and Anthony dive into moms vs mothers, gay vampires, salon grifts, and chair f*cking before another new Chopping Block. Find out more at https://gaylords-of-darkness.pinecast.co

In episode 330 I interview Avril about her two birth experiences under private obstetric care. Her first baby was diagnosed with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and after weekly ultrasounds from 30 weeks, she opted to be induced at 38 weeks. Following hours of posterior labour, she chose to have an epidural and because of her baby's posterior position and deflexed head, a forceps-assisted birth was necessary. Avril had a postpartum haemorrhage and was diagnosed with a prolapse, both of which contributed to birth trauma. Her second birth was a positive induction where she advocated for what she wanted; a slow release syntocinon drip and a light epidural so she had more awareness and control while birthing.

Today's episode is a little different in that my friend, Jodi, interviews me about my first pregnancy and birth. My pregnancy was really straightforward and I chose midwifery care in a birth centre. I had every intention of experiencing an intervention-free vaginal birth but in retrospect, I can see that I didn't do enough mental or physical preparation, hence why I created The Birth Class.