Podcasts about labor and delivery

What actually happens during a home birth?In part two of this Home Birth 101 conversation, Dr. Morgan walks through what makes home birth safe, the role of midwives, what labor looks like at home, when transfers happen, newborn care, cost considerations, and how to prepare physically and mentally.If you've ever wondered what home birth looks like behind the scenes, or what happens if things don't go according to plan, this episode gives you the practical breakdown.00:00 Trailer + Introduction01:26 What Makes Home Birth Safe?06:36 Different Types of Midwives Explained11:56 Why Candidate Selection Matters15:11 What Actually Happens During a Home Birth20:56 Common Reasons for Hospital Transfer26:11 Emergency vs Non-Emergency Transfers29:06 Newborn Care After Home Birth33:46 Finding the Right Midwife39:36 Home Birth Cost & Insurance45:41 Birth Prep & Classes51:56 Managing Labor Pain at Home57:46 Common Home Birth Fears1:01:36 Final Thoughts: Is Home Birth Right for You?Resources From This Episode:Birthing from Within bookBradley MethodHypnobirthing40 Blinks EyemaskNew Earth Mama Spotify PlaylistOther Related Episodes:Birth Plan EpisodeBirth Episode PlaylistHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

Dr. Carole Keim takes listeners through one of the earliest and most important decisions in pregnancy: choosing the right support team. In this solo episode, she explains the differences between obstetricians, certified nurse midwives, and doulas, helping parents understand the unique role each plays during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. Dr. Keim also walks through the typical timeline of prenatal visits, ultrasounds, testing, and vaccines, giving expectant parents a practical overview of what to expect from the first positive pregnancy test through delivery. With her warm and reassuring approach, Dr. Keim also explores what labor and birth are really like beyond what's often portrayed in movies. She discusses birth plans, labor support, cervical checks, fetal monitoring, inductions, C-sections, and postpartum healing, while emphasizing that every pregnancy and birth experience is different. Parents will come away with a clearer understanding of how to build a supportive birth team and how to prepare emotionally and physically for welcoming a new baby.  Key Moments 00:00 Introduction to OBs, midwives, and doulas 02:17 Pregnancy tests and scheduling the first prenatal appointment 03:35 The 8–12 week visit, ultrasounds, and viability checks 05:35 The 20-week anatomy scan and fetal development 07:53 Glucose tolerance testing and gestational diabetes screening 10:16 Vaccines during pregnancy: Tdap, flu, COVID, and RSV 12:29 Breech babies, turning procedures, and planned C-sections 14:58 Routine late pregnancy visits and induction discussions 16:15 Certified nurse midwives vs obstetricians 20:07 What doulas do during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum 24:23 Birth plans, labor positions, and creating a calming environment 27:13 Labor monitoring, cervical checks, and delivery interventions 31:59 Postpartum healing, recovery, and spacing pregnancies 35:23 Final thoughts and additional resources for parents __ How to choose an OB or midwife  OBs, family doctors, and midwives can deliver babies Group practices are pretty standard nowadays; meet your main doctor/midwife but also meet the team who might be delivering (either other people in the office or a laborist) Personality fit is a big deal Obstetricians and family doctors are medical doctors.  Their training involves 4 years of undergrad, 4 years of medical school, and 4 years of residency (12 years total). There are two types of midwives: lay midwives and CNMs. Lay midwives are those who have experience delivering low-risk babies out of the hospital, typically at home.  They have no certification or licensure requirements, and no formal medical training.  Home births with a lay midwife are by far the most dangerous and I have seen some bad outcomes and cannot ethically support them.  When I speak about midwives during this episode, I am not including lay midwives. CNMs are required to have a bachelor's degree in nursing (4 years of undergrad), then 2 years of graduate-level nurse midwife training (6 years total). The main differences are the knowledge base and the approach to care. Doctors Nurses OBs, family doctors, and midwives can see you during your pregnancy and can deliver babies vaginally. Only OBs can perform c sections and take care of high-risk pregnancies (moms under 18yrs or over 35 years, those with health conditions, those with prior c-section, twins/triplets Birth location OBs deliver in hospitals because it is the safest setting Midwives can deliver at hospitals, birth centers, and/or at home depending on the local regulations Timing of appointments   In the US, the number of weeks starts at the beginning of your last period, so when you miss a period and test you are 4 weeks pregnant Ovulation and fertilization happen at 2 weeks, so you aren't actually pregnant until then, but we are counting from LMP In the US, the due date is at 40 weeks In other countries they may count dates starting at conception/ovulation, so the due date is at 38 weeks Initial appt: 6-8 weeks or whenever you find out you're pregnant, whichever is later First trimester (until 12 weeks and 6 days): you'll be seen 2-3x; initial confirmation appt, 6-8 weeks for dating, 10-12 weeks for NIPT. Blood testing and urine testing for STIs, drugs, ultrasound for dates, hear heartbeat, NIPT (check out the genetics episode 503) Second trimester (13 0/7 to 27 6/7): appts about every other week, anatomy scan, testing for gestational diabetes, further genetic testing and/or ultrasounds if indicated. Third trimester (28-40 weeks): appointments every 2 weeks, then weekly starting at 38 weeks.  Check urine for protein (a sign of pre eclampsia) at each visit.  GBS screen.  RPR on admission to hospital. Postpartum: 2 weeks and 6 weeks High-risk pregnancies will be seen more often.  A pregnancy can become high risk at any time. Doula What they can do: emotional support, physical comfort during labor and delivery. What they can't do: anything medical, including deliver babies. Reasons you might want one: to keep you as comfortable as possible during labor; they can get you food/water/ice chips, rub your feet or neck if you want, call the nurse for you, crowd control, can articulate your preferences while you're in labor, possibly also attending to partner during delivery Reasons you might not want one: expense, privacy, not needed if you have a support person Birthing options / Birth plans Birth plans How you want your birth experience to be Birth is a very tenuous process and doesn't always go according to plan.  A birth plan is a nice outline of preferences, if you have any. If you are planning a vaginal delivery, keep in mind that your birth team has the main objective of having a healthy mom and baby.  If your provider says that something needs to change during labor or delivery, there is usually a medical safety reason for that change. Scheduled C-Sections Reasons you might be scheduled for a C-section: repeat, breech baby, twins/triplets, high risk for underlying medical conditions in you or the baby.  Scheduled C-sections typically have a shorter birth plan: music in the operating room one support person in there with you will the support person go with the baby or stay with mom when the C-section is over? Even if you're scheduled for a C-section, you might go into labor early and need an urgent or emergent C-section before the scheduled date. Scheduled inductions  Reasons you might be scheduled: post dates, pre eclampsia, gestational diabetes, specific high-risk pregnancy reasons There are a few ways to induce labor, including medication taken by mouth or placed in the vagina to help open the cervix, IV medication called pitocin which causes your uterus to contract, and placing something such as a stick that absorbs fluid and expands or a balloon that is placed by your provider in the cervix to help it open Less to plan, but the same as for vaginal delivery. Mixed evidence as to whether scheduled inductions are more or less likely to end in C-section Vaginal delivery If you fully go into labor naturally, meaning you have contractions every 3-5 minutes lasting 1 minute each and your water breaks, you may need no intervention at all. Areas to plan: People who will be there Environment: music, smells, lighting, etc Comfort measures / pain relief - birth ball, shower, tub, squat bar, etc Words to use or to avoid Position for labor/delivery Mirror during delivery Plans for the placenta Newborn procedures: skin to skin, eye drops, vitamin K, Hep B, circumcision, timing of first bath, breast/bottle/both Who is allowed after baby is born and how they will be notified Check out The Baby Manual on Amazon.  It will give you peace of mind when your new baby arrives.   __  Resources discussed in this episode: The Holistic Mamas Handbook is available on Amazon The Baby Manual is also available on Amazon __ Contact Dr. Carole Keim MD Website: CaroleKeim.com Linktree TikTok Instagram   ---FullScriptUse this link to get 10% off and free shipping for orders over $50.HIRO DiapersUse code DRCAROLEKEIM for a discount at checkout. Click here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thinking about a home birth but unsure whether it's actually safe?In part one of this Home Birth 101 series, Dr. Morgan breaks down the biggest myths around home birth, who is actually a good candidate, why some women choose home birth over hospital birth, and what the research says about safety outcomes for low-risk pregnancies.We also unpack intervention rates, C-sections, epidurals, transfers, and why birth environment matters more than most people realize.If you've been curious about home birth but overwhelmed by fear-based messaging, this episode is a must-listen.00:00 Introduction + Trailer02:39 Why We Needed a Home Birth Episode09:05 What We're Covering in This Series09:54 Home Birth vs Birth Center vs Hospital Birth13:19 Why Women Choose Home Birth20:09 Who Is a Good Candidate for Home Birth?23:05 The Mindset Required for Home Birth26:32 COVID & The Shift Toward Home Birth28:09 Is Home Birth Actually Safe?36:47 What Research Says About Home Birth Outcomes44:37 Part 1 Wrap-UpResources From This Episode:Maternal Outcomes StudyOther Related Episodes:Dr. Morgan's First Three Home Birth StoriesDr. Morgan's 4th Birth StoryDr. Leah's 1st Birth StoryDr. Leah's 2nd Birth StoryEverything You Need to Know About Hospital Birth with Care MesserHow Breech Birth Exposes Hospital Dysfunction with Dr. Stuart FischbeinHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

In this powerful conversation, Brooke sits down with birth educator, doula trainer, clinical hypnotherapist, and founder of Nurture, Erica Paulson, to discuss the often-overlooked connection between your nervous system and your birth experience. Together, they explore why birth is not just a physical event, but a whole-body experience that involves your emotions, past experiences, beliefs, stress levels, support system, and sense of safety. Erica shares how her own birth experiences transformed her understanding of labor and ultimately led her to help thousands of women prepare for birth from a more holistic perspective. You'll learn why emotional safety matters just as much as physical safety, how fear and stress can influence labor progression and pain perception, why oxytocin is one of the most important hormones in birth, and how choosing the right care team can dramatically impact your experience. Whether you're preparing for your first baby or hoping for a different experience this time around, this episode will help you rethink birth preparation through the lens of nervous system regulation, self-advocacy, and trust in your body's design.   Click HERE to access the show notes for this episode and learn more about Erica Paulson, and where you can find all things Nurture

In this candid life update, Leah and Morgan share the highs, lows, and unexpected twists they've been navigating behind the scenes. Leah opens up about the emotional weight of supporting fertility patients through both pregnancies and losses, her husband's exciting startup milestone, and how the "Chinese bamboo tree" analogy is reshaping her perspective on purpose, patience, and growth. Morgan shares a challenging pregnancy season filled with health scares, a surprising viral infection, a powerful experience supporting a home birth, and a frightening family medical emergency involving her father. Together, they explore motherhood, identity, business, resilience, and what it means to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming.00:00 Trailer: High Highs, Low Lows & Life Updates00:43 Why We Love Life Update Episodes05:28 The Emotional Weight of Fertility Care09:58 Looking Beyond Root Causes: The Bigger Infertility Crisis12:13 Startup Wins & A New Season of Life14:13 The Chinese Bamboo Tree Lesson on Patience18:43 Growing a Podcast Without Clickbait20:43 Work, Motherhood & Identity Shifts24:43 Toddler Sleep, Nursing & Parenting Updates26:58 The Dream Life Formula & Becoming Your Future Self30:43 Morgan's Pregnancy Challenges Begin31:43 Bee Stings, Swelling & Pregnancy Surprises36:43 A Painful HSV Infection & Health Scare41:13 The Doctor Who Showed Up When It Mattered Most44:28 Missing the Dance Recital for a Birth47:28 Supporting a Long Labor & Hospital Transfer53:13 Baby Archer Arrives54:33 A Family Emergency: Dad's ICU Stay01:01:13 Navigating Stress, Caregiving & Pregnancy01:05:43 Preparing for Baby #3 & Summer Plans01:09:28 Therapy, Support Systems & Looking Ahead01:10:43 Final Thoughts & OutroHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at EarthleyUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHERUse code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

In this episode of the Twiniversity Podcast, Natalie talks with Maddie Rahlf, a twin mom of three girls, about the "double whammy" delivery - giving birth to one twin vaginally and the other by C-section in the very same hour. Maddie shares how her twins were a complete surprise - a natural, spontaneous twin conception with no twins in the family, discovered at her 12-week ultrasound - and how reading Nat's book helped her find solid ground once the shock wore off. Because Baby B had a marginal cord insertion and was measuring under the 10th percentile, Maddie's pregnancy included weekly maternal fetal medicine (MFM) monitoring and an induction at 36 weeks. Natalie and Maddie walk through the delivery almost minute by minute: an easy vaginal birth for Baby A after only a few pushes, Baby B flipping transverse the moment she had the womb to herself, the attempts to turn her, a cervix that closed back up, and the placenta concern that finally made a C-section the safest call. Then comes the twist - it was Baby A, the vaginally delivered twin, who ended up in the NICU on CPAP, while Baby B stayed right with mom. The conversation also gets into recovering from a vaginal birth and major abdominal surgery at the same time, the empowerment of being given the choice to try for a vaginal delivery, and Nat's "use your BRAIN" framework (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, Nothing) for making decisions in the moment. Maddie's biggest takeaway: if it happens, it happens - you figure it out one day at a time, and you'll have a pretty cool story to tell. This episode is a reassuring, myth-busting conversation for any twin parent who feels anxious about the possibility of a double whammy delivery. EPISODE THEMES

Kicking off the month of June, I'm sharing part two of my labor and delivery story. Things did not go as expected, resulting in a myriad of emotions as I began my journey into motherhood. I hope you listen to the end. I've re-lauched my Youtube channel! Subscribe and support! Link: https://www.youtube.com/@mylettersandlayers/videosAs always, please share and recommend, and thank you so much for the support!EMAIL: contact@thelettersandlayers.comPodcast Instagram! @thelettersandlayerspod. Give us a follow!I appreciate you!

What would you do if you were deep in labor and someone walked in and said it was time to talk about Pitocin, breaking your water, or maybe even a cesarean?I am you through the exact moment that catches most mamas completely off guard in the birth room (myself included, and I share about it), and the three questions that can slow everything down, get you the information you actually need, and help you make decisions from a place of confidence instead of fear.With my first baby, I was told we needed an emergency cesarean. And even in that moment of urgency, I wish I had known what I am sharing in this episode.That there is almost always time to ask questions. That a recommendation is not a requirement. That I had more say than I realized.This is the episode I wish every pregnant mama could hear before she ever walks into the birth room. It is not about being difficult or argumentative, it is about knowing how to gather information and make the best decision for you and your baby no matter what comes up during labor. I promise this will be an episode you will want to save and jot notes down from.Share it with your birth partner and listen together if you can!Here are some highlights from the episode:Why the toughest moment in labor is often not the intensity of the contractions and how to be ready for itThe one thing you can do when a recommendation comes up that immediately gives you more controlThe thoughts that run through every mama's mind when a big decision lands mid-labor and why you are not aloneQuestion #1 to ask your provider the moment a recommendation comes up, and what the answer tells youQuestion #2 that opens up a conversation most providers are not going to have with you unless you askQuestion #3 that turns a blanket recommendation into something specific to you and your situationWhy making decisions from confidence instead of fear has a real physiological effect on your laborHow to make sure your birth partner knows all three questions before you go into laborDon't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

I wanted to take the opportunity on this episode to recount the first part of my labor and delivery story, not just for my beloved audience but for myself, so I'm always able to come back and listen. I had to document this life-changing experience and what better place to do it than here? I hope you listen to the end.I've re-lauched my Youtube channel! Subscribe and support! Link: https://www.youtube.com/@mylettersandlayers/videosAs always, please share and recommend, and thank you so much for the support!EMAIL: contact@thelettersandlayers.comPodcast Instagram! @thelettersandlayerspod. Give us a follow!I appreciate you!

Pregnancy, Labor and Delivery, and Postpartum Care in Women with Cardiovascular Disease   Guest: Carl Rose, M.D. Guest: Katie Young, M.D. Guest: Katherine Arendt, M.D. Host: Marysia Tweet, M.D., M.S.   Where patients deliver babies matters, particularly for women with cardiac disease. In this episode, Dr. Marysia Tweet interviews three experts on CVD, OB, and anesthesia. High-risk centers provide 24/7 in-house obstetric anesthesia and multidisciplinary resources that support anticipatory planning and rapid response to obstetric, cardiovascular, and anesthesia emergencies during labor and delivery. Whenever possible, cardiac obstetric patients should be managed by a multidisciplinary Pregnancy Heart Team from preconception to delivery to optimize planning and outcomes.    Topics Discussed: Role of an obstetric anesthesiologist on a labor and delivery unit Coordination of cardiology, OB anesthesia, MFM, and nursing care during labor and delivery Cardiac indications for assisted vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery Telemetry and ICU level monitoring postpartum   Connect with Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Continuing Medical Education online at https://cveducation.mayo.edu or on Twitter @MayoClinicCV and @MayoCVservices. LinkedIn: Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular Services Cardiovascular Education App: The Mayo Clinic Cardiovascular CME App is an innovative educational platform that features cardiology-focused continuing medical education wherever and whenever you need it. Use this app to access other free content and browse upcoming courses. Download it for free in Apple or Google stores today! No CME credit offered for this episode.   Podcast episode transcript found here.   Recorded on: 19-February-2026

When our guest was born, her mom's labor was candles, olive oil, and vibes… Unfortunately, we didn't have the same experience. In this episode of The Mama's Den, we're getting real about childbirth — because between us, we've experienced a little bit of everything. The beautiful births. The “this is not what I planned” moments. The amazing providers… and the ones who had us like, wait, is this normal?! And if you've ever walked away from a birth experience feeling confused, dismissed, rushed, or just trying to make sense of what happened — you are not alone. We're joined by Certified Nurse Midwife Jyesha Wren, who breaks down what midwives actually do (spoiler: they don't just pop in at the end), how they differ from OBs and doulas, and why so many women — especially Black women — deserve more supportive, informed, and respectful care. In true Mama's Den fashion, we're sharing: • Our real childbirth stories — the highs, the surprises, and the “nobody told me THIS” moments • The myth vs. reality of birth (because it's not just crystals and calm breathing, okay?) • What midwives actually do — and why that level of care can change everything • The difference between midwives, OBs, and doulas • Why so many women leave birth feeling unheard — and what should be different • What to expect from your care team (and what you have every right to ask for) • How culturally aligned, community-centered care models are improving outcomes As Jyesha explains, midwifery is rooted in supporting birth as a natural process — while also knowing when to bring in medical care — creating a more balanced, human-centered experience.   This episode will have you laughing, nodding, side-eyeing your past experiences

What if the birth plan you worked so hard on… actually set you up for disappointment?Most moms spend hours researching, Googling templates, and checking every box, and still walk away from birth feeling blindsided, unprepared, or like the whole experience just happened to them.And it's not their fault. It's because nobody ever showed them what a birth plan is actually supposed to do, or the mistakes that quietly sabotage even the most prepared moms in the birth room.In this episode, I'm talking about the most common birth plan mistakes I see all the time, and more importantly, exactly what to do instead.Whether you're just starting to think about your birth plan or you already have one and something feels off, this episode is going to change the way you think about it completely.Here are some highlights from the episode:• Why the birth plan templates you find online might be working against you • The real reason birth plans fall flat when labor actually begins • Mistake #1: The mindset shift that changes how you approach your birth plan • Mistake #2: The powerful (and totally underused) way to use your birth plan before you ever step foot in a delivery room • Mistake #3: Why planning only for your ideal birth can leave you feeling lost when things shift • How to use your birth plan to learn something really important about your provider ahead of time • The free Birth Map download that makes the whole process feel so much easier: https://www.myessentialbirth.com/birthplanBirth doesn't have to go perfectly for you to walk away feeling incredible about your experience.What matters most is that you felt informed, understood your options, and had a voice every step of the way. I know you're going to love it, mama.Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

 In Jennifer Lincoln’s work as an obstetrics hospitalist, she met many new parents who were fearful and felt uninformed about the labor and delivery process, even when arriving at the hospital for their own births. She’s quick to note, however, that this gap in understanding isn’t due to patients being lazy, or their lack of interest in learning, but due to brief prenatal visits and the often overburdened system of maternal healthcare in the U.S.   A 2024 report by March of Dimes, a nonprofit focused on maternal and infant health, found that over 35% of counties in the U.S. are considered maternity care deserts, and labor and delivery units are being stretched thin, especially in rural areas.   Lincoln was finding that patients weren’t given enough time with their healthcare providers to dive into all questions about the complexities of the labor and delivery process, and often turned to resources like TikTok and Instagram to hear from other mothers and get their questions answered.  Her work as an obstetrician and ability to distill complex topics on reproductive and maternal care led Lincoln to write “The Birth Book: An OB-GYN’s Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery.” She joins us to discuss the book which covers the labor and delivery experience from prenatal visits to postpartum care.

We talk with Dr. Emily Donelan about how conflicting labor management guidelines can derail communication between nurses and physicians and quietly raise patient safety risks. We map the biggest friction points and lay out practical ways to reconcile guidance locally while pushing for a unified national approach. • defining “communication dystocia” and why guideline discrepancies create real bedside conflict • how evidence gaps drive teams toward institutional culture and inertia in practice • the ARRIVE trial as a case study in differing priorities and framing • a detailed induction vignette showing where amniotomy, oxytocin titration and uterine activity definitions collide • why the 20 mU/min oxytocin threshold persists and what newer data suggests • tachysystole rules, Category II tracings and how prescriptive language shapes nursing behavior • delayed pushing versus pushing at complete dilation and the moral distress it can create • the need for standardized evidence grading and cleaner citations across organizations • a national interprofessional reconciliation program and who must be at the table • one actionable step for tomorrow: stay curious and surface the real reason behind the disagreement Be sure to check out thinking about obgyn.com for more information and be sure to follow us on Instagram.0:01 Why Guideline Conflicts Matter3:52 The ARRIVE Trial Framing Problem12:23 A Labor Case Where Rules Collide24:08 Oxytocin Thresholds And Litigation Fear33:26 Pushing Timing And Moral Distress38:05 Who Should Write Unified Guidance44:04 Evidence Grading And Bedside Decisions52:05 Inertia In Practice And De-Implementation1:00:14 Takeaways Plus A No-Evidence Pet PeeveFollow us on Instagram @thinkingaboutobgyn.

In this episode, we're sitting down with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, OB-GYN and OB hospitalist, to talk about birth in the only way we know how... with a whole lot of honesty and oversharing. So many people go into labor thinking they know what to expect… and then everything feels confusing, fast, or completely different than what they had planned. We talk about what's actually normal, how decisions get made in the moment, and how to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed by it all. We Cover: What “normal labor” actually looks like (and why it's more flexible than you think). Breaking down the stages of labor, timelines, and variations so you understand what's typical, what's not, and why there's a wide range of normal when it comes to childbirth. How to advocate for yourself during labor and delivery in a medical system that can feel overwhelming. What informed consent really means, how to ask questions, and how to feel more in control of your birth experience even in high-pressure or emergency situations. The biggest myths about birth and pregnancy on social media (and what's actually evidence-based). Separating fear-based narratives and misinformation from real medical guidance so you can make decisions rooted in facts, not that random TikTok you saw while doom scrolling. Your options during labor: inductions, C-sections, epidurals, and everything in between. A clear, judgment-free breakdown of common interventions, what they involve, and how to decide what's right for you and your body. What happens when things don't go according to plan (and how to navigate unexpected outcomes). Understanding complications, emergency scenarios, and how to mentally and emotionally prepare for the unpredictable nature of birth. How to approach decision-making when labor isn't progressing as expected. Exploring how providers assess labor in real time, what “not progressing” actually means, and how to stay informed instead of rushed or pressured. Why so many people still feel unprepared for birth (even after doing all the research). How overwhelming information, lack of clear guidance, and mixed messaging can still leave you feeling unsure going into labor. Connect with Dr. Lincoln by buying "The Birth Book" and following her in Instagram. Learn more about 1:1 coaching HERE!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Get Honeydew Me Merch HERE!⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When preparing for birth, many mamas focus on physical preparedness, which makes sense! Putting together a nursery and the perfect registry list is a lot of fun. But labor can be a long, physical task that requires mental perseverance. Surprise guest host and running coach in the Expecting and Empowered app, Abby Green, joins Amy to discuss why preparing your mind is just as important, no matter your birth plan. Amy shares her experience giving birth unmedicated three times and the types of resources she utilized to prepare mentally. Gathering information from several sources helped her wrap her mind around what that unmedicated birth looked like and found it gave her immense encouragement. As a final preparation before every birth, Amy wrote a letter to herself. Words of affirmation, encouragement, and self-love set the tone for her upcoming labors. Whether a letter, detailed birth plan, or mantras feels like what's right for you, the takeaway is setting aside that time to prepare mentally for the journey ahead of childbirth. Amy also emphasizes that preparing your birth partner is key as well. Your birth partner will feel more equipped mentally and physically to know how to best encourage you and reassure you if they know what to expect during the birthing process! If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us @expectingandempowered. As we like to say, knowledge is power, and we just really want to give more people the information that they may need on their childbirth journey!The Birth Partner 5th Edition…The Birth Hour PodcastA few birth story episodes...E + E Podcast Episode 3: Amy Kiefer's Empowering Unmedicated Hospital Birth (Baby #1)E + E Podcast Episode 5: Molly Chesterson's Positive Planned Induction for Baby #3E + E Podcast Episode 10: Krystle And so many more can be found on our website's podcast catalog! Expecting and Empowered Labor Positions FreebieLinks & ResourcesExpecting and Empowered App - Enter code 'PODCAST25' at checkoutExpecting and Empowered WebsiteExpecting and Empowered InstagramThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

What would you do if your baby came so fast… your husband hadn't even had his morning coffee yet?Veronica planned a home birth... she just didn't plan for it to look like this: her husband catching their daughter in their bedroom, the midwife and doula still an hour away, and a baby who had absolutely no interest in waiting for anyone.And she definitely didn't plan for her placenta to be so rare that a midwife with YEARS of experience had never seen anything like it...... Or for that same placenta to be the very reason her intuition had been telling her the entire birth: do not let anyone touch me.This episode is one of the most complete birth stories I've ever had on the podcast.We are talking about the full journey:✅ The mindset work leading up to her birth✅ The daily prep (including how her toddler held her accountable to her exercises!) ✅ The birth itself (minute by minute, because you need every detail), and what happened after✅ The post-birth matrescence that I think every single person who loves a pregnant woman needs to hearVeronica came into her second pregnancy knowing she wanted something different. She just didn't know how different it would actually get.Here are some highlights from the episode:What happened at Veronica's 20-week appointment that changed her entire birth pathHow she navigated switching providers and ultimately choosing home birthThe daily prep routine she followed throughout her pregnancyThe reframing that took her from fear to fully trusting her bodyWhat happened when labor went from 0 to 100 in the middle of the nightHow her husband stepped up and caught their baby completely unexpectedlyThe rare placenta that left even the most experienced midwives speechlessHer most powerful advice for both moms and birth partnersDon't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast!Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On SpotifyFind "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcastClick the 3 dots "..."Select "Rate podcast"Click the stars and write a quick review!FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier!Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds:On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page.On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titlesLet's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com.  Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM! 

Frequent trips to the bathroom? You're not alone. But, what if your ability to control your bladder after pregnancy was greatly reduced? It happens to many women and unfortunately it's just not discussed enough to embarrassment and misinformation. Today, we're breaking down those barriers and taking an honest look on how pregnancy and labor and delivery can impact urinary incontinence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe welcomes Kara, a Mother-Baby Nurse and mom of three, to walk through what actually happens after you leave labor and delivery and transition to postpartum care. From fundal checks and C-section vitals to newborn screenings, pain management, lactation support, and discharge, this episode gives you clarity without overwhelm. This episode is detailed, practical, and empowering. Postpartum in the hospital doesn't have to feel chaotic when you understand what's routine, what's optional, and where your voice matters most. 00:00 Speak Up in the Hospital: You Can Say No (Advocacy Mindset) 01:05 Listener Story: Holding Firm Against 39-Week Induction Pressure 03:56 How to Use the Birth Lounge App to Back Up Your Choices 06:10 Maternity Leave Update + Why This Episode Is a Re-Air 07:50 Postpartum in the Hospital: What We'll Cover (Tests, Checks, Taboo Topics) 09:08 Meet Kara the Baby Nurse: Mother-Baby RN + Mom of Three 10:40 The Postpartum Unit Reality Check: It's More Than ‘Rest and Discharge' 12:10 Transition from L&D to Postpartum: Bedside Report + LDRP vs Separate Units 15:25 First 4 Hours Post-Birth: Fundal Checks, Vitals, Safety Paperwork, Goals 18:27 Getting Up After Birth: Movement, Gas Pain, and C-Section Recovery 20:47 If You Decline Fundal Checks: Bleeding & Clot Warning Signs to Watch 23:19 Postpartum Pain Management: Meds, Non-Pharm Options, and Speaking Up 27:35 Who's Coming in Your Room: Rounds, Labs, Screens, and the DND Sign 35:09 Baby's Pediatrician Exam: Nursery vs In-Room, No-Separation Rights 39:40 Newborn Head-to-Toe Exam & Routine Postpartum Checks 40:26 Newborn Screening Labs: PKU Heel Prick, Bilirubin, Car Seat & Hearing 42:46 Sponsor Break: Lalo Registry Must-Haves (Travel High Chair + Play Kit) 45:55 Bilirubin & Jaundice: What the Numbers Mean + Phototherapy Options 48:05 Newborn Hearing Screen: How It Works & What a “Fail” Usually Means 50:28 Newborn Meds/Vaccines in Postpartum: Vit K, Erythromycin, Hep B Timing 51:45 Breastfeeding Support in the Hospital: Nurse Training, Latch Help & Pumps 55:43 Baby Weight Loss & When to Supplement (Pumping, Donor Milk, Formula) 58:24 Circumcision 101: Procedure, Pain Control, Aftercare & Red Flags 01:03:40 Advocating for Yourself: Communication, Boundaries & Requesting a New Nurse 01:07:08 The Postpartum Poop: Why Staff Ask, What Helps, When to Call Your Doctor 01:11:26 Wrap-Up: Kara's Book & Sleep Course + Where to Follow Guest Bio: Kara is a mother-baby, hospital based nurse with 3 kids of her own. Her passion is educating and empowering people through her social media pages. She shares nurse tips and mom tricks, author of the book Why Didn't I Learn all this Parent Stuff Sooner?, and creator of a tried and true baby sleep course. You can find her @karathrbabynurse on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram!   Connect with Kara here: https://karathebabynurse.com/link-in-bio/   Check out Kara's sleep course here: https://kara-s-site-b397.thinkific.com/courses/karathebabynurse   Snag her book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBSH4Q9Z/ref=sr_1_6?crid=2GWZSFDOW1WFP&keywords=kara+thompson&qid=1661365188&sprefix=kara+thompson%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-6   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Kara on IG: https://www.instagram.com/karathebabynurse/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: Lalo Beautiful, minimalist baby gear that actually works for real life. From their travel-friendly Hook-On High Chair to their durable, design-forward Play Kit, Lalo creates pieces that grow with your family and look good doing it. Head to https://www.meetlalo.com/ and use code HEHE to save.  

In today's episode, Amy is joined by Sydney, a labor and delivery nurse with over five years of bedside experience and a deep passion for women's health. As the creator of the platform @Nurse_Sydney and co-host of The Push Pod, Sydney is dedicated to empowering women with evidence-based information so they can feel confident throughout pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond!This episode dives into the nitty-gritty of birth plans and what expecting moms should actually consider including when creating one. Sydney breaks down the essential elements for identifying your top priorities. And just like your favorite “what's in my hospital bag” videos, Amy and Sydney discuss what she sees new moms actually use out of their hospital bags! More seriously, Sydney addresses common fears surrounding labor and delivery — from worries about having a bowel movement during delivery to pain management during labor.Amy and Sydney discuss the importance of being your own advocate, speaking up for your wants and needs during the labor and delivery process. They also touch on the unique mental health challenges faced by women in caregiving professions — such as nurses, teachers, and mothers — and explore how caring for others can make it even more important to intentionally care for oneself. The episode closes with Sydney vulnerably sharing her personal journey with an eating disorder. She reminds listeners that they are not alone if this is something they are navigating. She encourages women to honor and embrace the changes their bodies go through during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, and to fuel their bodies with the nourishment they deserve!If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us, @Nurse_Sydney and @expectingandempowered. As we like to say, knowledge is power, and we just really want to give more people the information that they may need on their childbirth journey!Follow Sydney on Instagram, Tiktok, Youtube, and FacebookSydney's WebsiteListen to Sydney's podcast, The Push PodLinks & ResourcesExpecting and Empowered App - Enter code 'PODCAST25' at checkout Expecting and Empowered WebsiteExpecting and Empowered InstagramThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

Ten of Oregon’s 34 rural hospitals have no labor and delivery units, and even more are at risk of shutting their doors. This raises concerns for those seeking maternal healthcare in rural areas as residents face high drive times to the remaining providers, limiting their access to prenatal visits and increasing risk in cases of emergency.   Late last month, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek announced $15 million in funding for maternity care in rural hospitals across the state. This will provide payments to rural hospitals with labor and delivery units that have “fewer than 50 beds and may or may not be within 30 miles of another hospital.”   Jeanna Romer is an obstetrician and gynecologist at Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande. Nora Hawkins is a direct-entry midwife in Wallowa County. They both join us to give us a sense of what that funding might mean, and the general state of obstetric care in Northeast Oregon.    

Impending Medicaid cuts, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act's defunding of Planned Parenthood, and the freezing of Title X funding have fueled clinic closures across rural areas. Ashley Kurzweil, Senior Policy Analyst for Reproductive Health and Rights at the National Partnership for Women and Families and Sarah Coombs, Director for Health System Transformation at the National Partnership for Women and Families sit down to talk with us about the future of rural hospitals and clinics and the patients they care for.  Many Medicaid cuts will take effect in January of 2027. One of the most immediate impacts of the law is the failure to extend premium tax credits-- which helps those who do not have access to Medicaid or employer-sponsored health coverage-- afford marketplace coverage. Rural residents, who have higher rates of Medicaid coverage and benefits from enhanced ACA premium tax credits, will be disproportionately affected. Increased financial strain will be placed on these rural hospitals, and maternal health programs, labor and delivery units, and reproductive health care clinics will be dire in rural areas. This will disproportionality impact Black communities, indigenous communities, and Latina communities, as well as rural health workers.For more information, check out Amicus with Dhalia Lithwick: https://slate.com/podcasts/amicusSupport the showFollow Us on Social: Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfbFacebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Buy rePROs Merch: Bonfire store Email us: jennie@reprosfightback.comRate and Review on Apple PodcastThanks for listening & keep fighting back!

Christi Pritchard, RNC-OB, is a labor and delivery nurse who has found her greatest joy in walking alongside women during one of the most vulnerable and powerful seasons of their lives. With her certification in inpatient obstetrics and years of experience at the bedside, she knows the importance of advocacy, compassion, and making sure women feel truly seen and heard. Christi started Felicity Perinatal Consulting to help moms create birth plans that work beautifully within the hospital setting—bringing unity with patient and provider, and clarity where overwhelm often takes over. Whether you're thinking about starting or adding to your family or you want to best support a mother-to-be in your life, you will learn so much from this conversation with Christi! Let's Connect!Join the THE DINNER CLUB on Substack!Inquire about holistic health coaching or run coaching with HxHSupport the show: pledge less than the cost of a cup of coffee each month! Follow Health by Haven on Instagram: @healthbyhaven HxH Recipes, Articles & More: healthbyhaven.com Connect with Christi: Follow Felicity Perinatal Consulting on Instagram: @felicityperinatalconsulting Thank you to our sponsor, Avodah Massage Therapy! Support the show

This week, Emilee is joined by Raquel, who shares her extraordinary first pregnancy and sovereign birth at the age of 39.Raquel speaks candidly about the profound transitions she navigated during this time. The death of her mother, leaving her job, moving homes, and entering into the work of congruency, boundaries, and privacy. Choosing a wild pregnancy, she hired a Radical Birth Keeper graduate to hold space as she walked this sacred path.She opens up about the challenges she faced postpartum with nursing and her child's tongue tie, reflecting on what she might do differently now. And she speaks with clarity about her sense of completion after one child, naming that she does not desire more.This conversation carries the archetype of the death of the maiden, a story of initiation, sovereignty, and the power of claiming motherhood on one's own terms.Donate to the podcast here. If you want to connect with Raquel, follow her on Instagram here and you can find her website here.Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

A labor and delivery nurse who ran Senate healthcare policy now manages $1.7 trillion in federal health spending—and she runs her team like a startup.Steph Carlton, Chief of Staff and Deputy Administrator at CMS, reveals the OKRs driving Medicare and Medicaid, why they're killing social determinants funding while building consumer health apps at scale, and how real-time provider data could collapse the 18-month lag between care delivery and payment. The team mixing founders with policy veterans is rewriting quality measures around VO2 max and app engagement, not just disease management—because preventing illness years before it happens might finally be worth more than treating it after. Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see http://a16z.com/disclosures Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After six births within the system—including a cesarean at 37 weeks due to partial placenta previa and subsequent hospital abuse—Ashleigh knew she was done.Now a mother of nine and a Radical Birth Keeper School graduate, Ashleigh joins me to share her accumulated wisdom from nearly twenty years of mothering and birthing. We met in person at Matriarch Rising Festival, and in this conversation, we explore what it means to truly live the lessons that birth offers us.We discuss the pros and cons of having children present during birth, what it looks like to honor our evolving faith journeys, and how Ashleigh navigated the tension between her freebirth path and her husband's discomfort with it.I also challenge Ashleigh's decision to pull away from her Christian audience, encouraging her to consider what it might mean to let her community see her more deeply. She speaks vulnerably about her own healing from rage and how she now coaches mothers who find themselves lashing out at their children—because she's been there too.Come listen, learn, and receive from a mother of nine whose story carries the depth and clarity only time, experience, and devotion can bring.✨Start Your Journey: The Complete Guide to Freebirth - Our best-selling, self-paced course for women ready to claim their births on their own terms. Enroll here.✨Donate to the podcast here. If you want to connect with Ashleigh, follow her on Instagram here. SPOTIFY/APPLE ONLY:Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

On this episode of Transmission Interrupted, host Jill Morgan sits down with Dr. John Horton, Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs for Gynecology and Obstetrics at Emory, to explore one of the most challenging intersections in healthcare: special pathogens and pregnancy. From emerging threats like Ebola and Marburg to familiar concerns like measles and chickenpox, they dive deep into what makes caring for pregnant patients so uniquely complex in the face of infectious diseases.Join us for a candid and insightful conversation on the evolving best practices for labor and delivery in high-risk situations. Dr. Horton shares lessons learned on the front lines, why compassion and humanity matter as much as protocol, and practical advice on infection prevention, disaster drills, and protecting both patients and healthcare workers.Whether you're in obstetrics, infectious disease, emergency preparedness, or just curious about what makes pregnancy and pathogens such a tough clinical challenge, this episode is packed with fresh insights and actionable takeaways.GuestJohn Patrick Horton, MD, MBAVice Chair of Clinical AffairsGynecology and Obstetrics DepartmentEmory UniversityDr. John Horton is the Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs for Emory University's Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. He also serves as Emory Healthcare's Division Director for General Gynecology and Obstetrics, and Interim Operations Director for the Gynecologic Specialties Division. Additionally, Dr. Horton is the Director of the Obstetric Rapid Response Team at Emory Healthcare and is Associate Professor at the Emory University School of Medicine Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. HostJill Morgan, RNEmory HealthcareJill Morgan is a registered nurse and a subject matter expert in personal protective equipment (PPE) for NETEC. For 35 years, Jill has been an emergency department and critical care nurse, and now splits her time between education for NETEC and clinical research, most of it centering around infection prevention and personal protective equipment. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), ASTM International, and the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).ResourcesNETEC:https://netec.orgNETEC Resource Library:https://repository.netecweb.org/NETEC YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheNETECNETEC Newsletter:https://netec.org/newsletter-sign-up/Transmission Interrupted:https://netec.org/podcast/About NETECA Partnership for PreparednessThe National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center's mission is to set the gold standard for special pathogen preparedness and response across health systems in the U.S. with the goals of driving best practices, closing knowledge gaps, and developing innovative resources.Our vision is a sustainable infrastructure and culture of readiness for managing suspected and confirmed special pathogen incidents across the United States public health and health care delivery systems.For more information visit NETEC on the web at www.netec.org.NETEC...

This week, I am joined by Celia from the Bay Area, California, who shares her journey from birthing with medical midwives and working as a doula, to stepping fully into sovereign birth work and choosing freebirth with her fourth child.Born at home herself, Celia's path was forever changed when she read Portal and began to unravel everything she thought she knew about birth. As a graduate of the Radical Birth Keeper School, she now carries this work forward in her own community.Celia reflects on her four births, including the painful memory of her midwife pulling out her placentas. She shares how, in her fourth and most recent birth, allowing her placenta to be born in her own way and her own time became her favorite part of the entire experience.In this conversation, Celia names what it means to let birth be simple, to trust herself, and to claim it all.✨ Join The Lighthouse — A private, life-changing membership space for conscious, sovereign women. Check it out here.✨Donate to the podcast here. If you want to connect with Celia, follow her on Instagram here and find her website here. Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

Guest: Rebecca Smith, Ph. D, APRN, CNM Hosts: Danielle O'Laughlin, PA-C, MS and Jenna Wygant, APRN, CNP, DNP Rebecca Smith provides a comprehensive overview of labor and delivery, including the stages of labor, assessment techniques, and monitoring practices. The episode also addresses potential complications and their management. Learning Objectives: Describe the stages, duration, and monitoring of labor and delivery. Compare and contrast complications that may arise during pregnancy and delivery. Learn more about this series: Mayo Clinic Talks: Obstetric and Gynecologic Health | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development Connect and listen with Mayo Clinic Podcasts | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development

This week, MPR News reported Mayo Clinic Health Systems is ending labor and delivery services in Owatonna. But a few rural hospitals are bucking the trend of closing in maternity wards and have birthing centers that are thriving. Rochester reporter Molly Castle Work joined MPR News host Nina Moini to share more about this trend as part of a check in with regional reporters in Greater Minnesota.

After surviving domestic violence and a series of traumatic hospital births, Tahlia from Australia made the courageous decision to leave her abusive partner and begin again.In rebuilding her life, she came to understand what it truly means to make herself available to health, love, and sovereignty.That path culminated in the extraordinary experience of birthing her twins at home—on her terms, in her power.This conversation is a testament to resilience, reclamation, and the deep transformation that becomes possible when a woman chooses herself.✨ Get Our *Free* Freebirth Starter Kit - Just getting started? Download our powerful, free starter kit to begin your journey with clarity and support.Download here. ✨Donate to the podcast here.If you want to connect with Tahlia, follow her on Instagram here. Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

Amy is solo for today's episode sharing what she wishes she would have known about labor and delivery. Amy has always been interested in birth and while her nursing career ended up taking a different route, her passion for birth did not end there. After having her 3 boys, Amy decided to further her knowledge and train as a doula. Every part of Amy's professional and personal life has led to her sharing all things pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum with the Expecting and Empowered audience!Amy thought she felt prepared going into her first delivery. However, looking back, she would have edited her preparation strategies a bit by studying up on the “normals” of L&D, especially the areas she feared. If you are in the same boat of having labor fears, please see the resources linked in the show notes below! Thinking back on her second birth, what Amy wishes she knew is that even if plans have to change, you will get through it! With the help of your care team, unexpected challenges or changes may happen but it doesn't mean you won't experience an amazing birth. Finally, reflecting on her third birth, a few things came to Amy's mind. Firstly, remember that each birth is unique! Every baby is different, every labor is different. And secondly, prepare yourself and your birth partner to feel confident in advocating for yourself and your baby. Things come up and knowing you feel confident asking questions or speaking up is key. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us @expectingandempowered. As we like to say, knowledge is power, and we just really want to give more people the information that they may need on their childbirth journey!The Birth Partner 5th Edition: A Complete Guide to Childbirth For Dads, Partners, Doulas and Other Labor Companions by Penny SimkinExpecting and Empowered Prepping for Labor + Delivery Online CourseExpecting and Empowered Podcast Episodes 24, 38, 46, 67, 78, and 89 to empower you!Links & ResourcesExpecting and Empowered App - Enter code 'PODCAST25' at checkout Expecting and Empowered WebsiteExpecting and Empowered InstagramThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

This week on the Free Birth Society Podcast, I sit down with homeopath Melissa Kupsch for a rich and fascinating dive into the world of homeopathy.We explore its powerful history, reaching back to the days when homeopathy was a dominant and respected medicine. Melissa shares the almost unbelievable personal story that awakened her to this path, and she offers a mountain of wisdom and practical guidance for anyone curious about where to begin.This conversation is equal parts history, testimony, and initiation. If you've ever wondered about homeopathy—or sensed there is a whole realm of healing outside the medical model yet to be touched—this episode is a potent place to start.✨Are you a sovereign birth professional and want to be listed? Or would you like to connect to sovereign birth professionals near you? Visit Matribirthdirectory.com.✨Donate to the podcast here. If you want to connect with Melissa, follow her on Instagram here and you can find her website here.Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

What happens when you see behind the curtain of labor and delivery?In this episode, I speak with Rylee, a young mother who chose to freebirth her first child after working inside the hospital system. From the vantage point of the “business of birth,” Rylee began to question everything she thought she knew about pregnancy. That unraveling brought her face-to-face with the deep dissonance between what she was told was “right” and what her body knew was true.Carrying that knowing into her own pregnancy, she made the radical choice to step away from the system entirely. Rylee shares what it was like to work as a self-described “fearmongering phlebotomist,” to quit, and then to bring her baby earthside in her own power.Her story is one of unlearning, reclaiming, and discovering the strength that emerges when a woman finally trusts herself.What You'll Hear:Why Rylee walked away from working in a hospitalWhat it feels like to stand up to doctors and refuse routine proceduresThe hidden link between hospital “convenience” and high C-section ratesWhy even trusted OBs and familiar clinics can still feel wrongHow she found her rhythm and delivered her baby in a birth pool at homeThe joy of her birth: laughing while pushing, with her mother and husband as witnessesTimestamps:[00:00] Introduction[09:03] Starting to question the hospital method and learning about freebirth[15:45] Climbing out of the system and trusting her instincts[19:57] Defying the doctors and reclaiming her sovereignty[28:15] Realizing that the hospital is a business[36:37] Choosing who she wanted at her freebirth[38:14] The psychedelic moment before labor began[45:40] Moving into the second day of labour, feeling tired, and calling her Mom[48:47] Exhausted, in a trance, and roaring through the portal of labor[51:32] Finding her rhythm and bringing her baby earth side in the pool[58:19] Getting out of the pool, the first cuddles, and delivering the placentaIf you want to connect more with Rylee, follow her on Instagram.Watch Rylee's birth video here.Find more from Emilee on Instagram, YouTube and the Free Birth Society website.Disclaimer: Free Birth Society, LLC of North Carolina shares personal and educational stories and experiences related to freebirth and holistic care. This content is not medical advice, and we are not a licensed midwifery practice. Testimonials reflect individual experiences; results may vary. For services or scheduling, contact info@freebirthsociety.com. See full disclaimer at freebirthsociety.com/youtubeterms.

In this informative and compassionate episode, an OB/Gyn and pediatrician team up to discuss how a cesarean section can affect future fertility. We break down what the latest research says about C-sections and their potential impact on conception, pregnancy spacing, and risks in future pregnancies. With clear explanations and practical tips, we'll help you understand the facts, separate myths from reality, and feel empowered to make informed decisions about your birth and family planning. Whether you've had a C-section, are planning one, or simply want to know more, this episode offers expert insight in a warm, relatable way.

Birth Story Inspired by Podcast  Ep 157 Description:  "In birth, I should also trust myself more than I would trust the doctors or anybody else." —Augusta Sofija Lagauske What if birth could be powerful, calm, and even ecstatic—no matter what you've heard? If you're tired of fear-based stories and want to believe in your body's strength, this episode is for you. It's time to rethink what's possible in the hospital. Augusta Sofija Lagauske, a Lithuanian jeweler, shares how a tough pregnancy and a sea of doubts led her to trust her intuition and prepare for an empowering hospital birth. Her story isn't just about luck—it's about mindset, support, and reclaiming your experience. Now, Augusta is on a mission to help others find confidence and pleasure in birth, no matter their circumstances. Hit play to hear Augusta's honest journey, from bed rest to a fast, empowering water birth, and learn how she used relaxation, the Bradley Method, and self-trust to transform her experience. You'll get real talk on overcoming fear, building a support team, and practical tips for making birth your own.   Connect with Debra! Website: https://www.orgasmicbirth.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orgasmicbirth X: https://twitter.com/OrgasmicBirth  YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/OrgasmicBirth1  Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@orgasmicbirth  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-pascali-bonaro-1093471    Episode Highlights: 02:22 Meet Augusta: From Active Athlete to Bed Rest  07:00 Overcoming Setbacks and Reclaiming Your Body 09:30 Preparing for a Positive Birth 12:30 A New Perspective: Orgasmic Birth 16:07 Mind Preparation: Meditation, Nature, and Trust 18:00 Labor to Hospital Birth: Trusting the Process 26:00 The Birth: Fast, Intense, Empowering 29:22 Advice: Facing Fear and Finding Support   Resources: 

We're back with another special series, diving into one powerful theme at the heart of home birth journeys. This time: First Time Birth Stories. Why would a labor and delivery nurse choose home birth? There are quite a few reasons, at least for today's guest Corrie Oyinloye. Corrie has been a labor and delivery nurse for 10 years. And two years ago, she chose home birth for the birth of her daughter, Rachel. (*Dates as of original recording). Corrie's story also includes creating the space for her husband Gabe to feel confident in the decision, a move to a different state, prodromal labor, a cervical lip, occipito posterior position of baby and a double nuchal cord.  Offers From Our Awesome Partners: Needed: https://needed.sjv.io/XY3903 - use code DIAH to get 20% off your first-time, one-time order More From Doing It At Home: Doing It At Home book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vJcPmU DIAH YouTube: https://bit.ly/3pzuzQC DIAH Merch: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/doingitathome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Ep 154 Description:  “Don't settle for second best when it comes to your birth. Create the birth you deeply desire, because these memories will stay with you far longer than any trip ever could, and this will have an impact on both you and your baby's emotional and physical health and well-being.” —Debra Pascali-Bonaro   What if preparing for birth could feel empowering and even joyful—rather than overwhelming or scary? If you've felt lost in a sea of advice and pressure, you deserve a fresh perspective—one that puts your comfort, choices, and confidence first.  In this episode, Debra talks about what it means to truly feel seen, heard, and ready for one of life's biggest moments. Hit play to hear Debra's five gentle steps to a pleasurable, loving birth, plus honest stories and practical tips to help you feel strong, prepared, and truly excited for your birth. Grab your free companion guide, 25 Gentle Steps to a Pleasurable, Loving Birth and tune in for this inspiring episode!   Connect with Debra! Website: https://www.orgasmicbirth.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orgasmicbirth X: https://twitter.com/OrgasmicBirth  YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/OrgasmicBirth1  Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@orgasmicbirth  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-pascali-bonaro-1093471    Episode Highlights: 02:50 Tip 1: Comfort Tools 04:51 Tip 2: Journaling  07:20 Tip 3: Education is Power  10:04 Tip 4: Notice How You Feel About Your Birth Place Options 11:35 Tip 5: Visualize Your Support Team  15:29 Learn More: 25 Gentle Steps to a Pleasurable, Loving Birth    Resources: 

Are you pregnant and wondering how to best prepare your body for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery? You're not alone! So many moms-to-be feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do in these final weeks. The good news is: you can prepare — and the right strategies can make birth smoother, reduce tearing, and help you feel confident in your body. In this empowering episode of Pelvic Floor, Core & More, Dr. Desiree Cassell, Doctor of Physical Therapy and women's health specialist, shares the top birth prep practices for any trimester that focus on your pelvic floor, nervous system, and overall body readiness. Here's what you'll learn inside this episode: ✅ Why the third trimester is the most important time to prepare for labor. ✅ The 4 pillars of smart birth prep: breathwork & nervous system regulation, pelvic floor relaxation, functional strength, and mindset/advocacy. ✅ Practical exercises like supported squats, perineal massage, and breathwork that you can start today. ✅ Common mistakes moms make in the third trimester (like overdoing kegels or avoiding movement entirely) — and what to do instead. ✅ A simple daily birth prep routine you can follow in just 10–20 minutes a day. Whether you're preparing for a vaginal birth, a VBAC, or simply want to feel calmer and more empowered heading into labor, these tips will give you clarity, confidence, and a toolkit for the big day.

What happens when your due date collides with a snowstorm in Georgia?When I first connected with Abby, I knew her birth story was going to be special, but GAH!! It's so good and I just know it's going to inspire every mama listening. As a first-time mom, she navigated early bloody show, a surprise snowstorm, and nearly three days of labor with an amazing, calm, grounded intuition that's absolutely contagious.From the nausea that knocked her off her feet in the first trimester to the “crunchy-meets-medical” compromise she and her husband made for a hospital birth with a doula, we walked through the nitty gritty of pregnancy and labor, the most common issues every couples deal with for pregnancy & birth, and the incredible birth story she gets to share with all of you. You'll hear:The physical prep (yes, we're talking deep squats in the shower and red raspberry leaf tea) and the mental prep that helped her stay strong through every stage.Why breaking her water (something she didn't plan to do) ended up being the right call.How her husband and doula worked together with a “third-party consent” rule that kept her fully in control. That unforgettable moment she reached down and felt her baby's head for the first time.Why she believes her unmedicated birth shaped her beautiful postpartum experience and lasting confidence as a mom.Resources Mentioned In This Episode:The Fresh Test For 20% OFF use Coupon Code: MYESSENTIALBIRTH My Essential Birth CourseMy Essential Birth Postpartum CourseMy Essential Birth InstagramThree exercises to help prepare you for your BEST birthTo Leave a Review ⭐️Open Apple PodcastsFind “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcastSelect “Ratings and Reviews”Click the stars!Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved!GET IN TOUCH!

Ready to meet your baby but waiting (and waiting) for labor to start? In this episode of MamaDoc BabyDoc, we explore natural, evidence-based ways that may help encourage labor to begin. From movement and acupressure to the role of intimacy and relaxation, we separate fact from fiction and share what research really says. Whether you're preparing for birth or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical, science-backed insight to help you feel informed and empowered in those final days of pregnancy.

Gladys (Sandy) Ramos, M.D. outlines the comprehensive maternal care services at UC San Diego, emphasizing clinical excellence, innovation, and community impact. She highlights programs in diabetes and pregnancy, high-risk obstetrics, postpartum and HIV care, and maternal mental health. Ramos describes cutting-edge capabilities in fetal and placental imaging, including expertise in placenta accreta and genetic counseling. A fetal surgery program is launching soon, expanding access to specialized care and research. The department's patient population closely reflects San Diego County's demographics, which informs both clinical care and research priorities. Ramos also details a collaborative structure with multidisciplinary conferences and welcomes partnerships in research related to maternal, placental, and fetal health. Series: "Motherhood Channel" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40669]

Hey Mama,  Have you been stressing about your postpartum journey, or know a Mama who is? So much preparation goes into giving birth to your baby, but don't make the mistake of not preparing for your postpartum journey also! From conception to birth, your body has done miraculous things. However, it is no surprise that your bundle of joy also comes with bodily discomfort for mom after birth. Have no fear, Mama! You can manage your postpartum journey naturally using essential oils and I have for you four (4) postpartum essential oils hacks you didn't know you needed to help support your body in recovery after birth.   *Be advised for little ears, I use anatomically correct language during this podcast as it relates to the female body*   Link to the products mentioned today: https://bit.ly/PostpartumBodySupport    For His Glory, Christen   I would love to hear from you!  >>Leave a Review >>Connect with me:   Sign Up for Manage In The Moment Coaching Call: https://bit.ly/ManageStressInTheMoment   Email me : naturalwellnessforbusymoms@gmail.com  Sign Up to Become an Insider: https://bit.ly/naturalwellnessinsider  Join Our FREE Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1789472588229094  >>Find Related Products Here: https://bit.ly/m/Natural-Wellness-for-Busy-Moms  >> These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. >>I make a small commission when using the links above to purchase items.

Birth can be a beautiful experience, but that doesn't mean it isn't without fear and concerns. After hearing from our community, it's evident that some women feel ready to go! While others feel excited to meet their baby but anxious about the labor and delivery process. We want you to know that ALL of those feelings are valid and so normal! Today's podcast is going to be all about mentally preparing for labor and delivery. We'll be going over some tips to help you feel more confident when it comes time to meet your baby! Our first major tip is to run towards your fears instead of away. Educating yourself with as many resources about your fear can help you feel empowered and prepared. Whether your fear is pain during birth, fear of needing a c-section, or fear you may not receive enough support from your partner, we will go over ways to approach these fears head on. Our second tip is to decide on the person who will be your continuous support person through the labor, delivery, and recovery process. Sometimes this is your partner, but for others that can be a person like your mom, sister, close friend, or doula. This support is not only huge for creating a positive experience, but it is backed by science to have improved outcomes for mom and baby! The final tip is to write a letter to yourself, express how you feel with your upcoming birth, and tell yourself how much you believe in yourself! We believe in you too!If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us @expectingandempowered. As we like to say, knowledge is power, and we just really want to give more people the information that they may need on their childbirth journey!Links & ResourcesSave on our Labor & Delivery Course with code PODCAST25 at checkout!Amy's book recommendation: “The Birth Partner 5th Edition: A Complete Guide…”E + E Podcast Episode 16: Preparing Your Mind and Body For Labor + DeliveryExpecting and Empowered App - Enter code 'PODCAST25' at checkout Expecting and Empowered WebsiteExpecting and Empowered InstagramThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

Hey Mama,  Did you know you can use essential oils to support your body during labor and delivery? I did it with two of my children! Both of my labor and deliveries were different for each child, and even though I did not know exactly what I was doing, I was able to better support my body and improve my experience using certified tested grade essential oils. Listen in today as I break down what essential oils to use for each phase of labor and delivery to help naturally support you during labor and delivery.   For His Glory, Christen   I would love to hear from you!  >>Leave a Review >>Connect with me:   Sign Up for Manage In The Moment Coaching Call: https://bit.ly/ManageStressInTheMoment   Email me : naturalwellnessforbusymoms@gmail.com  Sign Up to Become an Insider: https://bit.ly/naturalwellnessinsider  Join Our FREE Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1789472588229094  >>Find Related Products Here: https://bit.ly/m/Natural-Wellness-for-Busy-Moms  >> These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. >>I make a small commission when using the links above to purchase items.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Happy Hour with Bundle Birth Nurses, Sarah Lavonne sits down with the brilliant and unapologetically real Dr. Monica McLemore for a conversation that will shift the way you think about nursing, reproductive health, and your role in this work. From their first meeting to this moment of connection, Sarah and Monica reflect on humility, curiosity, and the humanity at the core of nursing. Dr. McLemore shares her journey—starting as born a preemie to becoming a nationally respected nurse scientist, public health expert, and fierce advocate for reproductive justice. Monica calls out the myth of political polarity to issuing a bold challenge for nurses to build something better. She urges us to stop playing small, activate our gifts, and remember that nursing is—and always has been—a political act. Whether you're a preceptor, student, bedside nurse, or leader, this episode will wake you up, call you in, and remind you of the shared work ahead.Helpful Links!Mentorship ProgramAmerican Nurses Association's Code of EthicsChanel Albert-Porsche, founder of Ancient Song Doula Services

Welcome to the Legal Nurse Podcast! In this episode, Pat Iyer sits down with Ashley Jefferson, a highly experienced legal nurse consultant specializing in labor and delivery, high-risk obstetrics, and forensic nursing. Ashley brings her unique perspective from working both at the bedside and as a charge nurse in a busy labor and delivery unit, as well as her role as a forensic nurse examiner in an emergency department. Together, Pat and Ashley dive deep into the complexities of using Pitocin—a common but potentially risky medication used to induce and augment labor. Ashley explains not only the benefits of Pitocin but also the very real dangers it poses if not managed properly, including the risk of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and lifelong consequences for infants. She also discusses the importance of fetal monitoring, the standardized guidelines that drive safe practice, and the critical need for OB expertise when evaluating cases that involve catastrophic outcomes. This episode is packed with important insights about labor management, medical standards, and the crucial role of expert review in cases involving birth injuries. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation with Ashley Jefferson—and remember, having the right expert on your team can make all the difference when lives and futures hang in the balance. What you'll learn in this episode on Pitocin, Fetal Monitoring, and Legal Cases : Listen to find out the answers to these questions What is Pitocin, and how is it used in the labor and delivery process today? What are the risks associated with Pitocin, and how can its improper use contribute to birth injuries? What is hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and what are its potential consequences for newborns? How do medical professionals use fetal monitoring to assess the well-being of a baby during labor, and what are the standards for interpreting these tracings? What records and documentation should legal nurse consultants focus on when reviewing potential birth injury cases involving Pitocin? Listen to our podcasts or watch them using our app, Expert.edu, available at legalnursebusiness.com/expertedu. Get the free transcripts and also learn about other ways to subscribe. Go to Legal Nurse Podcasts subscribe options by using this short link: http://LNC.tips/subscribepodcast. Is this you? "I get confused about the difference between screening cases and writing expert reports." You're not alone! Step into the role of a legal nurse consultant and experience the process of analyzing a nursing malpractice case. This interactive workshop is designed for LNCs who want practical experience in case evaluation, medical record analysis, and identifying deviations from the standard of care. You'll work through a real case, receive targeted instructions, and engage in small group activities to sharpen your clinical and legal skills. Live session June 5, 2025 from 10 AM to 4:30 PM Eastern Learn more about our limited time Early Bird Discount! Your Presenter for Pitocin, Fetal Monitoring, and Legal Cases Pat Iyer Pat Iyer is a seasoned legal nurse consultant and business coach renowned for her expertise in guiding new legal nurse consultants to successfully break into the field. As the host of the Legal Nurse Podcast, Pat addresses critical challenges that legal nurse consultants face, such as difficulty in landing clients and lack of response from attorneys. Through her insightful episodes, she emphasizes the importance of effectively communicating one's value to potential clients. With a wealth of experience, Pat has empowered countless consultants to overcome these hurdles and thrive in their careers. Connect with Pat Iyer by email at patiyer@legalnusebusiness.com

Prodromal labor refers to a pattern of contractions that can feel strong and regular, yet do not lead to significant cervical dilation and active labor. Often described as “false labor,” these contractions can be confusing for expectant parents because they mimic the intensity and frequency of real labor pains. Unlike true labor contractions, however, prodromal contractions might lessen or stop when the mother changes activity, rests, or hydrates. Though frustrating, it is important to remember that these contractions serve a purpose, slowly preparing the body for the intense work of active labor by helping the cervix soften and the baby move into a favorable position. In terms of duration, prodromal labor can last for days or even weeks before transitioning into active labor, and it can disrupt the mother's routine and sleep patterns. Staying hydrated, using relaxation techniques, and getting adequate rest can help manage discomfort and reduce fatigue during this period. If the contractions become more intense or frequent, or are accompanied by other signs of labor—such as a change in vaginal discharge, the water breaking, or consistent progression in cervical dilation—medical evaluation is advised to ensure safe and timely care. Above all, while prodromal labor can be draining physically and emotionally, it is a sign that the body is gradually gearing up for the arrival of the baby. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/maternalresources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maternalresoruces/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Thank you for being part of our community, and until next time, let's continue to support, uplift, and celebrate the incredible journey of working moms and parenthood. Together, we can create a more equitable and nurturing world for all. Shop our book!  The NatureBack Method for Birth https://naturebackbook.myshopify.com/