Down to Birth

We are back with another breastfeeding-only Q&A episode. In today's conversation, we respond to several listener questions related to nursing, sleep, and fertility after breastfeeding. One mother who is co-sleeping with her 15-month-old, who wakes three to five times per night to nurse, asks how she can help her toddler sleep longer stretches without abruptly stopping breastfeeding. Another listener with a 4.5-month-old who has never taken a bottle is planning to attend a bachelorette party when her baby will be about nine months old and asks how best to prepare. We also hear from a mother who recently weaned her two-year-old and then experienced a very early miscarriage, often called a chemical pregnancy, and wonders whether she should consider hormonal support before trying to conceive again. As for our Quickies: Is it concerning if a 12-week-old drops slightly on the growth curve while still gaining weight, what the issue is with the Boppy pillow for breastfeeding, and can you continue breastfeeding while taking antibiotics for mastitis? We also discuss healing cracked nipples after a tongue-tie release, whether milk will come in normally if you breastfeed during pregnancy, and whether lactation cookies or brewer’s yeast actually increase supply. As also cover oversupply with a second baby, postpartum chills when milk comes in, storing breast milk and keeping pump parts clean on long drives, preventing recurrent mastitis from oversupply, whether a mild tongue tie should be released if breastfeeding is going well, what a “nursing holiday” is and whether it can help supply and latch, and how to help a bottle-fed newborn latch to the breast. Just us on Patreon for our upcoming all-Quickies episode, exclusive to patrons-only. Controversial article we discussed in this episode: My Decision Not to Breastfeed with Elise Hewitt #239 | The Cost of Breastfeeding Versus Formula Feeding with Dr. Rhonda Trust, PhD ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, one of Trisha's clients, Holly, shares the story of two very different births and two equally different breastfeeding experiences, and what shifted between them. Her first labor began spontaneously but ended with a vacuum delivery, and the demoralizing message that her “pushes weren’t productive.”  Breastfeeding was just as difficult, leading to a year of mostly exclusive pumping and undiagnosed postpartum anxiety.  Four years later, she approached birth with real preparation, a clear plan, and a timely transfer of care to a midwife who immediately changed the tone of her birth experience. This episode examines how preparation, autonomy, and the right support can change not only the course of a labor, but the way a mother understands her own strength. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Water birth has long been controversial, but more recently, a wave of claims has emerged from the natural birth community that water birth is dangerous for babies and disruptive to the physiologic process of birth. In this episode, we sit down with midwife Barbara Harper, the world's leading expert on water birth and founder of Waterbirth International, to explain the preponderance of evidence supporting the safety of water birth and to dispel circulating fallacies. We talk about the idea that babies can aspirate water, whether the diving reflex can fail, and the claim that water immersion interferes with a mother’s ability to respond to her baby during birth. Barbara explains what actually initiates a baby’s first breath, how the transition from fetal to newborn circulation works, and why arguments that water immersion causes a disruption to physiology that compromises babies don't hold up when you truly understand the physiology.  Join us for yet another educational and fascinating discussion with Barbara. Catch our other episodes with Barbara here: #200 | Physiologic Birth of the Placenta in Water, Optimal Cord Clamping and Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage with Barbara Harper #122 | Provider Green Lights: Interview with Barbara Harper on Holistic, Respectful & Supportive Birth Providers #100 | The Benefits of Water Birth: Interview With Barbara Harper ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the March Q&A! We begin today’s episode with a conversation about the strange, intrusive, and sometimes downright insulting comments women receive in public while pregnant. We also share a listener story about a home birth that took an unexpected turn when a woman’s mother, meant to support her during labor, ended up creating some chaos after drinking too much wine. Next, we address feeling unusually irritable toward an older child during pregnancy, what to consider after experiencing shoulder dystocia in two previous births, and whether an intact bag of waters could contribute to tearing during a very fast birth. We also discuss whether it ever makes sense to remain in an uncomfortable labor position in hopes of helping labor progress. As for Quickies, we cover questions about nursing pillows, pregnancy spacing, breastfeeding and fertility, bras for labor, sleep regressions, breast pumps, retained placenta, building a freezer stash, one of Cynthia’s favorite homemade salad dressing recipes, and the most famous people we’ve ever met. Thanks for being here, and enjoy today’s episode. PS: Check Patreon for more from Cynthia on salad dressings! ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, Abby shares her VBAC birth story following an emergency cesarean. Determined to experience a vaginal birth, she prepared carefully while navigating limited provider options in Alabama. What unfolded during labor and delivery underscores how provider behavior, rather than maternal physiology, often determines birth outcomes. Abby describes how a manual vaginal extraction caused a nearly catastrophic fourth-degree tear, requiring three subsequent surgeries in the months that followed and significantly disrupting her early postpartum period with her newborn. We ask Abby whether she has considered legal action against the doctor and hospital, and we explore how birth trauma shapes future decision-making. Abby explains why she is choosing a repeat cesarean for her third baby after this traumatic vaginal birth, and what autonomy and dignity can still look like within surgical birth. She also reflects on how faith, support, and intentional processing helped her move forward, and what she hopes other women will take from her story. Learn more about Abby here: http://www.abbyevelynphotography.com ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When Trisha was pregnant with her second baby, she read Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering — a book that completely reframed how she understood labor, and to this day remains her favorite book on pregnancy. Trisha's second birth unfolded in just three hours, a stark contrast to her first. That book was written by Dr. Sarah J. Buckley, and we've long dreamed of getting her on the show. That day has finally come! Dr. Buckley is a New Zealand–trained family physician and leading researcher on the hormonal physiology of childbirth, and today she walks us through the science of oxytocin and why it matters so profoundly in labor. We explore how the maternal brain modulates pain, how safety and privacy influence hormone flow, and why certain features of modern maternity care can unintentionally trigger stress responses that disrupt physiological birth. This episode is a deep dive into the biology of labor — and what women truly need for it to unfold as designed. In this episode, we discuss: The "Safety Triad": Why feeling private, safe, and unobserved is a biological requirement, not a luxury.The Pitocin Paradox: The shocking truth about synthetic "oxytocin", its unknown half-life, and why it doesn't offer the same brain benefits as the real thing.The Epidural Gap: How numbing the sensation of labor interrupts your natural hormonal feedback loop.The Baby’s Experience: What the fetal catecholamine surge is and what it means for your newborn’s first moments after birth.Sarah Buckley Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Six seasons later, we are revisiting one of our first episodes of this podcast: Using evidence-based care to plan your birth.  Much of what happens in labor is presented as standard, routine, or unavoidable—but that doesn’t mean it’s evidence-based. Birth care hasn’t become more complex because women need more intervention. It’s become more complex because intervention has become the default. If you’ve ever wondered whether what’s happening in labor is truly backed by research—or simply “standard protocol”—this episode is for you. In this conversation, we get back to the basics, examining how modern birth is typically managed, where that approach aligns with evidence, and where it too often doesn’t. This episode gives you an evidenced-based framework, so you can better evaluate the care offered and recognize when something supports physiologic birth or when it may quietly interfere with it. Listen with your partner, take notes, and use this episode as a guide for thinking more clearly about the choices that shape your birth. #9 | Birth Plan 101: Evidence Based Birth as the Safest, Smartest Approach********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

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 us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, mother of two, Samantha Collignon, joins us to share two very different birth experiences separated by thirteen years. She gave birth to her first baby at 18 with minimal support and limited understanding of her options. At 31, married and deeply informed, she approached birth with education, confidence, and a strong sense of autonomy, resulting in a profoundly different and blissful birth experience. Samantha reflects on how age and life stage shaped the way she was perceived by medical providers, shares how IVF factored into decision-making during her second pregnancy, and why an induced labor can still be a everything you wished for in birth.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, we talk to Moran of @2lifedoula, a doula whose journey into birth work was born from her own harrowing transition into motherhood. Moran candidly shares the story of her first birth—a clinical, disconnected experience where lack of preparation and resurfaced childhood trauma led to a "full-blown panic attack" and postpartum depression. Knowing that wasn't how birth was meant to be, Moran transformed her approach for her subsequent birth, ultimately having a euphoric, spontaneous homebirth. This transformation sparked her 14-year career as a doula and inspired her new book, written for the woman she once was: unprepared, overwhelmed, and unaware of her own strength. Moran explains why birth is a portal of transformation, regardless of the outcome, and offers a roadmap for women to heal and advocate for themselves, whether you are a first-time mother or a birth professional. 2lifedoula Birthing Without Trauma & Fear ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Tearing is one of the most common fears around birth—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we talk about what really causes tearing, what the research shows, and what you can do to reduce your risk. We cover perineal massage, positions for birth, breathing and pacing, water birth, warm compresses, and what makes recovery smoother. Through the episode, we review our followers' real-life "tearing" stories, and provide our commentary, which includes labial tears, scar tissue, pelvic floor recovery, over-stitching and unnecessary repairs, how beliefs and fear affect pushing, poor suturing techniques, the harm caused by routine episiotomies and the so-called, absolutely outrageous, “husband stitch”.  This is an honest, evidence-based conversation about the perineum—how to protect it, how to heal, and what every woman can know before giving birth. Watch our full Preventing Perineal Tears workshop on Patreon.com/DownToBirthShow. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to our first monthly Q&A episode of Season 7! In today's episode, we discuss why C-sections are sometimes framed as “prevention,” how fear around tearing, fetal monitoring, or cord concerns impacts clinical decision-making, and why breaking the bag of waters is still routine practice despite clear risks and limited benefit. We explain what delayed cord clamping looks like during a cesarean and why vague language like “misplaced cord insertion” can unknowingly lead to unnecessary intervention. Additionally, we talk about nursing while pregnant, early breastfeeding challenges, frozen breastmilk, feeding to sleep, and other common postpartum concerns. Lastly, Barbara Harper joins us to dispel the fear around water birth by explaining the exact physiology of newborn transition under the water.  As always, thanks for calling in with your questions. Call us anytime at 802-GET-DOWN (that's 802-438-3696). ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, Jessica shares the breastfeeding journey she never expected. After a smooth birth at a birth center, feeding quickly became complicated: flat nipples, an early nipple shield, a missed first feeding window, a significant tongue tie, and a baby who grew increasingly sleepy and underweight. What followed was weeks of pumping, weighted feeds, donor milk, tongue-tie revision, and the ongoing effort to understand why breastfeeding wasn’t working despite doing everything “right.” Jessica describes the emotional strain of those early weeks, from feeling inadequate to questioning her own anatomy, and the constant fear she was letting her daughter down. This conversation brings needed attention to the realities behind many breastfeeding challenges and the gaps that leave mothers without the support they need.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today’s breastfeeding Q&A, we take calls from mothers facing the challenges that often arise well beyond the newborn phase. We begin with a question about nursing an eighteen-month-old who lifts his mother’s shirt the moment she sits down, and what healthy boundaries can look like when a toddler is still deeply attached to nursing. From there, we address concerns about forceful letdowns, oversupply, pumping routines, and the role of pacifiers when feeding becomes overstimulating for the baby. We also take a call from a mother with a three-week-old who experiences gas and discomfort at the breast, and we discuss the differences between oversupply, fast flow, and the possibility of oral restrictions. Today's conversation highlights how individual feeding dynamics are and why a tailored approach is always necessary. Thank you for your thoughtful questions and for your continued support of the show. To submit your questions for a future episode, call our hotline at 802-438-3696, that's (802) GET-DOWN. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Morgan MacDermott, NMD, a naturopathic medical doctor specializing in perinatal and postpartum health, joins us to explore why postpartum isn’t simply a recovery period—it’s a complete physiological and emotional transformation. We discuss why American culture celebrates productivity instead of rest, and the critical role of the  “5-5-5 rule." As the conversation unfolds, we move into the realities of early motherhood—how high-achieving women struggle with loss of control, the connection between personality type and postpartum mood disorders, and why relying on intuition matters more than parenting scripts, tracking apps, or “doing it right.” We also talk about the myth of the woman who can do it all, the importance of presence over perfection, and how stability—not constant stimulation—is what children remember and rely on most. Together, we examine how modern mothers can reclaim postpartum and motherhood as a sacred and restorative experience, and how that same understanding can shape calmer, more confident parents -- and children -- in the years that follow. Dr. Morgan MacDermott on Instagram ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to our end-of-year Q&A episode! Settle in with your favorite drink and listen as we play listener voicemails from around the world. You'll hear us reflect on six years of podcasting together, while we share voicemails, questions, and stories as we close out the season and prepare for the new year. We begin by addressing one of our posts that sparked an unexpectedly intense reaction online, and then get into an impassioned conversation on why postpartum life is never 50/50. We also share a personal client story about placenta previa, late-pregnancy ultrasounds, and an unnecessary cesarean narrowly avoided. Prompted by one woman's considerate voice message, you'll also hear Cynthia reflect candidly on grief, resilience, and what this past year has taught her. All bets are off for this episode, where we have spontaneous conversations from one topic to the next.  Thank you so very much for being a part of our community, and for listening, calling our phone line, supporting our work, and sharing our commitment to evidence-based conversations about pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood. Season Seven begins next week with a very exciting year ahead! Enjoy today's episode ad-free, and consider joining us for ad-free episodes all the time, for just $29.99 on Apple Podcasts.  Finally, as a special end-of-year invitation, we’d love to welcome you into our Patreon community. For a limited time, you can get 40% off an annual membership of any tier using the code WELCOME2027. Patreon supporters receive ad-free episodes, extended content, access to our book club, and our growing library of past workshops and live events. Joining Patreon is the most direct way to support the work we do, deepen your engagement with us and be part of the conversations that shape everything we create. Thank you again for supporting Down to Birth and we'll see you next week for our first episode of Season Seven! ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, we reconnect with Sarah and Lara of Dynamic Doulas, who last joined us in Episode 196: The Toughest Part of Being a Doula. Three years later, we tackle the conversation that is in fact the toughest part of being a doula: Supporting women through the loss of a baby at birth.  Sarah and Lara return to talk to us about their recent experiences including when a baby dies or faces a severe adverse outcome. We move beyond business and birth plans and into the realities most childbirth education never mentions. We talk about a stillbirth at 38 weeks, a shoulder dystocia at 42 weeks, an ambulance transfer during a home birth, and what happens to the doula’s mind and body afterward. We explore the ethical tension between educating clients toward physiological birth and supporting every decision they make, even when those decisions give the doula pause. We also look at the limits of “evidence-based” care, why risk can never be reduced to zero, how to think about induction at 42 weeks, big babies, shoulder dystocia, and continuous fetal monitoring without slipping into fear or blind trust in the system. For pregnant women and birth workers alike, this conversation examines responsibility, intuition, and the space between over-medicalized birth and simplistic reassurance. Sarah and Lara share how these losses changed their practice, how they now talk to clients about risk and responsibility, and what it truly means to “hold space” when the worst outcome occurs. We also talk about nervous system strain, how doulas know when they need a break from their work, and why no doula should have to process these experiences alone. For women who are pregnant, this episode offers perspective on how rare events are understood by the people supporting you, and how to stay rooted in your own values, intuition, and sense of responsibility. For birth professionals, we discuss burnout, secondary trauma, why partnership matters so much in this work, and how a strong professional doula partnership can make the difference between quitting and continuing onward with new clients after witnessing a client's loss. #196 | The Toughest Part of Being a Doula with the Dynamic Doulas of London, Ontario Dynamic Doulas onSend us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Pregnant women often carry fears about breastfeeding long before their babies arrive — fears of pain, low supply, clogged ducts, or not knowing when to feed. After all, if breastfeeding is so natural, why do we keep hearing how hard it is? In this episode, Cynthia asks Trisha to address the most common concerns from the women in our community. We discuss why these fears are so prevalent, what’s actually normal, and how much of breastfeeding success depends on preparation, support, and confidence—not just luck.  If you are worried whether your body will make enough milk, how to know if your baby’s latch is correct, or whether your milk will “come in” at all, this conversation will leave you informed, grounded, and far more at ease about what’s to come. You, along with your baby, can absolutely know breastfeeding success.  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Midwife and mother of two, Sophia Henderson, host of the Born Wild podcast, joins us to tell the story of her children’s births – and how a chiropractor may have saved her newborn daughter’s life. In her first pregnancy, Sophia navigated weeks of unexplained bleeding, chose home birth as a student midwife, and after giving birth learned her son had no anal opening and would ultimately be diagnosed with VACTERL association. She describes what it means to care for a medically complex baby, how quickly those diagnoses unfold after birth, and how that first year reshaped her understanding of risk, normalcy, and surgical intervention. Just as her son's medical journey was unfolding when he was just a few months old, Sophia found herself pregnant again—depleted, caring for a fragile infant, and facing new legal restrictions in California that removed home birth as an option. She entered the hospital as a confident midwife who expected to advocate for herself, only to discover how difficult it is to hold onto intuition when confronted with pressure around breech, preterm labor, and surgery. After her daughter’s premature birth, Sophia and her husband were told the baby’s lungs had collapsed, that there was “nothing more they could do,” and that she was unlikely to survive or at best, would require oxygen all her life. A desperate post to Facebook caught the attention of a chiropractor, who responded that she could see the issue and restore the baby to wellness. Her treatment was performed quietly after being snuck into the hospital, and led to a recovery so dramatic that it reframed Sophia’s entire understanding of newborn physiology and the role of chiropractic care. Born Wild Midwifery ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the November Q&A! Today, we start with a topic that always stirs strong feelings—birth partners. From the gestures that truly helped to the ones that fell short, we chat about your experiences of your partner's support, presence, connection or not. Next, we respond to an emotional call for help from a sleep-deprived and emotionally exhausted mother whose husband threatens to call the cops on her for how she handled an overwhelming moment with her toddler.  Today's episode includes a special guest appearance from Nancy Wainer, world-renowned midwife and the woman who coined the term VBAC. Nancy answers a listener’s question about an anterior placenta in a planned VBAC and explains what her decades of experience tell us about how placentas behave in utero. We also discuss endometrial polyps and whether a biopsy could affect future fertility, how to handle conversations about home birth within a hospital work environment, and how to choose a midwife when you have numerous options and like them all.  In Quickies, we cover making baby-wearing more comfortable, the myth that labor “starts” at one centimeter, chiropractic versus pelvic floor PT in pregnancy, relieving newborn gas, timing big changes during teething, postpartum nutrition, and even whether to skip airport scanners while pregnant. We end with each of us pondering which baby names we’d choose today and our favorite ways to spend a slow morning at home. VBAC: How to Plan for Success #257 | Labor & Delivery Nurses' Roundtable: How Their Hands are Tied to Doctors' Orders #273 | Special Q&A Featuring Nancy Wainer on VBAC and More ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When it comes to infant sleep, few topics are more misunderstood—or more burdened by cultural myths—than the expectation that babies should “sleep through the night.” Pediatric sleep and development specialist and author of Rest Assured: The Heart and Science of Nurturing Baby Sleep, Louise Herbert, joins us to explain what’s really happening in a baby’s body and brain during sleep. Louise breaks down the biology of circadian rhythms, sleep pressure, and night wakings—clarifying when frequent waking is normal, what can sometimes underlie it, and why responsiveness and proximity are protective, not problematic. We also explore how stress and separation impact early brain development, why sleep training often overlooks fundamental physiology, and how parents can align their routines with their baby’s natural rhythms to improve sleep for everyone. This conversation replaces confusion and guilt with evidence and understanding, helping parents see night wakings as a feature of healthy development—not a flaw to fix. Mouthernourishnuture on Instagram Louise Herbert: Rest Assured  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

After six seasons, we’re finally doing it—we’re talking about how to get down to birth. As your "due date" approaches, many women find themselves up against policies, deadlines, and pressure to accept a medical induction. But what if other ways actually work? Today, we explore all the safe, risk-free, and surprisingly enjoyable ways to support your body as it prepares for labor and to help get things going when the pressure is on. Some are physical, some are emotional, and yes—some even play on the more literal meaning of “getting down.” Each approach works with your body instead of against the clock, and most are evidence-based and easy to do.  Whether you’re nearing your due date, facing induction, or simply want to feel prepared for whatever may come, this conversation gives you all the "hacks" to get you down to giving birth!  #176 | August Q&A: Multiple Miscarriages; Evening Primrose Oil; Safe Bed-Sharing; Breastmilk Stashes; Failure to Descend; Pushing; High Blood Pressure ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

After birth, many women are left blindsided by physical changes they never expected. Vaginal dryness, painful sex, recurring UTIs, and even emotional strain can all show up during breastfeeding — but most mothers are never told why. In this episode, we sit down with Sara Perelmuter, a third-year medical student at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City. Sara currently serves as president of the Sexual Medicine Research Team and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications on reproductive and genitourinary health. Sara explains the hormonal shifts that mimic menopause in the postpartum period, why so many women are suffering in silence, and what the research reveals about both the prevalence of these symptoms and the safe, effective treatments available — including pelvic floor therapy, moisturizers, lubricants, and topical vaginal estrogen. These symptoms are common, but they are not inevitable. By naming and studying them, we open the door to treatment and better care. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the October Q&A episode! We kick things off with a few confessions from our community (and one from us!) before diving into your thoughtful questions on pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Today’s questions include: Is it safe if you pee in the birth tub? How can you afford a home birth when money is tight? What does it mean to “push wrong” in labor, and how does the Ferguson reflex really work? We also discuss the fear of postpartum rage returning in a subsequent pregnancy, whether OBs should move out of the way so partners can catch the baby, and why so many providers still insist mothers push on their backs. We then cover laboring down and whether it increases risk, the truth about the “30-minute rule” for delivering the placenta, and how prenatal Pilates affects the pelvic floor. We also answer a listener’s question on how to explain conception and birth to young children in a clear, age-appropriate way. Quickies this month: Can an OB tell if a baby is head down without an ultrasound? Do lip ties need correction? Which supplements actually help milk supply? Is estrogen cream useful postpartum? PT vs. chiropractor in pregnancy? Plus a few lighthearted ones, including our guilty pleasure shows, whether we wash our walls, and what we’re currently reading. Call us anytime with your questions, comments, or stories at 802-GET-DOWN! ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emily 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: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to another Breastfeeding Q&A episode. Today, we start with a conversation on how to night wean and your personal experiences with what worked best.   For today's questions, Trisha responds to: How child-led weaning works at 14 months, 18 months, and 2 years oldNursing strikes at 6 months — why they happen and how to respondNight weaning tips: gentle strategies without losing daytime breastfeedingWhy milk supply sometimes doesn’t come in (and hospital factors that affect it)How to stop biting while breastfeeding (without turning it into a game)Coping with strong or painful letdowns and oversupplyBreastfeeding myths: Does breastfeeding cause cavities?Nutrition for moms: hops, beer, and spirulina for milk supplyHow to manage sleep deprivation, co-sleeping, and even feeding twinsFor quickies, we tackle rapid milk ejection, breastmilk and cavities, reducing oversupply, biting, all-night latching, beer & milk supply, nipple damage, feeding twins.  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. Thank you to everyone for these great questions and remember you can call us any time at 802-GET-DOWN (that's 802-438-3696). See you next week! ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info are below: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Bringing a new baby home is exciting—but it can feel overwhelming when you’re worried about how your toddler will adjust. You may be wondering: Will my toddler feel jealous? How do I handle tantrums? How do I keep my child feeling loved while caring for a newborn? In this episode, toddler expert Devon Kuntzman, author of the book Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Handle Tantrums and Power Struggles and Raise Resilient Kids Without Losing Your Mind, joins us to share practical wisdom for parents navigating this transition. In this discussion, we explore how to decode toddler behavior without harmful labels, set loving boundaries that build security, and handle big emotions—whether in the safety of your home or the middle of a grocery store. We discuss sibling jealously, strategies for parental preference, how to handle tantrums, time-outs, spanking and boundaries. Then we ask Devon your questions at the end, quickie style!  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Check out all our sponsors here: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, occupational therapist and IBCLC Michelle Emanuel joins us to explore the hidden ways tongue-tie affects babies long before birth. She explains how oral restrictions begin in the embryo, influence fetal positioning, and impact birth outcomes including torticollis and C-sections. We dive into the anatomy of the tongue, how it connects to breathing, posture, and feeding, and why many tongue-ties remain hidden or misdiagnosed. We discuss feeding positions, tummy time, swaddling, and infant sleep, and, of course, SIDS, including airway safety, sleep surfaces, toxins, and the importance of ventral (tummy) time for development and sleep. Michelle shares insights on when a frenotomy is truly needed, the risks of unnecessary or too-early releases, and why myofunctional therapy and whole-body approaches are critical for optimal long-term outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for parents, birth professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how tongue-tie influences health even before your baby is born.  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. Michelle's Website Instagram Our Patreon Event with Michelle ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info below: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this month’s Q&A, we start with a big one: What are your biggest fears in life? (Besides snakes and spiders, of course!) Then we dive into your thoughtful community questions, including: Homebirth vs. family pushback: My sister is a labor & delivery nurse, my family isn’t supportive, and my MIL has no boundaries. What should I do?Breastfeeding oversupply: I had a major oversupply with my first baby—will it be worse or the same with my next?Birth interventions: In my first birth, my midwife used hands-on pushing techniques and I was given continuous antibiotics. Were these necessary?In the extended version of today's episode available on Patreon or Apple subscriptions, we answer additional questions on: preparing for a long home birth after a cesarean (HBAC) and how to avoid hospital transfer, "failure to progress" in a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), whether we consider water birth to be a birth intervention, and if it is ok to sleep on your back in pregnancy. Finally, in quickies, we discuss: the best HypnoBirthing class (ha), preventing perineal tearing, cycle length & gestation, our current favorite podcasts, breast reductions and breastfeeding, posterior babies, pushing length and positions, and a favorite item in our homes.   Thanks, everyone, and call us any time at 802-GET-DOWN! That's 802-438-3696. Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info below: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Motherhood, pregnancy, and postpartum life are filled with moments that test our patience — from bedtime battles and clutter overload to partner misunderstandings and in-law tensions. But these moments aren’t just “part of the job” — they’re emotional triggers, and they hold powerful clues for personal growth, stress relief, and a healthier, happier motherhood journey. In this episode, we dive deep into emotional triggers for moms, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. We share relatable stories from our community of mothers about whining toddlers, relationship stress, junk food battles, and the mental load of parenting. You’ll learn how to recognize your triggers, uncover the roots behind them, and respond in ways that protect your mental health, improve your relationships, and bring more peace into your home. Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info below: 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 pack Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emily Vondy hardly needs an introduction. She's a mother of six, songwriter, and online creator @emilyvondy whose humor, reflections, and music have brought laughter and validation to millions. In this episode, she invites us into the story of her fifth birth, which came after two heartbreaking miscarriages. What began as a pregnancy marked by fear and doubt became an experience of profound peace—and what she vividly experienced as clear-as-day divine intervention. That’s right: Emily shares the story of how she had not one but three vivid spiritual encounters with Jesus during her hardest hour of labor—on the car ride to the birthing center. The experience brought her so much peace that she became completely silent in the throes of labor, and the drive—one she had made many times in previous labors—felt to her like just five minutes. As our conversation unfolded, we talked about why it may have happened then, and why it hasn’t happened since.  She recognizes her story will inevitably leave some incredulous, and she admits she sometimes has to remind herself how very real it was. In fact, her birth video shows her describing the encounter to her husband immediately after her baby was born. Emily also reflects on how the experience left her feeling humbled by God’s nearness—not “special” or “chosen”—but deeply comforted, grateful, and mystified. At the end of the episode, Emily lets us into the world behind her on-screen presence, answering our listeners’ questions about past jobs, family size, support systems, and marriage—making our conversation both deeply inspiring and refreshingly honest. She speaks openly about balancing the chaos of a big family, the grounding practices that help her in moments of overwhelm, and the ways her faith, humor, and disposition keep her marriage strong. If you think you couldn't love Emily Vondy more than you already do, this episode just may prove you wrong.  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info below: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, filmmaker and microbiome advocate Toni Harman joins us to explore the groundbreaking science behind establishing the infant microbiome—and why the earliest moments of life matter so much for lifelong health. Toni shares her personal journey from an unexpected C-section to uncovering how birth methods, antibiotics, and feeding choices shape immunity, metabolism, and risk of chronic disease over our lifetime. Key Points Discussed Include: Why vaginal birth, skin-to-skin contact, and early exclusive breastfeeding are the gold standard for seeding a healthy microbiome;How C-section birth changes microbial exposure—introducing hospital and staff microbes instead of the mother’s;Why even a single bottle of formula can shift the gut microbiome, and how exclusive breastfeeding and skin-to-skin can help restore balance;The fascinating recent research about vaginal seeding during C-sections...is it actually effective?The impact of newborn exposure to maternal gut microbes at birth;How the microbiome begins to “lock in” by age 2–3, and ways to keep building resilience through early childhood.Buckle up for some mind-blowing ideas in this episode! As always, Mother Nature has the perfect, albeit a little dirty, plan!  Microbirth Film Instagram: Toni Harman Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors, Patreon, and contact info below: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the August Q&A episode! What is your secret quirk? We want to know! We share a few of yours along with our own.  Today's first question is from a mother who had a large first baby without a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. She's concerned in her second pregnancy that she might develop late-onset gestational diabetes. Next, a pregnant mother's mother is a medical doctor and is having a hard time supporting her daughter's natural birth choices because of her experiences in the medical system.  Another mom is struggling with sugar cravings in pregnancy and is wondering what advice we have to reduce those cravings. In the extended episode, available on Patreon and Apple subscriptions,  we address the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding over exclusive bottle-feeding, whether or not you should have a planned cesarean after a shoulder dystocia, and if moxibustion works to turn a breech baby.  Quickies: Fundal height measurements, prenatal appointments at the end of pregnancy, hemorrhoids, spotting postpartum, short breastfeeds, LEEP procedure and cervical scar tissue, high lipase milk, laboring down, restless legs in pregnancy, and finally, would we tell anyone about our pregnancy before 12 weeks?  Call us with your questions, comments or stories at 802-GET-DOWN! Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** 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 pack Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Sleep is the foundation of health—and yet in modern motherhood, it’s often the first thing we lose. In this episode, we’re joined by Heidi and Thaddeus of DreamWalkerz, parents of six and passionate educators on the biology of sleep. Together, we explore how light—yes, just light—is one of the most overlooked but powerful regulators of our sleep, hormones, mood, and even fertility. Heidi and Thaddeus break down what circadian rhythms really are, how they’re installed in babies, and why so many of us are unknowingly “teaching” our newborns to be awake at night and asleep during the day. We talk about the biological cost of blue light, the myth of the night owl, and how shifting even small habits—like going outside at dawn or switching a lightbulb—can radically change the way we sleep and parent. We also explore melatonin myths, the complex hormonal dance between light and reproduction, and why syncing your body to natural light is not just a lifestyle tweak—it’s a return to something deeply human. This episode offers no quick fixes, but rather a steady reminder that rest is not a luxury—it’s a birthright. And it begins not with a supplement or a schedule, but with the rising sun. Dreamwalkerz: Use Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH to save 10% Instagram: Dreamwalkerz The Melatonin Makeover #172 | Our Sexual Energy as the Secret Weapon to Our Best Birth and Best Life with Kim Anami Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Doulas play a critical role in supporting women through childbirth—but their work is anything but easy, and their work isn't for the faint of heart. Many face disrespect from providers and routinely witness coercion, misinformation, and violations of informed consent. Even with their deep commitment to the women they serve, doulas often feel powerless in the face of hospital systems driven by profit and control. Still, many doulas are called to this work—and despite everything, they continue with resilience, purpose, and unwavering commitment. Doulas are indispensable. The evidence is clear: When a doula is present, C-section rates drop -- as do all other routine interventions. Physiologic birth is more likely. Breastfeeding is more successful. And most important, mothers walk away feeling more satisfied and supported. Doulas are, and always have been, the original birth keepers. Their presence makes birth safer, more humane, and more aligned with what women actually want and need. In today’s episode, we hear directly from doulas about what they’re up against—and why, despite it all, they keep showing up. We also share our reflections on what it means to support doulas as they continue this vital work. ********** 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 pack Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email [email protected] Instagram @downtobirthshow Call us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

At 28 weeks, Jessie found out her baby was breech—but instead of panicking, she trusted her gut. She felt strongly that her baby was meant to be born this way. After initially planning a home birth, Jessie began exploring other options and considered traveling to Pennsylvania for a hospital birth with experienced breech providers. But when labor started at 39 weeks, everything shifted. Mid-drive to Pennsylvania, Jessie and her husband decided to turn around and head to Yale New Haven Hospital. There, an OB team unexpectedly supported her birth plan, and her baby was born breech and vaginally—with ease. In this episode, Jessie shares her story of intuition, flexibility, and trust in her body and baby. It’s an inspiring reminder that sometimes birth doesn’t go according to plan—and that’s exactly what makes it beautiful. ********** 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 pack Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome 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 pack Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Finally, after all these years, Trisha tells the stories of her three home births. Pregnancy, birth, & midwifery are woven into her life story, from her early obsession with pregnancy to her decision to pursue a career in midwifery, allowing her to understand every aspect of birth from a physiological and intellectual perspective. Hear how she became a midwife, how she got herself into labor with her first, grueling, long birth, to her wildly different second birth, and her unintentionally unassisted third home birth to her son, who taught her the most important lesson she wants every birthing woman to know: One that could benefit all of humankind. Watch this episode in full video on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this extraordinary episode, Leslie shares her deeply personal story of discovering a lump in her breast at 34 weeks pregnant—an aggressive, triple-negative breast cancer. A wellness coach who hadn’t taken over-the-counter medication in five years, Leslie spent her adult life doing everything she could to prevent disease. As she prepared to welcome her second baby at home, she was forced to face a diagnosis that would alter her life on every level. She confidently insisted on continuing with her home birth plans and delivered her son peacefully at 38 weeks, just weeks before starting intensive chemotherapy. Her story takes us through her heartbreaking decision to wean early, her rejection of radiation, and the support of her midwife, community, and unwavering faith in God. Leslie is not only healing; she’s investigating the root causes of her illness—from parasites and heavy metals to infected root canals. Her message is clear: You must be your own advocate in your birth and healthcare. This conversation is about more than cancer—it’s about bodily sovereignty, maternal instinct, and the strength of a mother determined to do right by her children, no matter the cost. ********** 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding 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 Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Drawing from our their personal experiences, your words, and our intimate birth story processing sessions, Cynthia & Trisha delve into the neuroscience around beliefs and birth. Our brain constantly wants to make sense of things, but it often lands on unhelpful conclusions. This episode is about recognizing those negative beliefs and actively replacing them with empowering ones. It's about taking charge of your internal narrative to foster healing and confidence, no matter your  story. Join us as we explore the conscious and unconscious stories we tell ourselves about birth – "my body failed me", "my births are cursed" – beliefs that, whether objectively true or untrue, can deeply affect us and our future experiences.  Watch this episode in full video format on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding 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 Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emily Woodward is a mother of two who planned a home birth for each of her babies. Her first labor began with confidence and joy—and stretched across multiple days, testing her endurance, her trust in her birth team, and her ability to surrender when the path ahead took an unexpected turn. She transferred from home to hospital with a crowning baby. Her second pregnancy was smooth and uneventful—until 31 weeks, when she awoke in the middle of the night to a pool of bright red blood, and everything changed in an instant. A former nurse and longtime believer in physiologic birth, Emily brought deep conviction to both experiences—but found herself making two very different choices, each for necessary reasons. In this episode, she shares how she navigated fear, advocated for herself, and came to find peace and even beauty in how each of her births unfolded, despite neither being at home. Her story is a moving reminder that sometimes the plan can change—twice—and still be exactly right. ********** 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 pack Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the June Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha. This month we kick things off with a conversation about a midwife who dropped her client in early labor because her HBAC labor was taking too long to get going--as you can imagine, we have a lot to say about this! Next we take your questions: One mom writes about her 3rd attempt at a homebirth after two hospital transfers and wonders if it is ok to keep her birth plans from her family with whom she is very close with.  We also answer: My midwife told me I should do a cervical check at 36 weeks to help understand the baby's position and offer recommendations based on the findings. Is this really necessary? And, if a baby isn't breathing after a minute of being born and is still attached to the placenta, do babies need to be stimulated or is intervention required? In the extended episode, available on Patreon, we discuss vaginal birth with a nuchal hand, scheduling C-sections for planned VBAC at 40 week, and vaginal birth after a shoulder dystocia. Finally in quickies, we touch on spray tans while breastfeeding, induction vs cesarean, elastic nipples & pumping, third labors, length of umbilical cords, and our favorite seasons and candy (except Cynthia doesn't eat candy). ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding 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 Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Neuroscientist and author of The Nurture Revolution, Dr. Greer Kirschenbaum, PhD, joins us today to discuss the profound impact of nurturing care in the first three years of life. Drawing from decades of brain research, Greer explains how responsive, connected parenting in early life lays the neurological foundation for emotional regulation, mental health, and lifelong resilience—and why this critical window is so often misunderstood, underestimated, or dismissed. We also explore the neurobiology of fatherhood: how the dad's brain transforms during the postpartum period, how these changes depend on direct contact with the baby, and why emotional and hormonal shifts in men—though delayed in comparison to those in mothers—are no less critical. Greer shares research on baby-wearing, skin-to-skin, and how even daily rituals like bathing or making a habit of smelling the baby cause a rapid and necessary rewiring of the paternal brain toward deeper connection and long-term involvement.  We also discussed trends in parenting, from the "be home by dinnertime" style of the 80s to the scheduled, anxious, overbearing parents who followed that generation. We considered the impact of parents who place excessive emphasis on a school-age child's emotions day in and day out, at the risk of foregoing important opportunities for teaching resilience. This conversation challenges outdated notions of independence, debunks harmful myths around bonding and separation, and makes a strong, evidence-based case for what Greer calls the "nurture revolution”.  Click here to watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. Dr. Greer on Instagram Nurture Neuroscience ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the June Breastfeeding Q&A episode with Trisha & Cynthia. Today, we open with a follow-up discussion to our recent Patreon discussion on the predatory marketing of formula companies followed by a listener's comment about a hospital who forbade a mother and baby from doing skin-to-skin. Next, Trisha answers the following questions: Does a baby need to feed in the first 24 hours?What are your tips for gently weaning a 20-month old?Did I sabotage my milk supply by using a nipple shield for 5 months?How often do I need to wake my baby at night to breastfeed?What is a nursing strike, and what can I do about it?Quickies: Piercings, gas in babies, pumping to establish supply, breastmilk butter, normal sucking sounds, colic, and each of our most difficult breastfeeding experiences. For more information on getting started with breastfeeding, you might enjoy our mini-episodes:  #33| Breastfeeding Mini: Out with the Rules, In with Your Instincts #44| Breastfeeding Mini: The First Week of Breastfeeding & Why it Matters Most #56 | Breastfeeding Mini: The Importance of Establishing Your Milk Supply in the First Month Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Devon Stockton was deeply rooted in health and wellness and armed with years of medical experience. She had only ever envisioned a natural, low-intervention birth and took all of the necessary steps to prepare herself. But her birth took an unexpected turn upon arrival at the hospital when she discovered her baby was footling breech and a cesarean would be necessary. Devon recounts the emotional shift, the support of her husband, and the unexpected calm of her labor before surgery. She shares the relief of a healthy baby girl, the kindness of her medical team, and the surprising positivity of her C-section experience, including immediate skin-to-skin and clear drapes. Devon also reflects on the lingering "what ifs" and her hopes and plans for a VBAC in the future. This story demonstrates how a mother can feel at peace with her birth knowing it was a necessary cesarean, and yet also can feel the sadness and longing for the vaginal birth she dreamed of.  Devon's Instagram: @nourishandbloom.wellness ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email [email protected] Instagram @downtobirthshow Call us at 802-GET-DOWN Watch the full videos of all our episodes on Yo Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the May Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha. If you have been wondering what you should plan to eat after giving birth, we've got the answers in today's episode, and we think they'll surprise you! For today's regular episode, we answer the following: Can you remove an epidural for pushing?Can the cervix swell shut if you push before it is fully dilated?Can you prevent a tear in a precipitous birth when the baby comes flying out?Can I still have a VBAC if I had a big baby and didn't dilate in my first birth? Is it possible that my body doesn't go into labor?Does delayed cord clamping cause jaundice?Is there anything that can be done to prevent tearing in a precipitous birthIn the extended version, available on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, we further discuss: Anxiety around the anticipation of your second birth;current evidence on stillbirth rates after age 35 (all the data!); andbreastfeeding through pregnancy and into tandem nursing.Finally, in quickies, we touch on sushi in pregnancy, bleeding too much and cord clamping, when a baby can first have water, how to lower fasting blood sugars, and so much more plus...how Cynthia and Trisha met. Oh, and one more thing: Are you a folder or a squisher with your TP habits? ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Primally Pure: From soil to skin, primally pure produ Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

What's the one question every woman wants to answer when considering a VBAC? Is it safe for me and my baby? In today's episode, Cynthia & Trisha break down the available data on VBAC, why we should discard the term TOLAC, the actual risks of uterine rupture, whether induced with Pitocon versus a prostaglandin or having spontaneous labor versus expectant management. We present the few cases in which a woman should not choose to VBAC and help mothers understand their decisions should not be driven by statistics alone. If you are considering a VBAC, get a pen and paper and arm yourself with all the stats from this data-rich dialogue.  Also: Let's get HavBAC to take! (Inside Joke -- you'll get it when you listen!) ********** Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding 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 Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Did you know that how you breathe on a daily basis can influence how your birth goes? Yes, your rib cage impacts your pelvic tension! On today's episode, we have Lindsay McCoy, a birth doula, exercise physiologist, and co-founder of the Body Ready Method. She explains how breath, mobility, and pelvic balance all come together to support a smoother, more efficient labor—and how a few simple daily practices in pregnancy can reduce the need for interventions in birth. She reminds us that our job is not to get stuck in our heads trying to “do it all right," and that "There's only room for one head in the pelvis, and that is your baby's!"  You’ll learn how to identify common imbalances, what to do when labor stalls, and how to avoid unnecessary interventions by proactively supporting your body in pregnancy. This conversation is for the woman who wants to feel confident, aligned, and body-aware—not obsessive. It’s also essential listening for birth professionals who want to support laboring women with more precision and less guesswork. The "Flow, Balance, Space" framework is all about optimizing your labor for your best birth.  Body Ready Method Body Ready Method on Instagram Click here to watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfo Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Preeclampsia is an increasingly common diagnosis, but are we getting it right? This episode tackles the alarming reality of misdiagnosis and the rush to intervene prematurely with induction. Join us and functional medicine expert Sarah Thompson, researcher and author of Functional Maternity, as we dive into the deeper nature of preeclampsia, beyond simple blood pressure readings. Learn about the crucial roles of sleep, stress, and your body's detox pathways in the prevention of preeclampsia. Did you know 80% of cases are said to be preventable?  You’ll learn: What preeclampsia is and why it happens;Why so many women are misdiagnosed—or treated too early “just in case”;The role of sleep, stress, inflammation, and nutrient overload - even from high-quality, water-soluble supplements;How your thyroid, detox pathways, and even microbiome play a role;Which labs to ask for to get a clearer understanding of your own body; andWhether or not a baby aspirin in pregnancy prevents preeclampsia.Sarah Thompson Sarah on Instagram Click here to watch this episode in full video format on YouTube. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the April Q&A episode! Today's episode begins with your answers to our question: How do you cope when you are at your breaking point in parenting? If you are looking for some creative ideas, you will find them here! And someone, please tell us where one Mississippi, two Mississippi came from? Next, we get down to birth and answer the following questions:  Why do some women choose unmedicated, physiological births despite societal pressures and perceived difficulties? Why not just get the epidural?Is it ok to push if you are not fully dilated? How dangerous is this and what is the risk with early pushing?My friend had to have an emergency cesarean when her baby was already in the vaginal canal. They pushed the baby back up and caused severe damage to her vaginal tissue. Was this necessary or were her providers just impatient?In the extended version of today's episode, which you can hear by subscribing on Apple Podcasts or joining any of our Patreon tiers, we answer these additional questions: What are the risks of using castor oil to induce labor?If I had a big baby in my first pregnancy, does it mean I will have gestational diabetes in my next pregnancy? Does it even mean I had gestational diabetes in my first? My doctors put this in my records with no evidence beyond a big, healthy baby.How do I gently night wean?In quickies, we discuss tongue ties and white tongues, hemorrhage and C-section, breath work resources for labor, retained placentas, protein for breastfeeding, decreasing milk supply, risk of infection with broken water, windmilling the placenta, and lastly, if you would only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be? Plus, don't miss today's long and hilarious outtake.  Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

What happens when we invite our children into the sacred space of birth? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Morgan MacDermott, a naturopathic doctor, perinatal health specialist, and mother of four, to talk about the transformative experience of having siblings present at birth. We tackle the key questions: Should all children be present at birth, and if not, which considerations should be considered? Will they be scared? Will the mother be able to stay focused? What happens if they get uncomfortable, and how much do you really need to prepare them for witnessing birth? Children at birth isn't what every woman wants, which is the most important factor to consider. We discuss why some women dream of this option, and how our own children responded to being present at their younger siblings' births.  This conversation is for any parent who wants to challenge the fear-based cultural narrative around birth and raise children who understand that birth is not something to fear—but something to trust and witness with reverence and awe.  Morgan MacDermott on Instagram Remember to watch our full episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack  Not a Sponsor but HIGHLY recommended: ENERGYbits Save 20% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Today we’re talking about one of the most important—and misunderstood—topics in maternity care: the unnecessary cesarean. In the U.S., about one in three babies is born by C-section, but in physiologic birth settings, that number can be as low as 2–4%. So what’s driving the difference? In this episode, Cynthia and Trisha unpack the many layers behind the rising cesarean rate and offer a grounded, evidence-based approach for avoiding surgery when it isn’t truly needed. From provider practices to birth environments, timing to interventions, we explore what really makes a difference in protecting your ability to give birth naturally. We also talk about the deeper side of birth: how your nervous system, your sense of safety, and your trust in your body all play a powerful role in how birth unfolds. If you’ve ever been told you might need a C-section because your baby is “too big,” or you’re wondering how to stack the odds in your favor for a physiological birth—this episode is for you. Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, we’re joined by Stephanie Etienne and Kanika Harris, creators of the documentary Listen to Me. The film follows the pregnancy and birth journeys of several black women. It reveals a devastating reality: Black mothers in the U.S. and U.K. are dying in childbirth at far higher rates than white women regardless of education, income, or resources. Kanika shares the heartbreaking story of losing her twin babies after a sudden onset of preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Though she arrived at the hospital by ambulance, bleeding and in critical condition, she was still stopped at the front desk and asked for insurance information before being evaluated. The tragedy was compounded when her husband, Jua, was advised not to tell Kanika the whole story about the fate of her babies, out of concern that Kanika might not survive if she received the devastating news while her own health was so tenuous. We talk with Stephanie and Kanika about why they made the film, what they want every pregnant woman to know, and how Black families are often treated with suspicion or disregard in medical spaces. They also speak of the grief carried by partners, families, and entire communities when a mother is lost. Listen to Me Listen to Me on Instagram Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

What if sleeping beside your baby isn’t dangerous—but actually protective? In this episode, we talk about one of the most instinctive things mothers do—and one of the most feared and judged: co-sleeping. Today's guest is Isadora Ambrose, founder of Happy Co-Sleeper and a certified holistic infant sleep specialist. Why are parents told to never sleep with their babies when every cell in their body wants to keep them close at night?  Isadora breaks down what makes co-sleeping safe (and what makes it unsafe), how studies are often misinterpreted, and why so many parents end up co-sleeping anyway—without the right support or setup. We discuss breastfeeding, chest-sleeping, the role of the mother’s body in keeping babies safe, and how co-sleeping protects against sleep deprivation and unsafe sleep situations. (You'll also hear Isadora's opinion on the SNOO!) We also explain how co-sleeping changes as your child grows—what to do as your baby becomes a toddler, how to bring a new sibling into the mix, and how to keep your relationship intact while sharing sleep with your child. This is an honest, reassuring conversation for anyone who's ever felt torn between what feels natural and what they've been told is “safe.”  Happy Co-Sleeper Isadora on Instagram Remember to watch our full episodes on YouTube! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 packNot a Sponsor but HIGHLY recommended: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Cynthia and Trisha are back with the March Q&A episode! This one kicks off with a fun discussion on things that our Instagram followers think people should know but don’t—like how, when you say you’re eating a kiwi, you’re actually referring to either a kiwi bird or, worse, a person from New Zealand! In today’s Q&A episode, we answer these questions: Do I need to schedule a cesarean at 40 weeks if I’m planning a VBAC? My OB says I do.How do I know when it’s time to wean from breastfeeding, and how can I do it without feeling guilty?What are my options if my state says it’s illegal to give birth at home after a previous cesarean?In the extended, ad-free version, available on Patreon and Apple subscriptions, we cover: My second birth was only 45 minutes long, and my baby was born in the car on the way to the hospital. How can I prevent or better prepare for a rapid birth with my third baby?Will dropping a pumping session with my eleven-week-old baby affect my milk supply?How long is too long to wait to deliver the placenta, and how can I help it come out more quickly?Finally, in the "quickies" segment, we touch on a variety of topics, including alternatives to Pitocin, botox while breastfeeding, swimming in public pools during the third trimester, finances & family planning, and dealing with the awkward situation of being told your baby can't attend a baby shower—and much more! Remember you can watch all our episodes now in full video format on the Down to Birth YouTube channel!  Thank you, as always, for your fantastic questions! Keep them coming to our hotline at 802-438-3696. We promise we won’t answer! :) ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, Dr. Jenn Simmons shares her powerful journey from a leading breast cancer surgeon to an advocate for functional medicine and holistic health. Drawing from her personal experience with illness and healing, Dr. Simmons discusses the dangers and limitations of traditional breast cancer screening with mammography and offers insight into safer, more effective alternatives like QT imaging, the ARIA test, and the importance of self-breast exams. This conversation is especially relevant for pregnant and postpartum mothers who want to make informed decisions about their health. We cover how lifestyle choices, metabolic health, and early detection practices can play a significant role in breast cancer prevention. If you've ever questioned mammography, you were right to do so. Today, we offer evidence-based alternatives to conventional care, expose the myths and dangers of mammography, and teach you about the most important tool that you already have to help detect and prevent breast cancer.  Dr. Jenn Simmons on Instagram ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Labor dystocia, often labeled as "failure to progress," is the leading reason for cesarean birth in the United States. At its core, prolonged labor is frequently influenced by suboptimal fetal positioning, as well as the mother’s biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology. In this episode, we delve into the true causes of labor dystocia and explore how intentional movement and positioning—both during pregnancy and labor—can promote a smoother, more efficient birth. Our discussion covers: The definitions of labor dystocia and why there is no universal consensus;How fetal positioning impacts labor progress and ways to optimize it;The effects of maternal posture, movement, and soft tissue balance during pregnancy and birth;Understanding biomechanics in making space for the baby and easing labor challenges;How the medical model misinterprets and over-manages normal variations in labor; andPractical strategies to prevent and resolve labor dystocia naturally.When a mother and baby are doing well in labor there is no upper limit to how long her labor can go. No woman should be diagnosed with failure to progress, a term we reject. This episodes provides insights and tips to optimize your labor and your baby's position and reduced the chances of experiencing a long, difficult labor. Molly O'brien Molly on Instagram ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Do you know the "hi" joke? If not, you haven't been listening long enough or need to go back to our earliest episodes, lol! If you haven't been there you should. We have some amazing episodes from season one. Anyway, today is all about breastfeeding. Trisha answers our listeners' questions on the following: Are there any techniques to relieve engorgement and over-production of milk in the early days to be more comfortable? And Cynthia asks Trisha: Why is oversupply such a problem, anyway? What do you recommend for extra sleepy babies to help them breastfeed when they're demonstrating a preference for bottles over breast? Could being born prematurely have an impact on the situation? Is it ok to use a portable, hands-free pump instead of double electric pump? And find out why it might be best to engage in a side activity while pumping. Does breastfeeding reduce your calcium stores in your bones and should you take more calcium while breastfeeding? For quickies we touch on foreceful letdowns, foremilk/hindmilk balance, breastfeeding apps, breastfeeding without pillow support, cracked nipples, bottle introduction, and our bravest breastfeeding experiences! Over on YouTube, Trisha provides a demonstration of latch on her preferred bottle for breastfeeding babies.  To work with Trisha virtually or in person, please text 734-649-6294. In-network coverage with major insurance companies. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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 pack ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postp Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the February Q&A! Today, Cynthia & Trisha kick off the episode by discussing reasons why our community has lost friendships or relationships over their parenting choices. In our regular episode, we answer the following questions: 1. Is there such a thing as a lazy newborn, and if so, what can you do about it? 2. Can my placenta detach in pregnancy? My OB told me I can't have sex because my placenta is low-lying and it could separate.   3. I have a diagnosis of gestational hypertension. If my blood pressure goes down, do I still need to be induced at week 37 as the OB is recommending?  In our extended episode, we discuss when or not medications may be needed for postpartum depression, what increases the risk of cervical tears and hematomas, and what to do about respiratory distress in newborns born at home.  Lastly, in quickies, we talk about doulas at birth, suggest the one question you should ask your midwife or doula, and answer whether you need to track kick counts. We discuss breastfeeding and laser hair removal, phototherapy and jaundice, and whether or not we start our day with a dry or wet toothbrush, among other morning routines.  Thank you as always for your wonderful questions, and please keep them coming by calling 802-438-3696.  For the extended version of this episode, please subscribe on Apple subscriptions or join us on Patreon. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today’s episode, we explore the powerful benefits of spirulina and chlorella—two superfoods that boost energy, improve digestion, and alkalize your body, especially during pregnancy. Each tiny tablet is pure food with the nutritional equivalent of an entire plate of vegetables.  Trisha noticed a significant difference in her energy level during her workouts once she started taking spirulina each morning. So we've invited Catharine Arnston, founder of EnergyBits, to explain why these nutrient-dense algae offer superior nutrition. Spirulina, packed with amino acids, delivers 99.9% bioavailable protein for clean, sustained energy. It's also rich in chlorophyll and phycocyanin, which support mitochondrial health and cellular protection. Chlorella, on the other hand, helps detoxify the body and relieve constipation—a common pregnancy discomfort—while replenishing essential nutrients. During pregnancy, spirulina supports fetal brain development with nutrients similar to breast milk, while chlorella provides immune support and gentle detoxification. Plus, with just one serving equaling 1,000 grams of vegetables, these superfoods make filling nutritional gaps easy and affordable. We also cover how to incorporate spirulina and chlorella into your routine, recommended doses, and their key differences: spirulina for nourishment, chlorella for detoxification. If you're looking for a natural way to boost energy, improve digestion, and support a healthy pregnancy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Algae is one of the most rigorously studied foods in the world and has been deemed the solution to world hunger. We are so excited to bring you this amazing superfood!  Try it today using promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH to save 20% on your first order.  For $7 per week, you can relinquish your worries about ensuring the best nutrition for your baby and your body. ENERGYbits ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorit Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Today we dive deep into an incredibly empowering and unique birth story. Megan Wilson of @wilsonfamilyhomestead shares her journey of unexpectedly giving birth to her 33-week baby in a car and the powerful decision she made to trust her instincts, rather than following the traditional hospital protocol. She purposefully broke her own water in the car to expedite the birth once they were parked in the hospital parking lot. In an inspiring twist, Megan reveals her decision to have her baby stay in the car with her, avoiding antibiotics, the NICU, and unnecessary interventions, and explains how she relied on her midwife’s guidance as they made their way to a nearby birth center. With a premie weighing in at five pounds, Megan’s determination to do what felt right for her and her baby led to an incredibly positive outcome: a thriving newborn who began breastfeeding right away and never dipped below her birth weight. This episode is a celebration of maternal intuition, trusting your body, and navigating birth on your own terms. Join us for a heartwarming and real conversation about unconventional birth choices, self-trust, and the power of a mother doing things her way. #31 | Megan of Wilson Family Homestead's Birth Story: Unattended Home Birth in the Kitchen ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, Allison Angelini shares the profound and challenging story of her second pregnancy and birth. From the start, Allison had a premonition that her birth might not go as planned. Compounding her worries, she experienced a traumatic event while camping with her toddler, which left her grappling with PTSD and anxiety throughout her pregnancy. Despite her fears, Allison pursued a home birth. Her labor was long and intense, complicated by an anterior cervical lip and an instinctive sense that something was off. After her baby’s head was born, his shoulders became stuck—a shoulder dystocia. He entered the world pale, limp, and not breathing. However, his umbilical cord remained intact and pulsing at a strong 150 bpm, allowing him to recover after eight tense minutes in his mother’s arms, still connected to his placenta. In reflecting on her experience, Allison wonders if her mental state influenced her labor progression and contributed to the shoulder dystocia of her 9 lb. 13 oz. baby. Despite this difficult birth, she later went on to have a smooth home birth with her third child, who weighed almost exactly the same as her second. Tune in to hear Allison’s honest and introspective journey as she wrestles with the question: Did my PTSD cause a shoulder dystocia? ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the first Q&A episode of Season 6 with Cynthia & Trisha! We’re kicking things off by discussing some lesser-known causes of cervical scar tissue that could impact labor progress. It’s a good reminder to consider how any procedure or reproductive intervention might affect future births. In this episode, we answer a new collection of listener questions, including one about a mom-to-be who wants a home birth but is feeling uneasy about having someone else in the house to watch her child during labor. Is a birth center a better option for her? We also talk about postpartum aches and pains—specifically knee, calf, and foot discomfort—and what supplements and activities might help during recovery. Plus, we dive into the rise of shoulder dystocia: why is it happening more often, and what can be done to prevent or address it? In our extended episode, available to Apple subscribers and on Patreon, we answer more questions, such as: How can you tell if you’re bleeding too much after delivering the placenta in water (with expert advice from Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International)? Do prenatal vitamins actually play a critical role? And when, if ever, does a low fetal heart rate in labor mean you need to cut the cord and separate mom and baby for resuscitation? We also wrap up with a quick-fire round of Quickies covering everything from laboring on your back and diaper rash to ultrasounds, precipitous labor, and the foods we, personally, could eat every single day. Tune in for all that and more! #200 | Physiologic Birth of the Placenta in Water, Optimal Cord Clamping and Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage with Barbara Harper ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

As an active member of the military, Alexandra was required to take various medical products. After experiencing multiple adverse reactions, she started  researching the benefits, safety and risks of each, leading her to create the platform, "Just the Inserts." Just the Inserts provides all the publicly available information on vaccines and other medical products to help parents make informed choices about what they will accept or decline for themselves and their children.  This episode is not about being "anti-vax" or "pro-vax", labels that we reject, and there is no implication about whether any vaccine or medical product is right for you or your child. It is about our right as citizens to true informed consent, knowing your available resources, learning to trust your own decisions, and becoming a steward of health for yourself and your family rather than outsourcing it to a medical provider or the government.  Additionally, Alexandra answers questions from our audience such as: What is a black box warning, and do they apply to children?What is shedding, and should you be concerned about it?How did the current vaccine schedule come to be?What resources are available for parents to become educated?Why are medical professionals so poorly informed about the downsides of vaccines?How can you have a productive conversation with friends and family about  choices, accepting or declining medical products?As a reminder, this episode does not provide medical advice or recommendations on what products are right for you and your family. These choices require every individual to look deeply into their health, environment, and medical history.As a reminder, this channel does not provide medical advice or recommendations on what products are right for you and your family. These choices require every individual to look deeply into their health, environment, and medical history. Links to our recommended resources: Just the Inserts National Vaccine Information Center Well Considered: A Handbook for Making Medical Decisions FDA: Vaccines Licensed For Use in the USA Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In her early 20s, Kelsey of Soul Shine Birth went to her OBGYN for a routine Pap smear. Her results came back with HPV and abnormal cells. Having been led to believe she had impending cervical cancer, she did exactly what her OB advised: Get a LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure) as soon as possible to remove any potentially harmful cells. For the next 6-9 months sex was painful and she regularly bled with intercourse.   As it turned out, her abnormal cells were not cancerous and her HPV (human papillomavirus) spontaneously resolved, as it typically does in young women. Statistics show that 90% of HPV cases spontaneously resolve without intervention within two years.  Today, Kelsey shares the story of her exhaustingly long labor, the remedies her midwife recommended to help cervical scar tissue dissolve, and how her mental preparations and birth altar supported her in achieving a vaginal birth despite 10 hours at nearly full dilation.   This episode sheds light on the unnecessary and seemingly harmless interventions that young women are offered with their routine Pap smear that can have lasting and detrimental effects on the birth experience. Watch the full video of today's episode on YouTube If you enjoyed this episode, you can learn more by listening to episode #251 with Nathan Riley, MD. #251 | HPV and Your Abnormal Pap May Not Be What You Think: Cervical Cancer Prevention with Nathan Riley Soul Shine Birth on Instagram Soul Shine Birth Website ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Is childbirth truly one of the most painful experiences—even, as one person claims, comparable to being burned alive? In this episode, we bust this widespread myth after first diving into Elon Musk’s provocative claim that C-sections might lead to larger brains over generations. The debate about pain-free birth has been raging on social media, with strong opinions on both sides. We discuss the unintended effects of setting women’s expectations about whether their births will—or won’t—be painful.  Also, Cynthia shares insights from her work with HypnoBirthing clients, given that HypnoBirthing is commonly misunderstood as being a method that promises to eliminate childbirth pain. If it doesn’t make that promise, what is HypnoBirthing’s actual stance on pain? Moreover, how does Cynthia suggest educators guide women in their preparation? We also feature listener comments, delve into the power of language to shape our perceptions of birth, and pose the ultimate question: Is childbirth inherently painful? Let us know your thoughts. Watch on YouTube ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this special New Year's Day episode, we’re giving you an exclusive peek into one of our private Patreon Q&A gatherings. Originally recorded in October, this off-the-record session features 18 thoughtful questions from our Patreon community, covering a wide range of topics related to birth, breastfeeding, pregnancy, and postpartum. We've only removed a few of the highly personal questions from our participants and the voices of any women who spoke directly to us on screen during the event. If you’ve been curious about joining our Patreon community, this episode gives you a glimpse of one of the benefits you can enjoy. Our private Q&As are a chance to connect, get your specific questions answered, and dive deeper into the topics that matter most to you. Plus, we always make a commitment to answering all the questions of our live attendees -- so you can be certain your questions will always be answered on the spot when you attend live, and if you cannot attend live, you can always submit your questions beforehand and watch the video replay in your Patreon feed. Make 2025 the year you invest in your birth and parenting journey—signing up is easy, and the support is invaluable! Go to our Patreon page here to join at Patreon.com/downtobirthshow. We wish you all a healthy, happy and fulfilling 2025 and we'll see you next week! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

For this December Q&A, we kick it off, with a follow-up conversation based on one listener's response to  episode #188 on RhoGAM. Next, we jump into our questions discussing the actual risks of going past 24 hours or ruptured membranes without contractions and how you can mitigate those risks. We break down why meconium becomes more concerning after 42 weeks gestation and what those actual risks are. One mother who has the flu in the third trimester wonders if this is harmful to her baby and what she should do about it; another mom is curious if it is more helpful or hurtful to use assistance to birth her placenta and questions if a hep-lock or IV port is really necessary in labor. Furthermore, is vitamin D supplementation truly necessary for breastfed babies? Also, we discuss how to accurately calculate your due date based on your specific menstrual cycle, not the average cycle. We discuss delayed cord clamping and where to clamp the cord, two-vessel cords and the implications for induction and the safety of home-birth with midwives who have restricted access to emergency medications. Additionally, we have a great quickies segment on pregnancy headaches, aging placentas, newborn rashes, breast changes in pregnancy, cold-plunging postpartum, water birth and infections and whether or not sleep training babies is really needed. Remember you can hang with us twice a month during our interactive and educational livestream for our Patreon community members! Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. 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% Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMN Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Catherine Watson Genna is a renowned International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in private practice in New York City and author of Supporting Sucking Skills in Breastfeeding Infants. She specializes in teaching professionals around the world how treat to babies with anatomical, genetic and/or neurological issues. Today, she joins us to discuss the controversial topic of tongue tie. The research indicates 5-10% of babies suffer from feeding difficulties that require a surgical procedure known as a frenotomy, however far more than 10% are being diagnosed with tie-tongue and are treated for it. That means a majority of babies with tight frenulum may simply need latch support or muscular-skeletal work to improve their feeding function.  Other topics we cover today include: How to know if it's really tongue-tieTorticolllisHigh or arched palatesUpper lip ties ...and, most important, we offer advice on how to get the best latch with your baby.  Cathy Watson Genna ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, we have Barbara Harper on the podcast with us. Barbara is a midwife, author, and the founder of WaterBirth International, which she founded exactly 40 years ago. She is a world-expert in birthing and to this day travels the globe educating obstetricians, nurses and midwives on physiologic birth. Few mothers are given the opportunity to birth their placentas in the water, but is it really necessary to move women post-birth into a bed to complete the third stage (placental birth) of labor?  In order to explain whether this is the right choice for any mother and baby, Barbara walks us through the most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage, how to prevent it, and the critical understanding of newborn transitional physiology: what she says is literally the most important moment in any human being's life. Is fundal massage necessary? When is the optimal time to cut the cord? What is the case for keeping the cord attached until the placenta is fully birthed? Is manual extraction of the placenta ever justified? These are some of the questions we answer in today's episode with Barbara. Barbara Harper Waterbirth International #100 | The Benefits of Water Birth: Interview With Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International #122 | Provider Green Lights: Interview with Barbara Harper on Holistic, Respectful & Supportive Birth Providers ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

For this November Q&A, please enjoy the full, extended version of one of our top Q&As from season 3, where we discuss:  Weight loss after having a baby--can you lose too much too fast? What tests should be done if you've had multiple miscarriages? Can you give us the scoop on Evening Primrose oil for getting labor started--is it helpful or hurtful, and what does the research show? How do I handle my mother-in-law who keeps giving me keepsakes for the baby that I don't want? Is there a way to safely bed-share with your baby without investing in extra contraptions? What is the best way to create a stash of breastmilk without causing oversupply? And one of everybody's favorite topics: pushing in labor--when should you and when should you not? Also: Trisha gives one woman the lowdown on all the types of "pain relief" options in labor. Another moms is experiencing some unusual physical symptoms at six-months postpartum and wonders if it means her period is returning. We discuss "failure to descend" versus failure to progress because one listener had a c-section and had never heard of that diagnosis before. We discuss a pregnant woman's high blood pressure questions as she's preparing for her home birth, and Trisha responds to a question about newborn feeding schedules as far as whether there's a time and place for using an alarm. We also discuss short cords, and resources for evidence-based info on induction versus waiting.  ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Lisa Hendrickson-Jack is the author of The Fith Vital Sign, a book detailing normal and abnormal parameters around menstruation and fertility and what your menstrual cycle reveals about your health. She refers to her period as "her secretary", who once per month brings her all the unfinished business in her life and plops it down on her desk to deal with. Most of us think of PMS as an annoying, unavoidable side effect of our monthly flow. Lisa challenges us to see it as a dutiful assistant encouraging us to face the pesky tasks, emotions, people, relationships, jobs, etc. that we tend to brush off or continually avoid during our less open, vulnerable weeks of the month. Additionally, we discuss the abnormal societal normalization of period pain, what your cervical position can tell you about where you are in your cycle, and how your period flow volume can clue you in to your fertility health. Finally, Lisa responds to your most pressing questions on whether or not you need to tailor your exercise routine to your cycle stages and what it might mean if your postpartum period is mysteriously absent. You can learn more about Lisa on Instagram or her website Fertility Friday ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

At twenty-one years old, Lacey was pregnant with her first child. She was young and healthy and expected everything to go perfectly in her labor and birth. As a result of high blood pressure, she was induced for labor. When her son was born blue and unresponsive with an APGAR score of one, she knew something was off. She held her son for only a minute before he was whisked off to the NICU. Noticing that his ears seemed disproportionally small, her maternal instincts were alert. Five days later, she learned her son had Down Syndrome when a nurse inadvertently said, “This is the second baby with Down Syndrome this week,” upon entering the room. According to Lacey, how and when the news was reported to her and her husband was more difficult and painful than receiving the diagnosis itself. Today, Lacey shares her mission to help parents understand the gift and beauty of raising a child with Down Syndrome. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

You may remember midwife Lindsey Meehleis from episode #187 in our first off-the-record-style conversation. When we decide to interview Lindsay, we do so without a plan, knowing that whatever is on our minds will be a worthwhile and impactful conversation. In today's conversation, we chat about the problems with modern medicine, how midwifery has evolved over the years, what breech babies can teach us about our emotions, how Lindsey handles pregnancies that go beyond forty-two weeks, how to get your partner or family members on board with choosing home birth the first time, and we even dabbled a bit in the current political climate. Imagine you are sitting at the table next to us at a cafe, eavesdropping on our shop talk, and that's today's episode. Enjoy! Lindsey Meehleis #187 | Carrying the Torch of the Midwives Before Us: An Off-The-Record Kind of Conversation with Home Birth Midwife Lindsey Meehleis The Business of Being Born Why Not at Home ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the October Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha. What's the most absurd thing that you've ever heard said to a woman in labor or to you? Today, we kick it off by sharing your anecdotes and our responses.  In our regular episode, we answer: If I am planning a free birth how do I know if I have a placenta previa and what should I do?   I am twelve weeks pregnant and have extremely sensitive nipples while breastfeeding my toddler. Will this get better or should I stop breastfeeding? How often do home births transfer to the hospital? Why do so many women planning unmedicated hospital births end up choosing to get pain medications? In the extended version available on Patreon and Apple Subscriptions (always ad-free) we address the risk of uterine rupture after a VBAC for a planned home birth, what, if anything, can be done to avoid induction if you have Cholestasis of pregnancy, what gentle sleep training (or support) means, and if you can decline induction with well-controlled gestational diabetes. In our Quickies segment: Is body odor postpartum is it normal? Why is a VBAC called a TOLAC? Should home birth midwives always carry oxygen? Plus caffeine in pregnancy, postpartum dryness, birthing the placenta in the tub, leaking and letdowns, infant percentiles, and how we take our coffee plus whether our own children appreciate the work we do in the world. Ep #229 The Risk of Risk-Based Approach with Sara Wickham ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Postpartum rage is a form of emotional upheaval that many mothers experience but seldom feel comfortable discussing. Today's episode aims to break the silence and offer a compassionate and supportive look into the real lives of two mothers living with these intense emotions. Corrine lost her own mother the day after her son was born. Angela, a mother of five with number six on the way, lost her sister unexpectedly in a car accident on her way to help Angela with childcare. In today's episode, Angela and Corrine, who never met before today, share the unexpected ways grief and rage impacted their postpartum experiences from never wanting to have another child to throwing and breaking things. This heartfelt episode brings you close into the minds of women suffering with grief on top of the classic postpartum isolation and overwhelm that all mothers can immediately understand. ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

If there is one best place to begin when it comes to optimizing our fertility, it is with food, and who better to bring us the lowdown on what we do and don't need for fertility optimization than Lily Nichols, RDN, the modern-day-author and guru of all things related to food and pregnancy. In today's episode, she delivers crucial information about how our modern food practices, particularly the standard American diet, set us up for sub-optimal fertility and contribute to the most common complications of pregnancy including pre-eclampsia, pre-term labor, PPROM, and more. She opens our eyes to the significant problems with folic acid in our food sources, prenatal vitamins, and birth control, and we get into the nitty-gritty on the difference between folic acid and folate. Additionally, she explains which macro- and micronutrients we need to best support the female body for conception. If optimizing fertility is on your mind, this is a must-listen, must-share episode! Lily Nichols on Folate:  Why it’s Superior to Folic Acid for Pregnancy (even if you don’t have MTHFR) Lily Nichols on Instagram And check out our episodes with Lily Nichols: #203 | Pre-eclampsia: Diet, Nutrition and the Influence of Sperm with Lily Nichols #155 | Gestational Diabetes Prevention and Management with Author Lily Nichols, RDN, CDE ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Connect with us on Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emotional trauma is stored in the body and can lead to a host of health issues if left unresolved. In this episode, Courtney shares her deeply personal journey of navigating the effects of a controlling and emotionally abusive her mother -- so controlling, in fact, that her demanding mother caused early marital issues for Courtney and her husband. Further, due to being placed on hormonal birth control at a young age, Courtney developed a belief that she couldn’t ovulate or conceive naturally, leading her to IVF when she and her husband were ready to start a family. As she recounts her experiences—including distressing moments during her hospital care that triggered her childhood coping mechanisms of freezing and disassociation—Courtney describes the thought process of being coerced by and ultimately succumbing to a doctor while in labor. Courtney herself is a hospital-based medical professional who was accustomed to doctors and hospitals in her everyday life, so the betrayal and intimidation she experienced came as a genuine shock to her system. After her first birth experience, Courtney shares the heavy emotional work she did to reframe her trauma and establish strict boundaries - for the very first time - with her mother. Courtney went on to have four children in all, ultimately experiencing spontaneous conception and a completely empowered, peaceful birth with her fourth at home. Courtney's story sheds light on the complex interplay of early trauma and birth, and how embracing physiologic birth can facilitate healing and restore trust in the body’s innate capabilities. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion about resilience, healing, and the journey to reclaiming one's body and mind. @_holisticourtney ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

There are few things a mother can do with such a profound impact as meditation, yet it remains one of the hardest habits to incorporate into one's life, let alone the life of an exhausted, busy mother with a new baby in her arms.  In today's episode, Kelly Smith, yoga/meditation instructor and podcast host of Mindful in Minutes, explains the benefits of meditating for as little as just ten minutes a day. We also discuss the various forms of meditation (including guided), the most common barriers to meditation, and the practical tips to get started right now. In today's outtake, you'll hear about some of our own personal meditation experiences. If you want to yell less, sleep better, be kinder to yourself, feel better, act calmer, lower your blood pressure, and age in reverse, or if you've just always wanted to meditate but have never taken that first step, then run, don't walk, to listen to this enlightening and inspiring episode! Mindful in Minutes podcast Kelly Smith's Website ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the September Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha. Today, we begin with discussing the problem of increased reliance on Google searches and googling our way to answers that require deep introspection and self-trust rather than an automated and potentially biased and generalized result. In our first question, Cynthia & Trisha debate one woman's question on whether or not she should stay with a midwife she does not feel emotionally connected to or fire her late in the game and choose free birth instead.  Additionally, we answer the following: My midwife is making me feel very uncomfortable about my weight gain. How much focus should be put on weight and nutrition in pregnancy? My home birth midwife told me her home-to-hospital transfer rate is 30%. Is that too high, and if so, what should I do about it?What happens if I don't show up for my induction, and should I do this if I don't want to be induced?Later, in the extended version of today's episode available on Patreon or Apple subscriptions, we discuss:  Two-step delivery: what it is and why we don't like it; Pushing your baby out when you have no urge to push; Rupturing of membranes and the potential impact on causing a baby to rotate from an anterior to posterior position; What it means to have a platypelloid pelvis and if any pelvic shapes make vaginal birth impossible or more difficult? Finally, we close with a round of quickies on the following: nipple shields; eating placentas and likening it to cannibalism; height and big babies; holding clingy babies; flying at 35 weeks; resenting sleeping husbands; prolapse after birth; making a twin pregnancy happen; morning sickness; timelines for breastfeeding babies getting back to birth weight; and personal experiences with terrible haircuts.  #87 | Postpartum Rage: The Outburst-Guilt-Shame Cycle #272 | Nancy Wainer, CPM and Pioneer of the VBAC, Shares Her Journey from Mother to Midwife #273 | Special Q&A Featuring Nancy Wainer on VBAC and More Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to our second 'Breastfeeding Q&A' episode with Trisha & Cynthia. We open with an inspiring success story of a mother whose baby did not start breastfeeding for the first time until around five months of age. Additionally, we answer the following questions: I tried everything to increase my supply and stumped every lactation consultant I met with; is this going to happen to me again and what could have been the cause of my low milk supply?I have low milk supply and recurrent plugged ducts. My lactation consultant told me to pump after feeding but won't that increase my plugged ducts? How do I increase my supply and prevent plugged ducts?From a nurse: In my hospital, we teach moms that babies are sleepy in the first 24 hours and won't eat very much, but also we tell them to wake the baby every 2-3 hours to feed them so they don't get low blood sugar. Help! I feel like I am confusing mothers. Lastly, we answer quickies including: what are the best breastfeeding snacks, are nipple shields harmful, does milk supply drop in pregnancy, how do I increase milk supply on one side, how to prevent thrush, what's the best breast pump, and more! Listen here to the May 2024 Breastfeeding Q&A Jaundice & Breastfeeding: When grouped by number of breastfeeds in the first 24 hours, exaggerated jaundice on day six occurred in: 28% who breastfed 0-2 times 24.5% of babies who breastfed 3-4 times 15% of babies who breastfed 5-6 times 12% of babies who breastfed 7-8 times 0% of the babies who breastfed 9-11 times (Yamauchi and Yamanouchi, 1990) Thanks to everyone who called in! Please call 802-GET-DOWN (that's 802-438-3696). See you next week! ********** Our sponsors: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

"Hi I’m Olivia. I was a patient of Dr. Javaid Perwaiz, so, I don’t trust you." Each time Olivia met with a new medical provider, she prefaced her introduction with the above statement. Olivia was a patient of Dr. Perwaiz for many years before he was  sentenced to 59 years in prison after a jury convicted him on 52 counts of health care fraud arising from performing medically unnecessary procedures including irreversible hysterectomies. Eventually, Olivia found a team of providers who she trusted to have a baby under their care. Despite developing severe pre-eclampsia, resulting in a 35-hour induction and relinquishing her natural birth plans, Olivia had a safe and satisfying birth experience because she had learned to take the most important advice: Hear everyone and listen to yourself. This self-trust allowed her to control what she still could and surrender to the rest. This powerful story is the perfect example of finding the balance between bodily autonomy, informed consent, and medically necessary care.   To learn more about the case against Dr. Javaid Perwaiz read here ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Taylor Westenberger celebrated her baby shower at 33 weeks pregnant with her first baby. Little did she know, two days later she would go into labor and give birth to a 4.5 pound baby boy. Her birth experience, while generally smooth, involved the absence of her husband due to Covid protocols and an unconsented episiotomy. She was encouraged to breastfeed in the NICU, but when it came to taking her baby home she was warned about the dangers of co-sleeping and told horror stories of babies who had died in their mothers' beds. Determined to provide the safest environment for her little one, Taylor embarked on a mission to learn about safe co-sleeping practices. If you've ever wondered about co-sleeping safely with a newborn, this episode offers valuable insights and reassurance. Tune in for Taylor’s inspiring story and expert advice on creating a secure and loving sleep environment for your baby. Taylor's Website: The Sleepy Circle Taylor Westenberger on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the August Q&A episode with Cynthia and Trisha. Today, we start by discussing various experiences in which mothers feel a visceral response to a family member, friend, or provider crossing a boundary with their baby--think kissing your baby without permission. In our first question of the episode, we invite Carly Hartwig from @cleanlivingwithcarly, to explain how to understand our fertile window and ovulation through assessing your cervical mucus. Next, Cynthia provides some financial guidance in response to one mother's concern about transitioning to a SAHM and not having her own financial independence or source of income. Additionally, we discuss the risks, or lack thereof, with marginal cord insertions, uterine windows, concerns about fundal massage, the bogus term anorexic pelvis, contact naps, GBS in urine, postpartum hemorrhage, lack of libido and more!  If you are not already a subscriber on Apple podcasts or Patreon, please join us today for the extended version of today's episode. Thank you for your wonderful questions as always, and please keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN. #92 | Postpartum Mini: Rethinking Self-Care#60 | Love + Marriage + Baby: Interview with Maggie O'Connor, LMFT ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with our unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

If you've ever felt that your husband is falling short or if you are a dad looking to be more available to your wife, this episode is for you. Today, we chat with Dan Doty, the co-founder of Fatherhood Ready and a passionate advocate for expectant dads. As a father of three, Dan brings his unique perspective on building a men's organization focused on emotional growth, exploration, and connection. His journey from wilderness guide to fatherhood expert was shaped by his transformative experiences working with adolescent boys and their fathers. Witnessing the profound emotional breakthroughs that happen when fathers and sons connect deeply inspired Dan to support expecting dads. We delve into the challenges new fathers face, from societal expectations to the lack of role models, and Dan offers practical advice on bridging the gap between intention and action. Additionally, we tackle the issue of the "motherload" and its impact on parental and marital stress. We share personal and professional anecdotes, exploring why many women feel their partners "just don't get it" regarding the immense responsibilities and emotional burdens they carry daily. Dan’s honest and heartfelt discussion provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the complexities of parenthood or seeking to understand family dynamics better. Join us for this engaging conversation and discover how expecting dads can make a meaningful impact from day one, contributing fully to their family's well-being and their own growth as fathers. Fatherhood Ready ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Were you billed erroneously for your birth, or charged for something frivolous like "skin to skin contact" or "out of hospital birth"? Did you receive an exorbitant hospital bill for services you may not have asked for or even incurred? Are you worried that your hospital bills are going to go unpaid? Did you want to leave Against Medical Advice (AMA) but were told your insurance would not pay for your services? In today's episode, we invite Sue Chamberlain, a medical billing professional with over twenty years of experience in the industry to explain how medical billing in the United States Health Care system works, the ways you can fight or contest charges you don't believe are valid, and how hospital and insurance companies finagle the system to benefit their bottom line over patient well-being.  Thank you for your wonderful questions as always, and please keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is not morning sickness, but rather a potentially life-threatening complication of pregnancy that may cause weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, disability due to severe nausea and/or vomiting and can cause long-term health issues for mother and baby, including death. Today, we are joined by Kimber W. MacGibbon, executive director of the HER foundation, and Ashton Paige Clark, a wife and mother who experienced HG in five pregnancies. Together, they share Ashton's story of struggling through HG and the desperate decision she was forced to make to ensure her survival.  Ashton and Kimber help us understand the true severity of HG, the lack of provider understanding, and the potentially life-saving treatments that are available but often withheld from mothers experiencing HG in their pregnancies. If you are anyone you know is struggling with HG, this episode could be life-saving. If your care provider is not aware of the dangers of HG or is neglecting to consider it as a diagnosis, please share this episode.  The HER Foundation If you enjoyed this episode, you may also like: #211 | Declining RhoGAM: A Conversation with Two Rh-Negative Women ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome back to the July Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha. Today we kick off the episode with one mother's story of her transition from OB to midwife to an unintentional free birth her 9 pound, 4 oz baby born at home in her bathroom and then the premium medical bill she received from her OB for "extra counseling time." Next, we jump into our questions starting with: Do twin moms need extra medical help to get their labor going because the mother's uterus is more stretched out?What is your opinion on faith-based midwives and how their beliefs may influence how they care for you?Do you have any tips for managing the postpartum period with a toddler?What do you recommend regarding the TDAP vaccine in pregnancy?Does having a hemorrhoid that bleeds pose any risk to giving birth at home?And in the extended version of today's episode available on Patreon and Apple subscriptions, you'll hear the following: Should I be worried about gaining 55 pounds "already" in my pregnancy?What is your opinion on low progesterone and what do you recommend for supplementing? (You'll hear which product is no longer FDA-approved, after years of use.)Is it normal to leak colostrum in pregnancy and does it indicate anything about my milk supply?As always, we close with a round of quickies touching on Botox in pregnancy, breastfeeding acne, NSTs, breastfeeding and tooth decay, breast pumps, compressions stockings, toddler immune systems, fashion trends, and foods we won't touch. Thank you for your wonderful questions as always, and please keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Joel Gator Warsh is a classically trained integrative pediatrician with a holistic health practice in California. His approach to care puts parents at the center of the decision-making process. In today's episode, we discuss the key questions parents should ask when interviewing a pediatrician (and yes, you should interview numerous pediatricians before choosing the best fit for your family), including:  How to talk about the vaccine schedule; The benefits and risks of Vitamin K; Does where you give birth affect how your pediatrician views you, and, if applicable, will they support your having a home birth;What are the most common reasons a pediatrician would release a family from their care; How important are growth curves; andAre there alternatives to antibiotics for an ear infection?  Dr. Joel delves into these questions and helps us understand the most effective relationship dynamics between a family and their pediatrician for a child-centered, holistic healthcare experience. Keep an eye out for Joel's new book: Parenting at Your Child's Pace: The Integrative Pediatrician's Guide to the First Three Years. Episode #169: Protecting Today's Children with Integrative Pediatrician Dr. Joel Gator Warsh Dr. Joel Gator Warsh Dr. Joel's Website ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

The importance of healthy oral function is essential not only for infant feeding but also for a person's entire life. Poorly shaped palates, low resting tongue posture, restricted tongues, and mouth breathing are all common signs of oral restrictions or tension that can begin in the womb and influence one's health from infancy through adulthood. In today's episode, Jeannie Nelson, a speech and language pathologist from Breathe Eat Sleep Talk joins us to explain what myofunctional therapy is, how it can help, and the key red flags to look for in infancy or childhood to identify oral restriction. In this episode you will learn: Why mouth breathing can be harmfulWhat resting tongue posture is and why it mattersWhat to do if your baby sleeps with an open mouthHow tongue position influences your facial developmentSimple tips to help your baby improve and strengthen his or her oral functionThe purpose of today's episode is to inform parents on how oral health and the musculature of the tongue affects whole body health, and to address potential matters related to airway health early on in order to prevent issues later in life. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In last week's episode (#272) you met legendary midwife-author Nancy Wainer. Well she's back today for Part II, where she joins us in a Q&A-style episode to answer our listeners' questions. Nancy experienced the first planned VBAC in the United States and she coined the acronym itself in her first book, Silent Knife, published in 1983. She has over 40 years of birth experience and has supported women through some incredible births that almost certainly would have resulted in surgery in any other environment. Today, she takes questions from our community including: 1. What are the common characteristics of women who have had successful VBACS 2. Is it still safer and healthier to have a VBAC if it has been less than 18 months since your cesarean? 3. Is a classical cesarean incision truly a contraindication to VBAC 4. How much impact does the shape of a woman's pelvis have on her labor? 5. Is there ever an indication to break a woman's bag of water in labor? We are honored to have her wisdom and advice to share with our community and this won't be the last time you hear from her! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors.   Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

This episode has been a long time coming and is finally here! Meet Nancy Wainer, the legendary woman who began the Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) movement. Not only did Nancy coin the term VBAC, but she is the first on record in the United States to experience a planned VBAC. Nancy has been a midwife, fierce birth advocate, author, mentor, and teacher to thousands and thousands of women, mothers, and birth professionals over the last forty-plus years.  Today, we are honored to have her join us to share the story of her traumatic first birth and what led her to become the incredible midwife, author and birth educator she is today. This midwife has turned no woman away: mothers in her care are given the prenatal care and birth support they deserve when no one else will work with them. Nancy discusses who, if anyone, should be induced, what makes a good home birth candidate, why you shouldn't drink milk in pregnancy, and the importance of switching sides in your bed. If you are considering a VBAC or just want to hear what it means to truly trust women and their bodies, you will relish every word from Nancy Wainer and her story. Also: Stay tuned for Part II: a special Q&A episode with Nancy next week!   ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the June Q&A with Cynthia and Trisha! Today, we start the episode with all the romantic, hilarious, and random ways our community met their spouses, and we finish the episode with one woman's question to us: "If you were a dog, what kind would you be?" -- you'll hear us reach out to a friend on the spot to answer that question for us. In the regular version of this episode, we answer the following questions: Help! I am losing trust in my body after having experienced miscarriage. What do I do?My midwife told me I that my pelvic shape causes me to have back labor and a posterior baby. Is this true?How can I manage negative comments at work about pregnancy in general?Is artificial rupture of membranes a necessary part of induction for pre-eclampsia?In the extended version of today's episode, available on Patreon and Apple subscriptions, we answer the following: Should you limit time spent breastfeeding to ensure a baby doesn't burn too many calories feeding at the breast?Do I have to be monitored continuously in labor for high blood pressure?Does consuming the placenta or cord tissue after after birth prevent postpartum hemorrhage? My midwife told me this is a biohazard. Is this true?As always, we close with a round of rapid fire quickies! Thank you for your excellent questions and please continue to call them in to our hotline at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. B Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Can you imagine giving birth without ever "checking on" your baby? Without a test, an ultrasound, a need for reassurance from others that your baby is okay? And, what does it mean to cross the threshold from Maiden to Mother? How does a woman step into her wiser feminine self, relinquishing her controlled, organized, masculine energy and need for control in birth? What is required of a woman to feel so safe in her body that she can release hypervigilance and surrender fully to the power of her body? These are some of the untraditional questions we consider in this deeply provocative conversation with Lea, the woman behind Trusting Birth and the Wise Woman Diaries Podcast. This open and deeply personal episode invites us to look more closely at our lifelong struggle to trust ourselves, to embrace stillness, and to distinguish fear from intuition. Ultimately, this conversation dares us to take radical responsibility for the power of our feminine energy and all it can do for us.    Trusting Birth on Instagram #14: Roundtable: Mothers of Stillbirth and What They Can Teach Us ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Lizzie Kieffer is a doctorate of physical therapy with a specialty practice in women's pelvic floor health.  She joins us today to let us in on the little-known secret to protecting, relaxing, strengthening, and restoring your pelvic floor. She teaches us three simple techniques you can initiate immediately after birth to optimize pelvic floor recovery, how, when and why to do kegel exercises, what it means to have diastasis recti, and explains the differences in pelvic floor changes in a vaginal versus cesarean birth. Not only should every woman having a baby hear this episode, but also, every woman should make pelvic floor therapy a regular part of their life, even as they age into menopause and beyond. Dr. Lizzie on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Trillitye Paullin is a molecular biologist and founder of Free to Feed, a consultation service for navigating infant food reactivity in breastfeeding dyads. Today, Dr. Trill joins us with one of her clients, Chelsea, a first-time mom who found Trill and our podcast and reached out to help spread the research around newborn food reactivity. Trill shares her ground-breaking research into why and how a mother's diet causes allergic responses in babies in the form of bloody stools, skin rashes, vomiting, reflux and colic-like symptoms. With around 25% of parents reporting food allergy symptoms in their babies, these issues have been grossly underserved and misunderstood for decades. We cover:  The top 12 foods causing allergy symptoms;The timing of protein transfer, reactivity, and gut healing;How our gastrointestinal health impacts infant food allergies;How stress and cortisol impact the transfer of proteins into milk.Stanford University and Free to Feed have embarked on a transformative partnership to develop tools aimed at accurately identifying and managing pediatric food allergies. This collaboration, part of the "Improving Outcomes for Food-Allergic Children" project led by Dr. Trillitye Paullin and supported by Stanford’s Data Science for Social Good Program, seeks to enhance care quality while preventing unnecessary dietary restrictions for children. By integrating these tools into clinical practice and fostering enhanced awareness among providers, the initiative promises to improve health outcomes for children and provide significant insights into the complexities of food allergies, shaping future policies in pediatric healthcare. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- For before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello everyone! Cynthia and Trisha are back with the May Q&A episode. Today, we kick it off with an enlightening discussion on the worst parenting advice you have ever received--here's to all the things we never need to hear as mothers! Next, we hear one woman's beautiful take on her cesarean scar. Then, we dive into your awesome questions beginning with: What is the likelihood that if I had pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes in my first pregnancy that I will have it again, and what can be done about it?If I have a history of pre-term labor twice, should I take steroids preventatively at 30 weeks by my doctor's recommendation?I am pregnant with my fourth baby, planning a home birth, and I don't want any ultrasounds. Do you think this is ok and will my midwife approve?In the extended version of the episode, available on Apple subscriptions and Patreon,  we discuss the pros and cons of the midwifery lifestyle for one woman trying to decide if she should go the CNM or CPM route; when it is appropriate or necessary to take a urine sample in pregnancy; and why one mother may have been given intramuscular Pitocin instead of intravenous when she already had an IV in place. As always, we close with a round of quickies touching on how to keep breastfeeding while pregnant, getting induced for "mild" pre-eclampsia, what a high LH reading means, preventing mastitis when you have a plugged duct, our recommended prenatal vitamin, and our most embarrassing moments in public! Thank you as always for your wonderful questions! Please call in your question to 802-GET-DOWN or 802-438-3696. To get the extended version of today's episode (and all episodes 100% ad-free) just click the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts or download the Patreon App and join any tier. If you enjoyed this episode, please see our April Q&A episode: #262 | April Q&A: Prenatal Vitamins, Premature Rupture of Membranes, Painless Breech Birth, Precipitous Labor, HypnoBirthing, Prenatal Hypertension ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for wome Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Today's episode is a four-way conversation between us and a mother and daughter who are living in France. Nicola Thompson is a former L&D nurse of 30 years who worked in the U.S., and is now working in France as a traditional birth attendant, full-spectrum doula and IBCLC. Sasha Sharif, her daughter, is a mother of two with a third on the way. Sasha explains the impact her mother's life's work has had on her, and how that wisdom ultimately guided her away from birthing in the French maternity system. Instead, she (and her sister as well) have repeatedly  opted to give birth at home attended by their mother. In this episode, we dive into the birth culture in France including what it is like to be a midwife in France, the country's 87% epidural rate in hospitals, how the ARRIVE Trial has influenced birth across the Atlantic, and the fact that the French consider the "due date" to be at 41 weeks! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Tiffany and Kelly of Beautiful One Midwifery are a midwife team in California who both began their birth work as doulas.  As a result, they designed their practice from a hands-off, hands-out approach--meaning, the woman is the focal point of all decision-making making, and interventions are only utilized with her absolute permission and desire. Not only does this model require a woman to take radical responsibility for her birth, but it also gives her body and mind the space to give birth as undisturbed as possible while still being supported by a professional and skilled midwife.  Tiffany and Kelly rarely do vaginal exams in labor and essentially never break a woman's bag of water. They consider even speaking to a woman in labor as an intervention that can alter her birth energy.  In today's episode,  you will learn what hands-off midwifery means and how birth can be safely, effectively, and beautifully supported under this model of care.    Beautiful One Midwifery ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to our first breastfeeding-only Q&A with Trisha & Cynthia. Trisha is a Certified Nurse-Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant with thousands of hours of clinical experience. Today's episode follows the format of our regular monthly Q&A episodes, where women call in with questions and we wrap up with Quickies at the end, but this time it's your breastfeeding questions only. Today Trisha answers questions such as:  Can I introduce a pacifier to my exclusively breastfed baby at two and a half weeks?Is it a nursing strike or weaning: Help! My eleven-month-old is refusing my breast. What is the best way to manage pumping for my exclusively breastfed baby when I am away?How and when do I introduce a bottle to my exclusively breastfed baby so that I can leave him/her with a caregiver?What are your thoughts on using the medication Domperidone with a diagnosis of Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)?In our round of Quickies, we touch on leaking, supplements for increasing supply, prenatal hand expression of colostrum, alcohol and breastmilk, breast refusal, lip blisters, breast fullness and milk supply, and flat nipples. Please remember, that every mother and baby dyad is unique, and breastfeeding issues require an individualized care plan. Online appointments are available with Trisha by texting 734-649-6294. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Amanda Holden was planning a home birth with her first baby, having hired a midwife she loved. When she reached 42 weeks, her midwife terminated her care abruptly, due to Colorado state law prohibiting midwives from attending late-term home births. With a heavy heart but optimistic mindset, Amanda and her husband made the decision to birth in a hospital rather than have an unattended home birth. Using the education she had under her belt by that point, Amanda rallied herself into believing her hospital birth would go mostly according to her plan of a natural, undisturbed birth. Once in labor, she settled into her hospital bed with a pink satin eye mask over her eyes, having no idea what she was about to endure: being relentlessly badgered, labeled, patronized, and threatened throughout her labor. She declined continuous monitoring and vaginal exams and the doctors retaliated by overwhelming her with a roomful of strangers watching her laboring naked in the tub, while "reporting" her over the phone in her presence. The doctor even threatened that Amanda's baby would likely need to be airlifted on life support to another hospital as soon as she was born, and that Amanda wouldn't be able to go with her baby. Meanwhile, there was no legitimate reason to suspect the baby would need life support. At one point, the doctor even brought in a male security guard into Amanda's birth space, claiming she (the doctor) didn't feel "safe" around Amanda's husband, who simply advocated for Amanda through the birth. When it was finally time to give birth, Amanda was tricked into lying down and then forcefully put on her back against her will. She says she gave birth "feeling hated" by everyone in the room, and one nurse privately told Amanda's mother she had seen meth patients in labor treated with more respect than Amanda. When Amanda gave birth vaginally to her girl, she felt elated, and noticed every medical staff in the room stared at her and her baby with utterly joyless expressions, after all that Amanda had achieved. Amanda and her husband have been doing somatic healing to process their experience, but she is absolutely clear that the birth itself caused her no distress or discomfort. Despite all drama, Amanda's story is ultimately inspiring because of her and her husband's resolve not to succumb under truly extraordinary pressure. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the April Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha. Today, we invite you to guess the two things that Cynthia and Trisha will never talk about on the podcast. Hint: They are not scandalous or controversial. Shoot us a DM with your guesses! Next, hear the most annoying habits from our podcast community regarding their partners. As for our questions this month, here we go: I had a pain-free breech vaginal birth. Why do some women experience pain at birth and others don't?My second baby was born precipitously at home. Should I plan for my third to be the same and when should I call the midwife?Does learning hypnobirthing techniques lead to a more peaceful birth experience?I have white-coat hypertension. Will this risk me out of a birth center birth and do I need to take aspirin in pregnancy?What percentage of women whose water breaks before labor begins will start labor within an hour or two?Are prenatal vitamins really necessary and if so, which ones?In our extended version of today's episode, we answer questions regarding breaking your tailbone in labor, whether you should tell your neighbors if you are planning a home birth, whether it's expected or appropriate to plan on feeding your home-birth midwives, and if it is necessary to be catheterized in labor if you can't void while in labor. In our quickie segment, we discuss the necessity or not of ovulation tracking apps, male versus female sperm, the midwives' brew, and how loud the music is in our cars while driving. Thank you as always for your wonderful questions! Please call in your question to 802-GET-DOWN or 802-438-3696. To get the extended version of today's episode (and all episodes 100% ad-free) just click the subscribe button on Apple podcasts or download the Patreon App and join any tier. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emma Armstrong,  author of The Fearless Birth Book, and Instagram birth influencer at @thenakeddoulaofficial, joins us today to delve into the meaning of pleasurable birth. We ask the questions, "Why should a woman want a pleasurable birth, what does it even mean, and what holds women back from experiencing pleasure instead of pain?" In this enlightening and off-the-record-style conversation, we uncover the emotions holding us back from ecstatic, pleasurable, even orgasmic birth. Emma opens up about her unexpected cesarean birth and how a woman who teaches other women about vaginal birth can feel confident in doing so despite her never experiencing a vaginal birth herself. This is about healing, letting go and experiencing deep, ecstatic pleasure. The Naked Doula on Instagram The Fearless Birth Book ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Vitality: An athleisure brand made for women, by women, designed with style and comfort for pregnancy and beyond. Davin & Adley-- The perfect nursing and pumping bra combined. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all of the above sponsors. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and receive a free 8-day supply. Be sure to use the unique link to buy yours today. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

You won't find an obstetrician anywhere in the United States who will birth triplets vaginally in the hospital, but today you'll hear the story of traditional midwife Kristine Lauria who welcomed them at home with the respect and reverence for birth every woman deserves.  Kristine witnesses some of the most "high risk" births around the world in her midwifery work for Doctors Without Borders. She has attended over 500 breech, twin, and triplets births!  In this episode, you will hear the story of a mother in her 7th pregnancy birthing three babies at home as told by Kristine.  We discuss what it means to be a traditional midwife, what happens in a triplet homebirth, the dying art of midwifery skills, and how to manually extract a baby at home. You'll hear how the mother's own mother received the first baby and how this mother avoided preterm birth by leaving the hospital AMA after an episode of bleeding and went on to naturally birth her babies at 38 weeks with perfect APGAR scores! This story is a beautiful example of the true midwifery model of care, a fiercely dedicated mother, and a birth team who deeply trust the innate process of physiologic birth regardless of the number of babies or their positions.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When Carolyn was pregnant with her first baby, she went past her "due date." After declining an induction at 41+6, her doctor questioned her integrity as a mother, stating, "I am surprised your motherly instinct (to protect your baby) hasn't kicked in yet."  Knowing that she and her baby were ok, she continued to wait despite heavy pressure from her OB. When she passed the 42-week mark, feeling out of options and having been told she was going to have a ten-pound baby, Carolyn accepted an induction on her 31st birthday. Her baby was born vaginally, weighing seven pounds and five ounces.  Looking back at her conception date, her baby was more likely closer to just forty weeks.  Carolyn's entertaining story highlights the inexcusable emotional abuse of her OB while demonstrating Carolyn's remarkable trust and faith in her baby and her body. Follow Carolyn on Instagram @carolynnmarrone ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

We are back with the March Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha.  We kick off today's episode with an unbelievable, once-in-a-lifetime story of an OB who holds off a mother's pushing to tie a bow in the baby's hair before being born! Next, we get into our questions beginning with a mother who wants to offer important birth advice to her friend's daughter but doesn't know if it is her place or how to not overstep boundaries. Also, what questions to ask at a late third-trimester ultrasound to best avoid unnecessary interventions? Then, Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International answers the question of why it takes a baby longer to "come to" after a water birth. Another mother inquires about how much her energy and anxieties can influence her baby's arrival--is her stress causing her baby to be born "late?"  In the extended version of today's episode, available on Apple subscriptions or Patreon, we discuss whether or not a pregnancy is easier or harder based on which gender baby you are carrying, how to navigate boundaries with a mother-in-law who has been blatantly disrespectful but planning to help you postpartum. Finally, how do breast implants impact the ability to exclusively breastfeed?  We also have doula Colleen Myatt, a spinning babies instructor, answer a mother's question about posterior babies. As always, we close with a round of rapid-fire quickies covering tongue ties, evening primrose oil, delivery time for the placenta, setting boundaries, soothing crying babies, and more!  Thank you for your excellent questions and keep them coming at 802-GET-DOWN or 802-438-3696. For the extended version of today's episode please join our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple podcasts. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: David & Adley -- Nursing bras that are stylish and allow hands-free pumping Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, three current and former L&D nurses join us in a roundtable-style conversation to share their behind-the-scenes experiences on the L&D floor. These three women get raw, real, and honest about what pulled them to this line of work and for one, what forced her to leave. They share their experiences and that of the women they serve on how birthing mothers are manipulated, coerced, and betrayed by their providers and the system. You'll hear astonishing quotes such as "Well that's what she gets for refusing Pitocin yesterday," when a mother ends up with an unexpected cesarean birth, and you'll hear answers to our questions: Why did  you choose to become an L&D nurse? In your mind, who do you work for? Why do OBs get so upset when they "miss" the delivery?What do you think is driving unnecessary cesarean sections? What is the most outrageous thing you've heard a provider say to a woman?In the end, you'll gain insight into the culture of hospital-based birth and learn ways to best support your birth goals when having a baby at the hospital.  ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Like many mothers, Taylor Chamberlain Dilk had no idea where to begin in preparing for childbirth. Lucky for her she has a large social media presence and requested recommendations from her audience, and lucky for us, Down to Birth Show came highly recommended. Once she started digging in, she felt her inner maternal voice rising to the surface.  She knew she wanted an unmedicated birth, but had no idea what she was up against giving birth with an OB in the hospital. When she was offered a membrane sweep in her 41st week, she accepted, triggering uncomfortable contractions but not labor.  As an unsure first-time mom, she went to the hospital thinking her water had broken yet still awaited labor. It wasn't until she transformed her hospital room into a safe space that she could truly let go and allow her labor to flow. Join us as Taylor shares her invaluable insights, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making, cultivating a supportive environment, and harnessing the power of one's own thoughts to guide the miraculous journey of childbirth. Taylor on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Stu Fischbein for his third appearance on  Down to Birth Show. We start the conversation by catching up on some of the latest problems occurring on the birth scene including VBACs, aspirin in pregnancy, the monetization of birth, late pregnancy ultrasounds, big babies, and due dates, before we get into the meat of the episode on Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). Dr. Stu shares a letter from one of his followers regarding her IUGR diagnosis resulting in an induction at 37 weeks for a 4-pound 14-ounce baby,  which launches into a conversation around what IUGR is anyway and the actual risk of IUGR.  Would that baby have been better off staying in utero for a few more weeks? How can you know postpartum if the baby was in fact IUGR? There are so many nuggets of great information dropped throughout this episode. You don't miss this one! And for more with Dr. Stu, catch episodes #111 & #128. Dr. Stu Fischbein & Birthing Instincts Dr. Stu on Instagram #128 | Vaginal Breech Birth with Dr. Stu of Birthing Instincts: Why It's Safer Than you Think #111 | The Obstetric Model of Care vs. the Midwifery Model of Care: Interview with Dr. Stuart Fischbein, MD ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the February Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha. To kick things off, we share some of your New Year's Resolutions--don't miss this as Trisha makes Cynthia momentarily speechless! Next, we dive into your questions beginning with: Is cord traction really necessary to birth the placenta? Another woman explains that she always throws up in labor right when her water breaks and asks if this is normal. Also, a new mother is curious if giving her baby a pacifier will be harmful or helpful...and more.  In our extended version of today's episode, we answer several more questions about the breast microbiome and the occurrence of plugged ducts, uterine prolapse and how it may impact a future pregnancy, how to care for the ntact) penis, non-stress tests, bicornuate uteri (you read that right) and what constitutes a postpartum hemorrhage. As always, we thank you for your questions an encourage you to call in at 802-GET-DOWN or 802-438-3696.  Our extended and ad-free episodes are available on Apple subscriptions and our Patreon page. Thank you for tuning-in. Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode, Cynthia and Trisha break down some of the current guidelines published by ACOG (the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists). You'll see many of these guidelines favor physiological birth and stand for minimal medical intervention in exactly the ways we recommend, which makes it  all the more perplexing why so many of today's obstetricians don't follow along. By understanding ACOG's position on common concerns in pregnancy and birth, you can feel more empowered to advocate for what you know is best for you and your baby.  Did you know that ACOG clearly and strongly states that the use of medical coercion is harmful and should never be practiced or that delivery of a baby is not warranted for suspected fetal macrosomia (big baby)? Or that ACOG knows that routine amniotomy (breaking the bag of water) is not necessary and suggests its use does not improve outcomes? Furthermore, ACOG states that ultrasound performed in late pregnancy is associated with an increase in cesarean section, with no evidence of neonatal benefit (yet how many OBs recommend third-trimester ultrasound)? Tune in to hear what this revered medical authority has to say, and stand tall in defense of your physiological birth plan. You'll see ACOG is on your side more than you might have believed, particularly in light of how today's American obstetricians tend to practice. ACOG Statement on Refusal of Medically Recommended Care in Pregnancy Approaches to Limit Intervention During Labor & Birth ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sampl Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

IUGR or Intrauterine Growth Restriction is the latest trend on the obstetric scene--a diagnosis that has afflicted many mothers unnecessarily. Eric, a father of two daughters,  joins us on the show today to discuss his experience with his wife's IUGR experience.  When an early ultrasound told them their baby was measuring smaller than expected, they were sent to maternal-fetal medicine and their baby was labeled as growth-restricted. As their dreams of a birth center birth quickly vanished, they started having regular ultrasounds and non-stress tests to monitor their baby. While Eric's intuition told him everything was ok with their baby, he had to balance the forceful voice of the medical system and his wife's nerves and unease, given the pressure and fear-tactics she was relentlessly subjected to, while having to make constant trips to and from the doctor to continually check on the baby. At forty-two weeks they scheduled a hospital induction, birthing a perfectly non-growth-restricted baby who was estimated to be just forty weeks’ gestation, indicating the doctors incorrectly estimated the due date at the outset. This story illuminates the excessive fear and risk put upon parents and the common inaccuracies of IUGR diagnoses. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Have you ever wondered why we actually need to get a pap smear or why the testing guidelines frequently change? The presence of HPV or the Human Papilloma Virus is associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer and is the reason behind the pap smear.  A pap smear looks at the health of the cells in our cervix and the presence of HPV. When abnormal cells are found, it is usually recommended that we have those cells removed at the risk of the functionality of our cervix. In this eye-opening conversation with Nathan Riley, MD, we learn the statistics around actually developing cervical cancer even with an abnormal pap smear, the risks versus benefits of the Gardasil vaccine, and the long-term consequences of cervical procedures, particularly as it relates to a woman's birth experience. Nathan encourages us to think about the HPV virus as we would any virus that we come into contact with in our environment. It's not the virus that we should fear, but rather the response of our immune systems, which can be influenced by modifiable risk factors. If you are due for your pap or have an abnormal result, be sure to listen to this episode. Nathan Riley MD Beloved Holistics ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email [email protected] Instagram @downtobirthshow Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello and is it too late to still say Happy New Year?! Cynthia & Trisha are back with the first Q&A of 2024 in season five of the Down to Birth Show! We kick it off today by sharing some of your highs and lows from the holiday season. Next, we get into our questions beginning with a mother who had low milk supply with her first baby and wonders what she can do in pregnancy and birth to prevent it from happening again; one curious listener wants to know if she can check her own cervix to help determine at what point she should go to the hospital; another caller asks us to explain why due dates are based on your last menstrual period rather than your ovulation date--what happens to those two weeks? In our extended version, available on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, we first answer a question about normal, healthy sleep patterns for infants and the pressure mothers face to have the baby "sleep through the night." Then we answer if and when "cervical massage" is indicated for a cervix that might be scarred from a previous cervical procedure. Another mom is concerned that her midwives missed a case of early jaundice in her newborn and inquires if getting the RhoGAM shot in pregnancy could have prevented the jaundice. Finally, one mother explains her OB's behavior around her choice to have a VBAC and we chime in with our take on his audacity! Last, we close with a round of quickies addressing morning sickness, postpartum hemorrhage, GBS swabbing, IUGR and the strangest things we've ever eaten! Thank you for your great questions and keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Pitocin has been named the most over-used and abused drug in maternity care. It is increasingly used for elective induction despite the lack of FDA approval for this purpose. Rupture of the uterus is a known adverse reaction to this drug, and its use is contraindicated when there is fetal distress or overstimulation of the uterus. Few, if any, women are given full informed consent to the administration of this drug in labor. Katie Spinks is one of these women. Katie had a routine, elective induction at 39 weeks for the birth of her fourth child. Her uterus ruptured and her baby suffered a long period without oxygen. She was born with severe brain damage, unable to speak or walk, and has been given a very short life expectancy. In this episode, Katie shares the egregious care she received in labor, detailing the mistreatment by her nurse and the medical staff's refusal to listen to her pleas for help when she knew something was wrong. She also describes the overt manipulation of her medical records to remove any evidence of the use of Pitocin in her care. Katie shares with us the painstaking ways in which her life and that of her family were changed as a  result, but also the deep love and connection she shares with her disabled daughter, Jolene. Among Katie's life missions is for women to receive full informed consent when it comes to Pitocin. This episode sheds light on the rare, but real, harms of a drug that is causally and excessively given to women without medical indication or complete informed consent. Katie Spinks on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactati Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Cait Scudder, also known as the Millionaire Mother, is a successful entrepreneur and mother of two.  Currently in her third pregnancy, she joins us today to share her story of transformation from resistance to surrender in birth and in life. She describes her traumatic first birth resulting in a third-degree tear and bladder prolapse and the way she was robbed of her power through hospital policy, despite still achieving an unmedicated, vaginal birth. After going deep into somatic and physical healing modalities between her first and second pregnancies, she chose home birth, giving birth in the water to a ten-pound fifteen-ounce boy without tearing or trauma. It was this experience of birthing in her absolute inherent power that transformed her, and Cait is certain the experience is precisely what immediately propelled her business to the next level. The Millionaire Mother on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.   Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Lizzie Bolliger, aka Fierce Lizzie on Instagram, wasn't always fierce. She went into her first birth experience knowing very little other than that she wanted an unmedicated vaginal birth.  After experiencing premature rupture of membranes, her first birth resulted in Pitocin augmentation and then meconium aspiration, resulting in her baby being taken away from her for the first fifteen hours of life. The second time around, she figured she knew enough to avoid an epidural and Pitocin but still passed on reading, educating or preparing for birth, for the most part. While she achieved an unmedicated vaginal birth, she saw it didn't come without challenges, and she began to deeply question the modern birth industry. In what she calls her postpartum mental breakdown, one day she arrived at her school job and literally couldn't bring herself to enter the building. This "crash" became the turning point that opened Lizzie's eyes and ultimately led to her leaving her teaching job and going full-steam ahead into birth work as a doula and educator. Today, she shares the details of her journey from "good girl" to fierce, autonomous, and unapologetic Lizzie.  #146 | Finding Autonomy and Asserting Your Birth Plan with Fierce Lizzie Fierce Lizzie on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Susan Bratton is an intimacy expert and champion advocate for all who desire their most fulfilling and passionate intimate relationships. She joins us today to discuss how mothers can have a thriving sex life after having a baby and far beyond menopause. If you are someone who doesn't orgasm easily, or who feels guilty for not wanting more sex, or if you just want to learn more about what your body is capable of, this episode is for you! She details the anatomy of the yoni (the tantric word to describe the entire urogenital system--because its not just about the vagina or even the clitoris!) and gives us specific ways in which our partners can worship our female parts, giving us orgasms far beyond what we may believe is possible. We recommend grabbing your partner, maybe a glass of wine, and listening all-in for this juicy and inspiring episode that might just transform your sex life for the rest of your life. Bonus: Today's episode includes visuals, and is available in full video format to anyone who is a Tier I (or higher) member in our Patreon community. Join us now! Susan Bratton's Intimacy Coaching ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the December Q&A episode with Cynthia and Trisha! Today, we begin with revealing your holiday traditions and difficult family challenges of the season. Additionally, we share our long-standing holiday traditions. Next, we dive into your questions beginning with: What are the signs of postpartum hemorrhage?Is failure to progress dangerous and what can you do to prevent it?Is it safe to use breastmilk to treat pink eye in a baby?Considering the danger of RSV, should I ask family members not to kiss the baby and if so, what should I say? In the extended version of today's episode, we discuss whether or not vaginal birth is possible when a woman has osteoporosis; whether or not a mother who has a history of precipitous birth should plan to be induced to avoid giving birth en route to the hospital; and is intentionally rupturing the bag of water a good idea to prevent having a precipitous birth at home? As always, we close with a round of quickies on topics such as weight gain in pregnancy, cervical lips, prenatal vitamins, must-have baby items, and more! Thank you as always for your fabulous questions and keep them coming by calling into our hotline at 802-438-3696. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

As we gear up for our season finale next week, we've got a special treat for you today – a "holiday special" episode that's a departure from our usual format. In this extra-long, off-the-record conversation, which we recorded Friday night at Trisha's house, we're delving into the personal questions you've been curious about throughout 2023. That's right, we're steering clear of the usual birth-related questions, and don't worry, you'll get your full dose of those in next week's December Q&A. Join us today for an intimate chat, grab your favorite drink, and settle in for an inside look into our lives. A big shout-out to our guest-host, the delightful and witty Liz Eidelman, known from @lizeidelman on Instagram, who not only gathered and organized these questions but also did her best to keep us on track. Ever wondered what it's like when we let our hair down? Now's your chance to find out! As a special end-of-year gift, we're offering this extended episode to everyone ad-free. If you enjoy it, consider supporting our podcast for as little as $2.50/month on Apple or by joining us on Patreon for 100% ad-free episodes every week. We wish a very Merry Christmas and happy holiday season to you and yours, and we'll see you Dec 27 for our final episode of season four! Explore exclusive content and support our podcast at: Down to Birth Show on Patreon. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Join us for our long-awaited episode with Ashley Mayer, affectionately known as Dr. Green Mom, a highly respected family and pediatric doctor specializing in individualized and holistic medicine. In this insightful conversation, Dr. Mayer not only answers your burning pediatric healthcare questions but also provides a unique blend of personal insights and professional opinions on some of the most commonly debated topics in pediatrics. Dr. Ashley Mayer addresses crucial concerns such as developing a protocol for fevers in babies under six months of age and discovering the best strategies for managing a fever in young infants. Dive into the realm of infant nutrition as we discuss the use of probiotics for babies and under what circumstances they are recommended. Get her take on infant bowel movements as she shares her perspective on whether it's normal for a breastfed baby to poop only once a week. We also delve into essential topics like the necessity of vitamin D drops for babies, the contentious issue of circumcision, and the supplement needs for children with the MTHFR variation. Find out whether, and when, she thinks infants require iron and vitamin D supplementation. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the expertise of "Dr. Green Mom" and gain a deeper understanding of the nuanced world of family and pediatric medicine. This episode could make some tough decisions easier for you and transform the way you approach your child's health. Dr. Green Mom ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this link today and receive a free sample kit. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Doulas are an increasingly important, if not essential, member of a birth support team.  However, along with their increased importance, doulas are exposed to an ever-increasing level of risk and liability.   In this episode, we welcome back to the show maternal healthcare and human rights attorney Hermine Hayes-Klein, to discuss the legal rights and roles of doulas. She asks the question, what does support really look like, and can the doula actually assert the mother's right to informed consent or refusal? The answer is complex, in part because doulas don't answer to a Board and therefore enjoy a flexible job description, which is exclusively between her and her client. Hayes-Klein dispels myths surrounding doula advocacy, clarifying that doulas cannot make decisions for their clients, but can speak for the client with the mother's consent and understanding of all parties in the birth space.  Hayes-Klein discusses her latest project, The Birth Rights Law Project, focusing on legal security for out-of-hospital midwives and doulas. The Project provides assistance in creating and understanding documentation, offering a potential lifeline for doulas facing or seeking to avoid legal liability. If you are a doula or a pregnant mother considering doula support, this episode will shed light on how to best establish the client-doula relationship and help doulas to best understand how not only to protect themselves legally but also to define their personal job description between you and her in your birth space. #178| How Out-of-Hospital Birth Prejudice and Provider Bias Harms Mothers and Babies with Attorney Hermine Heyes-Klein  #153 | Legal Case Study #2 with Attorney Hermine Hayes-Klein: Injured by Obstetrics with Nowhere Else To Turn #138 | Legal Case Study #1 with Attorney Hermine Hayes-Klein: Traumatized at a Major Teaching Hospital While Interns Watched and Learned ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome back to our monthly Q&A with Cynthia & Trisha! This month, we kick things off with a short story from an L&D nurse attending a mother giving birth to her seventh baby who was coerced into an unnecessary cesarean and what we think about how it was handled. Next, we get into your questions starting with: How do I defend myself against friends and family who don't support my plans for a natural birth? Another mom asks what she can do to prevent her waters from breaking before labor begins, followed by a woman who expresses her frustration with her OB for insisting that she do a vaginal exam in late pregnancy to determine the baby's head position. Is this necessary or useful? We answer quickies on blackout curtains for baby naps, let-downs while breastfeeding, blood pressure checks in labor, handling natural birth nay-sayers, and more. The personal question of the month had to do with what each of us enjoys as an "old person" habit or hobby. In the extended version of today's episode, available on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, you get additional questions on Hashimoto's disease in pregnancy, accidental urine leaking in pregnancy, iron absorption and diary, and drawing the line on what should and should not be considered routine in prenatal care.  Then, as always, we wrap up with quickies and the personal-question of the month! Join us today on Apple subscriptions or Patreon for ad-free and extended episodes. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Elizabeth Parsons of Purely Parsons is a mother of five, living on seventy acres in Appalachia, homesteading with her husband and children. For her fourth pregnancy, she had a planned home birth with her seasoned midwife. Despite having regular prenatal care and even an ultrasound the day before she went into labor, Elizabeth had an unexpected twin double breech birth at forty weeks! After the first baby was born, six minutes later, she felt the urge to push again and it seemed unusually intense for the placenta they all expected to emerge. Out came another baby -- born bottom first! In fact, both babies were breech, but nothing was so remarkable as an unexpected twin that evaded all prenatal care. Tune in for this inspiring, fun birth story affirming that twin, breech vaginal birth is a viable option, even at home.  Purely Parsons on Instagram Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

A 2023 article from Yale News flashed across news outlets in the United States headlined: "Yale researchers find that breastfeeding can cost over $11,000 a year. " The article goes on to say, "While the 2022 baby formula shortage in the United States sparked calls for an increase in support for breastfeeding nationwide, a group of researchers at the Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine sought to demonstrate how breastfeeding can impose significant financial burdens on families as well." While there is no doubt breastfeeding is a major commitment and consumes a tremendous amount of time, there is also a significant cost of NOT breastfeeding, which failed to be discussed in the article. In today's episode, we invited university professor and lactation expert, Dr. Rhonda Trust, PhD, to discuss the true costs of formula feeding versus breastfeeding. She explains that the Yale article misled the public and failed to name the protective health benefits for both mom and baby over a lifetime when breastfeeding is optimally supported, such as lower infant mortality and decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer for mothers. Drawing from her prior experience as the Policy and Advocacy Chair for the Connecticut Breastfeeding Coalition, Rhonda also shares economic data from numerous research studies, demonstrating the direct cost savings are upwards of 14 billion dollars annually when 90% of babies are exclusively breastfed.  Breastmilk is a free food source for every baby and saves infants' lives. While breastfeeding may not always be the right choice for every mother, breastmilk is the best choice for every baby. It is the job of public health officials and medical schools to share accurate and complete information regarding breastfeeding. In this episode, we discuss critical research that was either purposefully or unintentionally omitted from this article. Yale News Article No Such Thing as a Free Lunch: The Direct Marginal Costs of Breastfeeding Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In this heartwarming episode, we met with the woman we believe is our oldest and wisest podcast fan and devout member of our Patreon community: Lee Roversi, a CSA farm owner in Hawaii, mother of three adult children, and grandmother. Lee begins by reflecting on her upbringing in Connecticut during the 1950s and how it shaped her perspective on motherhood. Her traditional family background contrasted with her later path toward holistic childbirth choices. Lee's story unfolds with anecdotes from her three home births, defying the norm of hospital deliveries at the time. Her first childbirth experience, in Manhattan with a midwife, was marked by a marathon 36-hour labor, yet it was a transformative experience that set her on a unique path. Lee spent most of her time with us sharing her thoughts on the changing landscape of childbirth practices over the decades. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inner strength within every birthing woman -- a lesson she learned firsthand. Lee's journey wasn't without its challenges, but her conviction in the power of intuition and her commitment to natural childbirth prevailed. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Lee discusses the significance of postpartum support and community. She highlights the value of support groups like La Leche League and the importance of maintaining connections in the age of isolation. Lee's heartfelt advice to new mothers centers on cherishing the fleeting moments of early motherhood and finding solace in the knowledge that women are never alone in their struggles. We engaged in a heartfelt dialogue about the transformative journey of motherhood, the power of community, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. This episode reminds us to savor the precious moments of motherhood, to seek support and connection, and to trust in our innate abilities as women. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Tess Frame is a mother of two who experienced severe pneumonia in late pregnancy after contracting the flu. Her condition became septic, resulting in organ failure and premature labor. She gave birth by cesarean at thirty-five weeks while comatose, and was intubated in critical care for several weeks after.  While in a coma, she experienced and/or perceived traumas she could only begin to unwind after becoming conscious, trying to unravel what experiences were real and what were only imagined in her unconscious state. She was convinced she had been kidnapped and assaulted and struggled to reconcile her conscious and subconscious experiences while in the coma. It was a heart-wrenching twenty-five days before Tess could finally meet her baby, and it took an additional three to four months for Tess to fully feel he belonged to her. She shares her birth story and her ambitious healing journey guided, perhaps surprisingly, by the twelve-step addiction recovery program. Supported by her church and community, she focused on mending her mind, body, and family, ultimately being granted a second chance at life. Tess on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello everyone - it's your favorite day of the month, when we take your calls! As always, thank you for submitting your excellent questions to 802-438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). Keep them rolling in! We love hearing from you. Today, we kick things off with some of the hilarious comments and questions your husbands and partners have said during pregnancy and birth. Next, we dive into our questions beginning with one mom seeking guidance on how best to make mom friends after having a baby.  Another listener asks if it is true that her friend needed to have a C-section because her abdominal muscles were too tight. The answer is no, but we brought on pelvic floor specialist, Tara Gibson, to explain why. Next, we give our opinion on the recommendation for a mother with type 1 diabetes to have twice-weekly ultrasounds and non-stress tests starting at 32 weeks. Is having a velamentous cord insertion a reason for needing a C-section or induction? In the extended version of today's episode, always available ad-free on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, we answer the controversial question about the necessity of Vitamin D drops for breastfed babies, followed by another listener's concern about her "big baby" needing hourly glucose checks, questions on glucose, weaning, and more. Finally, we close with a round of quickies including a question on VBACs, weaning from breastfeeding, and at last, our "personal question" of the month: the last show we each binged! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 sil Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Roger McFillin, a seasoned clinical psychologist and the compelling voice of the Radically Genuine Podcast, dares to question the prevailing surge in depression diagnoses in our modern world. He boldly sheds light on the truth about SSRIs, leveling grave accusations of "criminal negligence" at the doctors who knowingly sidestep informed consent requirements. Dr. McFillin uncovers a disturbing reality—one where patients are shielded from the harsh truth of low efficacy rates, serious risks, and debilitating long-term side effects, such as inability to orgasm. In this episode, Dr. McFillin unveils the elaborate charade woven by the pharmaceutical industry. He underscores the unsettling fact that antidepressants, touted as life-changing solutions, actually provide relief to a mere fifteen percent of those who turn to them, all while carrying a risk of suicide that's double that of a placebo. The heart of our conversation revolves around the calculated cherry-picking of scientific data, which serves to construct a narrative that prioritizes pharmaceutical profits over individual well-being. Dr. McFillin contends that labeling these medications as "anti-depressants" is a gross misnomer, a stance he courageously shared through his YouTube channel. His insights earned him the attention of influential figures like Joe Rogan, but punishment from YouTube, who mysteriously took down his channel without explanation immediately after he exposed critical research findings. Dr. McFillin's mission is clear: he implores the public to embrace critical thinking and cast aside the blinders that obscure a disconcerting reality—a medical system that peddles drugs not on the basis of research, but rather at the whims of the marketing department. As we delve deeper into the episode, we explore how the catchphrase "trust the science" often contradicts the actual scientific research. Later on, our conversation shifts over to postpartum depression and the lives of postpartum mothers. These exhausted and overwhelmed women represent just one of many vulnerable groups suffering harm, not help, by the professionals they entrusted. Join us in this eye-opening discussion as we unravel the layers of deception and confront the unsettling truths about our contemporary medical landscape. Dr. Roger McFillin's unwavering commitment to authenticity challenges the status quo, beckoning us to peer be Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello, everyone! It's Cynthia here. Today, in celebration of my birthday, I want to share the extraordinary story of my daughter's birth. This personal narrative delves into the pivotal role intuition and self-trust played throughout my conception and pregnancy with her. You'll learn of some unexpected challenges we faced, and you'll hear about our unconventional attempt to reposition our breech baby head-down. Definitely don't try that at home - even though we did. I hope you enjoy it. Catch Trisha in the outtake. p.s. I shared my son's birth story way back in Season One, Episode 10 and you can listen to that here or you can read the published article here. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Liz Eidelman, whose name some of you may recognize as the funny mom on Instagram @lizeidelman, gave birth to her first child in the hospital with a team of med students present. She had an episiotomy she didn't want, a vacuum-assist that led to another flood of people in the room, and a baby who was whisked away to the NICU within moments of birth, leaving Liz in the dark about her baby's condition. Overhearing nurses whisper, "The mother doesn't know yet," added to her anxiety. What Liz and her husband soon learned was that their baby was born with esophageal atresia, necessitating a life-saving surgery on Day Two of their baby's life. Now, with the perspective of a few years and two births under her belt, Liz reflects on the many ways in which she was grossly mistreated in her birth, by the very people and system who helped her baby go from a status of "born incompatible with life" to healthy and well. Liz dives into how her labor could have taken a different course, not only the first time but also the second, had she been more aware of her rights within the hospital birth environment. Liz shares her personal story and reveals alarming details that ignited her passion to become a doula. She also created a thriving Instagram community for moms, where humor serves as the antidote for the challenges of parenting, birth, and life. Don't miss this enlightening and empowering episode with Liz Eidelman. Liz on Instagram Liz's Doula Page @The.Sage.Sister ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello Friends! It is time for the September Q&A episode! Today, we open with two listener emails sharing their experiences on declining circumcision and accepting a necessary emergency cesarean birth. Next, we dive into your questions beginning with: Can I still labor and birth in the tub even if my membranes have ruptured before labor begins? Lucky for ya'll, we have Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International pop on the show to answer this question. Next up, we address whether experiencing a 3rd or 4th-degree tear during your first birth should deter you from pursuing a subsequent vaginal birth. Does it categorize you as high risk? We'll explore this important topic. Seeking more comprehensive solutions for infant reflux beyond the basics? We've got you covered. Then, we tackle the dilemma of giving birth at home when it feels safest, despite not feeling the most relaxed due to working from home. We'll share valuable perspectives on making the right choice for you. Curious about the accuracy of ultrasounds in diagnosing esophageal atresia?  Liz Eidelman, a mother of a baby born with EA, joins us to answer this question. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! In our extended version of this episode, available exclusively on Patreon and Apple subscriptions (ad-free, of course), we delve into a treasure trove of topics, including ABO incompatibility and jaundice, alternatives to ibuprofen for postpartum cramping, the newborn transition, nuchal cords at birth, and much more! As always, we close with quickies and a personal question about the best advice each of us has ever received. PS: Don't miss the outtake at the end of every episode. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Jo Young is a "heart mom" from the U.K. Being a heart mom indicates belonging to a community of parents whose children are born with congenital heart defects.  The pivotal moment in Jo's story began at her twenty-week anatomy scan with her husband. It was here that they received the life-altering revelation that their baby girl bore a congenital heart defect requiring immediate postpartum surgery. This condition, known as "transposition of the great arteries" (TGA), unveils a complex anomaly where the aorta attaches to the right side of the heart while the pulmonary artery attaches to the left. This incongruity disrupts the circulation of oxygenated blood within the body. Notably, TGA affects only one in every four thousand live births and often eludes detection during pregnancy. Jo's narrative unfolds as she recounts the poignant moment when her plans for a home birth dissolved into the stark reality of laboring within the confines of an ambulance. She describes her postpartum moments of cradling her newborn daughter before relinquishing her to the surgical team, and delves into the trials and tribulations of the breastfeeding journey, underscoring the indomitable spirit that she, her partner, and their resilient baby summoned to surmount these challenges. Jo's story is a beacon of encouragement and a wellspring of inspiration for families navigating the turbulent waters of heart parenthood. Through her compelling narrative, she extends a comforting hand to reassure others of the unwavering support within the heart community. Furthermore, she highlights the remarkable strength and resilience that reside within the spirit and character of these special infants. Join us for a stirring conversation that sheds light on the power of love, hope, and strength in the face of adversity. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Sara Rosser is a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). While she has not had a free birth herself, she has supported women in her community who have chosen to do so.  Free birth (or "wild birth") is a controversial practice in which a woman chooses to give birth in the absence of a trained birth professional, whether that be a midwife or obstetrician. In today's discussion, we dig into why a woman might choose free birth, whether or not free birth is "safe" for a mother and baby, how those women who require medical support are treated if they transfer from a free birth, the role of the doula in free birth, and a general discussion around how and why the free birth movement has taken hold. Ultimately, we seek to answer the question: Are those who support free birth enabling the movement or simply supporting a woman's right to choose what she believes is best for herself and her baby? ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort. Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email [email protected] Instagram @downtobirthshow Call us at 802-GET-DOWN Work with Cynthia: 203-952-7299 HypnoBirthingCT.com Work with Trisha: 734-649-6294 Please remember we don’t provide medical advic Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Sara Wickham, PhD, MA, PGCert, BA, is a best-selling author, speaker, and researcher who works independently. She has more than twenty years' experience as a midwife; she's lectured in more than 30 countries; and, she is a researcher and author of seventeen books, and has edited three midwifery journals. She is considered a leading expert on the research and evidence around many of the most controversial topics and most difficult decisions in childbirth: Induction, newborn interventions, GBS infection, RhoGAM or Anti-D prophylaxis for Rh-negative mothers, and plus-size pregnancy. Today, she joins us to talk about risk and risk reduction. In focusing on risk factors or lack thereof in any individual woman, we are generalizing and categorizing her care not based on her individual and holistic assessment, but rather on a risk category that may not actually be the best fit for her and her baby. Sara explains five ways in which we should consider risk and risk assessment in childbirth. For example, are we considering the impact of a risk-centered approach on the long-term health of the mother and baby or how it may undermine a woman's confidence? Ultimately, she questions the conviction that, in childbirth, more action, more tests, and more intervention lead to safer outcomes. And as a bonus, she answers the top-three questions from our community. Sara Wickham Sara Wickham on Instagram ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

It's time for the August Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha! We kick off today's episode with the crazy and unsupportive comments most often heard by our listeners. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and get ready for some laughs. Next, we get into our questions, including: Is routine Pitocin postpartum necessary? What can you tell me about insufficient glandular tissue and breastfeeding? What to do about family members who use sweets as a way to get children's attention? Is aggressive fundal massage really necessary? Is too much fore-milk in breastfeeding causing problems for my baby? and more. And in the extended version of today's episode found on Apple subscriptions and Patreon we discuss: Experiencing nausea in labor and what can be done about it; manual dilation of the cervix and whether it's effective; how a nuchal hand at birth impacts tearing and whether a cesarean section necessary; and, what is normal weight gain in pregnancy, and what if I have already gained the recommended amount too soon? Finally, we have our quickie segment in which we answer another ten questions or so, including how period cramps influence labor experiences, heart rate in labor, boy versus girl pregnancies, and more! Thank you for all your great questions and please keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  C Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality around the world. When considering home birth, preventing and/or effectively treating PPH is an essential part of safe care. Allie Woods of Almost Holistic Allie is here today to share her three home birth stories, the first two of which resulted in significant postpartum hemorrhaging, including a hospital transfer. In the first case, she and her midwife presumed it was a fluke when she had an unknown retained placental lobe with a fully intact placenta (a very rare occurrence). Knowing that scenario was highly unlikely to recur, she planned her second home birth, and had a second PPH, this time staying home to manage it. Allie realized she may have a genetic predisposition to hemorrhaging, supported by the fact that her own sister also hemorrhaged during her births as well. When Allie decided to have a third baby, she remained fully committed to giving birth at home despite her past bleeding experiences and spent her pregnancy researching everything she could to prevent PPH. In this episode, Allie provides all the specifics on exactly how she successfully prevented postpartum hemorrhage the third time around. Almost Holistic Allie The Power of Placenta for Hemorrhage Control ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 92 Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Every mammal in nature sleeps with their offspring, but these days, many mothers are cautioned against co-sleeping by pediatricians and well-meaning friends and family. This guilt or fear keeps parents distant from their sleeping babies even when it goes against their own inclination. Then, the cycle continues with a baby whose nervous system wakes them often in search of physical comfort, while parents frantically seek the latest and greatest sleep product on the market (Snoo, anyone?). What is the right approach for mothers who feels conflicted? Today we've brought back Jenny and Carrie, the occupational therapist sisters of OnTrack Baby to discuss sleep and how it relates to newborn development.  Our discussion starts by debunking the myth that sleep is a problem for babies. The real issue, according to OnTrack Baby, is parents' general lack of understanding of a baby's needs. They stress there is nothing wrong with a baby who struggles with sleep because their nervous systems have them wired to awaken easily, and that many of today's sleep products are unnecessary, if not counterproductive toward long-term development. Their professional opinion is what many parents believe instinctually: that babies who sleep with or in close proximity to their parents are actually calmer, safer and better able to sleep. Jenny and Carrie don't prescribe any particular sleep method even to their own clients, nor do they insist co-sleeping is the only way for every family. They are, however, proponents of sleeping in close proximity however best serves the family, as a means of creating a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes healthy sleep patterns and overall well-being for both themselves and their children. OnTrack Baby ********** Sponsors: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Maternal mortality for black women is three times higher in the United States, at almost 70 deaths per 100,000.  As a woman of color, Nichollette Jones was motivated to protect herself and her daughter from the risks and protocols associated with hospitals, especially during Covid, which showed a sky-rocketing of maternal mortality statistics across the board in the U.S. Unable to cover the cost of a home birth midwife, she determined her next-safest option was to have her baby at home with her mother and partner.  Nichollette spent her pregnancy learning the most common childbirth emergencies and how to handle them, but mostly, she nurtured a deep trust in her body and her ancestral wisdom to give birth with ease and without complication.  And that she did! As you'll hear, Nichollette has a hard time not laughing through the joyful memories of her empowering home water birth story. During the second part of our discussion, we get into the psychology/mindset Nichollette practiced, which likely contributed to her positive outcome beyond luck, which is always a factor in any birth. Nichollette demonstrates the degree of responsibility it takes to birth without professional labor support. We also explore the heaviness of the free-birth option: What "drives" some women to free birth when it wasn't their first choice upon becoming pregnant? What was Nichollette's 'Plan B' if a complication had occurred? Are most women reasonable candidates for free birth? And, did our ancestors really birth alone, free-birth style, or what did their support actually look like? The United States medical system is already lacking in its support for midwife-attended home-birth transfers; it's nonexistent with free birth. Today's episode gives us a joyful scope into one woman's birth, while raising more serious considerations around the lack of safe birthing options for American mothers, and especially women of color. ********** Sponsors: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Katie Ferraro of @babyledweanteam is a mother of seven, registered dietician and baby led weaning proponent. Baby-led weaning is a method of introducing solid foods to babies where purees and spoon-feeding are skipped in favor of finger foods,  allowing the baby to self-feed. When Katie found out she was pregnant with quadruplets, she knew she needed the easiest, most effective way to feed her babies, and has developed a digital community support program on baby-led weaning and founded her "100 First Foods" program.  The idea is to introduce 100 foods to your baby before the age of one! Can you believe that? Do you even have 100 different foods in your house right now?   In this episode, Katie explains what baby-led weaning really means (yes, the name is confusing) and answers everything you need to know about introducing solid foods such as: When is the right time to do begin baby-led weaning?How can you reduce parental anxiety around introducing foods?What can be done about picky eaters and how to prevent them?Are pureed foods ever necessary?What constitutes a food allergy and is there a way to avoid them from the start? What foods should be avoided, if any?Are there any foods babies can’t eat? Do babies need teeth to start solid foods?What is the difference between gagging and choking and how can it be prevented?Don't miss this insightful and helpful episode that will set you and your baby up for happy tummies and happy hearts. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy ModernNursery -- S Send us Fan Mail Postpartum SoothePostpartum Soothe™ is 100% organic. An herbal tincture for pads toward a safer, easier recovery.Silverette USASoothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Welcome to the July Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha.  Today, we kick off the conversation with a story of an OB commenting on the "tightness" of a woman's perineum. Next, we jump into our questions on when sutures are or are not needed after a tear; placenta previa and a prolapsed cord; the risk of infection after rupture of membranes when GBS negative; how to get oxytocin flowing when your spouse is not present at birth; are there risks in pregnancy and postpartum if you have Irish twins; could I have birthed my frank breech baby vaginally even though the hospital said I could not, followed by Trisha's story of her one and only breech birth experience as a midwife. In the extended Q&A, we discuss the difficult decision one mother faces when the only available midwives don't align with her birth choices; a woman whose toddler developed significant tooth decay and questions teething oil over breast milk as the culprit; another mother who is told her baby is not gaining weight well because her breastmilk has an insufficient amount of calories, and a woman who is struggling with appetite due to her stress and anxiety and worries how it will impact her pregnancy.  Finally, we close with a round of quickies including Cynthia's and Trisha's biggest pet peeves in life.  ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Lynelle Schneeberg, PsyD, is a sleep psychologist, an assistant professor at the Yale School of Medicine, and Director of the Behavioral Sleep Program at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. She’s also a Fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. She works with adults who have insomnia and has a particular passion for helping parents whose children have sleep difficulties. She is the author of "Become Your Child’s Sleep Coach: The Bedtime Doctor’s 5-Step Guide, Ages 3-10. " Today, Lynelle give us her expert advice and education on and around sleep difficulties experienced by new parents and parents of young children. Recognizing that sleep deprivation is a bona fide torture tactic, our discussion delves into the negative effects of interrupted sleep for new parents, which can affect them for months and even years.  Lynelle clarifies the four stages of sleep, and how much of each stage we tend to require. She also explains how the body prioritizes deep sleep and can brilliantly adjust sleep cycles to compensate for those late-bedtime streaks or the evenings we're awake with insomnia or broken sleep. Lynelle debunks sleep myths (such as, "Can we only obtain deep sleep between the hours of 10pm and 2am?") and helps us to understand: healthy sleep architecture; the various kinds of insomnia; and, the benefits of micro-naps. She provides strategies for getting children to go to bed more easily, and tells us what to do - and what not to do - when it comes to getting good sleep back into your life. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Rachel Marynowsk of @Kale.blossom is a licensed naturopathic physician focusing on preconception, fertility and postpartum. In today's episode, Rachel introduces us to the fascinating phenomenon of fetal-maternal microchimerism and how it may influence women's health, particularly postpartum.  Fetal-maternal microchimerism refers to the presence of fetal cells in a mother's body and vice versa, exchanged during pregnancy and birth. These cells are believed to serve as a unique form of communication between the mother and the baby, both physically and emotionally, and may be key players in the development of postpartum health issues such as perinatal mood disorders and thyroid changes. Studies show that fetal cells, which also function as stem cells, are found in various organs of the mother's body, potentially offering protective and regenerative properties.  It is believed these cells play a role in the mother's intuition and protective instincts toward her child and may be associated with certain health conditions. The topic raises important questions for further research and exploration, offering a new perspective on the intricate bond between mother and baby. @Kale.Blossom on Instagram Kale Blossom ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vag Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Catrina's first pregnancy was labeled high risk when a routine ultrasound revealed a two-vessel cord, leading to repeat ultrasounds and a diagnosis of IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction) and low fluid at 35 weeks. Her doctor immediately sent her in for an induction, and because her baby was still breech at that point, she ended up with a C-section. Catrina felt completely "checked-out" during the whole experience, as this was the exact opposite of the birth she had planned for. Her baby ended up in the NICU for five days and over 24 hours of time passed before she held her newborn.  After this experience, she was sure she would never have another baby. Just over a year later, she was pregnant again, chose home birth and had the HBAC (home birth after cesarean)  of her dreams. ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content. Email [email protected] Instagram @downtobirthshow Call us at 802-GET-DOWN Work with Cynthia: 203-952-7299 HypnoBirthingCT.com Work with Trisha: 734-649-6294 Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

We are back answering your questions in the June Q&A episode.  We kick it off with a woman's story of multiple non-consented vaginal exams in labor, her complaint to the hospital, and the hospital leadership's response. Next, we jump into our questions including: I really want a home birth, but I am afraid that hospital birth is safer and that home birth is dangerous. How do I determine this risk? My mom had a c-section for a cervix that swelled shut. Is that possible?I am struggling with boundaries and decision-making with my husband around staying home and home-schooling the children versus returning back to work. Could getting in the water too early slow down my labor?  Barbara Harper from Waterbirth International calls in her response. I am ten weeks postpartum and have a positive pregnancy test.  Could this be for real?In the extended version, available on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, one woman asks if she should have listened to her nurse who ordered her not to push.  Could a nuchal hand in labor be a justified cause for a c-section? Should the cord only be cut after the placenta has been delivered? Who should I notify about being dropped as a patient and black-listed in surrounding practices? In our quickies segment, we discuss weight gain in pregnancy, periods returning too soon, precipitous labor and increased bleeding,  birth pools, early pregnancy, red raspberry tea and dates, strengthening the amniotic sac, a fear of sex in pregnancy, and our best marriage advice for after baby. We were also asked to share something we can do that most people don't know about us. Finally, don't miss the outtake! ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Love Majka Products -- Supp Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Eyla Cuenca, a birth doula and birth trauma alchemist, delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy and birth. She highlights the varying experiences pregnant women may encounter when it comes to their healthcare providers and how it can impact their journeys. Eyla introduces the concept of birth trauma alchemy, which focuses on transforming birth traumas and wounds into opportunities for growth, self-knowledge and empowerment. We delve into the psycho-emotional work required during pregnancy and after, highlighting how a woman's birth experience profoundly shapes her memory and emotions surrounding the event. For example, giving birth can trigger past feelings of "unwanted touches" from childhood, even from seemingly mild memories of being told to hug and kiss relatives and friends of parents. We explore the societal pressure to prioritize a healthy baby over a woman's emotional well-being and challenge the notion that a healthy baby is the only measure of a successful birth. Our conversation underscores the need for women to utilize their sense of self-worth and the ability to advocate for their birth preferences to ensure a positive and empowering birthing experience. Eyla Cuenca Birth ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

At least one-third of women report to experiencing birth trauma. Traumatic experiences can be trapped in the physical body and manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder, easily triggered by everyday events and preventing us from fully embracing our experience as a mothers. Talk therapy can be helpful but often is not sufficient to fully resolve trauma, because trauma causes our brains to become wired to focus on repetitive thoughts, creating a maladaptive circuit.  Fortunately, when we sleep, our brains process our emotions and release negative associations, but it takes many weeks or even years for trauma to fully process in our sleep. EMDR works to accelerate this process through specific, guided eye movement therapy, and has been shown to be extremely effective at quickly and successfully releasing trauma. In the United States, the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense have cited EMDR as a “best practice” in treating veterans with PTSD. Research demonstrating the effectiveness of EMDR includes dozens of clinical trials, research studies and academic papers. It has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and multiple other governmental and/or health organizations. Carolyn Yates, LMFT and EMDR practitioner joins us today to explain how and why EMDR is a revolutionary treatment for not only birth trauma but any traumatic event. For more about EMDR visit: https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/ Carolyn Yates, LMFT Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy  DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

With the right knowledge and education about the intricacies of our own health, we have the potential to influence how our body gives birth. Did you know that by twenty-eight weeks of pregnancy your body is already making physiological and functional shifts to prepare for labor? Or that your baby's adrenal glands are the biggest factor in the initiation of labor? Have you ever heard that sub-clincal hypothyroidism is associated with a significantly higher rate of postpartum hemorrhage or that if you are magnesium deficient, your oxytocin receptors may not be as readily available?  Are you curious about the role of CoQ-10 in the prevention of pre-eclampsia or how hylauronic acid influences cervical readiness for labor?  Author Sarah Thompson of @functionalmaternity gets into all the fascinating details of the functional birth process and gives us practical tips on what we can do to optimize our bodies for birth.  We're sure you've never heard physiologic details like this before. Grab a pen, a pad of paper, and your thinking cap for this one! Functional Maternity on Instagram Functional Maternity ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello! We are back with the May Q&A.  This month we kick things off with a short conversation on obstetrical rhetoric around the risks of cesarean birth and induction, followed by your excellent  questions on: Short cords and small placentasSetting boundaries with well-meaning parenting advice-giversThe necessity or not of Non-stress tests (NST) in late pregnancyTrue medical indications for artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)VBAC labor contractions and an interesting tidbit on the impact of eating dairy in pregnancy Supporting the fetal ejection reflex (FER)Can coffee (yep, you read that right) prevent tearing in labor?And in our extended version of this episode, we dive into: Ultrasounds in late pregnancyPap smear recommendationsFetal heart rate decelerations in laborPostpartum doulas and how they can best support breastfeedingUmbilical cords as bungee cords or not?And of course, everyone's favorite, a round of quickies!Pitocin Episode #134 here. Join us over on Patreon or subscribe on Apple podcasts for the extended version of this episode. Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Lisa Marie and Richard Oxenham are a water-birthing midwifery duo extraordinaire in addition to being husband and wife and protégés of Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International. Lisa has attended over six hundred water births and has never, not once, induced a woman's labor.  Through their years of experience, they have come to believe that giving birth in water improves birth outcomes over giving birth out of the water. In this episode, we cover the ways in which water birth increases the safety of home birth by reducing complications associated with cord evulsion, shoulder dystocia, deep tearing, postpartum hemorrhage, and newborn transition. Lisa also touches on how water birth may be the most effective tool for easing the birth experience for those with a history of trauma or abuse. We also learn the real meaning of the word "vagina."  Don't miss this incredibly important and highly informative episode on the benefits of home water birth.    BarefootMidwife Beardedmidwife ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy. DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters, and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When your hospital birth plan repeatedly includes the word  "No", considering home birth becomes extremely enticing. In this episode, Colleen of @uncomplicatedfamily shares with us how she left her OB and chose home birth not only the first time but six more thereafter! Many mothers fear the idea of home birth because they only imagine what might go wrong. And while there are certain risks to consider before home birthing and it isn't the preference of every woman, we review how it can be a safe and smart choice for many, even the first time around. In this conversation we discuss the top reason for home-to-hospital transfer, the data from the largest study ever conducted on home birth (and what information was "conveniently" kept out of the study), and why home birth can be a reasonable choice for 99% of women, yet only 1% are pursuing them. Perinatal mortality and morbidity in a nationwide cohort of 529,688 low-risk planned home and hospital birth. Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Organic herbal padsicles to support healing after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Chanie of @yoledetacademy is an experienced labor and delivery nurse and expert witness in cases which the appropriate use of Pitocin is in question.  Today, she joins us to give us an insider's perspective on the use of Pitocin in hospital birth. Pitocin, now known as the narcotic of modern obstetrics, is increasingly overused and the harms of its use are significantly under represented.  Join us in this discerning conversation around the use and abuse of Pitocin in hospital birth. Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

RhoGAM or Anti-D is a blood product offered to pregnant women with an Rh-negative blood type who have conceived with an Rh-positive father. The use of RhoGAM is said to significantly reduce the chances of the mother becoming sensitized to a future baby if the current baby she is carrying has an Rh-positive blood type. The RhoGAM injection is routinely offered to all Rh-negative  women, despite that it is not always needed, comes with certain side effects, and isn't 100% effective.  In this episode, we hear from two women: Kelsey and Emily, both of whom are Rh-negative mothers. Kelsey and Emily each had RhoGAM in the past: Kelsey had it with her first baby, and Emily had it when she miscarried. Both of them had some degree of side-effects from the shot. In Kelsey's second pregnancy and birth, she declined RhoGAM entirely, and Emily (currently pregnant) is open to getting RhoGAM after her baby's birth. In this roundtable-style episode, we learn about the thought processes leading to their respective decisions.  If you are struggling to determine if RhoGAM is the right choice for you, this episode will give you the statistics and factors to consider if and when RhoGAM or Anti-D is necessary and the right choice for you and your baby. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello everyone! We are back with our April Q&A episode, and it is loaded with your excellent questions! Don't forget you can subscribe on Apple podcasts Patreon to hear the extended, ad-free versions.   Here's what we are talking about today: Is it safe to plan a birth center birth if someone has a history of pre-eclampsia, HELLP syndrome and a postpartum hemorrhage?Is it appropriate and/or expected to tip your doula?Other than placenta accreta, what other reasons are there for retained placenta?Can I take beef liver supplements in pregnancy? And do I need to worry about getting too much Vitamin A?  What is safe and what is not?In the case of surrogate and adoptive mothers, who should hold the baby first after the birth?I am experiencing postpartum rage and resentment toward my partner. How long does this last?And in our extended version (available on Apple subscriptions & Patreon): What can I take for after birth pains?If I have an elevated fasting blood sugar and a diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes, is my baby really at risk? If so, what can I do without going on medication?Is being over age 35 really a risk factor in birth?Is there anything you can do to prevent Cholestasis in pregnancy?And of course, everyone's favorite: Quickies! Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Chelsea was determined to have an unmedicated hospital birth. When she was unexpectedly diagnosed with cholestasis at 38 weeks, she found herself getting induced with Misoprostil, Pitocin, and ruptured membranes at 3 cm dilated. She quickly progressed to full dilation, had a short pushing phase and birthed her baby vaginally.  Everything seemed great until she went home and starting passing large blood clots. After multiple calls to different OBs that all passed it off as normal, she started bleeding profusely and was transferred back to the hospital for delayed postpartum hemorrhage. Chelsea's story is one of knowing the importance of trusting our own intuition and insisting we get the care we need when we know something is wrong. Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

If you are pregnant for the first time or even the second or third, we all want to know the secret ingredient to experiencing a "pain-free" birth experience.  Today, we brought on a leading voice in the pain-free birth world, Karen Welton, to go deep on what it takes.  Do you know the most important step in accessing a "pain free" birth? Hint: It's not about what you do in labor. It's not about position. It's not even about your birth location or provider. It's about your brain. It begins and ends with your mindset and focus. The key to mastering your birth is mastering your brain's influence on your physiology.  Can you create an environment for birth where you could be so relaxed and embodied in your physiology that you could have sex in that space? Join us in this enlightening discussion and take the first step to finding a "pain-free" ecstatic, even pleasurable birth experience. Painfreebirth on Instagram Pain Free Birth Free Masterclass Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Erika gave birth to her first child in the hospital and was labeled a "weirdo"  and stamped as "difficult" for her birth plan intentions.  When the hospital staff tried to take her baby away in order to administer the Vitamin K shot and Erythromycin eye ointment, she refused, holding her baby close as the staff tried to pull the baby from Erika's arms. Next came the call to CPS (Child Protective Services), putting Erika on a government watch list as a threat to her child's well-being. As a long-time yoga practitioner and deep spiritualist, Erika shares her perspective on birth as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to embrace discomfort and release the notion of separation from oneness. Erika Halweil Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

We are back with the March Q&A, and it is packed with your awesome questions!  How do I go about choosing a midwife? Are there red flags?I had pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome. Can I still have a home birth?Is it safe to take Valtrex in pregnancy for cold sores or is there an alternative?Is it necessary to rub and dry the baby after birth or can baby just be handed to me?Can we talk about the Lindsay Clancy situation and how do we know if we are suffering postpartum psychosis?Does Covid cause decreased blood flow and does Aspirin help?And for those who subscribe on Apple podcasts or Patreon, in the extended version we answer: How do you know when IUGR is a legitimate diagnosis?Is there a way to pump enough to delay the return of your period when breastfeeding?Can you prevent the loss or decrease in milk supply when pregnant but still nursing?When should you introduce a bottle or transition a breastfeeding baby to the bottle and how do you do both?Do you have resources that you recommend for continuing education for parents?In a home-to-hospital transfer for the mother, does the baby go too and if so, does the baby get evaluated? Can the baby stay home?And in our quickies segment we touch on: Surrogates and co-sleeping, young midwives, periods and breastfeeding, induction for gestational diabetes, favorite items for new moms, keepsakes, hiccups in pregnancy, retinol in breastfeeding, Vitamin K alternatives and our shoe collection. Thank you as always for calling in your awesome questions!  Don't forget to join us on Patreon for the extended version and twice monthly live Q&As on all kinds of topics! Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Down to Birth is sponsored by: Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Nathan Riley is an OBGYN who understands the holistic picture of women's health. You may remember him from Episode #165 where he discussed autonomous, empowered birth. Today, he joins us to explain why infertility rates are on the rise, especially for men, and gives us the six principles of holistic fertility that are important for healthy, conscious conception, along with the five fertility powerhouse nutrients. In the second part of the episode, we discuss the aspect of fertility that goes far beyond the standard "temperature" and "timing" approach: the importance of intimate, fun, playful sex for conception. This episode is sure to open your mind and give you the holistic scope you won't get at your IVF clinic. Grab your partner and your baby MOJO and  sit down for an enlightening discussion on fixing fertility.  #165 | The Holistic OBGYN, Dr. Nathan Riley, on Autonomous, Empowered Birth Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Claude Racine Valinsky is a former professional dancer and choreographer in Los Angeles who is now a mother who has recovered from postpartum depression and become a thriving mom-preneur. She returns to the show for the third time to share her "gangster mindset" for turning our most difficult moments in life into our greatest opportunity for growth, expansion, fulfillment and success. Claude joined us in episode #28 to share her home birth story and again in episode #72, where she opened up about the darkness of her postpartum depression, sudden weight gain, and health struggle with a Hashimoto's diagnosis. After that episode, we promised to do a follow-up to and none of us imagined such a transformation would follow. Today, at 41, Claude is in the best shape of her life physically, fulfilled as a wife and mother, and making far more money than she ever imagined possible from a business she started just two years ago, which has financially transformed every aspect of her family's life. She is back with a powerfully motivating message on how mothers who may barely recognize themselves right now can begin to take small steps toward reinventing themselves. She tells us how she picked herself up by her bootstraps and gives us advice on how to embrace our own power even amid despair, and to recognize we are all capable of living a happy, vibrant and fulfilling life postpartum. Claude Racine-Valinsky #28 | Claude Racine-Valinsky's Birth Story: No Place Like Home #72 | The Winding Road Through Postpartum with Claude Racine-Valinsky This podcast episode is sponsored by LMNT, the electrolyte drink with everything you need and nothing you don't. Get a free 8-day supply with your first order here. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Pre-eclampsia impacts more than 5% of pregnancies, is a leading cause of pre-term birth and is increasingly on the rise. When it comes to this difficult diagnosis, we often  are told there is nothing we can do other than give birth, usually by induction, sometimes by cesarean.  While the etiology of pre-eclampsia is not fully understood and much more research needs to be done, we do know that diet and nutrition play a key role in the development of and/or severity of pre-eclampsia.  Lily Nichols, expert nutritionist and author, returns to explain the critical nutrient deficiencies that are associated with this illness and illuminates the newest research pointing to male sperm as a potential player in the development of pre-eclampsia. If you are wondering if there is anything you can do to prevent or slow the development of pre-eclampsia, then this episode will guide you on how to do just that. Lily Nichols Special Offer:  LMNT is a tasty electrolyte drink mix that replaces vital electrolytes without sugars and dodgy ingredients found in conventional sports drinks. With this link, get a free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When Lauren gave birth to her first baby, everything was seemingly perfect. Breastfeeding was going well, and she was totally in love with her baby girl.  What she didn't see coming was a series of lifestyle changes including moving that set her up for her previously-managed OCD transforming into bouts of postpartum rage. At 9 months postpartum, when her pediatrician told her that her baby was too small, the regularly occurring outbursts that soon followed were classic for the postpartum rage cycle: trigger-outburst-guilt, with much of her rage directed at her husband. We discuss the triggers that exacerbated her postpartum mood disorder and the importance of seeking support and understanding the signs and symptoms of perinatal mood disorders. Postpartum rage is one of the manifestations of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.  It is a stress-related response, which triggers our "fight" mechanism when we reach a point of overwhelm.  While the outburst brings relief, guilt is quickly ushered in and the cycle continues.  The key to interrupting the cycle is to manage the triggers--for Lauren, this was her baby's sleeping habits.  In today's episode, Lauren courageously shares her most vulnerable postpartum moments in hopes of helping other mothers realize they are not alone in this common yet significantly under-recognized manifestation of postpartum depression and anxiety. Special Offer:  LMNT is a tasty electrolyte drink mix that replaces vital electrolytes without sugars and dodgy ingredients found in conventional sports drinks. For a limited time, get a free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

It's time for our monthly Q&A episode with your Down to Birth Show hosts Cynthia & Trisha. After a quick chat about the brutally cold weather (how unoriginal), we jump right into our listener-submitted questions beginning with:  How important or helpful is body-work for tongue-tied babies?Is there ever a legit reason for a cervical check in late pregnancy?When exclusively breastfeeding, when should you introduce a bottle and start saving milk for going back to work?What supplements should you take in pregnancy, particularly related to iodine?Can you take a bath postpartum after a vaginal birth?How do you manage boundaries and visits with family who uses harmful and excessive fragrances in their home?Should I have a medicated birth in case I tear? My OB suggested the idea. My OB said I should abstain from sex because I have a placenta previa. Is this true?And in the ad-free, extended version for our Patreon and Apple Subscribers, we answer a question about newborn transition, difficulty breathing and delayed cord clamping; the use of forceps and whether or not they are ever needed; the idea of ovulatory cycles and just how much "lifetime" ovulation is optimal; placenta accreta and how likely it is to recur, and more. Finally, we give our input on one woman's concern about her 16 month old breastfeeding "too much", according to her pediatrician. And, of course, we close out with a great round of quickies...be sure to catch the last one and don't be shy on sending us your guilty pleasures! Trisha's Pear Recipe: 1-2 pears sliced or diced 1 teaspoon of olive oil 1 whole fresh squeezed lime Pink sea salt Touch of honey to taste Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Active management of the third stage of labor refers to interventions that are taken to speed up the delivery of the placenta and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. This typically involves the administration of an oxytocic drug like Pitocin or Syntocinon to increase the contraction of the uterus and the use of techniques like fundal pressure and controlled cord traction to guide the placenta out of the uterus. Expectant management, on the other hand, is a more hands-off approach in which the placenta is left to detach and be delivered naturally, without the use of drugs, manual manipulations or interventions. This approach is usually used when there are no risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage and the mother and baby are both in good condition. In this episode, we have Barbara Harper on the podcast with us. Barbara is a midwife, author, and the founder of WaterBirth International, which she founded exactly 40 years ago. She is a world-expert in birthing and to this day travels the globe educating obstetricians, nurses and midwives on physiologic birth. Few mothers are given the opportunity to birth their placentas in the water, but is it really necessary to move women post-birth into a bed to complete the third stage (placental birth) of labor?  In order to explain whether this is the right choice for any mother and baby, Barbara walks us through the most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage, how to prevent it, and the critical understanding of newborn transitional physiology: what she says is literally the most important moment in any human being's life. Is fundal massage necessary? When is the optimal time to cut the cord? What is the case for keeping the cord attached until the placenta is fully birthed? Is manual extraction of the placenta ever justified? These are some of the questions we answer in today's episode with Barbara. Barbara Harper Waterbirth International #100 | The Benefits of Water Birth: Interview With Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International #122 | Provider Green Lights: Interview with Barbara Harper on Holistic, Respectful & Supportive Birth Providers Down to Birth is sponsored Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Anna is a Swedish-practicing midwife who was professionally trained in Australia. Anna discusses her view of birth as a rite of passage and a transformational experience, and she laments the current state of the maternity system, which often leads to birth trauma for women. She talks about the desire to control every aspect of pregnancy and birth, and the importance of relinquishing to the unknown and trusting in the intelligence and expertise of the mother and baby. Anna also shares her thoughts on the role of birth in society and the need for a more holistic approach to maternity care. This episode discusses birth trends around the world, the corporate and financial influences over birth practices, the meaning of spiritual midwifery and what it looks like in practice, and the ultimate feminine principle that birth is so often missing: Surrender. The fact is that nature is not inherently flawed. And while it is not perfect in every instance, the pursuit in the name of safety to monitor and control every mother and baby through the birth process has led to more problems than it has prevented. Join us in this free-flowing conversation on returning to our roots and fiercely protecting the divine feminine to achieve our safest and best birth with Anna the Spiritual Midwife.   Down to Birth is sponsored by: DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty. Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites. Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups. Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Jessy is a  Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) in the state of Utah where breech home birth is against state law.  In her second pregnancy, she made three attempts using gentle version techniques to turn her baby, yet her baby turned back to breech every time. Weighing out the risks of breech vaginal home birth versus cesarean, she opted for home birth but kept her baby's  breech position to herself and off-the-record. She only hinted to her midwife that her baby was being "stubborn." Jessy's intuition told her that forcing her baby to turn around was not the safest choice, which became evident as truth when her baby arrived with a short cord and a velamentous insertion. This inspiring story overcomes many obstacles including threatened early miscarriage, retained placenta, breech birth, a short cord and vaginal prolapse and demonstrates the ultimate power of a mother's intuition.  Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

We are back with our first Q&A of 2023.  We begin today by discussing absurd comments shared with us around natural birth statistics before we jump into our regular Q&As, starting with:  How can I prevent another postpartum hemorrhage when I feel like I did everything right the first time but still bled too much? What role does a doula play in a home birth and how does she interact with the home birth midwife? Is it normal to lose your mucus plug at 32 weeks, and will it come back? How can I pump enough milk for my exclusively breastfed baby to leave for a 4-day work trip without risking oversupply? Is it worth it to switch from an insurance-covered nurse-midwife that I don't really like to an out-of-pocket homebirth midwife? Next, we jump into our quickies which cover topics like: oxygen at home birth, "powering through" engorgement, nipple shields,  supplements for mental health while breastfeeding, flat feet in children, and - here was an off-topic surprise that came in - our favorite karaoke song to sing? And there is much more! For those who are Apple subscription or Patreon members, we answered several additional questions including: What to do in a home birth if an emergent situation arises? Is midwifery just for low-risk women? How to start solids? Is the placenta filled with toxins and is placenta encapsulation unwise? What does it mean if you can't find the heartbeat early in pregnancy? Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Sarah Hutchison & Lara Martens are the Dynamic Doulas of London, Ontario. Doula work is a delicate balance of keeping a "soft front and hard back", stepping-in and and not overstepping.  The fact is, doula burnout is high, the emotional work can be heavy, and the lifestyle is challenging. But as any doula knows, those who are called to the work can't imagine doing anything else and the rewards of supporting mothers in achieving their birth goals are tremendous. Today's episode is an "off-the-record" kind of conversation between us and this "dynamic" doula team, where we get into the heartfelt anguish of being a doula. In today's discussion we explore: What do women really want from their doulas? What's the hardest part of keeping a client happy? Should doulas take on any client who's willing to hire them, or should doulas be selective about whom they choose to work with? How can doulas avoid burnout? How far should a doula go in advocating for their clients and how do doulas manage a client's unwillingness or inability to speak up for herself when faced with an unwanted intervention? How can doulas support women whose birth values starkly differ from their own, and what should doulas do when they suspect the woman's chosen birth location has firm policies in contrast to physiologic birthing? Should doulas speak up more or less, and to what extent do women expect doulas to go beyond birth support and assume the role of protector and advocate? Whether you're looking to be a doula or hire one, today's episode gives you a behind-the-scenes scope into the demanding lifestyle of providing emotional, mental and physical labor support to birthing women and their families. Dynamic Doulas on Instagram. Dynamic Doulas Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

If you are considering the birth control pill to fix your period, think again. Did you know the hormones in your pill don't replace the hormones your body naturally makes? Instead, they mask and suppress them.  The period you get at the end of your birth control pill pack is not a real period; it's simply a withdraw bleed from synthetic hormones. Your brain, bones, heart, mood, sex drive, motivation, inspiration, and creativity are all influenced by the hormonal cycles of naturally-occurring estrogen and progesterone. Lara Briden, author of The Period Repair Manual,  joins us today to teach us the difference between a real period and a "pill" period. She explains how  various contraceptive devices influence our hormones and how our body is affected by natural versus synthetic hormones. Her goal is for each woman to experience symptomless, naturally-occurring menstrual cycles throughout her lifetime. Lara Briden Taking the Pill as a Teenager May Have Long-Lasting Effect on Depression Risk Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When Emma's first baby was one year old, she opened her phone to review her baby's photos and realized she had spent that year completely avoiding looking back at any images from the first three months of her baby's life. It was clear in that moment, she had experienced significant postpartum depression and delayed bonding with her baby, and the photos were a stark reminder of a truth she hadn't been ready to face. Six months later she ruptured her spleen, resulting in a post-traumatic stress response for which she sought out EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Therapy. As she worked through her trauma, much of her first birth experience and PPD memories resurfaced.  Later, when she found out she was pregnant again and considered where to birth her next baby, she ran the gamut from a fully medicalized birth to free-birth (unassisted home birth) and landed on a hospital birth with a "unicorn OB." She chose to birth in a hospital because it "scared" her, and was a fear she felt she needed to overcome. Emma was GBS positive and established a "No IV, no antibiotics" birth policy and confidently declined. Her water broke just minutes before she welcomed her eleven pound baby safely into her arms. That's right: Eleven pounds. ======== Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello everyone! It is that time of the month, and we are back with our December Q&A. To kick it off, we have a follow-up conversation based on one listener's response to  episode #188 on Rhogam. Next, we jump into our questions discussing the actual risks of going past 24 hours or ruptured membranes without contractions and how you can mitigate those risks. We break down why meconium becomes more concerning after 42 weeks gestation and what those actual risks are. One mother who has the flu in the third trimester wonders if this is harmful to her baby and what she should do about it; another mom is curious if it is more helpful or hurtful to use assistance to birth her placenta and questions if a hep-lock or IV port is really necessary in labor. Furthermore, is vitamin D supplementation truly necessary for breastfed babies?  Additionally, we have a great quickies segment on pregnancy headaches, aging placentas, newborn rashes, breast changes in pregnancy, cold-plunging postpartum, water birth and infections and whether or not sleep training babies is really needed. In our extended version, over on Patreon and Apple Subscriptions, we dive into a very important topic: How to accurately calculate your due date based on your specific menstrual cycle, not the average cycle. We discuss delayed cord clamping and where to clamp the cord, two-vessel cords and the implications for induction and the safety of home-birth with midwives who have restricted access to emergency medications. It's an extra-long extended episode this month - happy new year! Remember you can hang with us twice a month during our interactive and educational livestream for our Patreon community members! Thanks for joining us, and remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

If we could share every single woman's birth story on this podcast we would; but instead, today we are giving you a glimpse into a handful of hospital stories and anecdotes that represent the rhetoric, mistreatment, and disrespect that mothers experience from hospital staff, midwives, OBs and pediatricians. In this episode, you will hear such things as a mother having her call light put on the other side of the room so she couldn't bother the staff with her questions, another mother purposefully ignored when she needed to use the bathroom postpartum because she refused to give her baby sugar water, an OB telling a mom that her baby will have Cerebral Palsy if she declines a vaginal exam, and another mother getting an episiotomy without her consent, plus other examples of medical coercion and abuse. After each mother's story, you will hear Cynthia's and Trisha's comments. While we know this episode will get you fired up, we hope it will also shed light on just how rampant the problem is within today's maternity care system, with the reminder that you don't have to tolerate mistreatment. Thank you to these mother for taking the time to call us with their stories and thank you for taking the time to listen. Remember to join us for two livestreams per month on Patreon. Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Meghan Murray and her husband decided to have one more baby. She'd already experienced beautiful vaginal births with her first two boys and, like so many women, she mentally went through all the things she could do this time around to get things just right. In preparing for her dream birth, Meghan hired new midwives who practiced outside of a hospital setting and seemed perfectly aligned with her wishes. She remained fit, practiced Spinning Babies and learned relaxation techniques for a comfortable physiologic birth. She savored her pregnancy knowing it was her last, and excitedly planned her first water birth. At 36 weeks, Meghan suddenly heard a pop and assumed her membranes had released. But instead of amniotic fluid, she saw blood -- and lots of it. As she and her husband left immediately for the hospital, Meghan knew a placental abruption had occurred. Meghan is more than a year out from her birth, and talks to us about her journey of processing what happened. In particular, what it was like having a very traumatic birth her last time around, when her hopes and expectations were at their highest. This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

No matter how beautiful, long, short or difficult your birth experience is, nothing compares to  the agony of your brand new baby being whisked out of your arms and admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or Special Care Nursery (SPC). Mothers in this position often experience less autonomy and authority over the decision-making and informed consent process than they did in their own birth experiences.   Today, we share the individual stories of three women whose babies ended up in the NICU or SPC with one common thread: Informed consent was insufficient or lacking altogether, interventions were performed without permission, and timely diagnoses for their babies were neglected.  Meet Cameron, whose home birth plans were derailed when she went into labor spontaneously at 34 weeks; Nicole,  a mother of five and birth doula whose baby was grossly misdiagnosed until a year of age; and Erin, a mother of three who successfully insisted on breast-feeding in the NICU and followed her instincts to fight for her baby to get an early release from an unnecessarily prolonged stay in the NICU.  Each mother shares her story and her battle to feed, hold, comfort and mother her baby within the confines of NICU and SCN procedures and policies. And even though these three moms never met, they each came to the same individual conclusion when it comes to the advice they have for all parents: Know your rights, your breastfeeding expectations and your values, and use your instinct to defend all three relentlessly through your NICU experience. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello everyone!  It is Wednesday, and we are back with our monthly Q&A!  In this month's extended Q&As (always ad-free and available to all by subscribing to Down To Birth + on Apple or joining our Patreon community) we discuss an interesting situation reported by one mom regarding  her "retained placenta" - or was it? How would you know if it's really a medical situation or a failure to be patient? We also respond to one mom regarding the quality of European versus U.S. formulas, we discuss how to really know when to go to the hospital in labor, and whether it is ok to push without an urge - should you do it or wait for the go-ahead? Finally, the question so many parents can relate to: How much should I worry when my breastfed baby has plummeted on the growth curve? In our regular Q&A version (non-extended), one mother inquires about her bedroom temperature being too cold for her newborn but necessary for her own sleep comfort - what's too cold for a newborn and what's the risk? We also discuss petite mothers' abilities to vaginally birth babies, because one woman has received plenty of unsolicited negativity about her body size, despite that she's fit and healthy. We also discuss one provider's comment about having to keep women on their backs while pushing "in case" she needs to utilize the McRobert's position in the event of shoulder dystocia. Is that legit? Cholestasis is the special circumstance faced by another mom, who wants to understand the risks and isn't thrilled it'll most likely mean induction. One Home Birth After Cesarean (HBAC) mom is concerned about whether she should get an ultrasound to ensure her placenta has not attached over her scar - should this be routine for VBAC and HBAC women?   Other moms are asking: "Is it normal to feel nauseous when breastfeeding"   "Do babies need to be burped after feeds?"   and more. Thank you for all of your awesome questions and for being part of this fabulous community! Call 802-GET-DOWN any time to submit a question for our next Q&A. And remember to join our Patreon community to attend our two educational, interactive livestreams every month! ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

In today's episode we discuss the problem with Rh negative blood types and how it impacts future pregnancies. We've invited Courtney, mother of three, and her midwife, Jessica, to discuss her experience as an Rh negative mother who became isoimmunized against her baby, resulting in the need for multiple in-utero blood transfusions to save her baby's life.  Typically, women who carry the Rh negative blood type are given a blood product called Rhogam, which protects the mother from developing an auto-immune response against her future babies. In Courtney's case, Rhogam (also known as anti-D) did not work. As a result, her own body "attacked" her third baby, causing her baby to have life-threatening anemia in utero.  The purpose of this episode is to help mothers (a) learn about the issue behind Rh negative blood types; (b) understand how Rhogam works to prevent isoimmuization; (c) know the risks associated with receiving the Rhogam injection; and (d) feel empowered by discovering that even a high-risk pregnancy, such as Courtney's, can be co-managed under midwifery care to achieve the labor and birth goals associated with a low-intervention or natural birth. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Lindsey Meehleis is a midwife in Southern California who practices traditional midwifery and has supported women in home birth over the last nineteen years.  We invited her on the podcast today without a specific agenda (a rather unusual twist on our style) and let the conversation take on a life of its own.  We discussed what is happening with midwifery today as we pondered, "Where have all the traditional midwives gone, how has midwifery changed with the advent of nurse-midwifery, and who will carry the torch for the ancient wisdom of birth going forward?"    We stumbled into a passionate conversation around the current cancel culture and concerns around the insidious yet intentional erasure of women through fundamental changes in everyday language and how women unknowingly give their power away through compliance not only in language but also in birth. Grab a cup of tea and join us at the table for this inspiring and important conversation on the future of birth and women. Lindsey Meehleis on Instagram @lindseymeehleis This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Emma of the naked doula is a mother, instagram phenomenon, artist, and passionate, bold birth educator residing across the pond from us, in England. She uses bright colors, raw imagery and impassioned language to teach her birth philosophy and method. Today, she joins us on the Down to Birth Show to share her secret sauce to your easiest and best birth. She explains five specific strategies that anyone can incorporate into their labor including: Floppy face, floppy fanny, the comb technique, KICO (knees in calves out), and how and why to "party through labor!" We also discuss how birth can be orgasmic and what circumstances exist to even make that possible. This must-listen episode will leave you with important and essential need-to-know tips to help you have your easiest, safest and best birth.  The Naked Doula on Instagram This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

When Reyna learned she was pregnant with twins she was told  she would need to be induced and get an epidural and that there was no point in staying pregnant beyond thirty-eight weeks. Refusing induction, she went into labor naturally at  39+2.  As labor progressed, her obstetrician told her she needed to give birth in the operating room. Without a second thought, Reyna turned and said, "No, I am not giving birth in the OR."  Instead, she went into the bathroom, dropped to her hands and knees and created a safe, quiet space for herself while her OB pleaded with her to at least allow her to "deliver" her babies.  "No, I don't like you!" Reyna responded. This is an inspiring and courageous twin birth story showing what is possible when a woman takes absolute full responsibility for her birth choices regardless of who attends her birth or where.  ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello Friends! It is Wednesday, and Cynthia & Trisha are here with your October Q&A episode.  To kick it off, we share a story from a listener who wanted everyone to know how a routine gynecologic exam in her twenties turned into a precarious moment in her VBAC experience.  Next, we dive into our questions beginning with the potential association between  evening primrose oil in pregnancy, a smelly baby at birth, and early cord clamping--could they all be related?  Then, we go through the real deal on how long breast milk can sit unrefrigerated and still be safe to feed your baby. Next, comes a lengthy discussion on intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)--what is it and how is it diagnosed?  Another mother asks if it is necessary to pump the alternate breast overnight to keep up her supply. Other moms are asking: "If I have bacteria in my urine at eight weeks gestation, do I need antibiotics in labor?  My doctor told be it is non-negotiable." "Is there any correlation between longer pregnancies and meeting developmental milestones sooner?" "Help! I want to support my postpartum friend but have no idea what meals to make; what is a nutritious postpartum meal?"  And, of course, we finish off the episode with a round of quickies touching on pacifiers versus thumb-sucking, home birth, how soon to have sex after trying to conceive, water birth, prolapse, and eating dates for a faster labor! And if that is not enough, you can get more of your questions answered in our extended version of this episode by subscribing to Down To Birth + on Apple or joining our Patreon community.  There, we discuss how uterine fibroids may impact labor, experiencing postpartum insomnia, baby wanting food at just 4 months; setting boundaries with in-laws and managing breastfeeding along with wanting your partner to take at least one of the nighttime feedings.  Thank you for all of your awesome questions and for being part of this fabulous community! And remember you can call our phone line with your questions 24/7 at 802-GET-DOWN. (That's 802-438-3696) ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

GBS affects approximately one-third of all pregnant women, and involves widespread use of intravenous antibiotics in labor even though the screening tests are known to be highly imperfect, and some women are at significantly greater risk of GBS colonization than others. Further, there are specific risk factors making some babies far more likely to contract GBS than others. This "universal" approach to GBS management is the very start of our deep and detailed discussion on GBS. Cynthia and Trisha  have reviewed all the available data from the past three decades to provide you with informed decision-making on GBS. This episode is divided into two parts, with the first part available on all podcast platforms, and the full, extended version available right now on our Patreon platform or through Apple Subscriptions. In the regular episode (the first half of the extended episode) we cover what GBS is, how it's screened, who is most likely to test positive, the controversies around the universal approach to treating GBS in labor, how effective the antibiotics are, plus a detailed analysis on the likelihood of a baby becoming ill from GBS in both the mothers who opt for and against the antibiotics. We also discuss the difference between colonization and infection in babies,  the associated risk to babies and the maternal risk factors that increase risks to the baby. Ultimately, we break down the stats to answer the question everyone wants to know: How likely is it that my baby will get sick and/or die from GBS infection if I do or do not get tested and/or take antibiotics in labor? In the extended version of this episode, available to all our listeners at the click of a button on Patreon, we also cover: - ways to "pass" the test, and what to keep in mind if you do so; - how to treat your GBS naturally, skipping the antibiotics altogether; - the effects of the antibiotics on your baby's microbiome and the two no-risk, natural things you can do postpartum to restore your baby's flora safely and quickly; - risks of the antibiotics on moms, and how to minimize those risks; - how the antibiotics can interfere in your breastfeeding relationship; - what we're seeing with probiotics, how to take them and specifically the best probiotic to take during pregnancy to support vaginal flora; Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Rachel Reed, PhD, author, midwife, researcher and expert in physiologic birth joins us for the second time on the Down to Birth Show to discuss the differences between physiologic birth and induced labor. She shares with us the different ways in which Pitocin/Syntocin impacts the course of labor, including significant risk to mother and baby, versus our own natural oxytocin. You'll learn the unique risks of Pitocin for first-time moms, and the entirely different set of risks Pitocin presents to women who've already given birth before. She explains the general risks of induced labor, and discusses circumstances when induction is absolutely necessary. In this episode, we critique the ARRIVE trial and its flawed results, which have led to many women choosing elective induction at 39 weeks believing it to be a safer option for mother and baby.  If you haven't heard it already,  be sure to listen to our very popular first episode with Rachel Reed.  #150: Myth of the Aging Placenta with Author/Midwife Rachel Reed This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Melissa Pennel was thirty-four years old when she was pregnant for the first time. She already had experienced significant life challenges: She had lost her own mother a few years earlier, plus she was seven years sober. Her pregnancy presented several health scares along the way, such as a two-vessel cord and a perceived hole in the baby's heart, eliciting words like possible "fetal demise" from her providers and the potentiality of "organs not developing normally". Her baby was also breech until 36 weeks, keeping Melissa questioning whether her own ego and attachment to a natural birth were the reasons for her challenges. She then went post-term, all the way to 42 weeks, despite pressure from her providers, and during a vaginal exam at her check-up, the amniotic sac "accidentally" ruptured. Due to her work in recovery and a strong muscle for accepting responsibility, she kept coming back to the feeling that she was somehow creating these situations herself - she called this "the choke-hold of control". Melissa caught herself forming negative beliefs like, "Everything's going wrong" and "Nothing is going to be easy." Once her OB broke her waters, she was advised to be induced, and an extremely long and difficult labor ensued. Traumatized by her first birth, Melissa both took greater responsibility and surrendered further in her second pregnancy, realizing that the only person who had to "have her back" was herself.  A year later, she birthed her second daughter on her terms and far more quickly and easily than she dreamed. Today Melissa views pregnancy as a powerful vessel for self-growth and transformation--a container she says which, "poured MiracleGro on all her issues," while learning the delicate balance of what she could and could not control.  Melissa is the author of the following books: https://linktr.ee/MelissaPennel Questions You'll Wish You Asked: A Time Capsule Journal for Parents and Children Questions Yo Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello all! We are back with our monthly Q&A. To kick it off, we have a short conversation on maternal instincts.  Next, we discuss how one woman should handle her mother-in-law's request to be called "Mama".  Then we review the very few reasons when an induction is absolutely needed, how long you can go with ruptured membranes before inducing labor, followed by a question on familial history and  a genetic predisposition to needing a cesarean birth.  Another mother calls in to express her postpartum exhaustion and relationship struggles, as she feels depleted by the day and with nothing left to give her husband at the end of it.  One mother wonders if being sick during pregnancy is harmful to her baby, and finally we discuss Lotus birth--what is it and is it un-hygienic? In our extended version, available via Apple Subscriptions, we'll be responding to one woman's concern about pre-empting family issues postpartum in her quest to get them to provide help when they visit. Another mom asked our opinion on amber teething necklaces, and Trisha explains how they're often misunderstood as actual "teething" products, when they're not. There were some breastfeeding questions related to frequent plugged ducts; fever and low milk supply. And finally, one birth worker is asking whether amnio-infusion is a reasonable solution when amniotic waters are low.  If you don't listen on an Apple device and would like access to our exclusive and extended episodes, email us at [email protected] and put "Extended Episodes" in the subject line. Thank you as always for your great questions and see you next week! If you would like to submit a question, please call and leave us a message with your question at (802) 438-3696 That's 802-GET-DOWN. ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Infant sleep is one of the most important topics on the mind of every new parent. New parents are left wondering what normal infant sleep looks like, how much their baby needs at each age, and how create easier sleep routines resulting in longer stretches of sleep during day and night. Many of today's parents are afraid that any degree of crying will create negative associations or, worse, teach the child their needs won't be met. In preparation for this episode, we solicited questions from the Down to Birth community on Instagram, and we've asked the expert: Ellie is a birth doula and infant sleep specialist who shares her expertise on how to help babies learn healthy sleep habits using wake windows and without aggressive sleep training techniques. In this episode, we take your most important infant sleep questions and get Ellie's expert answers on how to help, such as: Should I swaddle to sleep? Is it ok to breastfeed to sleep? Can I let my baby cry it out? How do I get my baby to sleep longer stretches, how to handle vacationing with baby, and many more. Ellie gives us practical and gentle tools to help our babies get their daily sleep needs met without feeling guilty. If you are looking for more sleep with less stress, this episode is for you.    Ellie Lindenmayer This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hermine Hayes-Klein is a fearless legal advocate for sexual and reproductive rights with a particular passion for defending women’s human rights in childbirth, which, she says, are routinely violated in maternity care systems. You may recall attorney Hermine Hayes-Klein from our previous episodes with her: Episode #138 | Legal Case Study #1: Traumatized at a Major Teaching Hospital While Interns Watched and Learned Episode #153 | Legal Case Study #2: Injured by Obstetrics with Nowhere Else to Turn  In today's episode, we talk to Hermine about provider bias; in particular, the bias hospital-based providers can demonstrate toward (especially home-birth) midwives. However, limiting birth options for mothers does not decrease risk of poor outcomes but rather puts mothers and babies at increased risk. When women choose an alternative birth experience, such as out-of-hospital birth or home birth, the medical bias held by hospital-based providers often results in sub-par or even negligent care of the birthing woman, increasing both her risk and her baby's risk. Hermine Hayes-Klien talks to us today about how United States law fails to protect birth choices and instead excuses obstetricians for biased and negligent care of  women who transfer from home to hospital.  What if instead, we had a system allowing for collaborative care with continuity of providers...So how do we get over the paradigm clash and create an integrated system to better protect women who choose out of hospital birth?  This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

There are over 85,000 chemicals approved for use in personal care products and fewer than 200 of those have been tested for safety. Carly Hartwig is a home-birth mother of one,  Instagram influencer @cleanlivingwithcarly, and soon-to-be certified endocrine wellness and fertility counselor. Her passion for clean living grew out of her own hormonal havoc when she was told in her twenties she had the hormonal landscape of a post-menopausal woman. She soon realized the products she was using daily in her skincare, make-up and household routines were compromising her health and hormones. After eliminating the most common culprits of toxic living such as heavy metals, Pthalates, and Bisphenols, her health was beautifully restored. Today, she is here to educate us on the lack of FDA-regulation when it comes to the personal-care and household-product industries in the Unites States. She also shares some of the primary sources of endocrine disruptors, teaches how to swap the toxic for clean-and-green products, and explains why this is critical for all mothers who are pregnant or trying to conceive. This episode will have you going "Marie Kondo" on everything in your bathroom, pantry, laundry room, and cleaning products, so get ready for clean living with Carly! This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello! It is the last Wednesday of the month, and you know what that means.  We are here with our August Q&A episode. Today, Cynthia & Trisha are discussing weight loss after having a baby--can you lose too much too fast? What tests should be done if you've had multiple miscarriages?  Can you give us the scoop on Evening Primrose oil for getting labor started--is it helpful or hurtful? How do I handle my mother-in-law who keeps giving me keepsakes for the baby that I don't want? Is there a way to safely bed-share with your baby without investing in extra contraptions? What is the best way to create a stash of breastmilk without causing oversupply? And one of everybody's favorite topics: pushing in labor--when should you and when should you not? Remember you can access the extended, ad-free version of this episode by subscribing on Apple. This month's extended version is jam-packed and includes the following: Trisha gives one woman the lowdown on all the types of "pain relief" options in labor. Another moms is experiencing some unusual physical symptoms at six-months postpartum and wonders if it means her period is returning. We discuss "failure to descend" versus failure to progress because one listener had a c-section and had never heard of that diagnosis before. We discuss a pregnant woman's high blood pressure questions as she's preparing for her home birth, and Trisha responds to a question about newborn feeding schedules as far as whether there's a time and place for using an alarm. We also discuss short cords, and resources for evidence-based info on induction versus waiting.  If you don't listen on an Apple device and would like access to our exclusive and extended episodes, email us at [email protected] and put "Extended Episodes" in the subject line. Thank you as always for your great questions and see you next week! If you would like to submit a question, please call and leave us a message with your question at (802) 438-3696 That's 802-GET-DOWN ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Aumatma is a holistic fertility expert who, through her own hormonal challenges, became impassioned about supporting and optimizing women's cycles and fertility irrespective of age. Today, she shares with us the three most common myths in infertility and fertility management, explains what tests we must do to better understand our hormones, and walks us through the key lifestyle factors, sleep, stress, and diet, and how they impact our fertility and conception.  This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* Baby Notebook - Get the App Here *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Matthew Fray's new book "This Is How Your Marriage Ends: A Hopeful Approach to Saving Relationships" is directed primarily toward a male audience, and asserts most marriages end with a whimper, not a bang. Matthew helps us understand how good people like him "can be terrible husbands" by unknowingly causing harm to their wives. Did you know most divorces are initiated by women? Matthew explains relationships don't tend to end from a single betrayal, but after years of a slow but persistent erosion in trust over seemingly minor marital disputes. Having first-hand experience with a wife who left him when their son was a toddler, Matthew turned to blogging as his outlet for expressing his extreme pain and frustration, initially victimizing himself as a good guy who didn't deserve to lose his family just because he's not perfect. But after hearing from thousands of men and women - particularly after his viral article "She divorced me because I left dishes by the sink" - Matthew experienced a transformation by taking full responsibility for hurting his wife time and time again, having seldom taken seriously her complaints along the way. Matthew says part of the problem is that no one ever taught him how to be a better husband, and he doesn't hold that opinion as an excuse, but as a conviction that men can learn to do better and not end up with wives who'll leave them, as his did. Matthew has been coaching couples for several years before writing his book. Postpartum is an extremely vulnerable time for mothers and a delicate time for relationships. We hope this episode will shed light on how husbands can best support their wives and avoid the pitfalls of resentment and relationship breakdown over time.  We read Matthew's book and invited him on the show because we believe he understands how to bridge the gap between well-meaning husbands and the wives they unwittingly end up hurting or disappointing. Matthew - and we - recognize the obvious fact that these conversations don't apply to all men, nor do all relationships follow the heterosexual normative. Nevertheless, we believe this discussion, through all its generalizations, are eye-opening and beneficial for either partner in any relationship. Send this one to your partner or a friend. We believe they'll thank you for it. Matthew is the author of "This is Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Anne Margolis is a Certified Nurse Midwife, author, and trauma specialist who has been catching babies for over twenty-seven years. Anne began as a nurse, whose first birth experience ended in a fourth degree episiotomy and vacuum delivery after being told she needed an emergency cesarean because her baby's heart rate was decelerating.  She was so "checked out" due to stress and shock that Anne describes her first birth as an out-of-body experience. Her baby was born with normal APGARs, which immediately refuted her doctor's fetal distress diagnosis, and she was left completely traumatized in the aftermath. This led her to develop a program for birth trauma healing and turn to home birth midwifery practice, where she could put the mother at the center of the decision-making process. She joins us today to share stories of obstetric violence and redemptive births alike, and to discuss how women can shift their mindsets and make the commitment to birth their babies on their terms, no matter where they choose to give birth. Instagram: Homesweethomebirth Natural Birth Secrets: An Insiders Guide on How To Give Birth Holistically, Healthfully and Safely, and Love the Experience! Trauma Release Formula: The Revolutionary Step by Step Program for Eliminating Effects of Childhood Abuse, Trauma, Emotional Pain and Crippling Inner Stress, ... without Drugs or Therapy  This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Sex and birth are inextricably linked. Both functions operate optimally under the same conditions: trust, safety, security, surrender. Furthermore, they both require oxytocin. So it is no wonder that birth can actually be the biggest oxytocin rush and/or orgasm of your life. But the importance of healthy sexual energy goes far beyond birth. It is also the key to our best relationship and our best life. Kim Anami is a holistic sex and relationship coach whose thirty years' experience has been dedicated toward working with couples to show them how to harness their sexual energy as the ultimate power source of their lives. As Kim states, "When we are disconnected from our sexual energy, we are operating at a deficiency.  Conversely, when we are connected to our sexual energy we are operating on all cylinders. It is our life force."  So why do so many of us struggle with sexual desire, especially post-baby? How many of us are going through the motions of sex as opposed to building intimacy and fueling our maximum sexual life force? And how can we keep this sexual power alive as we go through postpartum, early parenthood and old age? Kim is emphatic that everyone can - and should - be experiencing earth-shattering, life-altering orgasms as an integral component of a whole, healthy lifestyle. Tune in today - for sure at a lower volume if the kids are around - to hear Kim's roadmap to keeping your sex life and relationship thriving...and if you ever wondered what "birth rape" means or what a cervical orgasm feels like, now is your chance to learn. This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

It's the last Wednesday of the month, and you know what that means!  We are back with our monthly Q&A episode. Today, we are discussing how long it is safe to go after your bag of waters releases (see link to our amazing birth story below); What can be done to treat or prevent Hyperemesis Gravidarum? Is Aspirin in pregnancy really necessary and what does ACOG have to say about it? When your hospital says waterbirth increases the risk of infection and is harmful to the baby--is that true? The world-expert in water birthing, Barbara Harper, founder of Waterbirth International, steps in to answer this one. And one woman was told her uterus wouldn't be "safe" to have another baby for one year. Also, is it normal to have nipple pain in pregnancy and how will this impact breastfeeding...and quickies! Remember you can access the extended, ad-free version of this episode by subscribing on Apple. This month's extended version includes: Severe carpel tunnel in pregnancy and what can be done about it; Fetal scalp electrode monitoring: what is it, and do the benefits ever outweigh the risks? You'll hear our thoughts on this "extreme" intervention; Having a two-vessel umbilical cord that was identified during the 20-week anatomy scan; What's the lowdown on red raspberry leaf tea? What are the benefits, and when/how much to consume during pregnancy. Thank you as always for your excellent questions and see you next week! If you would like to submit a question, please call and leave us a message with your question at (802) 438-3696 That's 802-GET-DOWN. (Cute, right?) #78 | Christina's Run From Induction to a Home Birth with Group B Strep ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Nicole Alfred the @csectionrecoverycoach is a cesarean recovery coach, massage therapist, and mother of two. She has given birth two times by C-section: one emergent and traumatic, the other empowered and planned. Her different experiences opened her eyes to the abject lack of support mothers receive post-operatively. Nicole sees a need for much more emotional and physical attention. In today's episode, she shares with us the key steps she believes mothers must take, beginning immediately after surgery and through the first 12 weeks postpartum for optimizing  recovery. These steps include restoring healthy digestive function, wound & scar healing, pelvic floor recovery, and connecting with the incision scar to facilitate emotional processing and healing. This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Should we really be treating fevers in young children? Why are babies so gassy? Are germs helpful or harmful for our kids?  Do kids actually need cows' milk?  What is the problem with dairy?  Dr. Joel Gator Warsh , an integrative pediatrician in Los Angeles, CA, joins us today to discuss what is happening in our environment that is contributing to making kids sicker in the past generation rather than healthier, despite all the resources of modern society.  He answers our most pressing questions as new parents, gives us tips on how to make our households healthier and teaches us the most important step we can take to protect our children's health for the long term. Integrative Pediatrics and Medicine * * * * * * * * * * Connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow, where we post new information daily related to pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. You can reach us at [email protected]. We are always happy to hear from our listeners and appreciate questions for our monthly Q&A episodes. To submit a question, visit the Down To Birth website or send us a voice memo through Instagram messenger. This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

The Business of Birth Control is a new documentary directed by Abby Epstein and produced by Ricki Lake, who achieved international acclaim for their revolutionary 2008 film, "The Business of Being Born". Abby joins us today to discuss why she and Ricki made their new film, which boldly shines a light on some of the severe side effects that accompany hormonal birth control, including death -- and the fact that congress, and the pharmaceuticals who make the pill, have long known about these adverse outcomes and have done nothing about it. Most disturbing of all, even though women have gathered, protested and demanded a safer and better-quality pill since the 1960s when these side-effects became known, there has been absolutely no advance in technology nor any improvement in safety standards in decades. In fact, the majority of the budget is allocated toward marketing and advertising. And while most bereaved families have been gagged in exchange for financial settlements, in the film we meet the parents of those who refused and who are demanding change.  Did you know a full fifty-percent of women who go on the pill come off it due to side effects? This only drives up the risk of unwanted pregnancies. We also discuss the lack of informed consent and unnecessary risks taken with  women and young, prepubescent girls, who are encouraged to go on the pill to clear up acne. Abby gives us an insider's look into how the film is spun in the media as controversial and is  mischaracterized as "anti-birth control" when the opposite is true: The Business of Birth Control is overt in its demand for safer birth control and more education; and, for those who wish to come off the pill, it seeks to empower women to understand their fertility cycles so they can choose the birth control that's safest and most effective for them. Abby and Ricki have been on a busy media tour and we're so grateful they came on the Down to Birth Show to invite us into this important conversation regarding  women's health, choice, autonomy and consent. To view The Business of Birth Control, visit the website and use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH to stream at 50% off. Instagram: businessofbirthcontrol This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Hello! This month's Q &A begins with a story from one of our Instagram followers on the pressure to have a vaginal exam to document cervical status so that her doctor can schedule an induction that she didn't need or want. Next, we jump into our questions starting with, "I have a narrow pelvis and grow big babies; what can I do stretch my pelvis for birth?" What can be done about plugged ducts and "Is my haaka helpful or hurtful?" Do I have to be on my back for a cervical exam?  What are the risks of external cephalic version for breech babies? Is it normal to have no libido at four months postpartum?  Should I use castor oil to induce labor? What is actually necessary for baby care; do we really need all the things? Why is cord prolapse dangerous? And finally, why is postpartum sex so painful? And if you want a lot more Q&A content, please subscribe to Down To Birth + on Apple subscriptions to get our extended version of this episode. For our Apple subscribers, our ad-free, extended version includes: Oral Vitamin K for babies, placental encapsulation, bad breastfeeding advice from pediatricians,  what to do about prodromal labor, trans-vaginal ultrasounds, and how to process a birth that did not go as planned. Thank you as always for your wonderful questions and see you next week!   Connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow, where we post new information daily related to pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. You can reach us at [email protected]. We are always happy to hear from our listeners and appreciate questions for our monthly Q&A episodes. To submit a question, visit the Down To Birth website or send us a voice memo through Instagram messenger. This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Danielle Daure holds a Master's Degree in Education and has over 20 years' combined experience in education and behavior analysis. She is a Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst (BCBA, LBA). For years, Danielle worked with children as old as five with extreme anxiety around toilets, to the point where they had severe constipation through tears and tantrums. She saw frustrated parents trying to reward and/or punish their children into potty-training; children who couldn't start preschool because they weren't out of diapers; and even older toddlers with impacted bowels who had to be hospitalized because of days of withholding bowel movements.  Toilet training isn't inherently difficult to learn; it is only that adults haven't been taught how to property introduce children to the toilet in a way that's natural and developmentally-appropriate. She has learned personally and professionally that when parents take simple daily steps, just 2-3 minutes per day from about four months on, toilet training will develop as easily and naturally as learning how to walk and talk and ride in a carseat.  Her method is called Developmental Toilet Training, and doesn't subscribe to the diaper-free approach of the well-known Elimination Communication method because she says it's not practical, nor is it especially beneficial, to rush the process during infancy and avoid diapers entirely. Danielle, who offers a video series for parents, also encourages her clients to avoid using training-potties.  Today, she walks us through her method for creating the easiest transition from diapers to toilet, and, surprisingly, the process isn't about getting to the goal of potty-training as soon as possible; it's about creating a safe, happy, stress-free and rewarding process for parents and children along the way. Developmental Toilet Training Website This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

"There is something going on against midwives, against birth centers, and against choice for women." Cathy Parisi is the director of the Connecticut Childbirth & Women's Center in Danbury, Ct since 1999. The center is the only free standing birth center in Connecticut and promotes physiologic birth under the midwifery model of care, offering women choice, freedom, and empowered decision making in their care in the birth center itself or across the street at Danbury hospital.  Recently, the hospital administration cited more than one midwife for practicing "out of their scope of care" and revoked one midwifes' privileges to attend birth at the hospital for an incident that happened within the birth center, was clinically appropriate, and entirely within her scope of practice. Cathy joins us today to share the battle that not just her team of midwives are facing from the hospital monopoly; but also, what she believes to be a trend nationwide--punishing midwives and the women who choose to birth with them for choice and autonomy over their own bodies and birth.  This episode is close to our hearts as it impacts our local community of women and midwives, is where Cynthia gave birth to her first child and where Trisha provides her breastfeeding services. We stand with the midwives of CCWC.  The Connecticut Childbirth & Women's Center Help Support The Fight Against Danbury Hospital and Defend the Midwives ********** Connect with Cynthia and Trisha at: Instagram: @downtobirthshow on InstagramEmail: [email protected]: (802) 438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN)Work with Cynthia: Email: [email protected] Text: 203-952-7299 to RSVP to attend a free information session live on Zoom. Upcoming dates are posted at HypnoBirthingCT.com. You can also sign up for our Fourth Trimester Workshop,  Breastfeeding Workshop or Cynthia's HypnoBirthing classes and weekly postpartum support groups at HypnoBirthing of Connecticut. Work with T Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.

Dr. Nathan Riley is a board certified obstetrician in California advocating for autonomous birth. Through his experiences as a hospice care provider he learned that choices around end of life care are no different from choices in birth: What matters is that mothers feel in charge of their bodies during their birth experiences.  He argues that birth is so much more than the standard metrics of vital signs, length of labor, fetal status or any variable routinely measured in labor in the medical model of care. Join us in this stimulating conversation on how women can better empower themselves in birth and hear one  courageous OB's perspective on what his role actually is in birth: Supporting your sovereignty and your choice without coercion or judgement.  Dr. Nathan Riley OBGYN This show is sponsored by: Silverette USA* DYPER* NOM Maternity* Vyana Infant Massage* Wildbird.co* Beautiful Births and Beyond* Postpartum Soothe* *Use promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ********** Send us Fan Mail Needed -- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order DrinkLMNT --  this link for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure:  ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits: --this link for 20% off Join Patreon for our exclusive content IG @downtobirthshow Down to Birth Show Call 802-GET-DOWN Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.