Podcasts about pitocin

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! 

Happy Spring! And welcome to the May Q&A!We start with a listener email we loved, followed by a discussion on creativity and why it matters, especially in the early years of motherhood when it can feel completely out of reach.Then we get into your questions.We talk about postpartum hemorrhage and how it's defined, including whether 500 cc of blood loss is truly cause for concern, and the use of Pitocin and Cytotec in that context, particularly for VBAC mothers. We also revisit RhoGAM and walk through when it may or may not be necessary, especially if you're not planning future pregnancies.One listener asks how to handle being the only one in the family making different choices around birth and parenting. We share our thoughts on boundaries, restraint, and when saying less is often the stronger position.In quickies, we cover induction at 42 weeks, complete placenta previa, vitamin D for breastfed babies, pelvic floor therapy access, low libido in pregnancy, newborn weight checks, birth combs, and how to get through the third trimester in the summer.Finally, when one fan asked our opinion on which of us may be the better driver, one of us shares an old story of getting a reckless driving ticket!**********Send us Fan Mail Cozyearth: Use code DTB for 20% offNeeded

Birth doesn't always go the way you planned, but preparation never goes to waste.In this encouraging birth story, My Essential Birth Mama Mary Richardson shares her journey from planning a home birth to an unexpected hospital transfer, a Pitocin induction she never saw coming, and over 24 hours of unmedicated labor that pushed her further than she ever thought she could go. From the daily prep she did throughout pregnancy, to the moment everything shifted at 41 weeks and three days, to delivering a 9lb 12oz baby boy, I just know you are going to love Mary and everything she shares in this episode. ❤️ What I love most about Mary's story is not just what happened, it's how she handled it. She is honest about the hard parts, gracious about the things she would do differently, and so genuinely encouraging to every mama who is doing all the things and wondering if it will matter when birth surprises her. It absolutely does. This episode is proof of that. I promise you do not want to miss this one, in fact, save it and come back to it as you get closer to your birth!Here are some highlights from the episode:How Mary navigated... nausea, sciatica, white coat syndrome, and a GBS positive result throughout her pregnancyThe provider switch she made at 20 weeks and why finding the right support changed everything for herThe daily habits and preparation that carried her through 24+ hours of unmedicated laborWhat happened at her 41 week ultrasound and how she and her husband navigated the decision to transferWhat unmedicated labor through a Pitocin induction actually felt like — and the coping strategies that helped mostThe moment during transition in the bathtub that she says was one of her favoritesHer third degree tear recovery and the holistic healing tips that actually made a differenceHer honest breastfeeding journey from those first hours to four months inHer most powerful advice for both moms and dads going into birth 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! 

299: I'm joined by Dr. Stuart Fischbein to have an honest conversation about modern pregnancy, birth culture, and why so many women feel fearful going into labor. We talk about the rise in C-sections, inductions, epidurals, and the cascade of interventions that can happen in hospital births. Dr. Stu also explains the history behind “geriatric pregnancy,” the differences between midwifery and the medical model, and why informed consent and individualized care matter so much for mothers and babies. Whether you're currently pregnant, planning to have children someday, or simply curious about how birth has changed over time, this episode offers a deeper look at the modern birth system and the importance of trusting women's bodies.Topics Discussed: → Pregnancy After 35 & “Geriatric Pregnancy” → Home Birth vs Hospital Birth → Fear-Based Birth Culture → C-Sections, Inductions & Medical Interventions → Midwifery Model of Care → Epidurals, Pitocin & Birth Outcomes → Informed Consent & Choosing the Right Birth Provider → Trusting Nature's Design During Birth Sponsored By: → Function | Check your health the way I do — 160+ lab tests a year for $365, plus the ability to dive deeper into your results with Function's trusted connections to platforms like ChatGPT and Claude. Join at https://functionhealth.com/REALFOODOLOGY and use code REALFOODOLOGY25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. → Qualia | Take control of your cellular health today. Go to https://qualialife.com/realfoodology and save 15% to experience the science of feeling younger.  → PaleoValley | Head to https://paleovalley.com/realfoodology for 15% off your first purchase. → BetterWild | Right now, Betterwild is offering our listeners up to 40% off your order at https://betterwild.com/REALFOODOLOGY → Clearstem | Discover the CLEARSTEM difference — Because CLEAR SKIN CHANGES EVERYTHING. Go to https://clearstem.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY at checkout for 15% off your first order.→ 00:00:00 - Introduction → 00:02:11 - Is Pregnancy After 35 Actually “Geriatric”? → 00:08:35 - How Mammals Naturally Give Birth → 00:13:12 - Why C-Sections & Inductions Keep Rising → 00:20:16 - What Counts as a True Birth Emergency? → 00:33:58 - The Cascade of Interventions During Labor → 00:42:20 - Midwives vs Traditional OB Care → 00:49:38 - Solutions for the Modern Birth System → 00:54:57 - Fear-Based Pregnancy Culture & Epidurals → 01:03:07 - Epidurals, Hormones & Baby Bonding → 01:17:07 - “Your Baby Is Too Big” & Birth Myths → 01:21:17  - Induction at 41/42 Weeks Explained → 01:25:31 - Why Birth Stories Stay With Women Forever → 01:28:37 - Final Thoughts + Trusting Your BodyShow Links: → ⁠realfoodology.com Check Out: Dr. Stu → Instagram - Birthinginstincts → Dr. Stu's Newsletter Sign Up  Check Out Courtney:  →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@realfoodology⁠⁠⁠⁠ →⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠PEOPLE VS THE POISON - Sign up now!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠www.realfoodology.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠My Immune Supplement by 2x4⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Air Dr Air Purifier⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠AquaTru Water Filter⁠⁠⁠⁠ → ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠EWG Tap Water Database⁠⁠⁠⁠  Produced By: Drake Peterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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————

When people hear the word Pitocin, it often gets described as "synthetic oxytocin," so it's easy to assume the two are basically the same thing. They're not, and that distinction matters more than most of us realize.In this episode, we're walking through what oxytocin actually does during labor, why it's so much more than the "love hormone" nickname, and how Pitocin works differently in the body even though it's chemically similar. We talk about the labor feedback loop, why environment plays such a huge role in how things progress, and why induced labor can sometimes feel more intense than spontaneous labor.We also cover the postpartum side of Pitocin, which can feel a little confusing at first. Why is the same medication used to start contractions also given to stop bleeding after birth? We break it down so it actually makes sense.This isn't about judging birth choices or saying one path is better than another. It's about understanding what's happening in your body so you can feel more grounded in whatever your birth looks like.Stephanie also shares the story of how her daughter Mackenzie helped move her from early labor into active labor with the twins, a real-life example of oxytocin in action.Birth Doula Services - How2Mom | Birth Doula Services in the Twin CitiesChildbirth Ed Course - How2Mom | Birth Support, Online Birthing Classes, Resources for New MomsThank you so much for listening to the Mom2Mom Podcast! This podcast is meant to empower women and bring the community together through storytelling and education. Here, you will find encouragement, support and community. We are your community. And we're so happy to have you!Join the email list to be notified when episodes go live HERE! Please also make sure  to comment, share and subscribe! xoxo, StephanieLet's Connect:Website (how2mom.com) Instagram (@how2mom)Facebook (@how2mom)TikTok (@how.2.mom)Twitter (@how_2_mom)Linkedin (@how2mom)Pinterest (@how2mom)YouTube (@how2mom)

What would you do if your doctor mentioned induction at what felt like a totally routine appointment, and suddenly you were nodding along to something you weren't even sure you agreed to?In this week's episode, I'm walking you through what's really happening when induction comes up, why it feels so hard to push back in the moment, and the three questions that can completely change the conversation with your provider. Whether you're 37 weeks and caught off guard or just want to feel prepared before that moment comes, this episode is for you!I am so passionate about this topic, and I know it's one that so many mamas need to hear. A recommendation is NOT a requirement, and you deserve to feel confident and informed about every decision you make for yourself and your baby. This is an episode I wish every pregnant mom could hear before she walks into that appointment!Here are some highlights from the episode:Why so many moms leave provider appointments confused about what just happenedThe real difference between a recommendation and a requirementWhy it feels almost impossible to say no in the moment — and why that's not your faultThe timeline pressure behind induction and what may actually be driving itThe 3 questions every pregnant mom needs before agreeing to an inductionWhat your options really are if you choose to waitHow to ask for more time without feeling difficult or disrespectfulWhat informed consent actually looks like — and what it means to feel truly in control of your birthYou do not have to walk into that appointment unprepared. Tune in, take notes, and remember — being informed is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself and your baby. I can't wait for you to hear this one!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! 

Is it possible to have a VBAC with multiples? YES. In honor of Cesarean Awareness Month, Erin, a registered dietitian and mom of four (under 5!), shares her journey through cesarean, VBAC, miscarriage, and a twin VBAC. She opens up about navigating postpartum anxiety, benefiting from medication, and how her hard work and growth helped her have a different mindset when a lot of similar things happened in subsequent births. Erin's first birth was a cesarean during COVID due to fetal heart decels, her second was a healing VBAC and her third and fourth births were an induced twin VBAC for cholestasis. Her stories touch on miscarriage, close pregnancy intervals, di-di twin pregnancy, provider support, membrane sweeps, epidural and Pitocin. She also shares the realities of postpartum recovery, breastfeeding with a nipple shield, and facing a neonatal emergency when one of her twins required surgery at just three weeks old. Erin's big VBAC tips are to have birth preferences instead of rigid plans while holding strong to your boundaries, find care that is individualized to your unique circumstances, and lean into positive affirmations. Connect with her on Instagram @the.dietitian.mama or at morningbirdnutrition.com.VBAC Certified Doula FinderThe VBAC Link Supportive Provider ListThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSubmit Your VBAC/CBAC StoryAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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____________

The cascade of interventions is often taught like interventions are a row of dominoes. Pitocin leads to epidural. Epidural leads to cesarean. Once the first one is tipped, the rest will inevitably follow. That might sound logical at first. But it can also quietly teach fear and shape bias in the way doulas support clients. This conversation takes a hard look at this belief, the message it sends, and the biases underneath it. The reality isn't a cascade, but care bundles, clinical pathways, hospital culture, and decision points that are part of the process. Clients need more than fear dressed up as preparation. They need language they can use, questions they can ask, and support that is skilled in helping them move towards their goals. Join me as we challenge one of the most repeated ideas in doula culture and look at how bias changes support. This is a conversation about better language, better tools, and skilled support that helps clients keep moving toward their goals.

This week I grabbed the most common questions you sent me over on Instagram from my 418k followers and answered them the way your bestie labor nurse would - honest, no fluff, and zero fear-mongering.I'm answering:Is that sharp bump pain in the early second trimester normal? (And when to actually call your provider)The 4-1-2 rule for heading to the hospital with your first baby (and why it's different for your second)How long postpartum bleeding really lasts + the red-flag signs you can't ignoreThe truth about the 24-hour water-breaking rule (it's not the automatic emergency most hospitals make it sound like)Postpartum night sweats, when your milk actually comes in, and why those night sweats hit so hardBig baby at 39 weeks - do you have to induce or schedule a C-section? (Spoiler: I've got strong feelings on this one)Tips for flipping a breech baby, scar pain in pregnancy, Pitocin realities, and so much moreIf you've ever been up at 2 a.m. Googling your questions while pregnant, this episode is your calm in the chaos. Knowledge flips fear into power, mama - and that's exactly what we're doing today.Whether you're prepping for birth or deep in the postpartum trenches, you'll walk away feeling seen, informed, and way more confident.More from this episode:Listen to Episode 217: Your Essential Second Trimester Checklist for a Smoother Birth Experience | 217Calm Labor Confident Birth CourseHelpful Timestamps:00:00 Answering Your Top Questions01:43 Second Trimester Bump Pain02:24 Postpartum Bleeding Timeline03:00 When To Go To Hospital04:30 Water Break 24 Hour Rule05:12 Fear Of Giving Birth05:51 TDAP And Whooping Cough06:21 Flipping A Breech Baby07:19 C Section Scar Pain07:59 Postpartum Night Sweats08:16 When Milk Comes In09:02 What Contractions Feel Like09:43 Pitocin Pros And Risks10:08 Big Baby Induction Pressure11:48 Small Baby Growth ConcernsJoin The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off!Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love

EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Paige Wener and Kevin Booth hoped for a low-intervention water birth at their midwife-led birth center in rural Vermont. But at 38 weeks and 6 days, a routine prenatal visit led to a surprise diagnosis of preeclampsia and recommendation for induction. In this episode, Paige and Kevin share the story of their 54-hour induction, including misoprostol, a Cook catheter, Pitocin, and eventually an epidural after more than a day of labor, with Kevin supporting Paige with counterpressure, movement, and comfort measures along the way. Paige also shares about recovering from a rare postpartum complication, temporary nerve damage that caused foot drop, and how rest and supportive care helped her heal. (03:26) Taking the EBB Childbirth Class together (07:33) Birth preferences and planning for a water birth (10:50) High blood pressure at a prenatal visit and preeclampsia diagnosis (15:01) Preparing to return for an induction (18:56) Induction begins with misoprostol (21:45) Adding the Cook catheter and overnight labor (27:35) Starting Pitocin and continuing labor support techniques (29:45) Comfort measures and partner support during labor (34:00) Trying Nubain and deciding on an epidural (41:07) Pushing phase and position changes (45:33) Immediate postpartum and first breastfeeding (47:28) Early postpartum recovery in the hospital (49:11) Discovering postpartum nerve injury (55:34) Advice for birth partners (58:51) Postpartum advice and safe sleep resources Resources EBB 194 – Nutrition and Real Food in Pregnancy with Lily Nichols RDN EBB 365 – Battling a Birth Injury with Leah Van Dale, Former WWE Wrestler and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Get in touch with Paige and Kevin's EBB Instructor, Lucy Paradiso: lucyparadiso-doula.com/ Learn more about Spinning Babies: spinningbabies.com/ Check out Paige's safe sleep resources: Safe Infant Sleep, Dr. James McKenna How Babies Sleep, Helen Ball La Leche League @cosleepy 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.

Half of American moms get Pitocin in labor — but many are never told the real risks ⚠️In this episode, we share Katie Spinks' story and the conversation many women say they wish they had before being induced. While Pitocin can be lifesaving, it can also intensify contractions, reduce oxygen to a baby, and in rare cases lead to devastating outcomes. We're unpacking what happens when an “elective induction” turns into a cascade of interventions — and why informed consent in birth matters.Thank you to our sponsors!TAYLOR DUKES WELLNESS: Use code ALEXCLARK for 10% off your purchase.BRANCH BASICS: Use code ALEX15 for 15% off Starter Kits.COWBOY COLOSTRUM: Use code ALEX for 25% OFF.GEVITI: Use code ALEX to get 20% off your first purchase.JOOVV: Get an exclusive discount on your first red light therapy order.Our Guest:Katie SpinksKatie's Links:INSTAGRAMFACEBOOKTIKTOK

What if the most powerful voice in your birth room isn't the doctor's — it's your husband's?In this episode, I sit down with Catalina Clark, a licensed home birth midwife in Sonoma, California, who has spent 11 years at the crossroads of spiritual midwifery, birth sovereignty, and the sacred side of birth that nobody in the hospital is talking about. From the father's role in the birth room to why Pitocin may be affecting us on a cultural level, we talk about it all — and I think you're going to want to listen to it more than once.I loved every minute of this conversation with Catalina. She has this incredible way of meeting you exactly where you are — whether you're planning a hospital birth, a home birth, or you're not even sure yet — and reminding you that you have far more power than you've been told. This is the kind of episode that makes you think differently, breathe a little deeper, and trust yourself a whole lot more.Here's some highlights from the episode:What spiritual midwifery actually means and why it matters for every birth, in every settingThe 3 pillars of authentic midwifery: authenticity, transparency, and integrityWhy the father's voice may be the most powerful one in the birth room — and exactly what to sayWhat birth sovereignty really means (hint: it has nothing to do with where you give birth)How to balance your intuition with medical advice when both are pulling at youThe surprising history of midwifery and why most of us have never heard of itWhat Pitocin is doing to the brain — and possibly to our culture at largeHow to bring intention, ritual, and sacredness into your birth spaceWhy birth is not designed to be as painful as we've been toldThe one thing Catalina wants every single mama to know: "What if this is not a problem?"Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast! Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple Podcasts Find “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcast Select “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 Spotify Find "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcast Click 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 titles Let's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com. Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM!

Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) discuss Roxanne's early postpartum recovery at five weeks after a home birth of her fourth baby, Harvey. Roxanne shares that this is her first postpartum without a hemorrhage, attributing differences to improved nutrient status (not being anemic, vitamin D, diet), the home birth flood of oxytocin & support, and active third-stage management with Pitocin. She explains monitoring pelvic floor/prolapse symptoms (heaviness/pressure and increased bleeding) as cues to rest, alongside challenges balancing feeling good with needing to slow down. Roxanne outlines using MamasteFit's free early postpartum recovery program, strategies for workouts with a baby (breaks, splitting sessions, babywearing), goals to return to running for a runDisney event, and breastfeeding/tongue-tie treatment, plus postpartum product favorites and discount/affiliate links!✨ Shop Our Favorites:⚡️ Electrolytes we love → https://drinklmnt.com/mamaste

Welcome to the February Q&A!  We begin with a brief reflection on a mother's need to find time for play (not with her children but for herself) and creativity during early parenthood, before diving into your questions. Today's episode addresses a common pattern in maternity care: past birth experiences being used by providers to justify predetermined interventions in subsequent pregnancies.One listener asked, do women need to get out of the tub for fetal heart rate decels, and is this based on policy or physiology? Is Pitocin given after heavy bleeding in a prior birth justifiable for routine use in a subsequent birth? Additionally, we explore the long-term impact of episiotomies and membrane sweeps performed without consent, and address myths about posterior (OP) babies and whether those conditions are mother-specific or unique to each pregnancy. Finally, we talk about water breaking before labor and how much time most women realistically have before intervention is generally recommended (and whether it is actually needed).As always, we close with quickies, including our best beauty tips (no, it is not a product you can buy).Thank you for the excellent questions. Call us anytime at 802-438-3696. That's 802-GET-DOWN! Oh, yeah, if you loved this episode, leave us a 5-star review, and thank you!**********Send a text Needed

“Women should feel excited about giving birth and every woman should feel confident in giving birth.”Brianna's first birth didn't feel this way. She transferred to the hospital from a birth center at 42 weeks for a Foley induction. And before labor even started, she was already mentally preparing for a c-section. Pitocin was started without her consent. After about 14 hours, an epidural, AROM, and being stuck at 4 cm, she ultimately had a cesarean at 6 cm after 30 hours of labor due to heart decels.“It breaks you down mentally and physically.”When she became pregnant with her second, Bri thought she'd have another c-section, until her provider told her about VBAC. Then she decided she was all in.Bri found The VBAC Link podcast and listened to three episodes a day on the treadmill. After hearing Lily's 66-hour labor story, she thought, “If she could do it, I can do it.” She transferred providers and vigorously prepped physically and mentally.When the time came, she was excited to be in labor!She experienced moments that felt similar, but weren't. She pushed for just 20 minutes, and her midwife later said it was the funniest birth she'd ever attended.Now, as a junior high health teacher, Bri is normalizing birth (and VBAC!) for 11-year-olds. We know you will love her just as much as we do. She is as hilarious as she is inspiring, and her stories are a joy!The Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Kenya St. Lôt is a birth and postpartum doula honoring her African midwife ancestry. Together, they dismantle birth fears by reframing pain as a vital portal to empowerment, connection, and ancestral wisdom in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.In this episode, you'll learn about:How pain forges unbreakable bonds with your baby, turning contractions into intuitive cues that guide positioning and progress for peaceful, even orgasmic births.Dismantling medical fears through education on epidurals, Pitocin, and interventions, using code words to reclaim choice in hospitals, birth centers, or home.Partner care as the grounded "tree" during labor—breathing together, affirming power, and planning conscious parenting to ease postpartum shifts.Ancestral rituals like 40-day rest, closing of the bones with rebozo, and yoni steaming to heal the postpartum portal and prevent energy depletion.Rebuilding the village: Grief in pregnancy, fear as a compass, and intuitive body trust to birth without trauma, honoring African lineage wisdom.Golden Nuggets From This Episode:✨ “Your boundaries, what you need, how you wanna give birth — because that is your birth. It's not the doctor's birth, it's not other people's experience, it's you and your baby.”✨ ”Birth requires safety and ownership; when you feel safe, your body can do what it was designed to do.✨ “If we feel fearful, our body is not going to relax. It will go into adrenaline and not let you dilate, and that's when contraction goes against your baby coming out — because fear tells the body it's not safe, and birth only flows where safety is felt.”✨ “Pain is a really important thing when you're giving birth.”✨ “When the partner has fears, it's valid.”✨ “We don't have the village anymore. One of the most ancestral and easy things is to bring back the village — because birth and motherhood were never meant to be carried alone.”✨ “Being pregnant and giving birth is temporary. Postpartum is for life. The way that you are cared for can impact the rest of your motherhood and your connection with your baby and your partner.”✨ “Having the uncomfortable conversations before conceiving is really important.”Connect More with Kenya:IG: https://www.instagram.com/kenyasaintlot/More Lexy from Heart Snuggles:Soft Girl Season {Instant Access Course}: https://lovelounge.iamlexydavis.com/offers/GCowWYXQEmail: lexy@alivetoenjoy.comDating + Relationship Coaching - https://iamlexydavis.com/Instagram: Alivetoenjoy & Heart SnugglesTimestamps from episode:04:16 Kenya's Journey into Birth and Pregnancy07:15 Understanding the Complexities of Pregnancy and Birth10:28 Empowering Women Through Education and Choices13:28 The Importance of Trust and Intuition in Birth15:28 Navigating Hospital Births and Medical Interventions21:12 The Power of Confidence and Overcoming Fear in Birth25:06 Signs of Labor and Code Words26:35 Navigating Complications During Birth27:56 The Beauty of Birth and Partner Support30:58 Partner Involvement and Postpartum Care38:36 Ancient Traditions and Postpartum Rituals41:14 The Importance of Community and Village Support43:22 Final Thoughts and Romantic Memories48:28 Conclusion and Heart Snuggles

Sponsor: Use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off your first order and up to 40% off monthly plans at thisisneeded.com. The Birth Hour Links: Know Your Options Online Childbirth Course (code 100OFF for $100 OFF!) Beyond the First Latch Course (comes free with KYO course) Access archived episodes and a private Facebook group via Patreon!

The placenta is one of the most misunderstood organs in pregnancy, yet it plays a central role in implantation, miscarriage risk, fetal growth, preeclampsia, birth complications, and postpartum recovery.In this episode of Healthy As A Mother, Dr. Morgan delivers a clear, grounded crash course on the placenta: what it is, how it forms, how it functions, and what can go wrong. We unpack common myths, explain real risks without fear, and clarify why the placenta quietly determines so many pregnancy outcomes.This conversation is designed to replace anxiety with understanding and confusion with clarity, so parents can make informed decisions throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.In this episode, we cover:What the placenta actually is and why it's often called the baby's “twin”How implantation and early placental development affect pregnancy outcomesWhy male fertility and sperm health matter more than most people realizePlacental anatomy explained simply (chorion, amnion, Wharton's jelly)Common placental variations and what they really meanSerious placental complications and how they're managedFirst-trimester bleeding and subchorionic hemorrhagePlacental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, and preeclampsiaThe third stage of labor and birthing the placentaActive vs expectant management and Pitocin useRetained placenta, postpartum hemorrhage, and recoveryWhat to do with the placenta after birth: encapsulation, burial, lotus birth, or disposalEducational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical care.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why the placenta matters more than people think03:00 – Placenta development and implantation09:00 – Male fertility, sperm health, and pregnancy outcomes15:00 – Placental anatomy explained simply18:30 – Cord insertions and placental variants22:00 – Velamentous cord insertion and vasa previa27:00 – Placental positioning and placenta previa32:00 – Placenta accreta and surgical risks37:00 – Subchorionic hemorrhage and first-trimester bleeding42:00 – Placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction45:00 – Preeclampsia explained48:30 – Placental abruption50:00 – Retained placenta and postpartum hemorrhage53:30 – Birthing the placenta (third stage of labor)56:00 – Pitocin and hospital management59:00 – What to do with the placenta after birth➡️ New episodes every WednesdayFind 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 FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

Submit your question and we'll answer it in a future episode!Join our Patreon Community!https://www.patreon.com/badassbreastfeedingpodcastThis week's episode is also brought to you by Nursing Queen; stylish nursing clothes that will make your life easier and that you'll want to wear long after your nursing days are over. Use promo code BADASS for 10% off your purchase at www.nursingqueen.com.Birth interventions can make breastfeeding challenging in the beginning. Listen intoday as Dianne and Abby discuss different interventions and how you can getthrough this difficult time.If you are a new listener, we would love to hear from you.  Please consider leavingus a review on iTunes or sending us an email with your suggestions and commentsto badassbreastfeedingpodcast@gmail.com. You can also add your email to ourlist and have episodes sent right to your inbox!Things we talked about:Birth interventions-Revisited [4:48]Medicated delivery [6:25]Vacuum or forceps delivery [12:40]Fast (precipitous) birth [16:20]Cesarean delivery [16:46]Things that can help [19:55]Pitocin and latch issues [22:00]Mother / Baby separation [27:52]Episiotomy and perineal repair [32:40]Links to information we discussed or episodes you should check out!https://badassbreastfeedingpodcast.com/episode/jaundice-myths-and-breastfeedinghttps://badassbreastfeedingpodcast.com/episode/breastfeeding-nicu-and-separated-babies/Set up your consultation with Diannehttps://badassbreastfeedingpodcast.com/consultations/Check out Dianne's blog here:https://diannecassidyconsulting.com/milklytheblog/Follow our Podcast:https://badassbreastfeedingpodcast.comHere is how you can connect with Dianne and Abby:AbbyTheuring, https://www.thebadassbreastfeeder.comDianne Cassidy @diannecassidyibclc, http://www.diannecassidyconsulting.comMusic we use:Music: Levels of Greatness from We Used to Paint Stars in the Sky (2012)courtesy of Scott Holmes at freemusicarchive.org/music/ScottHolmes

Send us a textA healthy baby and a healthy mom can still leave a complicated story behind. We open the door to a birth that didn't follow the plan: an epidural that didn't work, Pitocin contractions that crashed like waves, and a mind trying to keep pace with a body doing the unimaginable. What sounded like chaos turns out to be wisdom—instinctive movement that helped a baby rotate and descend, progress made in spite of pain, and a partner steadying the room when words ran out.Together we examine where control slipped and why that matters. We talk plainly about augmentation, how to assess whether an epidural is effective, and when dialing back Pitocin should be on the table. We explore the emotional fallout of early moments—jealousy when a partner holds the baby first, the sting of being told rather than asked, the reality of stitches and exhaustion. Along the way, we track how hospital culture is changing, from the golden hour of skin-to-skin to more thoughtful language that invites consent and restores agency.This isn't a tidy highlight reel. It's a reframed narrative that honors labor as both physical work and emotional landscape. If your birth story still makes your throat tighten, you're not broken—you're human. Come hear how naming the moment things went sideways can loosen the knot, how instinct deserves credit, and how small shifts in communication can transform the way we remember meeting our children. If this conversation helps you see your own story with kinder eyes, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a quick review to help more parents find their footing.Listen to the full episode where Erin Hall shares her birth stories here: https://www.thebirthjourneyspodcast.com/hurricanes-epidurals-and-holding-on-with-erin-hall/ Coaching offerKelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth CoachBasically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!Support the showConnect with Kelly at kellyhof.com Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyondGrab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!Medical Disclaimer:This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman's medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a textA hurricane on the horizon, contractions five minutes apart, and a quick detour through a Chick-fil-A drive-thru—Erin's first birth story doesn't read like any class manual. What followed was a long labor, Pitocin without pain relief when an epidural failed, and a body contorting into whatever position brought a sliver of relief. When the anesthesiologist finally got it right and her waters were broken, everything shifted—one push and Kylie arrived. Together we unpack why that experience felt traumatic, how back labor can hint at a sunny-side-up baby, and why instinctive movement often becomes the most powerful tool you have.The second time was a different world. Early March 2020, open triage bays, “flu” precautions that turned out to be COVID, and a race to get an epidural before the cutoff. Her water broke at home, the pressure told the real story, and a few pushes later, Kason was here. We compare what changed—baby position, timing, hospital flow, mindset—and explore the myth that a smooth birth equals success while a hard birth equals failure. Birth plans help, but listening to your body, asking for options, and protecting your headspace matter more.We also go deep on postpartum truths: breastfeeding pressure versus low supply, family history that reframes expectations, and the permission to choose formula or donor milk without shame. Erin talks candidly about body image, the relief of having her partner home during lockdown, and how building Bump and Beyond became a lifeline for parents who need more than advice—they need a village. If you've ever felt out of control, second-guessed every choice, or wondered whether you did enough, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs reassurance, and leave a review telling us one belief about birth or postpartum you're ready to let go. Your story can help someone else find theirs. Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be! Coaching offerKelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth CoachBasically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!Support the showConnect with Kelly at kellyhof.com Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyondGrab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!Medical Disclaimer:This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman's medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

What would you do if your labor moved so fast… you barely made it to the hospital?This birth story is our most downloaded episode of the entire year! In this powerful birth story, My Essential Birth Course student Morgan Adams shares her journey through pregnancy, gestational diabetes, and two very different birth experiences — including an incredibly fast, unmedicated hospital birth where she met her baby just 15 minutes after arriving. From navigating induction conversations with her provider to trusting her body and preparation, Morgan's story full of wisdom for every pregnant mom.I absolutely loved sitting down with Morgan and walking through her birth experiences. She shares honestly about what surprised her, what helped her feel confident, and how education, mindset, and support shaped the way her births unfolded. This episode is such a beautiful reminder that preparation matters — and that when you understand your options and trust your body, birth can be empowering no matter how it looks. This is one of those stories you'll want to save and come back to as you prepare for your own birth.Here are some highlights from the episode: • Morgan's experience with gestational diabetes and how she managed it through diet • What it looked like to have honest, supportive conversations with her provider about induction • The role her husband played as a calm, encouraging birth partner • Why Morgan's mindset around birth completely changed after taking the birth course • The simple daily habits and tools she used to prepare for birth • What it was like when her water broke before contractions began • The moment she realized labor was moving quickly — and how she stayed calm • Delivering her baby just minutes after arriving at the hospital with minimal intervention • Honest thoughts on Pitocin contractions vs. unmedicated labor • Morgan's best advice for moms about education, advocacy, and confidence • Encouragement and practical wisdom for dads supporting their partners during birth Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast! Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple Podcasts Find “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcast Select “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 Spotify Find "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcast Click 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 titles Let's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com. Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM!

As we are celebrating the holiday season here at the Expecting and Empowered Podcast community, we are revisiting one our most popular episodes ever! Mackenzie from @mackenzie.on.motherhood was on this episode to talk about all things labor and delivery and answers our questions on what the role of a labor and delivery nurse is, the sometimes controversial subject of Pitocin, and what cervical checks are and why they're performed. Whether you're expecting your first baby, or a seasoned mama, this episode is full of incredible information you'll want to revisit, or hear for the first time.  We hope you all have a wonderful end to your 2025, and we can't wait to bring you even more amazing pregnancy, birth, and postpartum interviews and information in 2026!If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us, @mackenzie.on.motherhood 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 motherhood journey!Follow Mackenzie on InstagramMackenzie's WebsiteLinks & 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.

Women of Strength, you won't want to miss this one!!In today's episode of The VBAC Link Podcast, we welcome Sarah, a mom of three boys, an active duty Air Force officer (AND a spouse to one as well!) about her incredible VBA2C during an overseas PCS move from South Korea to Florida. Sarah's first birth was a c-section for breech presentation. Her second was a scheduled c-section timed around her husband's deployment. Her third pregnancy brought navigating prenatal care in a foreign country, a huge move with two toddlers in tow, and the stress of finding a completely new birth team. After Sarah's water broke unexpectedly at 37 weeks while visiting family in Kentucky, and with all their belongings either in Arizona or on a boat in the Pacific, she was induced so she could labor while a VBAC-supportive doctor was on call. After 11 hours on Pitocin, she delivered her baby vaginally, finished the move and arrived in Florida when her newborn was just one week old. Sarah & Meagan also share tips about using nitrous oxide in labor and important Tricare resources for military families. Though there were wild twists and turns, Sarah got her especially redemptive moment of being fully present for the moment she introduced her new baby to her other boys. We are so proud of you, Sarah!!Nitrous Oxide ArticleNeeded Website: Code VBAC for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Misoprostol, as an E1 prostaglandin, is primarily used in obstetrics for cervical ripening (when the Bishop Score is under 6) and/or for labor INDUCTION (to begin labor). IV oxytocin is the principal agent used to augmentlabor, as needed, once labor has begun. In the US, misoprostol is not typically used after 4-6 cm cervical dilation. However, in a patient who requires augmentation,and who declines Pitocin while asking or oral misoprostol, can that be used? Is that evidence-based? The data may surprise you. Listen in for details. 1.     SOGC Guideline No. 432c: Induction of Labour Robinson,Debbie Campbell, Kim Hobson, Sebastian R. MacDonald, W. Kim Sawchuck, DianeWagner, Brenda et al. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada , Volume 45, Issue 1, 70 - 77.e32.     Bracken H, Lightly K, Mundle S, et al. OralMisoprostol Alone Versus Oral Misoprostol Followed by Oxytocin for Labour Induction in Women With Hypertension in Pregnancy (MOLI): Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2021;21(1):537.doi:10.1186/s12884-021-04009-8.3.     Bleich AT, Villano KS, Lo JY, et al. OralMisoprostol for Labor Augmentation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2011;118(6):1255-1260. doi:10.1097/AOG.0b013e318236df5b.4.     Ho M, Cheng SY, Li TC. Titrated Oral MisoprostolSolution Compared With Intravenous Oxytocin for Labor Augmentation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2010;116(3):612-618. doi:10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181ed36cc. STRONG COFFEE PROMO CODE:https://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/CHAPANOSPINOBG

After more than 80 hours of labor, Erica Wright found herself exhausted, emotional, and determined to keep trusting her body. With the steady support of her doulas (including EBB Instructor Tara Thompson), she discovered that birth doesn't have to go "according to plan" to be powerful.   In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Erica and Tara about how preparation, advocacy, and teamwork carried them through a marathon labor filled with unexpected turns. From switching hospitals late in pregnancy to finding strength through challenges, their story exemplifies flexibility, informed choice, and the power of doula support.   (05:55) Tara's updates from Atlanta and her path to becoming an IBCLC (09:17) Erica's lightbulb moments from the EBB Childbirth Class (11:22) Switching hospitals at 35 weeks and advocating for the right fit (16:18) Labor begins: prodromal labor, GBS, and waiting for spontaneous birth (24:30) Hospital admission, challenges with staff, and early interventions (32:17) The Pitocin battle and advocating for movement and monitoring choices (35:40) Finding a supportive nurse and regaining freedom during labor (39:53) Tara's night shift: rest, affirmations, and encouragement (44:20) Deciding on the epidural and reframing "failure" as flexibility (49:18) The final stage: rest, relief, and meeting baby (55:12) Postpartum recovery and breastfeeding challenges (01:00:25) Tara's advice for navigating long labors (01:02:43) Erica's reflections on flexibility, intuition, and informed choice   Resources Get in touch with Tara: tarasbirthservices.com | @taras.birthservices Connect with Tara's teammate, Brittany: @wellpreparednest Listen to EBB 146 - How Doula and EBB Instructor Tara Thompson Supports Families in Atlanta Listen to EBB 357 – Making Decisions about Elective Induction of Labor with Dr. Ann Peralta & Kari Radoff, CNM, from Partner to Decide The Evidence on: GBS (Group B Strep): evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/ The Evidence on: Pitocin During the Third Stage of Labor: evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-on-pitocin-during-the-third-stage-of-labor/ Epidural during Labor for Pain Management: evidencebasedbirth.com/epidural-during-labor-pain-management/ Learn more about the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class: evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirthclass   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.

Black Friday is here, and it's your chance to snag $150 off your Lifetime Membership to The Birth Lounge — one of only two sales all year! This is your shot to get HeHe's full evidence-based birth system, handpicked Birth Box, advocacy scripts, partner prep, and all the tools you need to confidently navigate your birth — no unnecessary interventions, no guesswork, just you in control. Don't wait — the sale ends soon! Head to thebirthlounge.com/join and use code BF25 to claim your spot. In this week's episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with certified nurse midwife Becca Helie to unpack everything you need to know about inductions and VBACs, without the fear, confusion, or pressure. Together, they dive deep into how induction methods actually work, what a “failed induction” really means, and how to know if your provider's recommendations are truly in your best interest. Becca breaks down the differences between medical and mechanical inductions, when cervical ripening is appropriate, and how to navigate Pitocin like a pro. You'll also hear about: ✨ Why individualized care matters more than protocols ✨ How to manage Pitocin safely and effectively ✨ What makes induction different (and riskier) for VBAC parents ✨ The mindset shifts that help you stay calm, confident, and in control Whether you're being pressured into an induction or planning for a VBAC and feeling unsure what to expect, this episode will leave you grounded, informed, and ready to advocate for the birth you deserve.   Guest Bio: Rebecca Helie is a Board-Certified Nurse Midwife passionate about empowering women through evidence-based, patient-centered care. With experience as a labor and delivery RN and midwife in both rural and metropolitan settings, she champions shared decision-making, expands access to midwifery, and works to reduce low-risk cesareans and preventable maternal complications. Certified in Perinatal Mood Disorders and deeply shaped by her own experiences with infertility and loss, Becca advocates fiercely for her patients' voices and education. Based in Las Vegas, she shares her expertise online, spreads reliable women's health information, and balances her professional life with family, bread baking, and adventures with her pilot husband, two daughters, and dog Buddy.   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Becca on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: CocoNu is one of HeHe's favorite organic lubes for pregnancy, labor, and beyond. Unlike the hospital standard (looking at you, Johnson & Johnson baby soap), CocoNu uses clean, plant-based ingredients like organic coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter to keep your pH balanced and your downstairs happy. Perfect for your birth bag or just better, safer intimacy during pregnancy, CocoNu even comes in single-use packets for convenience — because what you put on your body, especially down there, truly matters. Use code HEHE at https://coconu.com to save 15%! Here's the original episode aired Nov 10, 2020: https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-146-what-to-know-about-inductions-with-becca-helie-cnm/    

In this episode of "What Does the Fox Say?" with host Dr. Nathan Fox, he answers listeners' questions regarding choroid plexus cysts, placing an IUD during a C-section, third trimester bleeding, the difference between Cervidil and Pitocin for induction, and family history of pregnancy complications.

Kari joins us today from Huntsville, Alabama sharing her story of two induced but very different births. Her first was an unplanned Cesarean after a 39-week induction and the second was a medically induced VBAC due to preeclampsia. With her second baby, Kari saw a new provider who was VBAC supportive, hired a doula, and went to a chiropractor. She also found out that she had a velamentous cord insertion and signs of preeclampsia. Although she was planning for a spontaneous, unmedicated labor, Kari was able to have an empowering experience with Pitocin, an epidural, a delivery, magnesium, a 3rd-degree tear, and a blood transfusion, Kari found deep healing and pride in her VBAC experience.She and Meagan talk about blood pressure numbers, preeclampsia, the ARRIVE study, how epidurals can help or hinder progress, and navigating the emotions that come when birth unfolds differently than planned. Kari reminds us that birth can be beautiful and healing no matter what twists and turns come about!The VBAC Link Blog: VBAC With PreeclampsiaACOG Article: Preeclampsia and Blood Pressure During PregnancyNeeded Website: Code VBAC for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Everyone talks about “avoiding the cascade of interventions,” but what if the cascade isn't something that just happens? What if it's actually part of the hospital's plan?In this episode, learn about the cascade of interventions:what it really means, how it starts, and why it's not just a slippery slope, but a sequence built into hospital birth. From continuous monitoring to Pitocin to the “necessary” cesarean, you'll see how the hospital already has a birth plan for you.Get informed & empowered with the Unmedicated Girlies:unmedicatedgirlies.com

Send us a textEmily shares two unforgettable and very different birth stories: an unmedicated hospital induction with Pitocin, and an unplanned free birth at home. In her first birth, she transferred late in pregnancy under New Hampshire's “two high readings” rule for blood pressure. With a Foley balloon, Cervidil, and the lowest possible Pitocin drip, she labored quietly on all fours, declined unnecessary interventions, and delivered under the fetal ejection reflex—so calmly that all the nurses and doctors from around the maternity ward gathered to witness a rare physiologic Pitocin birth without an epidural.Her second birth brought the perfect contrast: a planned home birth that stalled, restarted after midnight, and ended an hour later with three strong pushes before the midwife could arrive.In this episode, we explore how to choose hospitals based on cesarean rates, what to know about induction protocols (low and slow, and when to stop Pitocin), gestational hypertension vs. preeclampsia, recognizing white-coat hypertension, and why mental training may be the most powerful tool in birth.**********Check out all our sponsor offers here: Needed

I was recently asked to OPINE on the labor management for a patient who was receiving IV Pitocin for augmentation, who experienced a placental abruption. One physician stated that in "his opinion", Pitocin increased the risk of placental abruption intrapartum, a point which the original treating physician refuted. So, I was asked to be the "referee" on the play. IV Pitocin can result in some maternal-fetal complications but is abruption one of them as a stand-alone complication. Was the first reviewer's opinion correct? Listen in for details.1. Ben-Aroya Z, Yochai D, Silberstein T, Friger M, Hallak M, Katz M, Mazor M. Oxytocin use in grand-multiparous patients: safety and complications. J Matern Fetal Med. 2001 Oct;10(5):328-31. doi: 10.1080/714904358. PMID: 11730496.2. Morikawa M, Cho K, Yamada T, et al. Do Uterotonic Drugs Increase Risk of Abruptio Placentae and Eclampsia? Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2014;289(5):987-91. doi:10.1007/s00404-013-3101-8.3. ACOG: First and Second Stage Labor Management: ACOG Clinical Practice Guideline No. 8. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2024;143(1):144-162. doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000005447.4. Pitocin. FDA Drug Label. Food and Drug Administration Updated date: 2024-08-125. Litorp H, Sunny AK, Kc A. Augmentation of Labor With Oxytocin and Its Association With Delivery Outcomes: A Large-Scale Cohort Study in 12 Public Hospitals in Nepal.Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2021;100(4):684-693. doi:10.1111/aogs.13919.

See all the Healthcasts at https://www.biobalancehealth.com/healthcast-blog If you ever doubted your doctor because she wrote a script that you later “Googled” and found was not FDA approved, I hope you trusted your doctor enough to realize that she wouldn't recommend any medication that would hurt you…. What is an unapproved use of a drug, also called “off-label”? Unapproved use of an approved drug is often called “off-label” use. This term can mean that the drug is: Used for a disease or medical condition that it is not approved to treat, such as when a chemotherapy is approved to treat one type of cancer, but healthcare providers use it to treat a different type of cancer. The drugs that are not approved by the FDA, yet are commonly used, have been used for decades before the 1964 law that required new drugs to go through extensive and very expensive testing before their release to the public. The operative word is NEW DRUGS AFTER 1964. Today I will talk about the safety of non-FDA approved drugs because they are: Older cheaper drugs used for many diseases and conditions before 1964 and are still used Drugs that are approved for one use, or one condition, but not for other conditions that it is effective and safe for. Drugs made by compounding pharmacies for diseases that the FDA has not approved a drug for, but there is research backing the drug and years of safe use. First, before we discuss the non-FDA approved drugs, I will discuss the safety/risks of FDA approved drugs, and why FDA approval doesn't mean a drug will do no harm or even that it is effective for the use it is approved for. A little background will help you understand the problem and the reason an FDA approval does not necessarily mean a drug is safe.  Since 1964, a law was passed that established testing prior to a drug being approved by the FDA became mandatory.   Since that time several drugs that survive FDA approval and are released but are later removed or banned after their FDA release when the public finds side effects that the FDA didn't discover in their trials. One such drug is Fen-Phen, Fenfluramine/Phentermine. This drug was released during my time practicing medicine and was withdrawn after one study claimed it caused heart valve disease…In the end the “one post approval study” that claimed that heart valves were affected by this drug that caused its bann was found to be false. The withdrawal of the drug followed one study by a single cardiologist from Kansas City had reviewed all of the cardiac valve echo tests and falsified the results to make Fen-Phen appear dangerous to heart valves, when in reality it wasn't.  She lost her license, but the FDA never put Fen-Phen back on the market!  The FDA hates to be wrong twice, so they never allowed this drug back on the market after its removal. Other mistakes made by the FDA include not allowing women in the studies to approve a drug before 2014 which ignores or misses all of the side effects or lack of effectiveness for a drug when taken by women.  Despite all the expensive testing before the release of a drug by the FDA, many drugs not tested on women were later often found to have severe side effects only on women. A few examples follow: You might have heard of the FDA approved drug Ambien that causes many women to experience “night eating”, sleepwalking, and night terrors, while their male counterparts were not affected, so because they only tested men the drug was approved. In retrospect it should have been tested on women as well, and then either not passed through the FDA or should have had a black box warning for women. It takes years get action from the FDA, notifying doctors of these side effects. Women were not included in testing for any drugs except female hormones until 11 years ago, but no other drugs.   Before 2014 all (non-hormonal) drugs that passed the FDA were not tested on women so the effect on women was unknown until it was tested on the public. The FDA left women out of drug-trials because it viewed women as “mini men”, or they didn't consider us important enough to test new drugs on…OR worse, they believed we were too complicated to easily test us because of pregnancy, menopause and other hormonal swings that normal healthy women have.  In any case, we are now suffering their decisions, when a medication works one way for men and another way for women! Finally, we are tested when drugs are being evaluated for approval by the FDA. Professional women have achieved a level of authority in medicine and pharmacology (2025) and are weighing in on the inequity. Women in the medical profession and the public are pulling back the curtain on the side effects of FDA approved drugs that are experienced by women only! Slowly, study by study investigators are now publishing the side effects and problems for women with FDA approved drugs….yet these findings are not included in the warnings on most of these drugs, even now over 15 year after they became obvious to the doctors who treat women! Drugs that either don't work for women, or that have severe side effects include that were approved before 2014. All statin drugs for high cholesterol (Crestor, rosuvastatin, atorvastatin, etc.) cause women to have muscle breakdown and muscle pain. Synthroid (levothyroxine), doesn't cure the symptoms of hypothyroidism in 80% of women, but just makes the TSH lower, so it appears as if it is working! This leads doctors to tell women that their symptoms are all in their heads!! Wrong.  It is the wrong medicine. Women have enzymes that differ from men that make it difficult for them to convert the inactive form (T4) into the active form (T3), so we can't convert Synthroid (all T4) into the active form. Synthroid, the FDA approved drug for hypothyroidism, shouldn't be given to most women. Women should be given the non-FDA approved drug Armour Thyroid or NP thyroid that have both T3 and T4 in them! Ambien Prednisone and other oral steroids We have reviewed the lack of testing on women before 2014, now we will discuss safe drugs that have been used for decades even before 1964 when the FDA required testing for FDA approval? Older, yet effective and inexpensive drugs have been tested by the public, some for almost 100 years that have saved thousands of lives, yet they are not given the FDA stamp of approval!  In fact, the FDA tries to put these drugs out of circulation, replacing them with very expensive drugs that are new! Or they just shut them down, because they are not FDA approved.  Young doctors are told not to use them by their medical schoolteachers who rarely have experienced these medications in private practice…. These doctors in training don't know the history of older safer, cheaper drugs, or even why the FDA tells them avoid them. They comply not knowing why, so you are left with no drug that works for you, or you pay 3-10 times the amount for a newer FDA version of the older drug which may even have more side effects. Some of these older very effective and cheap drugs are Penicillin, Nitroglycerine for chest pain, Morphine (pain), Phenobarbital (seizures), Codeine, Armour Thyroid, hormone injections including estradiol injections and testosterone, Thorazine for psychiatric use, (Pitocin) oxytocin for labor, lactation support and Autism Colchicine:Used to treat and prevent gout. Progesterone in oil (IM) Estradiol in oil (IM) B12 for injection Testosterone Cypionate for injection Compounded Estradiol in any form Compounded Testosterone for women These drugs have been used for so long that any safety risks or side effects have been found through the use of these drugs in the population. Yet the FDA won't grandfather them in and approve them based on their history! What do doctors do when the drug the FDA has approved a drug that doesn't work for a group of their patients (gender, race, blood type, etc.)?  What happens when a doctor can't find a drug that is FDA approved needed to treat a condition she is faced with? Why do we as citizens, allow the government to have power over doctors who are already controlled by their state licensing boards as to what medications they?  Lastly Why do taxpayers allow a government agency that they fund with tax dollars control their health by banning, or not approving drugs, or banning one drug so an outrageously expensive drug is put in its place? Compounded Medications/ Compounding Pharmacies: These drugs are made by mixing ingredients to meet individual patient needs and are not subject to premarket review for safety, effectiveness, or quality. However, they ARE subject to the success or failure for which they were prescribed. If a doctor prescribes a compounded drug that doesn't work, she is apt to be confronted by her patient who is not getting the expected results.  Compounding pharmacies usually don't get paid by insurance, so patients are more invested in getting a drug that works and that is one of the big reasons that Compounded medicines are at least as good or better than big pharma or generic drugs. I absolutely could not successfully treat the thousands of women and men that I have without compounding pharmacies.  They compound hormones/drugs that are safe and effective, mostly hormones that can't be patented because they occur in nature and won't ever be made by big pharma. More than that, big producers of drugs can't produce in mass quantities many doses of a certain hormone like compounding pharmacies do.  Compounding pharmacies provide what people need and they continue to do so because patients prefer their dosing and quality.  FDA approved Generic Drugs can be legally 25 % lower dose than what they say they are.  That would be a big problem if my compounded pellets had that kind of variability. People might need pellets every 2months or every 5 months instead of every 4 months..it would be like guessing what you need ahead of time…..I believe dedicated compounding pharmacists are more accurate than any generic on the market. Compounding pharmacies: Unsung Heros Compounding pharmacies serve the public when big pharma fails and hasn't developed a safety net for production if they have a problem and the FDA shuts them down. That situation leaves patients who take their medications, without an alternative. Compounding pharmacies step into the breech when big pharma has a problem with a particular drug and stop making a drug (e.g. Lidocaine, B12 injectable, IV Fluids, to name a few shortages and no production that have occurred in the recent past). What if patients couldn't get the meds they need, and if there were no compounding pharmacies—Chaos and suffering and dying patients would closely follow! The FDA is Fickle and is not on your side! For years the FDA did not approve of Bioidentical estrogen and testosterone in any form, and just a few months ago all of a sudden, long after they scared women from taking the hormones they needed to improve their length of life and quality of life, they decided bioidentical hormones are better than the FDA approved hormones!!!  That is a little too late.  Some of us will never forget the stress lack of approval of compounded hormones caused for doctors and patients alike.  Other doctors criticized us and now most of them aren't even in practice anymore.  Maybe the FDA read my blog!!! Compounded hormones have been approved by the masses of women who have taken them under my signature! Compounded BI hormones are medications with a long track record and should not have to be tested with the bloated expense required of testing for the FDA. For Gynecological Disorders that don't have an FDA approved hormone drug because testosterone and estradiol have been used for so long that they don't need testing. If there was a significant problem with them their history of use of over 5-7 decades has proven the efficacy and safety of the female hormones for treatment and hormone replacement. For Psychiatric Disorders: Some patients need compounded ketamine products for conditions like severe depression, despite lacking FDA approval for these uses and potential risks, yet it has been used for this purpose for decades and was used for childbirth for almost a century, until epidurals and saddle blocks took their place. Testosterone for women still is not recognized as a female hormone even though women produce over twice as much Testosterone as Estradiol when they are in their fertile years.   Replacement of T with bioidentical T pellets offers a treatment for dozens of symptoms women face after age 40, and it prevents the diseases of aging: osteoporosis, heart disease, sarcopenia, frailty, diabetes and more that have not been addressed by mainstream medicine and the FDA. Over a decade ago, the FDA turned down the approval of testosterone patch after over 3 years of positive research studies, the FDA said they didn't approve T for women is because the side effect of T for women, facial hair, was dangerous for women.…I cry B—–S—-!  That is really men not wanting to share testosterone replacement with women. I say leave us alone and let women and their doctors determine what they need.  It is proven that only 5% of all professionals in any profession are not trustworthy, so give doctors their due and trust that we are looking for answers to our patients' problems that you don't even know about! The FDA is paid for by us…everyone in this country. I say hands off! Speed up the approval process or forget it for older drugs and BI hormones! ~

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, we're diving into one of the most important (and often misunderstood!) newborn topics: Vitamin K. HeHe is joined by Katie Collins, a board-certified physician assistant, to unpack everything you need to know about Vitamin K supplementation: what it is, why it matters, and how to make an informed choice that feels right for your family. Together, they break down the different options for Vitamin K (injection vs. oral dosing), the real risks of vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB), and how birth interventions like antibiotics or Pitocin can play a role. You'll also hear about common misconceptions around the Vitamin K shot, what that black box warning actually means, and the truth about side effects like jaundice and ingredients such as aluminum. If you want evidence-based clarity so you can feel confident about protecting your baby's health from day one, this episode is a must-listen. 00:00 Introduction and Parental Freedom 01:31 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 02:31 The Big Baby Myth 06:37 Vitamin K Injection: Common Questions and Concerns 07:32 Meet Katie Collins: A Holistic Approach to Medical Topics 11:47 Understanding Vitamin K in Newborns 19:38 The Role of Breast Milk and Feeding in Vitamin K Levels 23:48 Impact of Birth Interventions on Vitamin K 31:06 Delayed Cord Clamping and Its Benefits 39:51 Options for Vitamin K Supplementation 41:11 Oral Dosing Regimens for Vitamin K 44:34 Risks of Declining Vitamin K Supplementation 52:43 Vitamin K and Circumcision 54:22 Vitamin K Injection and Bilirubin Concerns 57:57 Black Box Warning on Vitamin K Injection 01:02:43 Aluminum in Injectables: Safety Concerns 01:19:39 Detoxing After Vaccination 01:22:12 Final Thoughts and Resources   Guest Bio: Katie Collins, known as Katie the PA on social media, is a board certified Physician Assistant who merges conventional medical training with a holistic mindset, challenging the mainstream narrative surrounding controversial topics like childhood vaccines, pregnancy and birth, and other top chronic health illnesses. With a robust background in family medicine, urgent care, and weight loss medicine, her main focus is to support the body's innate healing process with diet and lifestyle changes, or typical medical interventions. Today, her primary occupation and top priority is being a wife and mother to her two children. She has transitioned from working full time in the clinic to taking telehealth consults, and creates educational content on her social media platforms. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Katie on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   Preorder available now for Birthing Your Big A** Baby

Who would have thought THIS would be one of the most controversial topics we've shared about on social media?! We're chatting synthetic Pitocin and naturally occurring oxytocin on the pod today. Discover why it matters for your birth and postpartum experience, hear real-life stories, and learn how to navigate these crucial decisions for your own birth journey.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:09 Today's Controversial Topic: Pitocin vs. Oxytocin02:42 Listener Review05:31 Understanding Oxytocin13:44 Understanding Pitocin15:06 Pitocin's Impact on Labor and Birth25:08 Supporting Natural Oxytocin Production29:56 Real-Life Experiences with Pitocin and Oxytocin34:15 Holistic Birth Preparation and Education39:46 Conclusion and How to Support the PodcastLinks We Chat AboutOur Instagram Profile, Check out Pitocin Highlights ThereOur Monthly MembershipOur Weekly NewsletterOur Childbirth Education Course, use code RADIANT10 for 10% offBe sure to subscribe to the podcast to catch every episode. Follow us on Instagram for extra education and antics between episodes at: @beautifulonemidwiferyBe sure to subscribe to the podcast to catch every episode. Follow us on Instagram for extra education and antics between episodes at: @beautifulonemidwifery

During Hope's first pregnancy, she followed the conventional path—seeing an OB, agreeing to all the standard tests and procedures, and ultimately undergoing a Pitocin induction at 40 weeks. The birth was a traumatic initiation into motherhood, leaving lasting repercussions for both her and her daughter. Before becoming pregnant with her second child, Hope discovered the concept of freebirth, and it immediately resonated with her. She went on to embrace the wild pregnancy experience and freebirthed her son. This redemptive experience brought deep healing and taught her how to hold strong boundaries as a mother. Hope and I end our conversation by discussing the health differences we've noticed between our hospital-born and home-born babies. She also shares how she holistically supported her first child's recovery from a vaccine injury. Follow Hope @realisticallytoxinfree If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

What happens when cancer treatment becomes the greatest catalyst for sovereignty?In this episode, I speak with Jocelyn, a Tennessee mother who walked away from conventional medicine after surviving thyroid cancer and having her thyroid removed at 25 years old.That experience changed everything. Jocelyn made a vow: never again would she hand her body over to the system. She carried that fierce sovereignty into motherhood, choosing to walk the sovereign path in her pregnancy and birth.She speaks to the comfort of finding the perfect sovereign birth witness and how being around animal birth her whole life helped her understand what she needed to do.Inside this episode:How surviving thyroid cancer led Jocelyn to question everything she'd been taughtThe moment in the hospital that made her vow never to surrender her body againWhat a wild pregnancy looked like day-to-day, with no tests, scans, or appointmentsWhat it takes to hold the line with family and community when your choices challenge the normTimestamps:[00:00] Introduction[03:23] Facing thyroid cancer and the trauma of a life-threatening hospital experience[11:25] Regrets about rushed surgery instead of looking into alternative treatments[29:41] Disappointment with midwives leading to the discovery of freebirth[37:52] Finding trust and support through The Lighthouse and connecting with a birth keeper[41:03] Jocelyn's freebirth storyResources Mentioned:Veda Revival | WebsiteThe Complete Guide to Freebirth | CourseThe Lighthouse | WebsiteFind 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 does it really take to have a good birth in a hospital?In this episode, I'm joined by Care Messer, Founder of the Birth Education Center in San Diego. She's a certified hypnobirthing instructor, a DONA-certified doula, and a childbirth educator who also trains doulas. Care teaches engaging, partner-friendly online classes that have helped many families prepare for birth with more clarity and confidence.We get into what it means to prepare early, why most women don't realize how much choice they actually have, and what it looks like to create a safe, grounded birth experience inside a hospital system. From power dynamics with providers to the small, practical things that shift your sense of safety, this conversation breaks down what women and their partners need to know before walking through those hospital doors.You'll Learn:Why choosing the right hospital and provider early changes everythingWhat it feels like to enter a system where you're treated as room number instead of a person giving birthWhy staying home longer in early labor can dramatically shift your hospital experienceThe surprising link between hospital C-section rates and NICU levelsHow eye masks, dim lights, and warm blankets keep your body in labor modeWhen partners step into the role of protector and advocate in the birth roomThe quiet damage of being a passive participant versus owning your birth decisionsWhy hospital classes often train you to be a “good patient” instead of giving you real optionsHow listening to birth stories helps you recognize and avoid common intervention cascadesTimestamps:[00:00] Introduction[03:00] How preparation and safety shape the hospital birth experience[09:22] Rethinking what safety really means in birth[13:01] Choosing the right hospital, provider, and birth team[20:20] The partner's role in protecting space and shifting power dynamics[36:37] Practical ways to protect labor hormones in a hospital birth[50:15] Arming with education and optimizing the hospital environment for laborResources Mentioned:Episode 65: All About VBAC pt.1: Perspectives from an OB, Midwife, and Doula with Care Messer | Spotify or AppleBirth Education Center | WebsiteBucky Eye Mask | AmazonThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. | Book or AudiobookMen, Love & Birth by Mark Harris | Book or AudiobookLabor Like A Goddess by Alexandria Moran and Lauren Mahana | BookBirth Psychology | WebsiteMorgan's First Birth | VideoLearn more about the Birth Education Care by visiting their website, YouTube channel, and Facebook page.Follow Care on Instagram, LinkedIn and listen to her Podcast on Apple or Spotify.Find more from Leah:Leah Gordon | InstagramLeah Gordon | WebsiteLeah Gordon | WebsiteFind more from Morgan:Morgan MacDermott | InstagramMorgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER

In today's episode, Meagan chats with our friend, Hannah, who is a mom to three little ones under the age of 4. Hannah has had two VBACs that were both unique in their own ways. Her first birth was an induction that led to an unplanned Cesarean. She was induced for the convenience of avoiding the upcoming holidays and to prevent her baby from getting too big if she chose to wait for spontaneous labor. While her Cesarean was straightforward and a positive birth, avoiding another tough recovery was the biggest reason why she wanted to have a VBAC.Hannah's second birth included late onset gestational diabetes, PROM (premature rupture of membranes), and a VBAC with a 3rd-degree tear in every direction. With her third birth, she also had late onset gestational diabetes, spontaneous labor, a stall, a scary shoulder dystocia, and a VBAC with a 2nd-degree tear. Hannah says that even with the complications during her VBACs, she would choose those recoveries over her Cesarean recovery every time. We know the choice to VBAC is deeply personal, but an easier recovery is often a huge benefit to having a VBAC! Discussion Topics: shoulder dystocia, 18-month duration, close pregnancy duration, two VBAC stories, labor dystocia, calcium bicarbonate, TUMs, Pitocin, induction, uterine receptors, PROM (premature rupture of membranes), holidays, Cesarean recovery, perineal tears, late onset gestational diabetes, epidural, hospital VBAC, backup doula, unavailable provider, failure to progressNeeded Website: Code VBAC20 for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

From false labor scares and not finding Cam's heartbeat to sleep training, breastmilk stashes, and granny panties... I'm taking you back to the raw, chaotic, beautiful early days of motherhood. I share what I had no clue about with my first newborn, the help I had with each baby, why I chose to be induced just so I wouldn't give birth alone, and what I would do differently if I had a baby today. From eczema and night nurses to co-sleeping and Jaxon crawling into my bed every night for four years, we talk about the exhaustion, the guilt, the joy, and the judgment (including mom shaming). I open up about losing my brother the same week I had Saylor, pushing myself way too hard, and all of the things that made those days feel long, even when the months flew by. This episode is real, honest, and a reminder to listen to your gut ALWAYS.A word from my sponsors:LMNT - Right now LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, That's 8 single-serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/HONEST.Nutrafol - For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code HONEST.Wayfair - Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.Foria - FORIA is offering a special deal for our listeners. Get 20% off your first order by visiting foriawellness.com/HONEST OR use code HONEST at checkout.ARMRA - We've worked out a special offer for my audience! Receive 30% off your first subscription order. Go to armra.com/HONEST or enter HONEST to get 30% off your first subscription order.Cymbiotika - Go to Cymbiotika.com/Honest for 20% off plus free shipping. For more Let's Be Honest, follow along at:@kristincavallari on Instagram@kristincavallari and @dearmedia on TikTokLet's Be Honest with Kristin Cavallari on YouTubeProduced by Dear Media.This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trish discusses the essential topic of Pitocin - a common intervention used in labor and delivery. She breaks down what Pitocin is, why it's used, and the critical choices you have around its application. She covers its role in induction, augmentation, and postpartum hemorrhage prevention. Remember, this is all about empowering you with knowledge so you can confidently make informed decisions during your birth experience. You're the queen of your birth room, and Trish is here to ensure you feel educated and powerful. Grab your raspberry leaf tea, hit subscribe, and let's get into it!Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cmsLeave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!More from this episode:Get the Mini Induction Class: labornursemama.com/inductionListen to: Third Stage of Labor: What You Need to Know | 37 on Spotify or AppleHelpful Timestamps:00:56 Understanding Pitocin: What It Is and Why It's Used02:40 The Prevalence and Misuse of Pitocin03:53 Pitocin for Induction: What You Need to Know07:03 Pitocin for Augmentation: Making Informed Decisions08:59 Pitocin Post-Delivery: Preventing Hemorrhage10:19 Empowering Your Birth Experience11:03 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJoin the #1 Birth Course for Confident Birth!Over 15,000 women have used our classes to prepare for birth with the knowledge and tools provided by a Labor Nurse.

Our co-founder, Julie Francom, hosts today's episode with Heather from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Heather talks today about her journey with IVF for her first pregnancy and conceiving spontaneously with her second. Heather's first birth involved infertility, ovulation inducers, IUI's (including a chemical pregnancy), solo appointments during COVID, and a C-section due to fetal tachycardia. She conceived naturally with her second, and also talks about the power of a chiropractor and the details of her positive VBAC induction at 39 weeks at only 1cm and 10% effaced due to gestational hypertension. Heather had a Foley bulb, Pitocin, lots of movement, Fentanyl, an epidural, peanut ball, AROM, pushed for a few hours, and met her sweet baby! The Fertility Docs Uncensored PodcastNeeded Website: Code VBAC20 for 20% OffThe Ultimate VBAC Prep Course for ParentsOnline VBAC Doula TrainingSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jennifer Anderson, RN, experienced doula, Evidence Based Birth® Instructor, and member of Team EBB, returns to the podcast to join Dr. Rebecca Dekker in unpacking a new trend in labor induction protocols—starting Pitocin at higher doses and incorporating early artificial rupture of membranes (AROM). Drawing from her work with high-risk clients and firsthand experience inside hospital systems, Jennifer highlights how policies aimed at “optimizing” labor often prioritize speed over patient-centered care. Together, they examine what's in these new induction bundles, the evidence behind faster-moving protocols like dual-method cervical ripening and 4x4 Pitocin, and the importance of informed decision-making at every stage.   (04:10) A Client Story That Sparked Concern Over High-Dose Pitocin (07:27) What “2x2” vs. “4x4” Pitocin Protocols Mean (09:41) Hospital Protocols: What the Nurse Can (and Can't) Do (12:25) Inside the New Induction Policy: What's Changing and Why (18:40) Balloon Checks, Membrane Sweeps, and Patient Comfort (23:43) “Timely AROM” and the Push for Early Artificial Rupture of Membranes (30:54) Does Early AROM Shorten Labor Without Increasing Infection? (45:19) Alternatives to Shorten Labor Without Breaking the Water (52:04) Why a “Failed Induction” Policy Can Prevent Unnecessary Cesareans (55:43) How to Push Back on High-Dose Pitocin or Early AROM   Resources Explore Jen's work: birthfusion.com | @birthfusion Take the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class: ebbirth.com/childbirth-class/ Watch the EBB Crash Course on YouTube here Get the EBB Labor Induction Pocket Guide here EBB Failure to Progress Resource Page: ebbirth.com/failuretoprogress EBB 155 – Pelvic Floor Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin EBB 118 – How to Have a Healthy Postpartum Transition with Dr. Alyssa Berlin   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.  

As a first-time mom, Melanie arrived at the hospital ready to simply trust the experts to manage her birth experience. What transpired was twenty-three hours on Pitocin, and an only narrowly avoided cesarean. In the weeks that followed, Melanie suffered with postpartum depression, something that she now, in retrospect, partially attributes to the prolonged use of Pitocin.  She had a long healing journey ahead, including the loss of two pregnancies before finally welcoming in another baby. This time, she turned to the mothers in her community, asking how, and with whom, they birthed. That's when she discovered that her town had a thriving home birth scene, and the idea of staying home to have her baby just felt right.  Melanie had the healing, peaceful, birth of her dreams in just four and half a hours. If you love the show, I would greatly appreciate a review on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts!  Follow me on Instagram @healingbirth Do you have a birth story you'd like to share on the podcast, or would like to otherwise connect? I love to hear from you! Send me a note at contactus@healingbirth.net Check out the website for lots of other birth related offerings, and personalized support: www.healingbirth.net Intro / Outro music: Dreams by Markvard Podcast cover photo by Karina Jensen @karinajensenphoto

Welcome back to The Birth Lounge Podcast, where we say the quiet parts out loud and hold nothing back when it comes to protecting your power in birth. In this episode, I'm joined by Krysta Dancy, a licensed trauma therapist, birth doula, and one of the most honest voices in the trauma-informed care space. Together, we unpack what birth trauma really is, how to spot it, how to prevent it, and how to start healing if it's already part of your story. We're digging into: Why Pitocin is showing up in so many traumatic births — and what you deserve to know about it The actual role of doulas in preventing trauma (especially when sh*t gets hard) What your nervous system has to do with the way your birth felt and why it matters How to debrief with your care team, talk to your partner, and ask for what you need in the aftermath Evidence-based trauma therapies like EMDR and Brainspotting, and how to know what's right for you Scripts and tools for those difficult conversations with providers, family, and friends who just don't get it Whether you had a traumatic birth or just want to avoid becoming another horror story statistic, this episode is here to remind you: You are not broken. You are not alone. And there is a way forward. Timestamps: 00:00 Postpartum Support Is Not Optional 00:56 Welcome to The Birth Lounge 01:09 Pitocin 101: What You're Not Being Told 02:51 Pitocin and the C-Section Connection 03:44 Grab Your Free Pitocin Guide 05:03 Birth Trauma: Let's Talk About It 05:50 What Actually Counts as Birth Trauma? 07:37 Meet Krysta Dancy 12:00 How Trauma and Memory Work in Birth 19:12 Signs of PTSD After Birth 31:16 Your Nervous System and Traumatic Birth 39:53 Emotional Trauma Even When the Birth Was “Fine” 44:09 How to Debrief With Your Providers 49:09 The Healing Power of Storytelling 49:36 Why Post-Birth Conversations Are So Hard 50:35 Communication Gaps in the System 52:23 You Were Never Meant to Do This Alone 55:35 The Isolation of Trauma 56:11 When Trauma Runs in the Family 57:40 Healing Starts With Being Seen 58:08 Was That Intervention Actually Necessary? 01:01:30 EMDR, Brainspotting, and More 01:04:18 When Medication Can Be Part of Healing 01:06:50 Scripts for Navigating the Hard Conversations 01:10:34 Supporting a Partner With Trauma Too 01:14:49 When Providers Are Dismissive 01:17:22 Supporting Without Trauma Dumping 01:22:43 Provider Trauma Affects Your Care Too 01:27:32 Final Thoughts and Resources This episode is full of validation, education, and the tools you need to take the next best step, whether you're deep in healing or just beginning to realize you've got some unpacking to do. You are allowed to feel everything. And you're allowed to heal, your way.   Guest Bio: Krysta Dancy is a licensed trauma therapist, birth doula, and passionate advocate for healing after a difficult birth. With over 20 years of experience in psychology, trauma recovery, and perinatal care, Krysta has walked alongside countless families and professionals through some of their most vulnerable moments. She believes that every birthing person deserves to feel safe, heard, and supported — and that healing is always possible, even after trauma. As the founder and CEO of Dancy Perinatal Counseling, a nationwide organization dedicated to supporting both parents and the professionals who care for them, Krysta's mission is to make trauma-informed obstetric care the norm, not the exception. Whether she's offering therapy, teaching, or simply holding space for someone's story, Krysta brings compassion, deep expertise, and a fierce commitment to helping people reclaim their strength after a traumatic birth. Dancy Perinatal Website: http://www.DancyPerinatal.com Therapist Match Tool: https://www.dancyperinatal.com/find-support Dancy Perinatal IG: https://www.instagram.com/dancyperinatalcounseling/ Dancy Perinatal FB: https://m.facebook.com/DancyPerinatalCounseling Dancy Perinatal Free FB Group for Birth Trauma: https://www.facebook.com/groups/birthtraumasupportgroup/ INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Krysta on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Grab HeHe's free guide to pitocin use here!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: The IES-R scale as a pdf  Check out Krysta's on demand classes here, including debrief and trauma prevention skills for doulas.    Use the promo code "HEHE" to watch Krysta's on-demand class "Healing After A Traumatic Birth"  for free.  

In this episode, I'm joined by Alexandra, the founder of Just the Inserts—a powerful platform equipping women and families with transparent, research-backed information about their medical choices. With a background in pharmaceutical research and a deep passion for informed consent, Alexandra is helping thousands navigate the complexities of health decisions with clarity and confidence. Together, we dive into the conversations many of us wish we had sooner—from understanding vaccine ingredients and manufacturer inserts, to questions around Pitocin, childhood vaccine schedules, and what it really means to reclaim agency in our birth and motherhood stories. This episode isn't about fear—it's about freedom. About asking questions, honoring your intuition, and standing in the sacred responsibility of being a mother in today's worldEpisode Show Notes & Resources on Living Wisely Well WebsiteFree Training Course: Learn how to read an insert (no email required!)Well Considered: A Handbook for Making Informed Medical Decisions by Just the InsertsJust the Inserts Motherhood guideWell Considered Podcast: Spotify or Apple

Send us a textWelcome to the July Q&A! Today, we kick off the show with a conversation about your experiences of unnecessary, frequent stressors that we have the power to change or eliminate: For Trisha, it's taking phone calls while grocery shopping. Next, we get into your questions, beginning with:Did taking folic acid in pregnancy cause my baby's tongue tie?Is having the cord wrapped three times around a baby's neck a legitimate reason for c-section?Is it true that I can't have a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) if it has been just 18 months since my last birth?And in the extended version of today's episode, available on Patreon or Apple Subscriptions, we discuss:Intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) babies and whether induction of labor is the right choice. Also, whether or not a baby needs to be born by cesarean for too low or too high heart rates in labor. And finally, whether fundal massage is still needed even if you a woman is administered  Pitocin in the third stage of labor. As for Quickies, we covered many topics including: Post-breastfeeding bras, OP (posterior) babies, magnesium and pre-eclampsia, fetal ejection reflex with an epidural, supporting the perineum to prevent tearing, our top tip for a successful VBAC. As for the personal questions of the month, we share our favorite ice cream flavors as well as our favorite flowers. In Cynthia's case, she didn't know the name of her all-time favorite flower and had to text a friend urgently in order to answer the question. Just goes to show, some friends can know us just a little better than we know ourselves!**********Our sponsors:Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample packUse promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Primally Pure: From soil to skin, Primally Pure products are made with down-to-earth ingredients that feel and smell like heaven for the skin. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for 10% off. ENERGYBits: Get the superfood Algae every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for 20% off. Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.comInstagram @downtobirthshowCall us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! Work with Cynthia: HypnoBirthingCT.com Please remember we don't provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

In this episode of Happy Hour with Bundle Birth Nurses, Sarah and Justine unpack the fetal oxygen pathway, from maternal lungs to the fetus and why it's foundational to everything we see on our fetal monitors. If you've ever wondered how oxygenation impacts heart rate patterns, variability, decelerations, or why tachysystole matters, this conversation connects the pathophysiology to your practice. Justine and Sarah drop clinical gems and challenge the normalization of tachysystole. Let us know what you think. Thanks for listening and subscribing! Helpful Links!C-EFM ClassShifting the Pitocin Paradigm ClassTurning off Pitocin in Active Labor?! podcast episodePhysiologic Birth ClassBasic Fetal Monitoring ClassLearn More about our Motion App #71 Cord Gas Essentials podcast episode#63 Navigating Cat II FTR Trackings: Tips for Nurses with Heidi Nielsen podcast episode#59 Basic Fetal Monitoring : Mastering the Basics