Podcasts about maternity

Donna Ockenden's report on Nottingham NHS maternity scandal is out today, revealing 'horrendous' failings. It involves cases of negligence, cover ups, racial disparities and avoidable deaths. To discuss Britain's maternity services countrywide and whether change is really achievable, Natasha Feroze speaks to the Chair and Vice Chair of the APPG on Birth Trauma – Rosie Duffield and Jack Rankin. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hundreds of mothers and babies suffered serious injury or died because of systemic failures at the Nottingham University Hospitals Trust according to the biggest maternity inquiry in the history of the NHS. Also: The Met Office says the June temperature record has been broken. And scientists find sperm whales have regional accents.

Gina (doula/perinatal fitness trainer) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) walk through how birth has evolved, from mostly home births with midwives pre-1700s (but high death rates from infection, bleeding, obstructed labor, and blood pressure issues) to increasing hospital-based, physician-led care in the 1800s–1900s. They discuss key shifts like antiseptics, anesthesia (including twilight sleep), antibiotics, transfusions, prenatal care, and safer C-sections—improving survival but often reducing autonomy and satisfaction. They cover the 1970s natural childbirth and feminist movements, and the later push for evidence-based, family-centered care (partners/doulas, skin-to-skin, breastfeeding support, delayed cord clamping, shared decision-making). Their takeaway: modern interventions save lives, but they're tools—not requirements—and blending safety with physiologic support matters.00:00 Welcome to MamasteFit01:02 Birth History Setup02:06 Pre Modern Birth03:21 Why Mortality Was High05:16 Forceps Enter the Scene06:10 Early Medicalization 1700s07:44 Standardized Midwife Training10:22 Modern Obstetrics Begins11:11 Hospitals Take Over Birth12:41 Twilight Sleep Era21:53 Antibiotics and Safer Birth25:59 Routine Interventions Peak29:29 Natural Childbirth Movement32:18 Evidence Based Care Shift34:54 Epidurals And Twilight Sleep35:56 Unmedicated Birth Tools38:03 Stop Romanticizing The Past41:52 Partners Enter The Room43:59 Evidence Based Birth Shift44:52 Modern Practices And Tools50:55 Social Media And Misinformation53:19 Trust Medicine Own Harm59:53 Why Birth Got Safer01:06:36 Balance Safety And Experience01:07:45 Course And Final Wrap————

Maternity care and its shortcomings will be in the spotlight over the next fortnight, as the biggest maternity inquiry in the history of NHS England prepares to report its findings. The independent review by former midwife, Donna Ockenden, has looked into maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. Meanwhile new figures from the Royal College of Midwives show that more than nine out of 10 of those polled felt unsafe staffing levels are directly impacting the quality of care they provide for women and babies. Next week we'll also hear the recommendations of a national review by Baroness Amos. BBC's social affairs correspondent, Michael Buchanan, talks to presenter Nuala McGovern about what we know so far. Joanna Cherry was elected as an MP in 2015, part of the SNP landslide when they took 56 out of 59 Scottish seats, just a year after the referendum on Scottish independence resulted in a No vote. Her memoir, Keeping the Dream Alive, captures the disappointment and euphoria of that time. Joanna went on to lose her seat in 2024 and has become a vocal critic of the party, and of Nicola Sturgeon's leadership. She was also well-known for expressing gender-critical views and concerns at a time when the SNP was trying to deliver a gender self-ID law in Scotland. She joins presenter Nuala McGovern to talk about that "tumultuous decade" in Scottish politics.A new study from the Universities of Exeter and Bristol is looking into how heavy periods impact daily life. Led by Gemma Sharp, a Professor of Epidemiology at Exeter, researchers will collect real-time data from thousands of participants to help us understand the relationship between periods - particularly heavy periods - and our energy levels, sleep and mood. Did you know that mini golf has feminist roots? A playful and ‘playable' exhibition, The Art of Mini Golf, has just opened at the Battersea Arts Centre in London, channelling the inclusive, subversive spirit of the game's female founders. Nuala's joined by curator Grace Herbert and one of the featured artists, Delaine Le Bas, to hear more about mini golf's hidden history and the art it's inspired.Presented by: Nuala McGovern Produced by: Sarah Jane Griffiths

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The ways we feed and care for babies are shaped not only by research, but also by family traditions, cultural values, and generations of shared wisdom.   In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Yogyata Wadhwa, an IBCLC, childbirth educator, birth doula, sleep consultant, and infant feeding specialist based in India. Drawing on her experience supporting more than 10,000 families, Yogyata shares how parents can honor cultural traditions while making informed decisions about breastfeeding, introducing solids, and navigating the postpartum period.   They explore common breastfeeding challenges, cultural beliefs surrounding infant feeding, and how parents can balance evidence-based recommendations with meaningful family customs. Yogyata also shares postpartum traditions in India, including the Jappa period, family caregiving practices, and the cultural significance of introducing a baby's first foods.   (00:00) Introduction and overview of cultural perspectives on breastfeeding and infant feeding in India (05:34) How Yogyata became a childbirth educator, IBCLC, doula, and infant feeding specialist (08:38) Common breastfeeding challenges: milk supply concerns, latch difficulties, and tongue ties (10:24) Cultural beliefs that influence breastfeeding (16:18) Traditional infant feeding practices in India and the Annaprasan ceremony (21:32) First foods for babies and introducing solids (23:45) What baby-led feeding looks like (28:04) Signs that a baby is ready to start solids (33:41) Maternity leave, workplace accommodations, and postpartum support systems in India (36:20) The Jappa period and postpartum recovery practices (39:09) Balancing evidence-based recommendations with cultural expectations (43:43) Advice for Indian families living abroad and navigating feeding without traditional support systems (47:04) Yogyata's final advice for first-time parents   Resources Connect with Yogyata on Instagram: @thebirth.life Learn more about The Birth Life: thebirthlife.com/   For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

This episode breaks down gestational diabetes (new insulin resistance in pregnancy—not type 1 or 2), how insulin and glucose work, and why pregnancy naturally raises insulin resistance (but sometimes the pancreas can't keep up). It covers who's at higher risk (higher BMI, inactivity, prior GDM, certain ethnic groups, prior 9+ lb baby, PCOS, hypertension, heart disease) and how screening works at 24–28 weeks: the non-fasting 1-hour 50g test, followed by a fasting 3-hour 100g test if you “fail” (two elevated values = diagnosis). It explains why the test is a glucose “stress test,” alternatives like at-home fingersticks or CGM, and drink options (Glucola, Fresh Test, jelly beans). Finally, it outlines risks (C-section, shoulder dystocia, preeclampsia, baby hypoglycemia) and care differences between diet-controlled (deliver by 40+6) vs medication-controlled (NSTs/ultrasounds ~32 weeks, deliver ~39).00:00 Gestational Diabetes Overview00:52 How Insulin Works02:31 Risk Factors Explained03:20 Glucose Test Basics05:43 One Hour vs Three Hour07:06 At Home Monitoring Options09:42 Drink Alternatives13:52 Why It Matters Risks18:46 How Care Changes21:27 Final Recap Next Steps24:24 Closing Resources————

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Advocate Katy Thomas joins live to discuss the impact of the Disability Support Services Bill which will overturn a long fought legal battle to recognise legal guardians and family members as full-time careers that should be compensated like any other employee.Labour have announced their latest election policy, free maternity scans for pregnant individuals. It would address another cost pressure associated with pregnancy and reduce the likelihood of complications.Simeon Brown has interfered with the Medical Council of NZ's leadership process and declined to re-appoint the chairperson and deputy chairperson of the council despite seeking to continue in their positions for the next term. Simeon citing the council has become "increasingly distracted by politics" referring to a recent consultation regarding cultural competency.++++++++++++++++++++Like us on Facebook.com/BigHairyNetwork Follow us on Twitter.com/@bighairynetworkFollowing us on TikTok.com/@bighairynetworkSupport us on Patreon www.patreon.com/c/BigHairyNewsCheck out our merch https://bhn.nz/shop/Donate to our work https://bhn.nz/shop/donation/

Labour is committing to fully funding maternity scans, alongside its three free GP appointments a year - paid for by it's capital gains tax. The sonographer appointments are currently subsidised but still mean expectant parents can pay up to $90 per scan. This is something Labour says is putting pressure on families and prevents parents and babies from getting care. Field correspondent Charlotte Cook reports.

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Guests:Susan Hayes Culleton, Presenter of Taking Stock on NewstalkArchitect Róisín MurphyJennifer SheahanRussell Alford

The findings add to a small but growing body of research on neurological changes linked to pregnancy, birth and parenting.

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This episode breaks down elective induction (inducing labor at 39–41 weeks with no medical reason besides still being pregnant) and reminds you that “we scheduled your induction” still requires your consent. It explains why 39 weeks is the risk-benefit sweet spot (mature baby lungs) and why providers avoid going past 42 weeks (stillbirth risk rises from 1/10,000 at 37 weeks to 32/10,000 at 42 weeks). The 2018 ARRIVE Trial is reviewed: low-risk, first-time, single, head-down pregnancies; similar neonatal outcomes; slightly lower C-section rates with induction (19% vs 22%), plus fewer hypertension diagnoses, though study limits include low midwife representation and protocols not matching every hospital. You'll weigh values (low-intervention vs convenience), provider/hospital C-section rates, accurate due dates, and risks like longer labor, more interventions, failed induction, and tachysystole.00:00 Induction Decision Intro00:16 What Elective Means01:02 Why 39 Weeks02:21 Stillbirth Risk Numbers03:15 ARRIVE Trial Explained06:22 Study Limits And Context09:40 Personal Decision Factors11:46 Benefits Of Induction14:14 Risks And Tradeoffs16:19 Putting It Together20:06 Autonomy And Consent21:25 Wrap Up And Resources————

Brenda Power and John Deasy join Matt to discuss the controversy about hospital consultants employed by the State doing private work in public hospitals. Two bulls in a Kerry Field: division between the Healy-Raes, what's really going on? The new EU scrappage scheme: more than a PR stunt? The politics of the declining birth rate. Bungalow blitz or bliss? John and Brenda have very different views. Supplying the Russian war machine from Shannon. And the latest on Ireland-Israel relations. Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: mail@pathtopowerpodcast.comFollow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Story, Hanna shares her home VBAC story after two C-sections, delivering a 9 lb 11 oz baby despite being told her pelvis was “too small” in previous births. She recounts a first pregnancy shaped by COVID stress, a long induction ending in C-section, and a discouraging postpartum comment about never birthing vaginally. Her second pregnancy included deep VBAC research, doula support, a 42-week induction attempt, painful positioning, a partial epidural, a repeat C-section, and alarming (later contradicted) claims of uterine rupture. After reviewing her op report with her provider, Hanna pursued a third pregnancy with improved nutrition, fitness using Training for Two, and spontaneous labor at 42 weeks; after 2.5 hours of pushing, an OB and midwife resolved a shoulder dystocia, and postpartum was physically tough but emotionally healing with smooth breastfeeding.Find Hanna here!: @hanna_elisabeth_turner  on Instagram@joysofbirth doula page on Instagram00:00 Welcome and Episode Preview00:48 Meet the Hosts and Mission01:35 Introducing Hanna's HBAC Story02:08 First Pregnancy During COVID03:54 Induction to First C-Section05:36 Pelvis Comment and Postpartum07:16 Second Pregnancy and TOLAC Plan10:12 Labor Struggles and Walchers13:07 Repeat C-Section Trauma16:03 Uterus Scare and Grief17:57 Second Opinion Changes Everything25:02 Choosing Home Birth Support27:20 Training for Two and Pain-Free Pregnancy32:41 Choosing Gentle Induction34:07 Pelvic Mobility Theory35:45 Membrane Sweep Plan38:17 Active Day Sparks Labor41:31 Early Labor and Support46:12 Water Breaks Intensity Hits48:20 Two Hour Push Marathon52:35 Shoulder Dystocia Emergency58:09 Big Baby Aftermath01:00:01 Postpartum Recovery Reality01:05:09 Advice After Two C Sections01:07:23 Final Thanks and Resources————

Maternity care touches nearly every corner of the U.S. health system. About 25% of all hospitalizations involve a mother or newborn, and maternity spending accounts for roughly 0.8% of U.S. GDP — making it one of the most economically significant service lines in health care. Against that backdrop, a little noticed decision to unbundle maternity billing codes represents a generational shift in how pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care are paid for. In this episode of Radio Advisory, host Rae Woods sits down with Neel Shah, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Maven Clinic, to break down what the new maternity billing codes mean for providers, health plans, and patients. Together, they explore why the old bundle broke down, how unbundling could reshape care delivery, and what health leaders should be doing now as 2027 approaches. We're here to help: Read Neel's article | The great unbundling - by Neel Shah, MD - The Preprint Episode | Ep. 261: Maven Clinic on how holistic women's health is the key to reducing cost and engaging employees Quick guide | Guide to today's top women's healthcare trends Learn more about Advisory Board's 2026 summit series. A transcript of this episode as well as more information and resources can be found on RadioAdvisory.advisory.com.

Two hundred episodes in, and somehow we ended up across the table from the person who runs the whole system. For the TSR 200th, Dylan and Hayden sit down with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, and waste none of it on small talk.First, the SEND white paper. The move from EHCPs to the new Individual Support Plans sounds tidy, but it could leave families without the right to appeal at a tribunal. What happens to children with complex needs when the funding does not follow?Then the part that stings any new parent on staff. Civil servants get 26 weeks on full pay, teachers get eight. That opens up parental pay, a dropping birth rate, the quiet saving fewer pupils hand the Treasury, and whether the real answer is cutting class sizes rather than closing schools and cutting jobs.And the big one. A projected 6.5% pay rise over three years that is not fully funded. We asked the Education Secretary directly where that money comes from, and who loses their job to pay for it.Honest, occasionally tense, and exactly the conversation we wanted for episode 200.Oh, and yes, we did ask her about Gemma Collins turning up at the DfE.

Gina (doula/perinatal fitness trainer) and Roxanne (CNM, former L&D nurse) unpack how a decade in birth work—plus Gina's first, distrust-filled hospital birth—shifted them away from polarizing “all natural” vs “all medical” takes. They discuss how social media fuels hate on both ends, how tension between doulas and providers can hurt the birthing person, and why an empowering birth isn't defined by epidural vs unmedicated, hospital vs home, or vaginal vs C-section. Their big takeaway: the goal is informed consent, autonomy, and a trusted team—plus asking good prenatal questions early to find the right provider fit. They also share how their childbirth education evolved to be judgment-free, option-rich, and confidence-building, and they plug their courses (including pelvic mechanics) with code mentioned in this episode!Check out all our courses here!: https://mamastefit.com/fitness-programs/00:00 Welcome and Episode Setup01:09 Meet Gina and Roxanne02:32 Social Media Polarization07:23 What Really Matters09:23 The Catalyst Gina's First Birth11:22 From Indifferent to Unmedicated Plan12:26 Distrust and Traumatic Hospital Start15:11 Early Doula Era and Fighting Mindset20:29 Growth Through Many Births21:43 Trust the Team Above All23:36 Nuance Debriefs and Client Perspective25:23 Roxanne's Shift Begins25:39 Postpartum Nursing Reality26:59 Labor Unit Wake Up Call28:17 Learning Comfort Skills30:07 Ginas Birth Catalyst32:02 Questioning Interventions34:57 Autonomy And Consent41:11 Team Tension In Birth43:37 Trust Building Questions46:31 Judgment Free Birth Choices50:50 Course Philosophy And Growth55:49 Wrap Up And Resources————

Being pregnant may be the very first reason you've had prolonged exposure to the health care system. Interacting with the maternity care system can feel confusing and frightening and some women feel pressured and coerced into accepting testing, screening, treatments and medicines that they didn't really want, but didn't know how to say NO or negotiate other options. In this episode Mel shares her thoughts and strategies that you can use when advocating for yourself in the maternity care system Other relevant episodes for this podcast: Episode 173 - How to give great birth support Episode 170 - Managing labour without pain medication Episode 151 - What is it like to be in labour?   Get Mel's Guide to Giving Birth Without Pain Medication here. This great birth rebellion podcast episode is generously sponsored by Poppy Child from @popthatmumma. She is offering great birth rebellion listeners 25% off the Birth box which includes the oxytocin bubble tracks. Use the code Melanie at the check out to claim your discount. Just go to https://hypnobirthing-positive-birth.com/birthbox You can watch this episode on Youtube here.    Get more from the Great Birth Rebellion PodcastJoin the podcast mailing list to access the resource folder from each episode at www.melaniethemidwife.comJoin the rebellion and show your support! Grab your Great Birth Rebellion merchandise now at www.thegreatbirthrebellion.comFollow us on social media @thegreatbirthrebellion and @melaniethemidwifeIf this podcast has improved your knowledge or pregnancy, birth or postpartum journey please consider thanking us financially by leaving a tip to support the ongoing work of this podcast. DisclaimerThe information and resources provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute or replace medical or midwifery advice. Instead, all information provided is intended for education, with it's application intended for discussion between yourself and your care provider and/or workplace if you are a health professional.The Great Birth Rebellion podcast reserves the right to supplement, edit, change, delete any information at any time. Whilst we have tried to maintain accuracy and completeness of information, we do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or currency of the information. The podcast accepts no liability for any loss, damage or unfavourable outcomes howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.This podcast is not a replacement for midwifery or medical clinical care.All transcripts are generated by ai and may contain errors

What happens when you start questioning everything you've been taught and trained as an obstetrician inside one of the busiest hospitals in the world?This is a really powerful conversation with Dr Stuart Fishbein and Midwife Blyss Young where we unpack the harsh realities of the modern maternity system, and why so many women leave birth feeling traumatised, disconnected and disempowered.You'll especially love this if you've been told your baby is in the breech position! A big thank you to Take Five Aromatherapy for making this episode possible! Check out the wide range of ⁠⁠pregnancy blends⁠⁠ and use the code POPTHAT15 for 15% off the full range (including Poppy's favourite candle, the ⁠⁠Calming Anchor⁠⁠!!) Follow Dr Stu on Instagram: ⁠⁠@birthinginstinctsVisit Birthing Instincts online hereListen to the Birthing Instincts podcastFollow Midwife Blyss: @wovenmoon_Join the Patreon hereFollow Poppy on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@popthatmumma⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Birth Box⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Oxytocin Bubble⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get⁠⁠ Sonic Rooms

Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer, birth doula, and founder of MamasteFit in North Carolina, explains how exercising during pregnancy improves quality of life during pregnancy and postpartum—not just birth outcomes—while noting prenatal exercise research is still limited. She highlights a 2025/2026 American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology systematic review (11 RCTs) finding the strongest biomarker benefits from 12+ week programs done 2–3 times/week at moderate-to-vigorous intensity, including reduced pro-inflammatory markers, improved glucose/insulin regulation (supporting lower gestational diabetes risk), better lipid regulation, and favorable hormone/growth-factor changes linked to placental function and possibly baby brain development. Another 2025 review (9 RCTs, 1,500+ participants) suggests strength training may reduce excessive weight gain, low back/sciatic pain, and improve mood, sleep, fatigue, and well-being. She also cites studies indicating high-intensity lifting and even Valsalva can be well-tolerated with adequate rest and self-monitoring, then outlines MamasteFit's endurance-focused programming (compound lifts, accessory multi-plane work, myofascial slings, and posterior-chain emphasis) and promotes their app/video programs with a discount code.00:00 Why Prenatal Exercise Matters00:46 Meet Gina and MamasteFit01:38 What Research Can Tell Us02:23 Biomarkers and Training Dose05:11 Inflammation and Glucose Control08:05 Lipids Hormones and Baby Brain10:46 Strength Training Quality of Life13:17 Heavy Lifting and Valsalva Safety18:03 Listening to Your Body18:58 How to Program Prenatal Lifting20:54 Movement Variety and Posterior Chain23:04 Programs and Final Takeaways————

National trends indicate that more people are waiting until a bit later in life before considering their options. Some plan months or years in advance before starting the journey, while others make plans quickly when they find out a new addition is on the way. Growing a family looks different for each of us. Last year, more than 700 FSBP members gave birth and grew their families in locations around the world.  For FSBP members at any stage of the fertility, maternity, or parenting journey, they can access support through Maven Clinic. As part of Maternity May, we welcome Dr. Kathleen Green from Maven to talk about their support program and how members can benefit from this free, global offering. You can ask your own questions to Dr. Green during this month's AFSPA Live on May 28 at 11 am ET.  To enroll in Maven Clinic, please visit www.mavenclinic.com/join/FSBP To learn more about our upcoming programs, please visit www.afspa.org/events.

“It is a privilege to go see what's possible.” Allyson Felix  The saying goes, pressure is privilege and on this episode of The Pivot Podcast, the guys sit down with Olympic legend Allyson Felix for one of the most honest and inspiring conversations. From becoming the most decorated track and field athlete in Olympic history to chasing an unprecedented comeback at 40 to defying odds in motherhood, Allyson opens up about the mindset, sacrifice, and resilience that continue to drive her. She reflects on the difference between failure and success, why mental health became just as important as physical performance, and how some of her hardest moments shaped her greatest victories. Allyson also shares the deeply personal story of her troubled pregnancy, the life-threatening complications she faced, and how motherhood completely transformed her perspective on sport, business, and purpose. The conversation dives into her groundbreaking stance against Nike over maternity protections for female athletes — a decision that sparked industry-wide change and empowered women across sports to use their voices unapologetically. Beyond the track, Allyson talks about building businesses alongside her brother, creating opportunities beyond athletics, and what the future looks like after competition. This episode is about legacy, courage, reinvention, and proving that greatness doesn't stop with medals — it evolves with purpose. Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) declare they're officially done with pregnancies and fully in their child-rearing era, while joking about “perfect bookend babies,” potato-like newborns, and toddlers who won't stop poking the baby's face. They share what helped them accept closing the baby chapter—realizing you can't get the same baby back, acknowledging limited attention/bandwidth, and enjoying the return of personal freedom (like running, puzzles, and finally reading with eyeballs). Roxanne reflects on how confidence grew by dropping “supposed to” rules (tracking everything, waking sleeping babies) and making family-specific choices like safe bed sharing and breastfeeding without a cover. They unpack how social media highlight reels fuel comparison, emphasize that different parenting styles can all work, and end with teary reassurance—if you worry you're not a good mom, you're probably doing a great job!00:00 Child Rearing Era Begins01:01 Podcast Mission Intro01:50 Done Having Babies02:56 Letting Chapters Close04:44 Family Complete Mindset07:53 Harvey Newborn Reality11:27 From Potato to Toddler13:33 Running Returns Freedom16:45 Manifesting Perfect Angels18:19 Element Flavor Tangent19:37 Growing as a Mom20:34 Second Baby Reality Check21:37 Breaking Instagram Rules22:03 Sleep Shifts and Tracking25:23 Confidence and Boundaries28:52 One to Two Survival Mode30:27 Accepting Family Size32:14 Finding Yourself Again35:12 Routine with Four Kids35:58 Comparison and Highlight Reels40:29 Different Moms Different Choices43:43 Youre Doing Great Mom46:29 Tears and Wrap Up-------

Emma Doran's a hilarious Dublin comic, a very good follow on Instagram, and she's here to talk about building a career from the ground up. Starting standup during her maternity and working service jobs to fund herself, she's about to go on tour all across Ireland and Edinburgh - get your tickets: emmadorancomedy.com Get in touch giles@mightymoonmedia.com Thanks Badger Badger for having us. Assistant produced by Grace King. Get yourself some top class Shure microphone gear: https://shu.re/3YhV7p2 Set up Your Band's merch store, for free at Distrokid Direct: https://distrokid.com/direct/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Ingrid Carney is the founder of Ingrid & Isabel, the largest maternity brand in the United States. Before any of that, she co-founded a Silicon Valley startup that ended with the dot com bust. Then she got pregnant, couldn't button her pants on the way to a VC pitch, used a tube top to hold them in place, and that quick fix became the Bellaband, the product that built Ingrid & Isabel.She launched with $28,000 of her own money. Half of it went to a patent. The rest went to walking into the top maternity stores in the country, demoing the product on her own body, and sending handwritten letters to the number one store in every major market. With no fashion background, no industry connections, and no marketing budget, she taught herself manufacturing, beat back a major company that tried to steal her patent, and bootstrapped Ingrid & Isabel to serve more than 17 million moms with 16 patents to her name.In this episode, Ingrid shares what 24 years in business has actually taught her, and why feeling "behind" can be an advantage in a world obsessed with overnight success. We get into the patent battle that almost ended everything, how she got into retail and grew the business from there, and why she believes the best ideas come from sharing your idea, not protecting it, and so much more. In this episode, we'll talk to Ingrid about:* Why feeling “behind” in business can become a competitive advantage. [02:23]* Becoming comfortable in unfamiliar situations from an early age. [04:36]* Lessons from working in Silicon Valley startups and ad agencies. [07:17]* Discovering the balance between big corporate thinking and startup speed. [08:27]* Building her first startup and navigating its shutdown. [09:47]* The pregnancy moment that sparked the idea for the Bellaband. [12:42]* Validating the product idea through her local moms group. [15:48]* Testing early prototypes and refining the product through real feedback. [17:23]* Navigating postpartum depression while sitting on a promising idea. [18:58]* Why investing into a patent changed the company's future. [20:28]* Fighting a major retailer that copied the Bellaband before the patent was approved. [22:35]* Why sharing ideas openly can lead to unexpected opportunities and advice. [29:16]* Trusting intuition while balancing endless feedback from others. [30:58]* The realities of building a company while raising young children. [32:22]* Landing early retail accounts by personally demonstrating the product in stores. [34:55]* How Target became a major growth unlock for the brand. [38:23]* Using lines of credit and inventory planning to support rapid expansion. [39:35]* Balancing premium retail, mass retail, and accessibility for customers. [40:45]* Products she believed would succeed that failed — and surprise hits she resisted. [46:01]* Hiring lessons, team dynamics, and knowing when someone isn't the right fit. [48:42]* Expanding into Walmart while continuing to focus on long-term growth opportunities. [51:02]This episode is brought to you by Beeya:* If you or anyone you know have been struggling with hormonal imbalances and bad periods, go to https://beeyawellness.com/free to download the free guide to tackling hormonal imbalances* Plus, get $10 off your order by using promo code BEHINDHEREMPIRE10Follow Yasmin:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminknouri/* Website: https://www.behindherempire.com/Follow Ingrid:* Website: https://www.ingridandisabel.com/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingridandisabel/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

California's Governor's Race Remains Wide Open. Here's What to Know Before the Primary From controversies to campaign promises, California's governor's race is national news. And with ballots landing in mailboxes already, the race is still a toss-up — with eight candidates vying for the state's top job. We sit down with KQED political correspondents Guy Marzorati and Marisa Lagos to hear more about the candidates and what we should look for in the final weeks before Election Day.  In Northern California's Maternity Desert, a Humboldt Midwife Offers Intimate Births Despite being the nation's most populous state, there's increasingly fewer places to give birth.  In rural areas, giving birth can be  difficult and dangerous as local hospitals shut down maternity wards. In Humboldt County, some women now travel hours in labor to reach the nearest delivery room. One small birth center in Eureka is trying to fill that gap with a different approach to care. There, midwives spend more time with patients and offer a calmer, more personal setting for births. It's a model that could help address the state's growing maternity care crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HOST: Dr. Daina Parent, ND GUEST: Sarah Thompson, Dpl.OM, L.Ac., CFMP, and Birth Doula Sarah Thompson brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on preparing for motherhood and maternal care. Host Dr. Daina Parent, ND and Sarah Thompson, Dpl.OM, L.Ac., CFMP, and Birth Doula, engage in an important conversation around the need for improved care for the mother in preconception, fertility and pregnancy. They discuss how whole food nutrition, lifestyle, functional lab testing and interpretation, and collaborative care can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes for mom and baby. Throughout the episode Sarah offers clinical pearls on how to improve diets of pregnant patients and influencing positive lifestyle changes. Sarah Thompson is the author of Functional Maternity - Using Functional Medicine and Nutrition to Improve Pregnancy and Childbirth Outcomes and Beyond Results – A Practitioner's Guidebook to Functional Lab Analysis in Pregnancy. She is a certified functional medicine practitioner, licensed acupuncturist, board-certified herbalist, birth doula, and educator with a passion for pregnancy care. She is a leader in the practice and education of maternity functional medicine. Sarah combines evidence-based research in prenatal and maternity nutrition with functional medicine and nutrition principles. Sarah's clinical experience spans nearly 20 years. Highlights of the episode include: Foods for preconception – antioxidants from colorful whole food fruits and vegetables, omega-3s, and more The Whole Food Matrix – benefits of consuming vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients in a whole food form Functional approach to interpreting labs during pregnancy   Podcast Summary 2:15 Discovering the passion for functional maternity care 5:32 Inspiring birth stories and navigating fear around childbirth 6:52 Opportunities for growth and improvement in conventional model of pregnancy care 8:06 "Prenatal care is the care of the baby. Maternity care is the care of the mother. We have lost the care of mothers through the care of pregnancy." 9:00 How nutrition and lifestyle affects mother and baby 13:07 Preconception preparation – preparing the body for pregnancy 18:34 Foods for preconception – antioxidants from colorful whole food fruits and vegetables (polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and others), omega-3s, and more 22:54 Oxidative Stress Defined 25:22 The Whole Food Matrix – benefits of consuming vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients in a whole food form 28:09 Managing cravings for unhealthy foods during pregnancy and balancing with nutrient dense foods 30:04 "How do I make what you're doing work better for you?" - individualized nutritional support 33:04 Simple ways to add polyphenols to meals 36:19 Elevating everyday recipes to increase nutrient density and phytonutrient content 39:42 An individualized approach to herbs in pregnancy 42:52 Functional Medicine approach to common issues in pregnancy 49:43 The interconnectedness of systems and functions of the body in pregnancy 50:59 Modifiable lifestyle factors to improve pregnancy complications 53:47 Functional approach to interpreting labs during pregnancy 1:04:00 Collaboration in Care – it takes a village of practitioners working together to deliver holistic pregnancy care 1:06:00 Advice to practitioners and patients: importance of individualized maternal care and focusing on aspects of pregnancy and birth we can control  

In this MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Story, Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interviews Victoria about two very different births: her first, a 39-week elective induction with Cytotec and high-dose Pitocin, limited eating/mobility, epidural issues, frequent cervical checks, infection/fever, and a postpartum hemorrhage with painful clot removal—followed by postpartum anxiety and breastfeeding struggles due to her baby's near level-four tongue tie. For her second pregnancy, Victoria re-took MamasteFit's childbirth course, used our pelvic pain program, advocated more strongly, and aimed for an unmedicated birth. After being told in triage she wasn't in active labor, her water broke at home, EMS took her to a different hospital, and she delivered quickly with the empowered experience she was wanting. She closes with advice to trust your body and set boundaries.00:00 Episode Preview00:30 Meet the Hosts01:17 Victoria Joins the Show01:33 First Pregnancy Prep03:41 Elective Induction Begins07:05 Pitocin Epidural and Slow Progress13:39 Pushing and Baby Arrives18:18 Postpartum Hemorrhage Scare20:27 Tongue Tie and Postpartum Anxiety24:59 Second Birth Goals and Prep29:09 Early Labor Signs at 38 Weeks32:37 Night Labor Builds35:19 Hospital Triage Reality Check39:19 Sent Home Defeated40:54 No Break Contractions42:29 Water Breaks and 91146:05 Ambulance to Closest Hospital47:48 Fast Unmedicated Birth50:04 Golden Hour and Breastfeeding53:00 Postpartum Recovery and Healing57:20 Advice Trust Your Body01:01:54 Wrap Up and Induction Tips————

In this episode, i talk about longevity. Knowing your numbers, and how people on their 50s,60s,and 70s are focused on improving their health, and not chasing fads.I also talk about a 1921 Act, The Sheppard-Towner Act, which provided Maternity and Childcare.

Across the country, rural hospitals are closing their obstetric units—and for many families, that means traveling hours just to give birth. In this episode of MamaDoc BabyDoc, we take a closer look at the growing crisis of rural OB unit closures and what it means for access to care. We break down why these closures are happening—from staffing shortages to financial pressures—and how they're creating "maternity deserts" where prenatal care, labor support, and emergency services are increasingly out of reach. But this isn't just a systems issue—it's personal. We talk about the real risks for moms and babies when care is delayed, fragmented, or simply unavailable. What happens when labor starts miles from the nearest hospital? How does this affect outcomes, stress, and safety? Whether you're a provider, a parent, or someone who cares about maternal health, this episode sheds light on a critical issue shaping the future of childbirth in America—and what needs to change.

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Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains common skin changes in pregnancy caused by hormonal shifts, increased blood volume, and a growing belly, including hyperpigmentation (melasma, linea nigra), vascular changes (spider veins, varicose veins), and stretch marks. She shares practical tips like daily SPF and sun protection for darkening, and compression socks, avoiding prolonged standing/crossing legs, walking, and massage to support circulation. For stretch marks, she notes there's no evidence that creams prevent them during pregnancy and retinoids aren't recommended until postpartum; causes are multifactorial (genetics, collagen, hydration, baby size/weight gain). Roxanne also reviews pregnancy itching and rashes: PUPPP (third trimester, spares belly button), atopic eruption (first/second trimester, widespread), and more concerning conditions needing evaluation—ICP (itching palms/soles), pemphigoid gestationis (starts at belly button; risks for baby), and rare pustular psoriasis with systemic symptoms—advising viewers to contact their provider for assessment and treatment options.Watch our video about ICP here: https://youtu.be/uzZz2KuZDAU00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:01 Why Skin Changes Happen01:44 Hyperpigmentation and Melasma02:40 Spider and Varicose Veins03:48 Stretch Marks Truths06:18 Common Changes Recap07:15 Itching and PUPPP Rash08:57 Atopic Eruption Explained09:53 Red Flags and Serious Rashes13:45 Final Recap and Next Steps————

Are you pregnant in the Netherlands — and not sure what your rights at work actually are?You are not alone. This is the most asked-about topic in international parent communities, and in this episode we finally get it answered properly — by an employment lawyer.Eva sits down with Ferline van Laerhoven, founder of Fair Line Law and Dutch employment law specialist, who has spent a decade working with international companies and employees in the Netherlands. In this conversation they cover:→  When you are legally required to tell your employer you're pregnant→  Whether employers are allowed to ask if you're pregnant (even in a job interview)→  Medical appointments and prenatal checks — are they paid time?→  What workplace adjustments employers must legally provide→  Night shifts, overtime and physically demanding work during pregnancy→  Extra paid rest breaks — the legal right most people don't know they have→  Sick leave during pregnancy: why it is treated differently, and why you get 100%→  How sick leave interacts with maternity leave length→  What happens after maternity leave ends if you're still unwell (including PPD/PPA)→  The 16 weeks: how it splits, how it's applied for, and the WAZO process→  Permanent contracts, temporary contracts, part-time and freelancer rights→  What non-renewal of a contract while pregnant really means legally→  Miscarriage before and after 24 weeks — what Dutch law says right now→  The Amsterdam and Utrecht grievance policy — and what it means nationally→  Stillbirth rights and bereavement leave→  Documentation, complaint timelines and what to do when things go wrong→  Partner leave — the full 6-week pictureRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Fair Line Law — employment lawyer specialising in pregnancy and parenthood at workWebsite: www.fairlinelaw.nl  Instagram: @fairlinelaw    Email: info@fairlinelaw.nlJuridisch Loket — free basic legal advice (income-dependent): www.juridischloket.nlUWV — Employee Insurance Agency, maternity benefit questions: www.uwv.nl Dam Parenting Podcast — questions and community: damparentingpodcast@gmail.comPaternity leave episode coming soon — send your questions to damparentingpodcast@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram.

In this episode, Sophia and Aly sit down with Larissa to share one of the most unique birth journeys yet.What began as a seemingly overdue pregnancy turned into a powerful story of intuition, patience, and uncovering what was actually happening beneath the surface.Larissa shares:Why she chose a no-intervention pregnancyThe confusion of measuring small and unclear timelinesHow an early loss changed everythingWhat it was like to think she was “53 weeks pregnant”Her 43-hour labor and 8-hour pushing experiencePostpartum challenges with feeding and recoveryThis episode explores the complexity of trusting your body when answers aren't clear—and what it means to truly surrender to the process.Some of our Favorite product recommendations: ▶︎Afterease Tincture by Wish Garden Herbs: https://tidd.ly/4uQ0NGv▶︎Sitz Bath Herbs by Motherlove Organics: https://www.motherlove.com/?sca_ref=10865436.IGh1FTI5Qs▶︎HIRO diapers: https://hirodiapers.com/bornwild3▶︎Mioberry Organic Muslin Swaddle sets & more: www.miaoerrydesigns.com/bornwild Save 15% with code: Bornwild1500:00 Intro01:00 Fertility + pregnancy start03:30 Choosing home birth + no ultrasounds05:00 Measuring small + uncertainty begins08:30 Doppler + reassurance10:00 “Overdue” months begin11:40 The 53-week pregnancy realization14:30 Maternity leave chaos16:00 Trust vs fear in pregnancy19:00 Labor begins21:00 Early labor + tub + positions23:30 Pushing challenges24:00 Breakthrough moment (bladder)25:00 8 hours pushing29:00 Birth + surprise gender31:00 Postpartum + feeding challenges34:00 Advice for first-time momsThis podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice.We are not providing medical or legal guidance, nor are we encouraging listeners to engage in any practice that may be unsafe or unlawful in their jurisdiction. Birth choices, medical care decisions, and midwifery practices are highly regulated and vary by state and country.Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified, licensed professionals and to research the laws applicable to their location before making any health or birth-related decisions.By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own decisions and actions.The show notes may contain affiliate links. IF you click and purchase product or service I might be compensated. Thank you for your support. 

There is an increased awareness recently about bringing somatic-based tools into our therapy practices, mainly because so much of the perinatal experience is influenced by the changes taking place in our bodies. Today's guest explains why a body approach to therapy can help perinatal clients, how perinatal experiences can alienate a woman from her body, and why this type of therapy can be beneficial for those in the perinatal period. Join us to learn more! Dr. Leslie Ann Costello is a psychologist and certified bioenergetic therapist. Originally a preschool teacher, she volunteered as a Lamaze instructor in the 1980s and subsequently studied developmental psychology, with a focus on infant mental health. Professional encounters with pregnancy and infant loss propelled her toward maternal mental health as a career focus. As a freshly minted Ph.D., she landed in a grant-funded prenatal clinic in Louisiana, soaking up experiences that shaped the trajectory of her thirty-year career as a professor, therapist, trainer, and supervisor. Leslie is a mom, step-mom, and grandmother who identifies as an American living in Canada. Her new book, Helping Mothers Helping Babies, is for perinatal therapists who want to bring somatic tools into their work with clients.  Show Highlights: The cultural shift that focuses more on the mother and her somatic experience The “mother first” philosophy in perinatal mental health Respecting the language of body sensation OVER the language of emotion and story Using physical grounding exercises can help with emotional overwhelm. With somatic tools, slower is always better. Not having the language for your direct experience is normal. Dr. Costello's message about the benefits of body-centered healing therapies Understanding somatic interventions The WHAT is more important than the WHY in understanding a body experience. Drawbacks of the current culture of aesthetic living and parenting Maternity leave: differences in the US and Canada Drawbacks in the US practice of maternity leave (It's not socially responsible to ignore the 4th trimester.) Resources:  Connect with Dr. Leslie Ann Costello: Instagram and Helping Mothers Helping Babies Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit CDPH. Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773.  There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms. Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/for information on the grief course.  Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!  If you are a California resident seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

According to NHS England, every maternity service in England will need to meet new clinical standards set out by the NHS to significantly reduce the number of women who die each year during or after pregnancy. This comes after figures published earlier this year showed a 20% increase in maternal deaths between 2022 to 2024 compared to rates from 2009 to 2011. More than 500,000 babies are born in England every year and to discuss what these announcements mean in practise for pregnant women, Anita Rani is joined by Michael Buchanan, BBC Social Affairs correspondent.At the age of nearly 40, BBC broadcaster Sophie Raworth thought she was too old to start running. She'd done no exercise for decades. But after being invited to take part in The Great North Run and then seeing a friend do the London Marathon, Sophie decided to give it a go. Although it didn't quite initially go to plan, she kept going on a path that would take her around the world, from Sydney to New York and the Sahara Desert, completing 20 marathons and 10 ultra-marathons. She tells Anita about her new book, Running On Air, and reveals how in running, she has discovered an unexpected strength, new confidence and great friendships. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust has published a report spotlighting the link between stalking and homicide to mark National Stalking Awareness week. They say there are huge gaps in recording stalking as a contributing factor to homicide and want to see further research on this. Anita is joined by Saskia Garner, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, and Detective Inspector Karen Butler from the Metropolitan Police, who works in the Stalking Threat Assessment Centre.On Monday, Sarah Finch became the European recipient of the Goldman Environmental Prize, for her work against oil drilling in Surrey, with the Weald Action Group. Their long legal battle led to a landmark judgement on fossil fuel emissions. The Goldman Prize, often referred to as the ‘Green Nobel', honours grassroots environmental activists from around the world. For the first time since its inception, all six prizes were won by women. Sarah joins Anita from California where the awards took place.Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Andrea Kidd

Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains placenta previa—when the placenta covers or sits very close to the cervix (complete, partial, or low-lying)—usually found at the 18–22 week anatomy scan. While it can show up in 10–30% of pregnancies early on, most resolve as the uterus grows (about 90–95% for low-lying/partial and ~70% for complete), with follow-up ultrasounds commonly around 28, 32, and sometimes 36 weeks to decide delivery plans. The big concern is sudden, painless, often heavy bleeding from placental shearing, which can mean hospitalization, earlier delivery, and often a C-section if it persists at term, plus higher hemorrhage risk. Management includes pelvic rest (no vaginal insertion) and individualized activity limits—especially if bleeding occurs—with aerobic exercise generally avoided and lighter/moderate, more anaerobic options discussed with your provider.00:00 Placenta Previa Explained01:04 Diagnosis and Odds01:42 Types and Resolution02:44 Why It Matters Bleeding04:26 Monitoring and Delivery Plan05:59 Pelvic Rest Basics06:54 Exercise and Activity Limits09:53 Safe Movement Guidelines11:10 Recap Key Takeaways14:40 Coping and Next Steps15:09 Subscribe and Resources————

Today's Poll Question at Smerconish.com: "Is America's record low fertility rate a problem?" America's birth rate has fallen to historic lows, well below the level needed to sustain the population—but does it actually matter? Michael explores the economic, social, and political implications of a shrinking younger generation, including pressure on Social Security, a tightening labor force, and shifting demographics. Listen here for some great insights and data, then vote, and please rate, review and share this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when you finally build the business you dreamed of—and it still doesn't make you happy? In this episode, Corinne Moore shares the emotional and practical reality of deciding to close a pet care company after years of building systems, leaders, and stability. We talk about the "grief" of letting go, the guilt many owners carry for clients and staff, and how maternity leave created space to see the truth clearly. Corinne explains how tracking patterns (not just bad days) helped her separate a rough patch from a real endpoint. The conversation closes with encouragement: you can finish well, take care of people, and still choose what's best for your life. Main topics: Maternity leave and clarity Business grief and identity Staff transitions and ethics Client communication when closing Rough patch vs endpoint Main takeaway: "You deserve to be happy in your company." Corinne's remark can feel almost too simple—until you realize how many owners are running on guilt, obligation, and sunk cost. Corinne shared how stepping away (and tracking patterns over time) helped her see what was true: not every hard season is just a temporary dip, and not every business has to last forever to be meaningful. Finishing well can still include caring for clients, supporting staff transitions, and communicating with integrity. The goal isn't to quit on a bad day—it's to tell the truth about a bad year and choose a healthier next chapter. Your business should support your life, not slowly erase it. About our guest: Corinne Moore is a pet care professional based in Madison, Wisconsin, and the former owner of a pet care company called Paws and Claws. Known as "the data girl" in the pet care space, she supports business owners through coaching and a metrics-first approach to decision-making. Corinne also works in bookkeeping and runs Pawsome Metrics, helping service businesses make sense of their numbers and operations. Her passion sits at the intersection of sustainable leadership, clear reporting, and building businesses that truly fit the owner's life. Links: Dog Co Launch: https://www.dogcolaunch.com/ Tiny Paws Bookkeeping: https://tinypawsbookkeeping.com Corinne's previous appearance, "565: How Metrics Transform with Corinne Moore": https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/565 Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

Care about independent and ethical news? Support Media Storm on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Warning: this episode mentions baby loss and birth trauma. How many times have you read a headline that tells you UK maternity services are in ‘crisis'? And how many times have you really understood why they're in crisis? A recent interim report into England's maternity and neonatal care had some brutal findings: hospital mistake 'cover-ups', negligent care from frontline workers, lack of staff and poorer maternal outcomes for ethnic minority women. But identifying the problems is just the beginning – understanding their root cause is harder, and something our press repeatedly fails to do. Financial incentive schemes that reward units whose data meets certain 'safety' targets put the lives of pregnant people on the line – but midwives with low morale, burnout, unsustainable working hours and stress take the brunt of the blame in the media, even when their voices are notably missing from the coverage about them. What's really behind headlines about a lack of staff? Is there really a woo-woo 'normal birth ideology' killing mothers and babies? And why are outcomes so different depending on skin colour? Here to answer all those questions is Leah Hazard, NHS midwife and author of 'Hard Pushed: A Midwife's Story', and Illiyin Morrison, perinatal trauma specialist midwife and author of 'The Birth Debrief'. You can sign Leah's petition for legal limits on midwives working hours here. This episode is hosted and produced by Mathilda Mallinson (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@mathildamall⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) and Helena Wadia (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@helenawadia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)  The music is by⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @soundofsamfire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Stories, Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interview Destiny about her two births. Her first ending with an unplanned C-section in 2024 after laboring to 10 cm, pushing 1.5 hours, spiking a fever with concern for infection, and baby's sustained high heart rate. Her second, a much faster VBAC just three weeks ago! For baby #2, Destiny had planned a repeat C-section because he was breech for weeks—until a last-minute ultrasound showed he'd flipped head-down, leading to a TOLAC with Pitocin, lots of movement (wireless monitors!), sudden transition, and a 15-minute unmedicated push. She shares postpartum comparisons, the importance of understanding why a C-section happened, limiting room “spectators,” and that unmedicated stitches plus a 45-minute intern tutorial is not the vibe.00:00 Podcast Welcome00:39 Meet The Hosts01:30 Destiny Joins01:41 First Birth Prep02:39 Late Pregnancy Recap04:13 Labor Begins05:18 Admitted And Monitored07:53 Epidural And Slowdown09:45 Pushing And C Section Call15:12 Recovery And Anxiety15:51 Second Birth Goals16:24 Breech Surprise Flip19:11 Tolac Induction Starts21:27 Pitocin And Hospital Checks22:22 Pitocin Starts Slow23:12 Hip Opening Moves24:17 Supportive Care Team25:27 Station Zero Progress27:49 Epidural Decision Talk28:58 Transition Hits Hard30:18 Chaotic Rapid Delivery34:11 Postpartum Recovery Win35:33 Advice After C Section38:41 Fast Labor Lessons40:58 Sutures and Boundaries42:31 Wrap Up and Resources____________

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) discuss postpartum stress urinary incontinence—aka “surprise pee” during running, jumping, laughing, sneezing, or heavy lifts. The sisters and pros emphasize it's common, not shameful, and NOT a required badge of motherhood. They explain key contributors: impact mechanics (shock absorption through ankles/knees/hips), pressure management (ribcage/diaphragm positioning and avoiding “reverse” breathing that increases downward pressure), and pelvic floor capacity (healing timelines—often not ready early postpartum, with many feeling better around 12–16+ weeks, improving over months). Quick fixes include stacking the ribcage, using a left-back/right-forward staggered stance for symptoms, and externally splinting the perineum when coughing/sneezing; for running, reduce “bounce,” increase cadence, use a slight forward lean, and consider run-walk intervals. They note non-orthopedic causes to rule out (UTI, neurologic issues, prolapse/urogynecology care) and recommend pelvic floor PT/OT, plus their return-to-running programs.00:00 Postpartum Leaking Overview00:35 Meet the Hosts01:24 Normalize Not Accept03:11 Why Leaking Happens07:38 Running Impact Mechanics10:46 Pressure and Breathing15:20 Healing Timeline Capacity21:50 Medical Causes to Rule Out24:47 Quick Fixes for Relief31:38 Long Term Strength Plan36:39 Wrap Up and Resources

This week on Episode 468 of The HighWire, Jefferey Jaxen investigates the health and policy questions surrounding 6G expansion, radio frequency radiation, paraquat, glyphosate, and pesticide liability protections. As the Trump administration pushes toward next-generation wireless infrastructure, we examine claims about weak RF safety standards, industry influence, and growing concern over long-term exposure. It also breaks down the latest on paraquat lawsuits, the EPA debate, and controversial Farm Bill pesticide provisions that critics say could limit legal accountability for chemical manufacturers.Host Del Bigtree sits down with Dr. Stuart Fischbein for an in-studio conversation on natural birth, home birth, VBACs, and the medicalization of childbirth, exploring how families can think differently about pregnancy, birth, and informed decision-making.March 19, 2026Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-highwire-with-del-bigtree--3620606/support.

The health secretary Wes Streeting has appointed senior midwife Donna Ockenden to lead a review into maternity and neonatal services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. The appointment came after a sustained campaign by bereaved and harmed families who said that she was the only one they trusted to lead the review into failings in Leeds. Donna Ockenden joined Nuala McGovern to discuss her new appointment as well as her ongoing review into Nottingham university hospitals.How would you feel if everyone in your household forgot your birthday? After a woman's social media post saying her family had forgotten hers went viral, Anita talked to the author Poorna Bell and the journalist Nell Frizzell about whether forgetting a spouse's birthday is simply a careless moment or the sign of something deeper.Dr Amy Blakeway, Senior Lecturer in 16th Century Scottish History at the University of St Andrews, talked to Nuala about the history of the term 'rough wooing', and why she thinks it's time we stopped using it.Ashley Dalton, the MP for West Lancashire, announced last week that she was stepping down from her role as Health Minister to focus on constituency work and her health. Last year she revealed that her breast cancer had returned, and metastasised. This means living with advanced breast cancer everyday – it can't be cured, but it can be managed. She joined Nuala to discuss her decision.Maimuna Memon is an actress, singer, composer, and playwright. Last year, she won a Laurence Olivier Award for her performance in the musical Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 at the Donmar in London. Maimuna talks to Anita about the real-life stories behind her latest show Manic Street Creature.Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Annette Wells

Outlouders, your usual Friday dose of Mamamia Out Loud will drop this afternoon but for now, here's a lil' treat from us to you. Enjoy. She’s 10 days on. She’s splitting her time and her heart between home and hospital, and she wants to share her story with you, Outlouders. Our beloved co-host Jessie Stephens gave birth to her boy-girl twins last week, earlier than hoped, and became a mum all over again. There will be so many of you who’ll relate to this story of terror-tinged joy, who will recognise the awe and exhaustion in Jessie’s voice, and who will want to send her so much love as she and her little family find their way through a new normal. Jessie’s rock, her twin sister Clare Stephens as well as Emily Vernem and Holly Wainwright are asking the questions:. How much time did she get “off” before the babies came? What was the first thing that happened when they did? How is Luna? How is Luca? Can she finally eat chocolate again? And how is she staying sane and hopeful? A very special episode. SUBSCRIBE here: Support independent women's media What To Listen To Next: Listen to our latest episode: Mia, Female Friendships & The '3-Word' Rule' Listen: A Reluctant Pregnancy Announcement On Live TV Listen: Mia's Diary Note: What I Didn't Expect About Being A Nana Listen: Beckham, Meghan & Jessie's Hospital Voice Note Listen: How To Talk To Absolutely Anyone Listen: Mia Enters The 'Working Mums' Chat Listen: Inside The Fight That Ended Kyle & Jackie O Listen: Love Story Part 2: Jackie O, The Kennedys & That Fight Scene Listen: Uninvited Princesses & The Dating Story We're Yearning For Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts Discover more Mamamia Podcasts here including the very latest episode of Parenting Out Loud, the parenting podcast for people who don't listen to... parenting podcasts. SUBSCRIBE here: Support independent women's media Watch Australia's #1 podcast, Mamamia Out Loud: Mamamia Out Loud on YouTube What to read: JESSIE STEPHENS: On being pregnant with twins. As a twin. With twin brothers. CLARE STEPHENS: 'I did everything to avoid a traumatic birth. Then I had one.' 'I was 3 days postpartum and holding my son. Then a nurse said 5 words that broke me.' 'I was home alone when I went into sudden labour. I'll never forget what happened 40 minutes later.' THE END BITS: Check out our merch at MamamiaOutLoud.com GET IN TOUCH: Feedback? We’re listening. Send us an email at outloud@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message. Join our Facebook group Mamamia Outlouders to talk about the show. Follow us on Instagram @mamamiaoutloud and on Tiktok @mamamiaoutloudBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The health secretary Wes Streeting has appointed senior midwife Donna Ockenden to lead a review into maternity and neonatal services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. The appointment came after a sustained campaign by bereaved and harmed families who said that she was the only one they trusted to lead the review into failings in Leeds. BBC reporter Divya Talwar tells us about breaking the story and Donna Ockenden joins Nuala McGovern to discuss her new appointment as well as her ongoing review into Nottingham university hospitals.We look at the changing gender split in the veterinary profession, 61% of working vets are women and 80% of recently qualified vets - what's behind the shift? Dr Christianne Glossop is Honorary Professor and Honorary Fellow at the Royal Veterinary College and Wales' first Chief Veterinary Officer, she joins Nuala.During World War One, women working in munitions factories formed football teams. They would sometimes play in front of thousands of people, until the Football Association banned women's football in 1921, a ban that lasted for 50 years. This is the focus of a play at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre, The Ladies Football club. One of the stars is Ellie Leach, formerly in Coronation Street and who won Strictly Come Dancing in 2023. She joins Nuala alongside director Elizabeth Newman.Dr Amy Blakeway, Senior Lecturer in 16th Century Scottish History at the University of St Andrews, talks to Nuala about the history of the term 'rough wooing', and why she thinks its time we stopped using it.Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Helen Fitzhenry