394 avsnitt • Längd: 65 min • Månadsvis
The birth world can be overwhelming for parents and practitioners alike. Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young and their combined 55+ years of experience are here to support you in this beautiful rite of passage.
Join the weekly conversation as we blend wisdom and humor in discussing our recent births, the latest research, traditional healing, and instinctual birth.
The podcast Birthing Instincts is created by Dr. Stuart Fischbein + Midwife Blyss Young. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
Since the airing of this episode, we have been made aware of a Reddit post sharing a number of allegations against the practices and character of our guest. We are aware of the situation and encourage everyone to be diligent when seeking out resources/support.
https://www.reddit.com/r/FreeBirthSocietyScam/
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This week Blyss and Stu invite Emilee Saldaya, the founder of the Free Birth Society, onto the podcast. Emilee shares her journey from working within the medicalized birth system to advocating and supporting free birth. They discuss the philosophy of free birth, the importance of owning your 'no', and the challenges and misconceptions surrounding autonomous births. Together they explore the impact of societal norms on birthing practices and the power of creating supportive, non-hierarchical birth environments.
About Emilee:
Emilee is a birth educator, birth witness, midwifery teacher, women's elevation coach, host of the viral Free Birth Society podcast, and the founder of Free Birth Society.
Emilee started her birth work journey in 2003. Before long, Emilee witnessed the fundamental fracture that takes place when women give birth within the medical system. Rather than look the other way, Emilee chose to be the revolution she wished to see and transform birthing culture as we know it.
From the belly of the beast to a place of recognition and revolution, Emilee brings two decades of birth work experience and expertise to this space, having supported thousands of births, and knowing with certainty that freebirth has the power to change the world, one motherbaby at a time. Emilee is warm, kind, fierce — and incredibly adept at providing a spacious witnessing that supports women to step into their power.
Having chosen wild pregnancy and freebirth herself with both of her children, Emilee teaches from an inspiring and embodied spirit, with enthusiasm that is truly contagious.
In This Episode
Discovering Free Birth
Leaving the System
Facing Financial and Social Fears
Philosophy of Responsibility in Birth
The Role of Medical Providers
The Importance of Trust and Autonomy
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In this episode, Blyss and Stu delve into a rich conversation with Billie Harrigan, who discusses her role as a traditional birth companion and the importance of home birth. Billie offers insights into the origins and flaws of regulated midwifery, the rise of obstetric violence, and the increasing stillbirth rates. She emphasizes the need for resilience and trauma-informed care, and shares her approach to prenatal and postpartum care. Billie shares about her training program for aspiring traditional birth companions and underscores the critical role of community support and autonomy in childbirth.
About Billie Harrigan:
Billie Harrigan is a fierce advocate for restoring safety and sanity to modern birth practices. She has served birthing families for about 40 years and has taught midwives and other birth practitioners in 125 countries. The technocratic birth services industry is out of control and needs a new approach with a different understanding of how humans arrive.
To that end, Billie offers training in the knowledge and skills of traditional birth companionship. This is a role once held by the Canadian neighbour who had both common birth knowledge and developed birth skills but has been appropriated by the medical cartel and bastardised into what we know as medical midwifery.
Billie is also the founder of Birth Trauma Ontario, an agency dedicated to the education and healing of both perpetrators and their victims from the global scourge of obstetric violence. She has authored the world’s first and most comprehensive online course in becoming equipped in the skills of trauma informed care specific to the childbearing experience.
She is the founder and director of the private member association, The Hive Collective, which brings together a community that is creating holistic alternatives for reclaiming our sovereignty over our bodies, births, babies, families, finances, and future.
Website: www.billieharrigan.com / www.birthtraumaontario.ca / www.harriganhive.com / www.thehivecollective.life
Instagram: @billieharrigan / @birthtraumaontario
Resources
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, by James Nestor
In This Episode
Understanding Trauma-Informed Care
Empathy in Medical Training
Midwifery vs. Obstetrics
The Role of the Birth Companion
The Importance of a Calm Birth Environment
Challenges in Modern Midwifery
Obstetric Violence and Resilience
Rising Stillbirth Rates and Systemic Issues
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Liz Wheeler from Blaze TV's 'The Liz Wheeler Show' joins the Birthing Instincts Podcast for an insightful discussion on the flaws within the American medical system and the importance of trusting one's body in the birthing process. Liz shares her personal journey through preterm labor, experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, and navigating the medical interventions that followed.
The discussion highlights the contrast between standardized medical care and individualized, holistic approaches emphasizing the importance of the need for systemic change in healthcare.
About Liz:
Host of “The Liz Wheeler Show” on BlazeTV, author of “Hide Your Children: Exposing the Marxists Behind the Attack on America’s Kids,” recipient of Clare Booth Luce Woman of the Year award, wife, mother, Catholic.
Website: BlazeTV.com/Liz
Instagram: Officiallizwheeler
X: @Liz_Wheeler
Book: Hide Your Children: Exposing the Marxists Behind the Attack on America's Kids, By Liz Wheeler
In This Episode
Who is Liz Wheeler
Liz Wheeler's Background and Beliefs
Liz's Personal Health Journey
Liz's Pregnancy and Birth Story
Finding Common Ground in Conversations
Navigating Preterm Labor and Bed Rest
Critique of Modern Medicine
The Need for a Medical Reform
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In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu explore the risks and benefits of cesarean sections (C-sections) and vaginal births after cesareans (VBACs). They discuss the pros and cons of home births versus hospital births. In a hospital setting, expectant parents benefit from a large, skilled medical team, while home births offer more control over the birthing experience and additional time for bonding with the baby.
It's crucial to consider the entire pregnancy when making this decision. When opting for a home birth, having assistance from a certified nurse-midwife or access to an obstetrician is essential, as home births carry their own risks. Planning ahead is vital in this scenario. Educating oneself is equally important to ensure the best choices are made for both the mother and the baby. Tune in to learn more!
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In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, we explore the possibilities of homeopathy and homeopathic remedies. The benefits of this type of alternative treatment for pregnancy, labor, and related issues are numerous, with the most significant advantage being the absence of side effects. Mothers can be prescribed homeopathic remedies without the fear of adverse reactions that are often associated with conventional medicine. However, it is essential to work closely with a trained practitioner to initiate treatment effectively.
To delve deeper into this topic, we welcome Laurie Fremgen, a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and Licensed Midwife (LM) with nearly 30 years of experience. Laurie shares her journey into homeopathy, its effectiveness in modern practice, and insights on how it works—most importantly, why it works. You will also learn about the most common homeopathic remedies used during childbirth and the appropriate dosages for various situations.
About Laurie Fremgen
Laurie Fremgen is a homebirth CPM, LM in the Austin area for almost 30 years. She is the current Chair of the Midwives Advisory Board and works hard to keep Texas Midwifery laws flexible so that midwives can provide individualized care to their clients. Laurie is a student and practitioner of homeopathy. Laurie is also an avid mountain biker, finding great peace in the woods.
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Join Blyss and Dr. Stu in this episode as they welcome Michele Kazmier to the show. Michele is a home birth midwife passionate about holistic neonatal transition. During the episode, she shares her insights on the NRP guidelines for newborn care, explaining why oxygen is often used for resuscitating newborns at birth instead of room air, and how to assess babies at birth to determine if they are compromised.
Listeners will also learn about various neonatal resuscitation methods essential for the care of newborns, with a focus on providing warmth and stimulating breathing. It's crucial to allow time for bonding between the baby and the mother. Michele also offers valuable advice for midwives, emphasizing the importance of patience and calmness during this special moment for the health and well-being of everyone involved. Tune in!
About Michele Kazmier
Michele is a San Diego home birth midwife passionate about holistic neonatal transition. Her interest in neonatal care began over 30 years ago when she was a Navy Nurse in 29 Palms, CA. Faced with limited resources in a busy, remote hospital - full of growing families - she quickly realized how important her neonatal skills were to the clients she served. Since that time she has developed Baby’s Breath - a course to help parents and professionals understand physiologic newborn transition and the skills to support the vital moments following birth.
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In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Lindsey Mathews Cantu, a strength and conditioning coach at Birthfit. Birthfit offers specialized strength and conditioning training tailored for mothers and their motherhood journey. Throughout the conversation, Lindsey shares her personal experience of giving birth and discusses how her philosophies influenced this meaningful moment. She also explains how her birthing experience inspired her to develop various programs and offerings at Birthfit.
Listeners will learn about the seven pillars of optimal birth and the benefits of adhering to them. According to Lindsey, several aspects are non-negotiable before, during, and after pregnancy: hydration, a well-balanced diet, quality sleep, and, of course, mild to moderate exercise. The transition into motherhood is one of the most physically and mentally demanding experiences a person can go through, and approaching it actively and thoughtfully is essential. Tune in to discover more!
About Lindsey Mathews Cantu
Doctor of Chiropractic, Strength and Conditioning Coach, NLP Practitioner, (Retired) Birth Doula, Yoga Instructor... Most important job - wife & mother.
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Welcome to another episode of Birthing Instincts Podcast. In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Zach Bush, MD, to the show. Zach is an incredible thinker and orator on many relevant topics that affect us all. The conversation ventures into the realm of maternity care, optimal health, and the medical system in general. Zach's responses to these various topics couldn't be more than eye and mind-opening.
They discuss not only maternity care but also the health of humanity and the planet as a whole since our soul is a fraction of the whole universe, and every time a birth occurs, a soul is created. Zach also shares his opinion on how we, as a society, have a fundamental failure of respect and a nature deficit disorder. Tune in to learn more!
About Zach Bush, MD
Zach Bush, MD is a renowned, multi-disciplinary physician of internal medicine, endocrinology, hospice care, and internationally recognized educator on the microbiome as it relates to human health, soil health, food systems, and a regenerative future.
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Before getting into today's topic, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the maternity care crisis in California that has been impacting local birth centers. They explain Bandl's Ring more in-depth and explain how it's detected. Bandl's Ring is a constriction in the uterus and a sign of obstructed labor. It obstructs normal labor and can put the lower uterine segment at risk of rupture.
Although Bandl's Ring can be seen (and sometimes felt) during labor and detected using ultrasonography, its symptoms are tricky to identify. At first glance, Bandl's Ring may look like a distended bladder. Anything that leads to obstructed labor, including dehydration, is going to be a risk factor for Bandl's Ring. Therefore, a cesarean section may be necessary to avoid uterine rupture. Tune in to learn more!
In this special bonus episode Dr. Stu recaps his remarkable experiences in Washington D.C. with Lindsay Meehleis and Katie Allen. They had the honor of attending the 'Make America Healthy Again' gala and be a part of history. The episode captures emotional reflections and insights into their advocacy efforts, aiming to bring significant changes to the public health system, particularly in maternity care.
If you want to be a part of the future of maternity care reform, fill out this survey to tell us what changes you want to see made: bit.ly/changematernitycare
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Why isn't healthcare more personalized? This is the question our guest today aims to address. Alexandra is the founder of Just the Inserts, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals with accessible and transparent information about medical choices. In today's conversation, you'll learn about the reasons behind this lack of personalization, the role pharmaceutical companies play in it, and how individuals can make confident medical decisions—such as those regarding childbirth—based on reliable and transparent information.
Much of the healthcare information provided to the public by official organizations is often influenced by marketing and publicity motives. Alexandra's mission, both personally and professionally, is to demystify this information and clearly present the pros and cons of various medical decisions.
With a solid research background and a passion for informed consent, Alexandra guides people through the complexities of pharmaceutical products and decisions. Her commitment to clear, reliable information has earned her recognition as a trusted voice in the community, helping countless individuals make more informed, confident healthcare decisions.
Induced labors have pros and cons. For moms on the verge of delivery, it is fundamental to understand the whole scenery to make the best decision. However, interfering with the natural process can harm both the mother and the baby. Common risks of inducing labor are infections, postpartum hemorrhages, bleeding, umbilical cord issues, and general discomfort at the moment of delivery and even while breastfeeding.
In this episode, you will learn everything about this topic while Dr. Stu and Blyss explain all the details. It is fundamental to know when to wait and when to induce labor because sometimes an induction may be necessary to protect the fetus's health. It is all a matter of communicating with the medical providers involved and deciding the best choice.
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Welcome to this week's of the Birthing Instincts Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss share their insights on various cases submitted via email. They discuss best practices for blood transfusions during pregnancy and delivery, the probable causes and symptoms of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), and the detection and risks associated with ureaplasma infection.
Additionally, you will learn about the impact of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) on the healthcare community and the professionals working within it. It is clear that A.I. is transforming the way we approach healthcare today, with its effects on various types of diagnoses and clinical care already being felt by those in need. Tune in to learn more!
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Join us in celebrating a journey of health, inspiration, and empowerment as we welcome 2025! In this special episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss recap the year's podcast episodes, highlighting important topics discussed throughout. They also share the victories and challenges from both their personal and professional lives, along with exciting upcoming projects and plans for the year ahead. Tune in to listen to the full episode, and we’ll see you next year!
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In this episode of Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu and Blyss welcome Jaimie Zaki, an LPN, doula, IBCLC, and mom of 5 dedicated to transforming breastfeeding support. The importance of breastfeeding for the mental and emotional development of the baby is undebatable. On the same note, moms can benefit from breastfeeding as well since it reduces the potential for health issues after pregnancy. Other benefits include a quicker recovery from childbirth and a decrease in the stress of birth.
Throughout the conversation, you will also learn more about formula feeding and its pros and cons. After all, figuring out the best path to follow is also important during this phase.
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Today, Dr. Stu welcomes Dr. Rixa Freeze to discuss their paper “Twin Home Birth Outcomes” more deeply and all the topics related to this theme. You will learn more about the connection between twin pregnancies and breech birth and why it is common for one or both babies to be in a breech position, as well as the mode of delivery. Dr. Rixa Freeze has a PhD in American Studies from the University of Iowa. Her doctoral studies focused on the history of healthcare and medicine with a specialization in pregnancy, childbirth, and maternity care.
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In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the importance of identifying the things you can do to feel better when you feel overwhelmed. Pinpointing the primary source of overwhelm is important, but finding ways to find relief is fundamental to getting out of this state. The other important thing to do is to go back to the basics. Having a good night's sleep, hydrating well, and eating properly can do wonders to get out of a rut. Small steps are still progress. Tune in to learn more!
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Today, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss a variety of topics, which is always exciting. They reflect on the changes in the medical field over the last 30 years, the decision to take or not take vaccines during pregnancy, and the urgent need for both medical professionals and the general public to focus on making mothers and their children healthy again. They also emphasize the importance of prenatal care, not only for the health of the baby but also for identifying any potential risks for the mother-to-be.
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Sarah Thompson joins us today to discuss the aspects of functional medicine and its connection to pregnancy and maternity care. Unlike conventional medicine, which largely follows a standardized educational framework, functional medicine focuses on understanding each person and creating a treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Another key feature of functional medicine is its proactive approach; it aims to address general complaints before they escalate into crises. Throughout this conversation, you will discover how functional medicine can be beneficial before, during, and after pregnancy as well.
About Sarah Thompson
Sarah Thompson is the author of "Functional Maternity" and the upcoming "Beyond Results". Her work is recognized in midwifery education, with her books being used as textbooks in midwifery colleges.
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Holly and Eric Stein join us to share their journey from overcoming chronic health issues to pioneering a nationwide postpartum meal delivery service with Mama Meals. Bursting with passion for food activism, they reveal how nutrient-dense foods can be transformative not only for postpartum mothers but for anyone on a healing journey. With insights into the interplay between hospital protocols and midwifery practices, we examine how these experiences intersect with the core of our birthing narratives. The Steins' story is a testament to the power of conscious eating, offering a fresh perspective on the importance of postpartum nutrition and wellness.
About Holly &Eric Stein
Holly and Eric Stein were sick constantly as kids. Headaches, ear infections, gut issues, allergies, etc. Doctors visits were the norm, and the answer always seemed to be another pill. They started dating in their mid twenties and fell in love watching food documentaries and studying nutrition, eventually healing their chronic conditions by cleaning up their diet. They became food activists obsessed with helping others, eventually starting Mama Meals, a nationwide postpartum meal delivery.
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Obstetricians regularly use terms like high risk, safer, evidence based and standard of care as if they all have an agreed upon definition. THEY DON'T! Today Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss the use and misuse of language and the corruption of definitions in the maternity care world. What or who determines the standard of care? Are labels of high risk indicative of high risk? Who should determine what safe means? We offer some explanations and strong opinions, shockingly, as to the motivation behind the manipulation of these terms and suggest alternative definitions that we think just makes more sense.
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Join us for an enlightening discussion as we welcome Dr. David Hayes, who brings his expertise to the complex realm of continuous fetal monitoring in labor rooms. Together, we highlight the importance of empowering laboring mothers with information about their birthing choices, as well as sharing our excitement about upcoming speaking engagements focused on home birth and physiologic birth. Blyss also gives us a sneak peek into her plans for mentorship and mom circles, aiming to create a supportive community for new mothers.
Closing the episode, we take a historical journey through the evolution of obstetric practices, from the early days of fetal heartbeat detection to modern-day debates over unnecessary C-sections. We critically assess the pressures within obstetrics that lead to an over-reliance on technology, reflecting on initiatives like Breach Without Borders that advocate for informed and individualized care. Our discussion also questions the medicalized birth model, emphasizing the need for professionals to push beyond traditional methods for the benefit of laboring women worldwide.
About Dr. David Hayes
Doctor Hayes’ primary interests have been obstetrics and gynecology in resource poor settings, out of hospital birth, and critical care obstetrics. A long-time breech birth provider, he is currently the Medical Director of Breech Without Borders, an international non-profit dedicated to the resurrection and promotion of vaginal breech birth worldwide, and is teaching full time while continuing to support vaginal birth of breech presentations and multiples. He is also a co-author of, “A Guide to Physiologic Breech Birth” and the author of the upcoming “Companion Guide to Maternal Fetal Physiology and Fetal Monitoring”.
He has worked for Médecins Sans Frontières in many roles including Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care in multiple projects, a Fistula Repair program, Lassa Fever control program, and Emergency Department coverage. Dr Hayes also operated an out of hospital, full spectrum obstetric practice for twenty years.
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Join us for an enlightening conversation as Brittany Chambers, an integrative infant sleep specialist, shares her wisdom on co-sleeping—a practice that many parents naturally gravitate toward but find themselves battling against societal norms. Together, we challenge the conventional wisdom and prevailing beliefs around infant sleep, examining the intersection of modern science and ancient parenting practices.
As we continue our exploration, we turn our focus to the intricate mother-infant dyadic connection and how Western medical practices can sometimes interfere with this natural bond. Drawing from McKenna's research, we discuss the nature of this relationship and critique the modern emphasis on consolidated sleep, which often disregards infants' biological needs. We reflect on historical and cultural shifts in infant sleep practices, highlighting how the rise of hospital births and solitary sleep has suppressed maternal intuition. Our conversation encourages a critical reassessment of these entrenched beliefs and emphasizes the importance of trusting instinctive parenting.
Finally, we address the complex and often misunderstood topic of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and safe sleep practices for infants. Brittany provides valuable guidelines for safe co-sleeping, highlighting the importance of parental awareness and a supportive sleep environment.
About Brittany Chambers
Brittany Chambers, MS, IFSS, is an Integrative Infant Sleep specialist who blends modern science with ancient wisdom to walk women back to their intuition. Britt founded Good Night Moon Child to bring the developmental science, anthropological realities, and neurobiological norms of infant sleep into the mainstream. She also runs Cuddle Crew, an online community for cosleeping moms and works 1:1 and in group settings with mothers all over the world on infant sleep, nervous system regulation, matrescence, and peaceful parenting. Britt incorporates myriad modalities into her work to decode sleep struggles and optimize outcomes for babies and their families. She lives in Southern California with her husband and two young kids.
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In this episode, we are honored to feature Omari Maynard, an educator and artist, and Shawnee Benton Gibson, a trauma and grief expert. Omari shares his artistic journey, driven by the tragic loss of his life partner, Shamony Makeba Gibson, and Shawnee offers insights into her work with trauma, grief, and social justice. We explore the impact of systemic challenges in maternity care, emphasizing the need for partnership between healthcare providers and patients, and highlight the emotional journey of dealing with systemic failures. Additionally, we discuss the transformative potential of faith-based support in childbirth and the critical role of diverse birthing options in addressing racial disparities.
Listen in as we tackle the systemic issues in healthcare, particularly the racial biases that disproportionately affect people of color. We discuss the emotional toll of navigating hospital failures during the pandemic, sharing personal stories of loss and the urgent need for change. We also celebrate the life of Shamony through the Aftershock event, blending art and advocacy to engage the community on maternal health issues. Finally, we explore the revitalization of wise medicine women and the importance of storytelling and art in education, introducing initiatives that support Black and Brown families in their maternal health journeys. Through genuine connections and collective support, we strive to empower and inspire our listeners to advocate for a more just and humane healthcare system.
About Shawnee Benton Gibson
Shawnee Benton Gibson, LMSW / FDLC, is the Co-Founder and CEO of Spirit of A Woman (SOW) Leadership Development Institute; established in 2002 to educate, elevate and effect positive and sustainable transformation for individuals, groups, families, communities and leaders within institutions. Under Shawnee's leadership and vision, SOW offers innovative coaching, counseling and training experiences to those who are seeking to expand their power, purpose and impact in the world.
Ms. Benton Gibson is a licensed practitioner with over 31 years of professional experience. She is also the Co-Founder of the ARIAH Foundation (The Advancement of Reproductive Innovation Through Artistry & Healing) which was created in memory of her eldest daughter, Shamony Makeba Gibson who passed away on October 6, 2019 due to complications associated with giving birth. Shamony’s story and Shawnee’s reproductive activism are depicted in the award winning documentary “Aftershock” which addresses the black maternal health crisis in the United States and its origins.
Shawnee’s expertise ranges from substance abuse prevention, treatment and recovery, child welfare, youth development, individual, family and group counseling, trauma, grief, loss and bereavement, women’s health and leadership, birth equity, racial equity, social and restorative justice. Shawnee employs a holistic, cultural and spiritual approach to her work and applies a racial equity, social justice lens as the foundation for all of the programs and services that her company provides. Her principal teaching, training and healing tools consist of spiritual counseling, vision coaching, psychodrama, sociometry, sacred rituals, energy work, the performing arts and storytelling as mediums to ignite transformation and initiate catharsis. According to Shawnee, doing healing work is ""a labor of love and liberation"".
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About Omari “Muz” Maynard
Omari Maynard is an educator by trade and an artist by craft. He has received his bachelor's degree in Marketing from Hampton University, an MBA and a Masters in Sport Business Management from the University of Central Florida, and a Masters degree in Special Education from Long Island University. With these degrees, he has worked for the NBA, for sports marketing companies, not for profit organizations, and the Department of Education.
As a child, he watched his uncle, Leo Carty, a highly accomplished artist, and Fulton Art Fair alumni, create beautiful masterpieces. He dabbled in exploring his artistry at an early age but did not pursue his artistic talents until he graduated from college. In 2016, Omari and his life partner, Shamony Gibson, started their own business. Art-fulliving is a lifestyle and event planning business with an emphasis on artistic expression. Unfortunately, Shamony transitioned in October 2019, due to complications after giving birth to their second child. Her untimely passing has provided Omari with a drive to live his life as creatively and purposefully as possible.
Today he draws his creative inspiration from his family, life experiences, cultural influences, and his environment. His use of color, dimension, and texture exhibits true, raw, and natural talent. The evolution of artistry is evident in his work. His pieces tell stories that are thought provoking, intellectually inspiring, and technically sound.
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What if the moments of greatest sorrow could reveal the most profound truths about life? Join Dr. Stu and Blyss in a heartfelt discussion about stillbirth and loss as we navigate the complex emotions and challenges faced by families and healthcare providers alike. We promise to provide an understanding of the statistics and causes behind these tragic events while emphasizing the importance of compassion and communication in the healing process. Our journey includes personal reflections on loss, not only from a professional standpoint but also through poignant personal experiences, highlighting how grief shapes us and fosters a deeper connection to those around us.
We dive into the systemic issues within healthcare systems that can hinder open dialogue and emotional processing, advocating for supportive measures that promote healing. From navigating difficult medical decisions in the wake of a traumatic loss to finding meaning amidst grief, we examine how society's disconnect from natural life processes can impact our understanding and acceptance of birth and death.
We also provide practical ways of supporting grieving families and partners, offering strategies for comfort and thoughtful gestures that acknowledge their loss. By sharing human experiences and insights, we aim to foster an environment of open dialogue and understanding, encouraging listeners to embrace life's vivid contrasts and continue conversations about grief, resilience, and the enduring influence of those we've lost.
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Dr. Stu and Blyss are joined by Cierra Rider and Chelsea Pinto, two inspiring individuals championing maternal care. Cierra shares her transformative motherhood journey and the significance of tapping into maternal intuition. Chelsea, a dentist with a unique devotion to maternal and family care, provides insights into oral restrictions in children. Together, we foster a constructive debate on topics like co-sleeping and tongue-tie diagnosis, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives and informed decision-making in parental care.
About Cierra Rider:
I am a wife and a mother to two amazing kiddos, Knyte & Rebel. My pregnancy and birth with my 1st was an eye and full body opening experience, as it is for many moms. His birth was a rebirth for me. I was no longer the same woman I was before, nor did I want to be, even if society tried to tell me I should. I have the opportunity to walk alongside mothers during their rite of passage of going from maiden to mother through breastfeeding support, choosing a support team & planning their ideal pregnancy, birth, & postpartum, childbirth education, virtual doula services, and in 2025, cranial sacral therapy for breastfeeding support. I believe in supporting the mother-baby dyad and making decisions to reinforce this connection. Motherhood should and can be enjoyed with ease when a mother begins to tune into her God given intuition and realizes what's common isn't normal.
About Dr. Chelsea Pinto:
Dr. Chelsea Pinto is an educator and dentist in Woodland Hills/Los Angeles that has solely dedicated her practice to focus on Infant-Toddler Tongue and Lip Ties. Dr. Pinto earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the USC Ostrow School of Dentistry and completed a post-graduate General Residency Program. She has successfully treated thousands of babies with oral restrictions and proudly provides families with the knowledge to support their child’s oral motor skills, including appropriate therapeutic and feeding support referrals for an individualized and comprehensive approach.
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Jamie’s journey is nothing short of miraculous. After being told by doctors that she might never have children due to her extensive medical history, she found hope and healing at a holistic retreat in Michigan. This pivotal experience not only alleviated her chronic pain but also transformed her outlook on health and shifted her career path from medical school to holistic health. As Jamie shares her story, we learn about the profound impact these experiences had on her life choices, particularly in her journey to motherhood.
Jamie’s personal narrative underscores the importance of self-advocacy. From preparing for a second child with spiritual intention to managing a twin pregnancy with meticulous care, her insights offer valuable lessons for expectant mothers. We discuss the complexities of labor, the emotional highs and lows, and the significance of creating a supportive birthing environment. Jamie's candid reflections remind us of the balance between medical interventions and personal instincts during pregnancy and childbirth.
Join us as we explore the profound, spiritual, and sometimes unexpected journey of childbirth through Jamie’s eyes, celebrating the resilience and strength of motherhood.
About Jamie Raisleger:
Jamie Raisleger is a wife and mother to three children including a five-year-old and twin babies. She is a birth doula and childbirth educator with a Bachelor’s in Human Biology and caught the birth bug when she attended her first birth in 2009.
Jamie's extensive experience as a patient within the medical system at an early age taught her to dig deeper when given boilerplate answers, navigate research articles, demand adequate and thoughtful care, and pursue solutions outside of the mainstream recommendations.
In her childbearing years, she has become a huge advocate for bodily autonomy, access to birth options, and nervous system resilience work for her clients and herself. She chose a home birth for her first baby and continued to use her experiences, background, and Holy Spirit guidance to navigate her twin pregnancy and out-of-hospital birth in March of this year.
Her days are now spent mothering her children, holding space for birthing families, and hosting The Triumphant Birth Podcast, a new show focusing on expert interviews, inspiring stories, and creating legacies of wholeness and healing through pregnancy and birth for our children's children's children.
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In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast:
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This special episode is a re-release of episode 245 with the amazing Kristine Lauria.
Kristine Lauria, an incredibly skilled midwife & storyteller, joins our podcast to share her amazing midwifery wisdom. Kristine specializes in high risk obstetrics and is a staunch advocate for autonomy in women's health, working internationally for MSF (Doctors Without Border) providing humanitarian aid. Blyss & Dr. Stu feel blessed by and in awe of her kindred spirit as she shares her stories, wisdom, and what happens when we don’t interfere in birth.
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In this episode, we explore the intricacies of childbirth with the esteemed Dr. Sarah Buckley, a renowned medical doctor and family physician. Sarah shares her unique insights into the hormonal physiology of childbirth, shaped by her personal experiences of home births and the influential teachings of Michel Odent. Sarah's profound advocacy for natural birth processes, combining her medical expertise with personal experiences, offers invaluable perspectives for anyone in the birthing community.
We discuss the implications of synthetic oxytocin and epidurals on labor, emphasizing the importance of natural oxytocin for pain relief, stress reduction, and mother-infant bonding. The conversation also highlights the significance of personalized midwifery care, skin-to-skin contact post-birth, and the holistic approach to labor that respects both hormonal and hemodynamic factors. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of these critical issues from both a scientific and evolutionary perspective.
About Dr. Sarah Buckley:
Dr. Sarah Buckley is trained as a family physician/GP with qualifications in GP-obstetrics. She has been writing and lecturing to childbirth professionals and parents since 1997 and is the author of the internationally best-selling book Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering. Sarah has a special interest in the hormones of physiological labor and birth and the impacts of maternity-care interventions. She is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Queensland, researching oxytocin in labor and birth and the impacts of interventions.
She has co-authored several papers on oxytocin in labor, birth, and breastfeeding, and is the author of the 2015 report Hormonal Physiology of Childbirth.
Sarah is also the mother of four adult children, all born at home.
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Ever wondered what it takes to provide accessible midwifery care in today's complex healthcare landscape? Join Blyss as she chats with Fadwah Halaby, a seasoned certified nurse midwife, whose journey from being inspired by Ina May Gaskin's book to navigating the intricacies of midwifery practice is nothing short of fascinating. Fadwah's insights shed light on the vital differences between hospital and home births, and the struggle to stay true to midwifery principles within hospital constraints. You will hear how she finds fulfillment in delivering evidence-based, respectful care and her vision for building a dedicated team to serve diverse communities.
Fadwah shares why it was important for her to contract with insurance companies to make home births accessible to all women. She sheds light on the struggles of getting fair compensation to ensure the sustainability of midwifery services which eventually led her to leave the insurance model and start a grassroots movement to make midwifery care more accessible. By gathering community support through her non-profit and removing financial barriers for families looking for midwifery care, Fadwah hopes to expand the movement to be able to help families on a larger scale and address systemic inequalities.
About P Fadwah Halaby:
Fadwah has worked as a nurse since 1992 (32 years) in various areas such as home health, ER, and L&D. For the past 18 years she has worked as a Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife - 8 years in a busy OB practice facilitating hospital birth and office gynecology, and 10 years in her independent home birth practice. She has assisted over 2000 babies to be born with about 500 of those in the community birth setting. She has been offering breech and twin birth in her practice for years, more often in the past few years since completing formal training through Spinning Babies and Breech Without Borders. The first birth she ever witnessed live (other than her own) was a breech birth, in 1986.
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What if the secret to a balanced and healthy life lies in ancient healing practices? With Dr. Stu away in Australia, Blyss is thrilled to welcome Maura Moynihan, a versatile healer specializing in chiropractic, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, and spiritual psychology. Maura shares her remarkable journey in the healing arts, her dedication to supporting families and babies, and the transformative power of breathwork and nature connections.
Through engaging stories and enlightening encounters, Maura highlights how craniosacral therapy can help mothers and newborns by supporting the nervous systems. You'll learn about the contrasts between chiropractic care and craniosacral therapy, and why addressing traumatic births is crucial for long-term health.
Maura shares her latest endeavors in doula training and spiritual psychology, emphasizing the need for a holistic, integrative approach to health. Whether you're a new mom, a healer, or someone eager to learn about holistic practices, this episode offers valuable wisdom for nurturing both body and soul.
About Dr. Maura Moynihan:
Dr. Maura Moynihan D.C., M.A., started her career serving mothers and children by helping them connect to their innate healing capacity through chiropractic and craniosacral care. Dr. Maura now uses her background with nervous system regulation and the wisdom of the body in her soul-based coaching work with female entrepreneurs, healers, facilitators, and seekers. Dr. Maura and her husband certify practitioners in Revelation Breathwork, a somatic healing modality based on spiritual psychology. Dr. Maura currently works with clients in a 1:1 format, through workshops, doula trainings, mentorships, and MoonRise Mastermind. She lives in Asheville with Jason and their four sons.
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Blyss and Stu are back from the Born Free Breech and Twins conference in Kentucky and excited to share about everything they learned.
They delve into the critical and often overlooked topics discussed at the conference, like the urgent need for proper breech birth training for obstetricians and the myths surrounding twin births. Through powerful documentaries like "Aftershock," Dr. Stu and Blyss shed light on systemic racism in maternal healthcare.
From the mechanics of the pelvis explained by experts to the emotional support among attendees, this episode is a tribute to the strength and resilience found within the birthing community. Tune in for an in-depth reflection on these vital issues and the shared commitment to improving women's health.
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Doctor, author & filmmaker, Andy Wakefield and doula and actress, Emmy Robbin join Dr. Stu in a conversation about the corruption of research, the media and the medical industry. We talk about the harm that is done and why they keep doing it. The director of Vaxxed and the new film, Protocol 7 shares his backstory, the lies then that are still being told and the triumph over it all as the world wakes up to what has been done to our children. Andy & Emmy share the stories that affect us with Dr. Stu that you do not want to miss.
About Andy Wakefield:
In the pursuit of links between childhood vaccines, intestinal inflammation, and neurological injury in children, Dr. Andy Wakefield lost his job in the Department of Medicine at London’s Royal Free Hospital, his country, career, Fellowships, and his medical license. Wakefield re-invented himself as a filmmaker. He is the director of his first major narrative feature, Protocol 7.
About Emmy Robbin:
Emmy Robbin is a birth doula, actress, and podcast host. She has a fierce passion to protect babies and parents from experiencing medical gaslighting or abuse in their parental journey. Her mission is to prevent/heal birth trauma by empowering everyone to trust God's miraculous design and tap into their intuition using somatic coaching. She plays Joan Walinski in the new feature film Protocol 7.
Film Synopsis:
Based on real-life events, comes the corporate thriller, Protocol 7. Alexis Koprowski, a devoted mother and small-town family lawyer, Adrian Jay, a renegade doctor exiled from the medical profession, and Steve Schilling, a virologist at a prominent vaccine laboratory turned corporate whistleblower, work together to hold a large pharmaceutical corporation accountable for allegedly fraudulent test results behind a failing mumps vaccine. Protocol 7 takes us behind the corporate curtain, exposing a chain of command that devolves responsibility, prioritizes profits over people, and fosters an amoral mindset of “just following orders”.
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So many good listener questions on this topic inspired us to look into the pharmacologic options laboring women have for relief when needed. We talk about nitrous oxide in detail and in relation to MTHFR. Opiates and epidurals and their pros and cons are discussed. We answer the question, does epidural fentanyl cross the placenta? In an upcoming Patreon segment, we will also review the non-pharmacologic approaches to pain management. Blyss gets ready to travel while Dr. Stu stays home. Huge thank you to The Informed Consent Action Network and their legal team for finally exposing the liars! Please consider donating.
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To honor a gathering of birth workers at the Born Free Twins-Breech Conference in Kentucky, Dr. Stu travels back in time to 1998 and reminisces with triplet mom and former client, Laureen Mgrdichian, about her journey and hospital vaginal delivery. Listen in for some good old storytelling. With Blyss traveling, Dr. Stu goes solo to talk about multiples. We hope you enjoy.
About Laureen Mgrdichian:
Laureen Mgrdichian is an Associate Professor at the Crowell School of Business at Biola University. She teaches courses in marketing, entrepreneurship, consumer behavior, promotions, and women in leadership. She also oversees an annual student-led conference designed to encourage women in the workplace. Laureen owns her own baking business specializing in corporate gifts. Her corporate work includes marketing for Universal Studios. Laureen received her M.B.A. from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at U.C.L.A. focusing on marketing and organizational development. Laureen and her husband have been married for 36 years and are the parents of triplets who are now 26 years old.
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"The cycle responsible for all human life on earth is associated with this degree of suffering? No!" Visionary super soul, Dr. Christiane Northrup, joins the podcast today to talk about the menstrual cycle, menopause & hormones, the perception of aging and so much more.
We explore the Western medical perspective versus more empowering cultural views, and delve into the debate between hormone replacement therapy and bioidentical hormones. Dr. Northrup's insights on the impact of emotional health, societal perceptions of aging, and the spiritual journey of perimenopause are invaluable. This discussion aims to create a supportive community for women, helping them embrace menopause as an opportunity for growth and renewal.
It's an amazing hour and hear more from her when she joins Blyss & Dr. Stu on Patreon.
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Responding to listener questions we address the question of “What is IUGR?” Before we get there Blyss waits on a birth and listens to Dr. Stu’s concerns about entropy winning and way too much idiocy, fear and hyperbole being shoveled around out there.
We discuss critical women's health topics, questioning the necessity of C-sections for lupus patients, and exploring the potential toxicity of the glucose drink used for gestational diabetes testing. Our conversation highlights the pressing need for balanced, evidence-based discourse surrounding pregnancy and birth.
We delve into the complexities of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), examining the arbitrary nature of the 10% percentile threshold and the potential for over-testing and unnecessary interventions. Featuring listener emails and real-life examples, we advocate for less intrusive, more supportive care, emphasizing the importance of individualized care versus standardized medical models.
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Two of the four co-creators, Jerusha Sutton and Jo Hunter join us to discuss the backstory and making of their film and what is happening with birth in Australia. Blyss and Dr. Stu loved the film and share their insights with the filmmakers on what would it take for all women to emerge from their births physically well and emotionally safe.
About Jerusha Sutton:
Jerusha Sutton is a doula, and birth and family photographer and videographer. She is one of the co-creators of Birth Time: the documentary, a co-host of Birth Time: the podcast, a public speaker for birth advocacy, and an MC.
After becoming a doula in 2006 and working extensively in Australia and the UK, she was astounded by the beauty that she witnessed in the birth space and how vastly different it was to what we were seeing in mainstream media, so soon after set out to capture imagery of birth to that would portray the beauty, power and vulnerability of birth that she was seeing first hand. With a background in acting and film production, the creation of Birth Time was a culmination of her experience and passions.
About Jo Hunter:
Jo Hunter is a homebirth midwife and an activist. She is a co-creator of Birth Time: the documentary, as well as a co-host of Birth Time: the podcast.
Jo has worked with birthing families for 26 years, first as a doula and childbirth educator and for the past 16 years as a homebirth midwife.
She is a guest lecturer for the Bachelor of Midwifery degree and regularly presents at conferences and runs workshops related to midwifery and home birth.
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A special treat today as Blyss and Dr. Stu chat with author, former midwife and wise woman, Rachel Reed, on reclaiming physiologic childbirth for those willing to listen. She recounts a bit of the history of what happened to diminish midwives, the original birth-keepers, and the medicalized takeover by those with no connection to tradition. She reminds us that physiologic birth includes pathology but not the iatrogenic mistreatment that hospital birth and obstetricians have wrought. Dr Stu shares some resume' inflation absurdity and takes to task a foolish Instagram personality.
About Dr. Rachel Reed:
Dr Rachel Reed is an author, educator, researcher, and international speaker. Rachel has over 20 years of experience attending births in a range of settings and circumstances, including independent homebirth midwifery. As a researcher, Rachel studies women’s experiences of birth and the influence of care-provider interactions. She has published widely in journals, magazines, and books. She is also the co-host of The Midwives’ Cauldron podcast and writes an award-winning blog. Rachel is an experienced educator, has designed and implemented midwifery degree programs in academia, and delivered workshops nationally and internationally. Her current focus is creating online education resources and facilitating her Reclaiming Childbirth Collective to support care providers and educators with evidence-based knowledge and community.
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Culture and society may have erred when they decided we don't need strong men and fathers. Ashley Mariani, MSW joins Blyss and Dr. Stu to discuss the role of the male partner in pregnancy and equipping them with the skills to navigate medical settings confidently in support of their partner. Male participation in the birth process can lead to deeper trust, intimacy and respect in the couple and a stronger family bond.
About Ashley Mariani:
Ashley Mariani, also known as The Rogue Therapist, is a registered social worker and the visionary behind Mind Online, a unique online therapy clinic based in Ontario, Canada, that embraces a holistic, non-clinical approach. Specializing in navigating the emotional complexities of sex, intimacy, childbirth, and the evolving relationship that follows, Ashley provides vital support to couples during these pivotal life stages. As a dedicated breathwork facilitator and an advocate against obstetric violence, she promotes client autonomy and encourages a critical examination of conventional systems.
Holding an undergraduate degree in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family, and a Master’s in Social Work, Ashley has also developed a groundbreaking certification course for new dads. This program empowers them to become lead advocates in the birthing process, equipping them with the skills to navigate medical settings confidently, address personal insecurities, and ensure a safe and respectful experience for their partners. This course is essential for any expectant father committed to actively supporting his partner through one of life’s most transformative experiences.
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What if understanding one gene could significantly change your approach to fertility and pregnancy? Join us as we catch up with Dr. Ben Lynch, a pioneer in the field of epigenetics and naturopathic medicine, who sheds light on the powerful MTHFR gene and its wide-ranging implications.
Dr. Lynch takes us on a journey from his traditional medical roots to his breakthrough work with genetic variations and their impact on health. Learn how these variations influence fertility, pregnancy, and even conditions like ADHD and diabetes starting in the womb. We also tackle the critical yet often misunderstood topic of miscarriages, emphasizing the role of male fertility and the importance of lifestyle choices to optimize pregnancy health.
About Dr. Ben Lynch:
Dr. Ben Lynch is the best-selling author of Dirty Genes and President of Seeking Health, a company that helps educate both the public and health professionals on how to overcome genetic dysfunction. He received his doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University. He lives in Seattle, WA with his wife and three sons.
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Join us for an eye-opening episode as we welcome Kimberly Denitz-Zuleger, a passionate doula and maternal health activist from Southern California. With a wealth of experience encapsulating over 400 placentas since 2015, Kim shares her profound knowledge on the multifaceted roles and cultural symbolism of the placenta. We traverse the spiritual and medicinal benefits of placenta consumption and the serene practice of cord burning, providing a holistic view into informed postpartum care decisions.
We dive deep into the complexities faced by a second-time mom at 42 weeks, balancing the fine line between necessary medical interventions and trusting the natural birthing process. Through these narratives, we illuminate the emotional dynamics between parents and caregivers, emphasizing the significance of trust and intuition. Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt stories, insightful discussions, and the celebration of life’s beginnings.
About Kimberly Summer Denitz-Zuleger, CLEC, CPT, PMH-C, Doula:
Kimberly Denitz-Zuleger is a So Cal native, mother, writer, doula, and maternal health activist. She is the Global Chapter Director for the International Cesarean Awareness Network and co-leader for the Ventura and Santa Barbara Chapters. She has encapsulated over 400 placentas since 2015 and has been part of many placenta medicine rituals with people from varying cultures around her community. Her credentials include multiple certifications in the fields of health care, and maternal mental health, as well as a degree in Behavioral Science, although it’s her real-world experience that has taught her everything she knows. She is most happy jumping in the ocean after a long trail run in the mountains.
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At a time of great anxiety, Neonatologist and NICU specialist Priyush Patel, MD shares his humanistic approach to care.
While Blyss is busy birthing, Midwife Lindsey Meehleis shares a birth story leading to the Serendipitous meeting in the NICU.
But don’t worry, there is still plenty of wobbly healthcare systems and dumb doctor dogma going around as Dr. Stu explains.
About Dr Piyush (pronounced pee-yoush) Patel:
Dr. Patel graduated medical school in 2004 and has prided himself as an outside-the-box thinker and his ability to connect with families on a deeper level to help bridge their beliefs with the medical team caring for their baby. In such a stressful situation, which is oftentimes unexpected, there are numerous emotions that families experience and he has been able to intuitively calm their nerves to help them enjoy their journey in the NICU as best as possible.
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Today we have midwife and mom, Catalina Clark, as our guest to share her journey as we discuss freebirthing from all angles.
About Catalina Clark:
I am a woman, mother, daughter, sister, midwife and student on the healing path. With 10 years experience in birth, I have found my way home to supporting women in alignment with the natural world and the power of physiologic birth.
As a midwife of healing, I am here to walk with you along your path, to love you wherever you are and support you on your personal journey. I am not here to fix you or tell you what to do. To heal is to reclaim and reweave the fabric of your True Self back into your being, perfect and complete just as you are. When co-creating together we are stepping into a mutual relationship of universal love and trust with each other, ourselves and the divine.
My journey of remembrance began entrenched in the medical model. After countless disempowering experiences I began seeking council outside the medical industrial system. In my studies over the past decade with a variety of traditional healers I began weaving a new path for myself, which led me to my true calling as a spiritual midwife.
It is with great humility, honor and respect that I walk alongside all those with the willingness to step into the unknown, to untangle stories of the past and return to our hearts.
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Such an important conversation with our guests, Emily Roper, ( Neuro-Developmental Delay Therapist) & Beth Shayler, (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant), on looking for the root causes and alternative approaches to developmental delays and the mental health of babies and children. Why is something so basic so unknown to the allopathic medical world? Blyss & Dr. Stu learn about the importance of spontaneous labor and the birth process on the neurological development of the fetus and baby. How we birth and raise our children matters. It just makes sense and it has never been more true than now that we need to trust our instincts when it comes to medical advice.
Medical billing is just another example of a system out of control. Dr. Stu takes to the mic on "The Experience Miracles Podcast"
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Interpreting the value of a study can be difficult. With Blyss taking some healing time, Dr. Stu interviews Dr. Emiliano Chavira, MD, MPH, FACOG and MFM sub-specialist who shares his expertise on this subject. From randomized trials to meta-analyses we learn that a study is never definitive. Working within the "high risk" system, Dr. C has insight and wisdom that we want our fellow travelers to hear. What's the definition of IUGR, what are the problems with moving the bar and why so much color Doppler?
About Dr. Emiliano Chavira:
Dr. Chavira is board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology with a subspecialty certification in Maternal-Fetal Medicine. He completed both his Ob/Gyn residency training as well as his fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine (high risk pregnancy) at LAC+USC in Los Angeles, California. In his years as a specialist working in tertiary referral centers, he has cared for some of the most complicated and high-risk pregnancies, dealing with both maternal medical issues as well as complex fetal problems. His passion is to provide objective and caring guidance to his patients with the aim of instilling knowledge, understanding, empowerment, and hope in difficult circumstances. In addition to caring for complicated pregnancies, he also has an interest in ethical dilemmas in modern obstetric care, particularly as related to vaginal breech birth, multiple gestations, and VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean).
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The uterus is a miraculous creation but sometimes it doesn't follow nature's blueprint. Today on the podcast we discuss these fairly common blips (AKA anomalies or abnormalities) and their significance.
With awareness and empathy, we weave through personal stories and clinical presentations, highlighting the profound impact these uterine anomalies can have on fertility and pregnancy. We dissect the various types of these conditions, the possible complications, and the importance of a compassionate, patient-centric approach to care. It's a deep exploration of a topic that's typically clouded by misunderstanding, so we aim to bring light and informed guidance to those it affects.
Blyss shares a VBAC story as she continues to "patiently" recover. Dr. Stu wonders about the saying, "Life is like riding a bicycle!" and reads an uplifting twin story.
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Skin disorders exclusive to pregnant women have always been puzzling to Blyss & Dr. Stu. How do we know one from the other? Today we look at the dermatoses of pregnancy and differentiate the physiologic from the pathologic.
You'll hear us dissect the five major types of rashes that can puzzle even seasoned healthcare professionals, the challenges of medical information access, and personal accounts of birth timing, premature labor, and the vital role of clear clinical documentation. We also delve into the nuances of supporting births in the community, examining the value of trust and adaptability when changes arise, such as a different midwife attending a birth, and discussing the impact of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) testing on hospital transfers and treatment.
We also take a critical eye to medical misinformation spread by healthcare professionals on social media and the exasperating experiences with insurance companies, using personal anecdotes to highlight the issues. We also examine a range of skin and hair changes during pregnancy, and take a thought-provoking look at how control over medical literature might shape our understanding of autoimmune diseases and their potential environmental triggers.
Blyss shares a birthkeeper dilemma while Dr. Stu does his civic duty.
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Blyss returns only a week post op! She is a Goddess! Today's guests, Lenny Sue Tinseth & Corinne Flatt, OG Nevada midwives share their thoughts on the laws of Nevada, California and the state of midwifery. So much wisdom, so few diplomas!
About Lenny Sue Tinseth:
Lenny Sue is a Licensed California Midwife, a Certified Professional Midwife and a Certified Health Coach. She has been practicing Midwifery in the Lake Tahoe, Reno Nevada and surrounding areas for 38 years.
Having practiced in a grass roots unlicensed environment in her early years, both in Nevada and California has given her the perspective of licensure’s pros and cons.
She is a member of Nevada Midwives Association.
NMA is devoted to maintaining full access to midwifery care for all women in the state of Nevada.
She has been an advocate during the last 2 legislative sessions in Nevada to ensure proposed licensure does not limit families receiving access to midwifery care.
About Corrine Flatt:
Corrine is a midwife, serving families in southern Nevada since 1998, the founder of Pinkpeas Pregnancy and Parenting Care, and a long-time activist for birth freedom. Find Corrine everywhere on the internet, but don't miss the speech she made on Birth Freedom in Panama at dondeseayconquiensea.org
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The two authors who despise home birth are at it again with a new pre-print on the "Enduring Safety Concerns" of community birthing. Does their evidence hold water? The disconnect of priorities by organized medicine continues. Dr. Stu is joined by guest co-host Lindsey Meehleis, to break down the data.
Together, Dr. Stu and Lindsey dissect this paper that scrutinizes the safety of out-of-hospital births, and discuss the complexities surrounding breech births, twin pregnancies, and the sacred moments of life and death, advocating for the wisdom of traditional midwifery in today's polarized birth setting debates.
They take a closer look at the ACOG's rigid stance on planned home birth risks, untangling the often-misleading statistics that shape many women's choices about their birth setting.
California no longer tracks stillbirths! What? We send blessings to and burn a candle for Blyss who had hip replacement surgery today.
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Today on the podcast Blyss & Dr. Stu chat with the creators of a new film exploring home birth. The film explores the empowering journey of home birth and combines the wisdom of families, midwives, doulas, and some of our favorite people in the birth world. We also discuss the importance of how babies enter this world and, of course, catch up and reveal some new dumb doctor dogma.
About Eleanor Currie:
Eleanor Currie is a documentary filmmaker, videographer, photographer and mother of two beautiful children. She has a passion for telling stories about the human experience. Her newest film 'Born At Home' (created with long-term friend, Amanda Banks) explores the emotional journey of homebirth.
About Amanda Banks:
Amanda is mother of two children, both born at home. She has always had a passion for health which led her to complete a Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) and now works as an Acupuncturist in Brisbane, supporting families through fertility, pregnancy and beyond for over 8 years. Amanda was the former Convenor for Homebirth QLD for 2.5 years until mid 2023 and worked as a maternity consumer representative on the QLD Normal Birth Strategy.
Empowered by the homebirth of her second child in 2020, Amanda together with long term dear friend Eleanor, set out to create a film exploring Homebirth in QLD. She is the co-creator and Producer of Born at Home.
About the Documentary Born At Home:
Where and how women choose to birth matters. Born at Home is a stunning documentary film exploring what it takes to have a positive and transformative birth experience. Born at Home is an informative and emotive documentary exploring homebirth. This is a must-see event for all birth nerds, birth workers, mothers, those curious about birth and those seeking an alternative option to hospital birth.
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Blyss responds to a comment about safety and mortality. There will always be disputes about what safety means and to know where we are we need to know where we were. Today Blyss & Dr. Stu look back at childbirth in America over the last 300 years and try to sort through the accomplishments and clarify the statistics.
In an episode that's both a history lesson and a call to action, we reflect on the transformative journey of childbirth practices. Venture through time with us, from the days of home births and midwives to the formalization of hospital deliveries and the controversial medical interventions that followed. We peer into the darker chapters of obstetrics, acknowledging the exploitation that has tainted its history, and celebrate the triumphs that have led to significant declines in maternal and infant mortality rates.
This is a story of advancement and advocacy, of reclaiming agency and acknowledging the past to better navigate the present. Let's continue this dialogue and foster a future where the instincts of birthing and the wisdom of midwifery guide us toward a safer, more empowered experience for all.
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While it's not yellow brick, Dr. Stu is on the road teaching breech and twins and renewing family ties in California. Blyss joins in to share stories and wisdom and sanity, as usual.
Echoing the dedication of mothers and birth workers, we dive into stories that underscore the triumphs of natural birth, like a listener's VBAC victory over early induction using natural remedies—proof that self-advocacy can indeed rewrite the standard medical narrative. These stories aren't just about births; they're about the struggle for autonomy and the challenging journey of advocacy within a system that sometimes seems set up for our silence.
This episode is a blend of education, empowerment, and the drive for a maternity care system that honors the sanctity and individuality of the birthing process. Join us as we celebrate the power of informed decision-making, the legacy of childbirth, and the enduring spirit of woman-centered care.
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Academia just can't stop meddling with nature especially when profit is involved. Today Blyss & Dr. Stu explore another likely fallacy of "Big Medicine" - the Chemical imbalance Theory of Depression. Even feral cats get it. Why can't they?
We delve into the complexities of managing low platelet counts during pregnancy and the importance of respecting the body's natural processes, juxtaposing this against the philosophy of minimal intervention at home births.
We navigate the contentious issues surrounding pharmaceutical interventions and discuss the implications of readily available over-the-counter contraceptives and the possible health risks of daily routines, such as prolonged bra usage. We share thought-provoking insights into the links between hormonal birth control, depression, and the subsequent use of SSRIs, shedding light on the cascading effects of health decisions. We scrutinize the long-held serotonin theory of depression, questioning the ethics of drug marketing and the necessity for more informed public knowledge about the treatment of depression.
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Trying to clarify the questions about child spacing, Blyss & Dr. Stu discover nature is pretty wise. What are the medical recommendations and how do they compare? We review some of the guidelines and share our opinions. We discuss the rhythm of natural child spacing through ecological breastfeeding and contrast it with the rigidity of medical guidelines, advocating for a healthcare model that respects the unique journey of each mother.
We challenge the cultural obsession with the speed of labor and dissect the impact of our discussions by sharing the courageous decision of a labor and delivery nurse to switch to a home birth midwife.
As we address the realities of postpartum depression, we stress the vital roles of healthcare providers in supporting new mothers. We question the effectiveness of the current medical model in addressing nutritional needs and mental health issues during the postpartum and interpregnancy periods, advocating for a healthcare model that ensures thorough diagnosis, effective treatment, and diligent follow-up. This episode is a call to action for a more compassionate and tailored approach to reproductive health. Blyss shares about a birth with low platelets and Dr. Stu has some daughter time.
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Our guest today is "Birth Attendant", Jaymie Lewis who shares her insight into Hawaii's birthing world. Blyss & Dr. Stu chime in on the creeping blob that is the administrative state and wonder when the last time a regulation made things better.
About Jaymie Lewis:
Jaymie is a mother of three children all born at her residence In Hawaii. The birth of her 1st child brought her into birth work in 2010 when she began an apprenticeship with two different naturopathic physicians and a CPM. She started an independent midwifery practice in 2014 attending anywhere from 40-60 births per year. She joined several other midwives across the islands igniting strong activism regarding REAL choices in childbirth. In 2017 she helped create Hawaii Home Birth Collective which is an advocacy organization dedicated to expansion of midwifery care and to the preservation and integration of traditional and indigenous practices of the childbearing cycle. The long arm of the medical industrial complex swept in and deemed her a “birth attendant” in 2019 because she did not have any “formal” education” and as of last July has been pushed out of practice due to Hawaii’s restrictive midwifery law. Jaymie is a dreamer, a realistic optimist, and a lifetime learner, knowing that when there is compression, there is also an opportunity for infinite expansion.
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Time seems to be on Blyss & Dr. Stu's mind and a moment of insight is a fortune. Should we redefine "Second Stage"? We address the medical data behind active coaching vs. laboring down and then apply some common sense.
We unravel the nuances of research in the birth field, advocating for a discerning approach to medical studies and the impact they have on birthing practices. From the spiritual undertones of bringing new life into the world to the complexities of client management, we touch on the transformative experiences that shape both caregivers and families.
We highlight the power of intuition in birth choices, sharing an inspiring testimonial from a listener who embraced a home birth. Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the importance of trusting the body's inherent knowledge and the challenges that the medical industry faces in supporting physiological birth. Whether you're a seasoned birth worker, an expectant parent, or simply fascinated by the miracle of life, this discussion offers valuable insights and encouragement to trust the natural journey of childbirth.
In our Patreon segment, we look at the confusion about progesterone supplementation.
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Old friend and midwife, Aleks Evanguelidi joins us to share her wisdom about healing our bodies naturally and restoring our innate bodily systems.
As we swapped tales of unexpected birth work requests and the impact of dietary choices, Alex's holistic approach shines a light on the path to wellness. Her insights, grounded in her dual expertise, offers a refreshing perspective that stands in beautiful contrast to more traditional medical views on fertility and pregnancy health.
We need to realign our priorities from the food and water we ingest to the habits we have formed to the craziness that surrounds us. Fertility isn't just a clinical concept—it's a tapestry woven from our lifestyles, from the sunlight we bathe in to the stress we release through laughter.
Blyss & Dr. Stu also share some thoughts and frustrations with record keeping, both vital and medical.
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Thinking out of the box and individualizing care should not be rare. Join our conversation as Blyss & Dr. Stu host midwife Lindsey Meehleis & Home Birth x 2, Diabetic Mom and Naturopathic Physician, Gina Cummins.
We unfold the layers of managing diabetes during pregnancy, where technology and personal determination intersect to create successful birth stories at home. Hear firsthand from Gina about her experiences with blood sugar control during the intensity of childbirth and the crucial role of cortisol in this process. Lindsey provides a professional backdrop, highlighting the evolution of diabetes management tools and the power of informed collaboration between healthcare providers and mothers-to-be.
Diabetes care and options have evolved much over the last 40 years. Have hospitals and doctors kept up?
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Blyss is in a birth whirlwind and Dr. Stu shares some great breech stories. Dr. Stu is especially excited to talk with our guest, Dr. Whittaker, a NAPRO doctor specializing in the Creighton Method and restorative reproductive medicine. We have a fascinating conversation about her journey to understanding alternative ways of viewing the menstrual cycle, ovulation and fertility.
About Dr. Naomi Whittaker:
Dr. Naomi Whittaker is the founder of RRMAcademy.org and an OBGYN fertility surgeon focused on women's restorative reproductive medicine, compassionate healthcare, and education.
Dr. Whittaker is a board certified OBGYN and a fellowship trained surgeon who specializes in the Creighton Model FertilityCare System and NaProTechnology, which works cooperatively with a woman's body to treat the underlying cause of gynecologic issues and infertility, such as endometriosis and PCOS.
Dr. Whittaker helps women improve their gynecologic health, and avoid/achieve pregnancy in accordance with their natural fertility using the latest research, medicine, and surgery.
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ACOG states the hospital is the safest place to give birth and many families are convinced the hospital saved their baby. Sometimes it is true. Today Blyss and Dr. Stu talk about that and why much of the time it may not be and about the shaping of those perceptions. ACOG is still pushing untested jabs in pregnancy and do pediatricians take bonuses to do the same? Blyss has a birth to share and Dr. Stu returns from teaching breech & twin skills in Florida.
In 2015 the world was thrust into fear about the Zika Virus. In our Patreon segment Dr. Stu and Blyss discuss a chapter from the book "Crooked, Man Made Disease Explained" about the flawed science and thinking behind the paranoia.
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Question: How do obstetricians do in 10 minutes what midwives do in an hour? Answer: They don't! Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the differences in models and share what a midwife prenatal visit looks like.
We unpack the intricate layers of birthing options, from the empowering choice of vaginal breech delivery to the complex dance between a midwife's guidance and the birthing individual's instinct. Together, we navigate the challenging terrain of advocating for personal birth plans amidst the machinery of hospital protocols, and celebrate the strength of those who pursue supportive birthing environments with midwives.
ACOG is at it again and some doctors and moms are going rogue. The courage to question the status quo in medicine leads us to fresh perspectives on patient care, education, and the pursuit of alternatives that may redefine the future of reproductive health.
Dr. Stu is on the road again teaching breech and twin skills while Blyss is home waiting on babies.
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Today on the podcast, Blyss & Dr. Stu respond to fellow travelers' stories and take a hard look at a serious disorder.
This episode is a deep exploration of the complex and often urgent medical scenarios that can arise during childbirth, such as placental abruption and uterine rupture. From understanding the different classifications of placental abruption to recognizing the symptoms, we shed light on the critical importance of swift medical attention for the safety of both mother and child.
Blyss shares our Patreon vision and Dr. Stu revisits some information on the cervix.
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Blyss is back to discuss all things cervix and the lack of reverence for the birth process while Dr. Stu shares some silly rules from around the world.
We raise our voices against the defensive jargon and standardized procedures that fail to honor each woman's unique journey through pregnancy and birth. We wade through a mother's right to personalized care, and the undercurrents of regulation that shape midwifery.
As we explore the wonders of the cervix, from its role in Pap smears to its remarkable capacity to evolve during pregnancy and birth, our awe for the female body grows.
We introduce our new Patreon feature and respect for breech practitioners all.
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We are re-releasing episode 261 and it is timely and ever-important! In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss take a glance into the past to inform the present. Dr. Stu reads a chapter about the history of whooping cough from a book he’s been reading titled, “Dissolving Illusions: Disease, Vaccines, and The Forgotten History”. Although the book was published 10 years ago, and its focus is historical, it offers lots of insight into the development, administration, and propaganda behind the world’s current most popular vaccine. This episode serves as a stark reminder that history repeats itself.
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While Blyss is away, Dr Stu goes solo and shares some holiday leftovers from his mind attic. Twins, breech, artificial intelligence, and more interventions. What can we hope for and what can we avoid in 2024.
Dr. Stu discusses the vital role of personal touch in childbirth and ponders the pushback received when challenging conventional medical narratives. He delves into the importance of hands-on expertise in birth settings, the challenges faced by aspiring home birth midwives, and the sometimes misplaced focus on potential problems in pregnancy.
In a world where women's choices in childbirth are paramount, this episode underscores the pressing need for skilled providers to support vaginal breech births, a choice often denied in conventional hospital settings. The episode concludes with a focus on the significance of respecting patient preferences and the empowerment that comes from having genuine birth options. Tune in for a thought-provoking session that champions the human element in medicine and the birthing experience.
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With Blyss away, Dr. Stu has the good fortune to talk with twin parents, Anna & Jorge, and Midwife Nancy Pol about their journey with mono-di twins. Navigating the fear-filled medical system and traveling across state lines led them on another path to the birth they desired for their identical baby girls.
Twin pregnancies often come with a cloud of uncertainty and fear, but this episode sheds light on their beautiful potential. We unveil enlightening insights from a study revealing positive twin home birth outcomes, pushing back against the stigma of high-risk labels. Hear firsthand from Anna and Jorge, whose story of facing the unknown with courage and navigating the healthcare system with tenacity, underscores the value of training in vaginal twin and breech delivery.
Your stories, your feedback, and your dedication to exploring these vital issues fuel our continued commitment to bring these discussions to the forefront.
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Understanding the different types of genetic screening can be confusing. Blyss and Dr. Stu try to make sense of this important topic. We catch up on Dr. Stu's appearance on the Daily Show, and Blyss makes a rookie mistake.
We also highlight the unpredictable nature of birth and the necessity of surrendering to the process. Sharing a birth experience, we underscore the importance of preparedness and letting go of the idea of being in control. A listener's letter sheds light on the need for more understanding and support for mothers during the postpartum period. We discuss women's expectations during childbirth and the dire need for improved care and support from the medical system. We address the importance of genetic testing for carrier screening and the potential ramifications of expanding government-run healthcare.
Our conversation further delves into the importance of men's fertility in conception and healthy pregnancies, sharing insights from a listener’s NIPT test. We stress the importance of women advocating for themselves and trusting their gut when it comes to their pregnancy and birth choices.
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After a family weekend, Dr. Stu drives up to Santa Barbara for an in-person visit with Blyss. We catch up on smiles and laughter before exploring the sadness that is early pregnancy loss and what you should know.
We explore the profound impact this unfortunate event has on women, and discuss the power of language in shaping perspectives and fostering empowerment.
We cover critical topics such as the safety of Tamiflu for expecting mothers, and we also grapple with the concept of "common good" in a world where personal freedoms are frequently challenged. Together, we break down the barriers of the healthcare system, shedding light on the importance of aligning birth preferences with the right medical partner.
We later delve into the sensitive topic of early pregnancy loss. Amid the hard-hitting realities, we remind ourselves of the importance of presenting women with choices, promoting honesty in healthcare, and advocating against unnecessary interventions. Guiding you through this complex maze, our aim is to leave you feeling informed, empowered, and most importantly, heard.
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Listener questions on breech prompted Blyss & Dr. Stu to discuss one of our favorite topics in detail. Vaccine hesitancy is on the rise. Experts still wonder why. We share what we are thankful for as the holidays are just around the corner.
Ever wondered why breech birth is widely feared and misunderstood? We unravel the complexities around breech birth, exploring safety measures, the undeniable significance of informed consent, and the startling risks of epidurals.
We tackle the sensitive issue of drug testing for expectant women and its potential implications. Addressing the escalating trend of drug testing for mothers and their newborns, we issue a warning about the likelihood of false positives leading to discrimination and criminalization. We take a closer look at a recent study on the impact of fentanyl in epidurals on newborns and how this influences the interpretation of drug test results.
Join us on this enlightening journey as we traverse the labyrinth of childbirth, breech births, and so much more. You won't want to miss this!
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We give some theory and new science on epidurals. These are things you ought to know. Blyss tells a tale of two births while Dr. Stu spreads real information around the globe.
First up, we reflect on our recent webinar on home birth hesitancy, discussing fear-inducing tactics used by the medical industry. We question scientific experiments and discuss gaslighting around polio.
We then share powerful birth stories and address the challenges faced while navigating the medical model of birth. We underline the unpredictability of birth and the pivotal role of doulas. We also examine the motives of the pharmaceutical industry, especially concerning misinformation about birth control, and question the possible link between the approval of vaccines for pregnant women and the surge in infant mortality rates.
Finally, we scrutinize the use of epidurals in childbirth and their impact on labor, portraying the contrasting rates of epidural use across various countries and hospitals. We explain that labor pain serves a purpose and is not merely a negative experience.
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British osteopath, Doula & Birth Mentor, Shellie Poulter shares her insight and experience with coercion in the birth space and solutions for its betterment. We discuss how mistreatment in the hospital system is not limited to patients and families. A jet-lagged Dr. Stu shares the tale of his time teaching in the U.K. while Blyss dealt with a tough birthing situation.
It's an open dialogue where no topic is off-limits. We dive headfirst into the harsh reality of coercion in healthcare and its uncanny resemblance to abusive behavior. As we navigate the underbelly of medicine, we also explore the fascinating world of the polyvagal theory, shedding light on how medical professional's behavior can be influenced by their stress responses. We also discuss the cold indifference many pregnant women face from their healthcare providers.
From nutrition during pregnancy to the intrusive nature of hospital interference in physiologic birth, we guide you through an enlightening narrative that emphasizes the importance of reform in birthing practices.
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About Shellie Poulter:
Shellie trained in Osteopathic and Naturopathic medicine in 2005 and has been working as a doula and cranio-sacral therapist, mentor and lecturer for 17 years. She teaches birthing biomechanics and trauma informed, non-violent communication courses as well as holding monthly Bitesize Birth lectures and safe discussion spaces for birth workers.
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While Dr Stu is teaching and playing abroad, Blyss sits with Tara, founder and voice of the Christian Hypnobirthing movement, to discuss her personal birth stories and how these experiences, her faith, tenacity, and curiosity led her to creating this popular app that tens of thousands of women have used to support their birth journeys. Tara's app seamlessly blends traditional hypnobirthing techniques with elements of Christian spirituality and has been a beacon of peace and comfort for expectant mothers globally.
Tara and Blyss journey through a myriad of topics - from the power and spirituality of childbirth, the impact of the physical and cultural environment of a hospital on the birthing experience, to the complexities of faith and spirituality. Tara's candid exploration of her return to Christianity, the transformative power of prayer, and the universal message of love that lies at the heart of her faith is nothing short of awe-inspiring. This conversation serves as a reminder of the profound connections, love, and spirituality that can be experienced through childbirth.
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About Tara Menzies:
Tara Menzies is the creator of the Christian Hypnobirthing app and the Faith-Filled Childbirth Course. She created the app in early 2018 after the birth of her first son, because she wanted to combine traditional hypnobirthing techniques (breathing and visualisation exercises, positive affirmations etc) with the incredible love, strength and support that come from our Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus and Holy Spirit, to help expecting mamas feel confident relaxed and connected to God throughout their births. The Christian Hypnobirthing app has since become one of the most highly rated hypnobirthing apps worldwide, and has helped tens of thousands of women have more relaxed, confident and faith-filled birth experiences.
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Dr. Stu checks in with Blyss from teaching and enjoying Ireland and they are joined by Vedic Meditation Teacher, Doula and Mom, Patti Quintero to discuss the great necessity of mind and soul maintenance and the expansion of self in a world of stress.
We traverse the globe from Ireland to New York, then Los Angeles, discussing cultural nuances around birth choices and the shockingly high C-section and intervention rates in different countries.
Our guest Patti explores the power of expanded consciousness beyond thoughts and how this practice can improve our lives. We delve into the profound effects meditation can have on parenting, helping us transition to motherhood, manage stress, reduce inflammation, and cultivate a wider range of perception. We conclude with an introspective look at the concept of premature cognitive commitments and how past experiences influence our present behavior. Tune in for an enlightening ride through birth choices, meditation, prenatal yoga, and more.
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About Patti Quintero:
Patti Quintero is a mother of two, a birth doula, a global educator of Yoga for over 20 years and a Vedic Meditation teacher.
She is the founder of UMA MOTHER whose focus is on elevating & expanding mother’s consciousness through Meditation, Yoga, Community and Education via her UMA class app, workshops and retreats.
Uma Mother was born through Patti’s personal journey through pregnancy into motherhood. These essential practices that nurture presence, vitality, adaptability and access to a source of inner guidance, became an invaluable foundation. Since then she has curated pre&postnatal yoga trainings in both english and spanish, worked as a doula and child birth educator, spearheaded philanthropic projects for underserved mothers, and served as a community leader to hundreds over the years.
Full bio: umamother.com/about
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Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com
In their somewhat erratic Halloween tradition, Blyss & Dr. Stu share some scary stories and a lot of dumb doctor dogma. We also introduce our upcoming Webinar, "Bringing The Homebirth Hesitant on Board" debuting in November.
This episode brings to light the complex connections between nature, healthcare, and risk assessment. We reflect on how our understanding of nature is reflected in our treatment of healthcare, and the importance of considering risks when making decisions. We also navigate through some controversial medical topics and Q&A sessions, exploring the implications of medical interventions and the potential risks associated with them.
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Autumn is here and beside the display of nature's splendor comes the inevitable cold and flu season with all it's precautions and warnings. Blyss & Dr. Stu refuse to blindly accept the standard recommendations offered by organized medicine. Together they dive into what is known about influenza in pregnancy and share their wisdom and typically strong opinions.
In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss explore the power of advocacy during pregnancy and birth. They explore the pros and cons of the RhoGAM shot during pregnancy, discuss intermittent fetal monitoring during labor, and the topic of delaying the standard shot of Pitocin after delivery. This chat is punctuated by a journey back in time to the complex history of midwifery and medicine, the shift from apprenticeship to professional schooling, and the upcoming challenges if this trend continues.
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Today we have as our guest spiritual midwife, Anna Lundqvist, who chose defiance and de-registering rather than submit to the bloody shit show that is the increasingly regulated and medicalized world of midwifery. Her story and wisdom are compelling. Blyss launches The Bridge Midwives and Dr. Stu speaks out on some new platforms.
This conversation aims to strip back the layers to reveal the influences of patriarchy and the church on midwifery and women's rights. We'll navigate through riveting historical narratives involving the rise of the barber surgeon and the man midwife. We'll also delve into a comparison of evidence-based practices in Sweden and the autonomy (or lack thereof) for Australian midwives.
We take a deep dive into the power and history of midwifery, including the haunting past of witches and midwives who faced persecution for their healing practices. This episode promises to unravel the relevance of this history, and how it illuminates the marginalization of women. Our hope is to leave you inspired and enlightened, with an expanded perspective on birthing experiences.
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THE MEDICAL ESTABLISHMENT GREED, LIES & ABUSE START WITH PREGNANT WOMEN | Counter Narrative Ep. 122
Book: Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers (Contemporary Classics)
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In today's episode, we discuss the origins and question the usefulness of estimated due dates. Blyss gets back to birthing and Dr. Stu is gaining media exposure to spread the word. Digging a deeper hole of mistrust, ACOG unequivocally supports the RSV vaccine for pregnant women. Once again, the math and ethics do not line up for them.
We question ACOG's support for this barely tested vaccine and the potential risk it poses. The hypocrisy of medical professionals blaming midwives for problems caused by their own practices also comes under scrutiny. Plus, we also shed light on the dangers of due dates inaccurately assigned to pregnant women, especially for those with diabetes.
Finally, we challenge the medical model of due dates, discussing the history of the calculation and the accuracy of ultrasound in determining gestational age. This discussion also revolves around individualizing care for the pregnant woman when determining the due date and the importance of avoiding unnecessary medical interventions. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode filled with insights, debates, and the joy of birth.
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Unearth the rich and mesmerizing traditions of midwifery as Blyss announces her new podcast, At Her Feet, with her co host Lindsey. This episode is a homage to midwives across the globe, their vibrant cultures, and the pivotal role they play in the birthing process. Settle in as Blyss and Lindsey share their journey from a transformative retreat in Mexico to the profound wisdom passed down by our ancestors.
Blyss and Lindsey explore the historical influence of midwifery across various cultures. Their travels to India, Bali, and Mexico have shown them the global lack of midwives and the urgent need for proper training and resources to reduce maternal and child deaths. They illuminate the impacts of modern medicine on traditional midwifery and the perpetual importance of preserving this age-old wisdom. Tune in as Blyss and Lindsey voice their passion for midwifery and our endeavor to keep these sacred traditions alive.
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Website: theremembering.co
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Postpartum mental health is the focus of today’s podcast with guest, Cynthia Overgard of the Down to Birth podcast. We dive into this often-overlooked topic and the importance of a strong support system. Dr. Stu returns from teaching in Wisconsin and Blyss is back home on birth watch.
This critical conversation with Cynthia takes us inside the escalating complications in hospital births. From dissecting the potential reasons behind these increasing complications to taking a hard look at the role of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cynthia brings an enlightening perspective to these important maternal health issues. This dialogue doesn’t shy away from examining the shifting trends in high-quality care, bringing you comprehensive insights into the sphere of maternal health.
About Cynthia Overgard:
Cynthia Overgard is the producer of Down to Birth Show, a weekly podcast she co-hosts with CNM Trisha Ludwig. Cynthia is a published writer in the field of maternal health, and has taught HypnoBirthing to more than 2,000 couples in the past 16 years. Cynthia is trained in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and has run a weekly postpartum support group since 2015. She has an undergraduate degree in Sociology and an MBA in Finance. Cynthia continues to teach HypnoBirthing classes to couples globally.
Connect with Cynthia:
Website: HypnoBirthingCT.com
Instagram: @downtobirthshow
Email: [email protected]
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Working for women and not the law, traditional midwife, Rebecca Walker joins the show to discuss birthing in a maternity care desert. Dr. Stu reviews hospital rankings with suspicion and Blyss reads an impassioned letter from a Scottish doula in despair.
This episode uncovers the harsh realities faced by women in rural areas seeking maternity care. Dr. Stu, Blyss, and Rebecca dissect hospital policies that deny care during birth, discuss the disturbing rise of forced C-sections, and debate the legal status of traditional midwifery. With the dire need for more midwives ringing loud and clear, this episode pushes us to think about the intricacies of maternity care and the struggles endured by women in their quest for a safe and empowering birth experience.
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On short notice, Blyss gives Dr. Stu a request for a deep dive into the common finding of uterine fibroids. Listener questions and common doctor recommendations are addressed. Whether pregnant or not, many women will be confronted with this diagnosis. Symptoms, treatment, outcomes, and options are all discussed in today's episode. The data may surprise you.
Dr. Stu and Blyss delve into the treatment options for fibroids, emphasizing the importance of patient-specific strategies and shared decision-making. They then discuss the potential effects of uterine fibroids on pregnancy outcomes. This includes exploring the theories behind the pain associated with red degeneration and the effects of fibroids on pregnancy outcomes. Finally, they examine the data from recent studies comparing the risk of conditions like postpartum hemorrhage, retained placenta, and uterine rupture in women with fibroids to that of control subjects. Tune in for this comprehensive session on fibroids, pregnancy, and birth choices.
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By almost any parameter of general health we are a sicker society than we were 50 years ago. Models of wellness abound yet we are still told to follow only some science. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in pregnancy. Blyss & Dr. Stu share their recent "rememberings" from traveling to visit a nurturing community of birth workers and the positive experiences of listeners. Then we look at some medical dictates which Blyss sees as irresponsible and which infuriate Dr. Stu. The contrast is revealing and people are waking up.
In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss explore the complexities of maternity care and trusting one's intuition amidst challenging situations. Drawing on a follower's experience, they underscore the importance of validating intuition and making informed decisions based on evidence, common sense, and personal experiences. Further, they scrutinize the increasing rates of birth interventions and their negative impacts, prompting a reflection on current practices and the need for safer environments for childbirth.
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Still riding the high of the Louisville conference, Blyss & Dr. Stu take a drive back in time to the Farm in Tennessee. With Buffalo Springfield on the radio and Dr. Stu in awe of the surroundings, the midwives tell Blyss an emotional tale of The Farm's past and future.
They explore the complexities of Tennessee's midwife law, the critical role of licensure, and the essential need for collaboration with doctors. Above all, these midwives emphasize the importance of client autonomy, the value of face-to-face communication, and the power of storytelling in sharing wisdom. In the end, Dr. Stu and Blyss were left with a profound appreciation for their dedication to the art of midwifery, and believe you will be too, as you listen to their shared wisdom and experience.
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The normalization of breech and twin birthing and the skills to make that happen were the reason the birth community came together in Louisville, KY for four days in September. Blyss & Dr. Stu share the stories and memories from a weekend of learning and bonding. We are stronger as a community united.
You'll discover how the positioning of a baby's arms affects their rotation during breech birth, and the essential factors to monitor during delivery - the color, tone, capillary filling, and cord of the baby. Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the intricacies of twin pregnancies and the complications that may arise, including twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). They also cover the importance of understanding when to intervene. Despite the often challenging and complex nature of these discussions, the underlying message is one of empowerment, education, and encouragement. So join in as we navigate these fascinating topics, challenge conventional wisdom, and celebrate the miracle of birth.
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Blyss is soaking up Sedona while Dr. Stu has the privilege of teaching breech to doctors in Chicago. Today's topic by popular request is shoulder dystocia, sharing truth, and dispelling fear. There are no signs and no way to prevent the condition, so why all the interventions?
Get ready to uncover the truth about birth options and practices when it comes to shoulder dystocia. Blyss and Dr. Stu unravel the myths surrounding shoulder dystocia and share first-hand experiences, with a focus on various maneuvers that can be lifesaving in these situations.
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Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu define "ectopic" and discuss ectopic pregnancy and share their ectopic thoughts on that. The medicalized birth system continues to alienate us and positive breech stories enlighten us. Dr. Stu shares stories from his childhood home and Blyss finds a gem in hers.
In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the risk factors of ectopic pregnancies, the paramount importance of differential diagnosis, and the range of treatments available. They shed light on some personal experiences, including one involving an abnormal Doppler reading at a 35-week pregnancy, and the implications of inducing at 37 weeks. Through their words, they hope to inspire a sense of wonder about the marvel that is God's design, challenging the egotism of the human race.
Has our society become too risk averse? With compelling statistics about the rate of women being induced, Dr. Stu and Blyss spark your curiosity to ponder over this crucial question. Tune in for more!
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Protection from untested interventions has long been the basis for ethical decisions in medicine and especially pregnancy. So what happened? Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss the wisdom of Naturopathy and the attack on longstanding principles and wisdom from many fronts. ACOG changes ethics and the Arrive Trial isn't all that we were sold.
In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the ACOG Committee Statement No. 6: Ethical Considerations for the Delivery of Obstetric and Gynecologic Care During a Pandemic.
They scrutinize the risks associated with untested products for pregnant and breastfeeding women, the ethics of using such products, and heartrending news of sudden cardiac events in young people. The ebbs and flows of this conversation lead to the significance of finding a healthcare provider that resonates with your beliefs.
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Dr. Stu had eye surgery, again, this week and celebrated his birthday by recording with the Whimsical Blyss. So with little prep time, we gratefully explore the knowledge of our beloved fellow travelers in letters you have written to us.
Through your letters, we've gained valuable insight into your experiences and queries, and together, we tackle them head-on. We explore hot topics in the birthing world, such as breech birth, twin birth, low platelets, and more. These discussions highlight the necessity of informed consent, the power of asking questions when certain decisions don't sit well with you, and the importance of trusting your instincts. So, if you’re pregnant, contemplating pregnancy, or just interested in the birthing world, this episode is rich with insights that challenge conventional wisdom and inspire informed decision-making.
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We are often told by our doctors why we need a cesarean and how routine they are. But there are a lot of reasons to be wary. Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss what you should know to help make that informed decision and then break down a popular YouTube podcast.
Prepare to be enlightened as they unravel the intricate truth of cesarean sections – the most common surgical procedure in the US, and yet, one fraught with overlooked risks and consequences. Unleash your curiosity as we dissect the power of informed consent, the seriousness of risks linked to cesarean sections, and the importance of effective communication in the doctor-patient relationship.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as Dr. Stu and Blyss disclose alarming insights about the potential risks of not having a vaginal delivery. The factors discussed range from the baby missing out on exposure to natural bacteria that aids immunity, to an increased likelihood of allergy, asthma, autism, and ADHD. Our exploration of the Amish population, their low rates of chronic disease and autism, and their preference for vaginal deliveries will definitely make you rethink conventional childbirth procedures.
Wrapping up, they bring to light the grim reality associated with cesarean sections - the five times higher maternal mortality rate and the increased risk of abnormal placentation. Brace yourselves as we challenge the status quo and question the influence of litigation and politics on medical practices. By the end of the episode, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding childbirth and the potential downsides of cesarean sections. Listen in as Dr. Stu and Blyss transform your perspective on childbirth and equip you with knowledge to prepare you to be your own advocate to get the birth you want.
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Join us as we celebrate the arrival of Stu’s first grandchild, and finally cover a topic that has been highly requested: cholestasis. This is a lesser-known health issue that affects a significant number of pregnant women and usually results in interventions once it is discovered. You'll walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of cholestasis - from its potential treatments, its impact on the liver, and whether or not it is as scary as it is sometimes portrayed.
We dissect the risks and benefits of various treatments for cholestasis, alongside a poignant story from a listener who was diagnosed with this condition. We don't shy away from examining the harsh realities, but also shed light on the real facts of what different bile levels mean and their corresponding risks. We further delve into the medical model of treating cholestasis, highlighting the need for an individualized approach that takes into account the woman's unique experience and not just the medical perspective.
Not only do we discuss cholestasis, but we also tackle topics like the potential risks of placental pathology and the controversy surrounding forceps usage in childbirth. We pull back the curtain on the medical world, questioning the incentives behind the non-disclosure of placental pathology by hospitals, and revisiting the debate on the induction of labor. This episode is packed with valuable insights, personal stories, and expert advice - an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of cholestasis and its management during pregnancy. Tune in and let's grow together!
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Medical induction of labor continues to rise. Most OBs will want to induce all of you. Does this make sense? No! Blyss & Dr. Stu explain. Blyss hangs with her boys & Dr. Stu becomes a grandpa.
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On the Summer Solstice, Dr. Sara Wickham, author and researcher, joins the podcast to share her wisdom. Dr. Stu and Dr. Sara talk about the meaning of risk and prevention and the risk of prevention as it pertains to some very relevant topics: BMI, "Needing" a cesarean, Pitocin & Vitamin K. She is a treasure trove of knowledge.
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In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu delve into the term 'Geriatric Pregnancy', debunking myths and embracing evidence around advanced maternal age and the need for individualized care. They also touch upon stories of successful births, medical interventions, and the risks of synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) versus natural oxytocin. Amidst personal anecdotes, survival strategies for a metaphorical apocalypse, and reflections on adaptability, the episode underscores the importance of informed consent and patient autonomy in making birth choices.
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Today, Blyss meets up with Dr. Stu at his new homestead for some in-person podcasting! They discuss thrombocytopenia and low levels of independent thought in so many health care providers. Learn about the importance of a complete blood count and peripheral blood smear, the risks associated with certain medications, and the key characteristics of gestational thrombocytopenia. They also discuss various platelet count thresholds and what they mean for the expecting mother.
Blyss explores the world of nutrition and supplements to help increase platelet count during pregnancy. The duo covers a range of options, from vitamins and minerals to specific foods and supplements that can aid in building healthy blood and increasing platelets.
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Today, Blyss and Dr. Stu dive into the topic of low lying placenta and challenge the commonly held perception of it being a high-risk condition, discussing the medical gaslighting that often occurs. Blyss shares her firsthand experience of witnessing an unassisted birth where the mother made the empowered choice to stay home. Together, they provide comforting truths and alternative perspectives on low lying placenta, offering insights that challenge the traditional approach and empower women to make informed decisions about their birth plans.
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The brilliant author of “The Fourth Trimester” & “Call of the Wild”, Kimberly Ann Johnson joins Blyss & Dr. Stu for a really fascinating conversation into rites of passage and our autonomic nervous system. You have to hear her!
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Do physicians live up to their definition? Blyss and Dr. Stu delve into the troubling relationship between big medicine, big government, and big pharma. Blyss & Dr. Stu, together again, break down the ugly reality.
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Blyss and Dr. Stu come together in Santa Barbara for an Instagram Live session to answer questions with a surprise guest. They address a range of topics including subchorionic hematoma, balanced diets in pregnancy, breech deliveries, declining cervical checks, and placental delivery. They also share insights from a remarkable hospital experience highlighting the possibilities of birth. Tune in to hear their informative discussion and Q&A session!
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Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss optimal cord clamping and debunk misconceptions about nature's incredible design. They explore the anatomy and physiology of the umbilical cord, ways to separate it, and its spiritual side. Letters from listeners about seeds of fear and lack of support has the duo shaking their heads....again!
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Every intervention has a ripple effect, and today Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss how culture changes can lead to unintended consequences. They delve into the topic of posterior babies, including what they are, why moms experience more discomfort and longer labors, and different methods to help get a baby to turn. They also explore the impact of our lifestyles on the positions of our babies, optimal fetal positioning, and trusting the wisdom of the baby's side.
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Dr. Nathan Riley and Midwife Sara Rosser join Blyss and Dr. Stu in this episode to discuss their dream of enhancing the birth and life experience. The group talks about the illusion of safety in hospitals, exercising autonomy, and being proactive in birth and life. They also touch on free birth, the use of cannabis and psychedelics in pregnancy and birth, and the Born Free Method yearlong program.
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While today's topic is Retained Placenta, the real lesson is our systems are broken — and those that broke them expect us to let them fix them. From CPS tyranny to more interventions, Dr. Stu is mad as hell and Blyss wisely says, “Don't let them do it.”
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Today on the podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu are joined by Nathalie Rojas, an IVF coordinator and indigenous birth worker, to discuss assisted reproduction and the pros and cons of messing with Mother Nature. They delve into Nathalie's journey to birth work, her role as an IVF coordinator, the overuse of IVF, and the impact of insurance on access to fertility treatment.
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Blyss talks to Alma and her midwife Brooke about Alma's journey to a successful natural birth at home despite having cystic fibrosis. The doctors recommended that Alma should not deliver at home, but she and her midwife navigated the risks and challenges to make it happen.
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Brooke's bio: My midwifery journey started in 2013, 6 weeks after my first child was born. I was raised in a traditional Western medicine household and grew up believing birth to be a medically managed event. After an introduction to the world of home birth through the Business of Being Born documentary, I switched my desire to attend births in the hospital to an overwhelming pull to home birth midwifery. During my education at Birthingway College of Midwifery, I birthed 2 more kiddos at home with midwives. I obtained my midwifery license in 2019 and started my own home birth practice with a fellow midwifery preceptor. In 2020 my fourth child was born, surprise, also at home with midwives. Since then, i have become the solo midwife to my practice, Milk and Honey Birth Services.
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On the Ides of March, Blyss and Dr. Stu gather to heed the warnings and clear the air on Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), a rare condition in which abnormal cells grow in the uterus after conception, and other important topics.
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Returning from their travels, Dr. Stu and Blyss share their reflections on their time in Bali and Haiti, offering valuable insights into cultural practices and healthcare. Looking at some current dilemmas and fellow traveler letters, they delve into various topics related to accountability and integrity, including the importance of critical thinking when choosing which research to trust, maintaining personal integrity and standing up for beliefs, and empathizing with patients to avoid insensitivity and invalidating experiences.
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While Blyss bathes in tropical wonder, Dr. Stu goes solo and cleans out a corner of his mind attic. From misdiagnosis to outright lying, "medical expert" is now a codified oxymoron.
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For episode #300, Blyss and Dr. Stu are joined by Ibu Robin Lim CPM, a Filipino-American midwife and founder of Yayasan Bumi Sehat, a non-profit organization in Indonesia. Blyss is in Bali feeling the love with Ibu Robin, and Dr. Stu is on Maui as a guest of The Ellen Fisher Podcast. It’s a tropical timewarp of stories and history. Lim shares her passion for human rights in childbirth and how protecting mothers and newborns can build peace, one family at a time. They discuss Lim's experiences and memories from her 31 years in Bali, including birthing stories, regulations, miracle births, and changing policies through the power of hugs.
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Medicine has been attacked and the medical industry gaslighting continues to rise as trust is nearing zero. Blyss & Dr. Stu catch up on travel ups and downs and respond to the experiences of listeners. Dr. Stu exposes the American Academy of Pediatrics.
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In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu speak with Integrative Pediatrician Dr. Joel Gator Warsh on the topic of why half of our children have a chronic disease. They discuss environmental toxins, food and nutritional issues, the lack of individualized care, and the broken state of the current medical system. Dr. Joel also shares his thoughts on the importance of minimizing antibiotic use, his approach to counseling couples as a pediatrician & conscious parenting, and his perspective on fevers in babies and treatment.
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Bio: Dr. Joel Gator Warsh is a Board-Certified Pediatrician based in Los Angeles who specializes in parenting, wellness, and integrative medicine. He completed his medical training at Thomas Jefferson Medical College and his Pediatric Medicine training at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA). He has published research in peer-reviewed journals and has been featured in documentaries, films, podcasts, and articles. He is the founder of Integrative Pediatrics and Medicine Studio City, and the Parenting Masterclass Series Raising Amazing. He is also an author and consultant for health and wellness brands.
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After returning from a great #reteachbreech seminar in Indiana, Wise Goddess Blyss and Dr. Stu address listeners' inquiries about sleeping positions during pregnancy, pregnancy insurance, artificial rupture of membranes, and optimal intervals for pregnancy planning. They then delve into the topic of ultrasound technology, highlighting both its well-known benefits and downplayed risks. The discussion includes understanding radiation exposure and temperature during ultrasound and tips for minimizing ultrasound exposure for clinical information. Dr. Stu and Blyss review essential vs. optional ultrasound exams during pregnancy and Blyss shares her personal experience with ultrasound in childbirth.
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Kelly Rain Gross joins Blyss & Dr. Stu to share her experiences with two home births and the challenges she faced navigating unexpected outcomes. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and asking questions, and the need to stick with what is right for the individual, even if it goes against the norm. You’ll hear her uplifting story of going the home birth route after genetic testing revealed her unborn baby had trisomy 21, or Down syndrome. Kelly also shares her experience of facing discrimination during her geriatric pregnancy and how she switched providers after being dismissed due to being considered "higher risk."
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Most of us are nutrient and vitamin deficient. On today's podcast, Blyss & Dr. Stu talk with Needed co-founder, Julie Sawaya, about her home births and journey to creating an optimal supplement for moms and dads. Julie also shares her insights on the importance of working with the right midwife or doula, the impact of a first birth on future births, and the importance of addressing the underlying nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, their conversation explores the challenges of finding optimal nutritional support through food alone, the reasons why Needed was formulated and the addition of a men's line with a focus on sperm health and quality. Julie also discusses the importance of asking your practitioner for the right blood tests to detect deficiencies and top nutrients to test for.
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Julie’s Bio:
Julie Sawaya is the co-founder of Needed, a nutrition platform dedicated to optimally nourishing women before, during, and after pregnancy. Needed is backed by the latest clinical research and a collective of perinatal nutrition practitioners that regularly test women's nutrient and hormone levels to know exactly what's needed. Julie and her co-founder Ryan started Needed 5 years ago when they discovered through nutritional testing that they were hugely deficient in key nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy. Through research they realized they were not alone. 97% of women in this life stage take a prenatal, yet 95% have nutritional deficiencies. Needed was created to help women become optimally nourished--starting with a redesigned prenatal vitamin, and now including over 20 targeted nutritional supplements to meet the needs of women AND men during the childbearing years.
Julie is based in LA and is the mama of 2 girls, both born at home (the first with Blyss!)
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Blyss & Dr. Stu catch up on crazy California weather and current events in the birth world, and share listener letters from their new email account. They also discuss the latest "crisis" article on Group B Strep and the continuous destruction of trust in medicine.
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Sensational headlines and rumors have finally been put to rest for the midwife trial in Nebraska. Defense Attorney Hermine Hayes-Klein returns to the podcast to give us her unique perspective on the Court V televised trial of midwife, Angee Hock. Hermine also provides her brilliant insight on midwifery law, maternal health, and creating regulations that protect freedom.
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Today, we’re venturing into a postpartum topic — breastfeeding! After Dr. Stu tells Blyss about his last Los Angeles adventure, they are joined by the incredible Chelsea Poyo-Nieto BA, IBCLC who unpacks how to set yourself up for success with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a learned skill, and it’s important to invest in your ability through a breastfeeding class and with a lactation consultant. In this episode, you’ll learn how your birth experience and being in a hospital can affect the early days of breastfeeding, and ways to navigate the challenges that may arise.
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Sherlock Holmes has a mind palace; Dr. Stu has a mind attic — and today him and Blyss are clearing out the clutter! The dynamic duo is together as Dr. Stu traveled to Santa Barbara and into Blyss’ kitchen. They each share triumphant birth stories and unpack more Dumb Doctor Dogma.
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Director Paula James Martinez and Executive Director Sara Ojjeh discuss Born Free, their new film on why the U.S. is the only nation in the developed world with a rising maternal mortality rate. They hope to amplify the need for change in the U.S. maternity system and rebrand our midwifery model while honoring the contributions of the Granny Midwives.
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“Black Adam” & “Sex/Life” star Sarah Shahi shares her journey to choosing home births and having a breech birth of twins with Dr. Stu! Sarah also opens up about trusting oneself and honoring each individual’s story. Blyss & the "legendary" Dr. Stu chime in with insight on coping through labor, twin births, and informed consent.
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Dr. Stu and Blyss are joined by Certified Nurse-Midwife Naomi Drucker. Today, you’ll hear about the inside workings of Naomi’s model of care, which gives women the option of having a home birth or hospital experience with a midwifery team.
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Naomi’s Bio:
"I am, in chronological order; a sister, wife, mother, doula, nurse, and midwife. I met both Dr. Stu and Blyss years ago, just before they changed course to what they are doing now. I was born and mostly raised (till 15) in Montreal, Canada, and moved here with my mom and sister in 1992. I met my husband 6 months later which was unexpected!
I took Ellie Shae's doula training in 2000, graduated nursing school at LACC (Los Angeles City College) in 2005, and worked nights in L&D at Cedars from 2005-2018 when I graduated from midwifery school at Frontier Nursing University. I worked at GraceFull Birthing Center first and then started a private solo practice offering both home birth and hospital birth. In 2020 I took on a partner midwife and we launched Los Angeles Midwives which is where I am currently practicing.
I am so happy to now be able to offer a close enough version of ideal care to the clients that find me. I have 5 sons ages 23!!!, 19!!, 14,14 (twins), and 18 months old. 2 hospital births (Kaiser West LA, Cedars), one birth center (The Hollywood Birth Center), and my grand finale at home!
My 5-year plan includes growing my practice, normalizing physiologic birth in the hospital, normalizing and streamlining the home-to-hospital transfer experience, and supporting other midwives to offer this type of care here in LA."
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When agenda and rigid ideology replace beneficence and autonomy, relationships and trust collapse. Blyss and Dr. Stu talk with health care ethicist Dr. Jennifer Dunatov about how our physical and mental well-being depends on restoring respect for ethics above all else. Dr. Jen gives crucial insight into ethics services in hospitals, providing practical routes for you to use your voice and obtain an ethics consult. This is an empowering conversation you don’t want to miss!
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Dr. Jennifer Dunatov is a health care ethicist living and working in the greater Los Angeles area. She consults, teaches and writes on all things birth ethics. Jennifer founded the No Trauma Mama® Project in 2017 after learning as a new mother about the global epidemic of preventable birth trauma in clinical settings. She believes when people experience ethical and respectful births, it can be transformative for birthing people, families, and entire communities.
Jennifer has served in clinical and academic roles for 15+ years. She is currently Senior Director of Ethics in Southern CA for a large health care system. Her passion of working in relationship with others to address ethical issues in health care delivery has taken her from New Zealand to Switzerland and many places in between.
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Today, Dr. Stu and Blyss are answering a listener’s question on velamentous cord insertion, detailing what to know about this rare occurrence and how it does not risk you out of home or vaginal birth.
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Today, Dr. Stu and Blyss are addressing the misinformation on home births that was discussed on The Joe Rogan Experience with comedian Bridget Phetasy. As the comedians talk about Bridget’s C-section and use comedy to ease discomfort, they flippantly share inaccurate statistics and comments that promote fear and limiting perspectives around childbirth.
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With Blyss busy on Halloween doing birthing stuff, Dr. Stu cleans out his mental attic and finds some scary stuff. Today, he’s unpacking recent updates from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) on vaccine recommendations and how hospitals should navigate the current “oxytocin” shortage, along with a breakdown of why some vaccine studies and articles need to be questioned.
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Today, Dr. Stu and Blyss are discussing the “fluid of life” aka amniotic fluid! They answer questions like, what’s too much? What’s too little? How can you support your fluid amounts nutritionally? Whether spontaneous or artificial, Blyss doesn’t like the word rupture and tells of a transport. Dr. Stu ponders mosquitoes and polar bears and gives updates from the road.
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A healthy lifestyle applies to both clients and practitioners alike. Today, Blyss and Dr. Stu chat with midwives Josie & Maral of Tourmaline Birth & Wellness Collective about their integrative model of care. They break down what makes their birth center different, including the structure of having multiple care providers and the non-profit that subsidizes care for those who can’t afford midwifery services. From this conversation, we gain a look into what it means to nurture both birth and birth workers and how we can shift into this new paradigm of maternity care.
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After catching up on life and listener stories, Blyss and Dr. Stu flush away the fear and confusion on the topic of meconium and Meconium Aspiration Syndrome. They discuss how meconium is quite common, and how birth may change when it is present. Dr. Stu and Blyss also get into the topics of cord clamping, stolen cord blood, and Dr. Stu’s experience with “Bait and Switch.”
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Fellow travelers ask Dr. Stu to comment on a popular Social Media influencer's video. Dumb Doctor Dogma is everywhere, and Blyss and Dr. Stu are here to break down the fallacies in arguments made by non-experts on home birth. They also talk about the lack of acknowledgment of midwives’ credentials, how birth is not inherently a dangerous experience for low-risk moms, and why we should not equate the level of training with quality of care.
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Modern men face a crisis of masculinity. This week, we are joined by Blyss’ brother and author John Wineland to discuss a new masculine paradigm and ways to nurture intimacy and connection. So often couples have challenges in their relationships after having a baby, and through John’s healthy intimacy framework, he helps them baby-proof their relationships. He teaches embodiment practices that individuals, couples, and birth workers can use to know what will impact the moment — what will nourish someone’s heart and body.
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The Down to Birth Podcast team, Cynthia Overgard & Trisha Ludwig, join Blyss and Dr. Stu to talk about red flags when seeking a practitioner so you can feel empowered to make the best choice for your pregnancy and birthing experience. They also discuss a high-profile mom’s birthing story, unpacking the hospital tyranny she experienced and her call for change.
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Cynthia’s Bio:
Cynthia Overgard is the founder of HypnoBirthing of Connecticut. In addition to producing the podcast, Down to Birth, Cynthia teaches live, interactive online classes and workshops on a regular monthly basis and runs a weekly postpartum support group. After experiencing her own beautiful and empowered water-birth to her 8 lb 14 oz son in 2005 and later to her 9 lb 7 oz daughter in 2009, Cynthia resigned from a fulfilling corporate career at MasterCard and as an adjunct Professor of Finance of ten years at University of Connecticut to transition into the field of prenatal education and advocacy. She is an expert in HypnoBirthing and is trained in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International.
Trisha’s Bio:
Trisha Ludwig is a Certified Nurse-Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant with a Master’s degree from Yale School of Nursing. After practicing as a homebirth midwife, she started a holistic gynecology and women’s health practice, which she ran for 10 years. She is passionate about supporting and optimizing women’s transitions through major shifts such as pregnancy, postpartum, peri-menopause, and menopause. She believes in treating health issues on the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
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In today's podcast, Blyss & Dr. Stu share wisdom through stories of loss and wonder. Blyss vulnerably and openly shares about the death of her daughter and the ways her unimaginable loss has deepened her ability to hold space for others. This episode is filled with the joy, beauty, trauma, and pain that comes with birth work, and ultimately, life.
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After sharing a couple of listener stories, Dr. Stu and Blyss unpack Dr. Sara Wickham’s book on Anti-D, RhoGAM, and Rh factor. They dive into the implications of routinely giving RhoGAM to all Rh-negative pregnant women, and how there is a lack of research trials and data on RhoGAM. You may get aggravated, you may get p*ssed, but as always, Dr. Stu and Blyss are here to provide informed consent and empower you to choose what’s best for your family.
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Given that modern medicine is more akin to a hamster wheel void of intuition than an industry that’s committed to learning and designed to help people, the thought of battling it can quickly become overwhelming. Today, Dr. Stu & Blyss continue to critique policy-makers, as well as pop-culture’s latest depiction of breech birth. The balance is restored by some incredibly uplifting birth stories from listeners that remind us that it is indeed possible to make a difference in this world, one birth at a time. Dr. Stu also shares some recent studies about herpes during pregnancy and makes his latest recommendations for mothers with the virus.
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Today on the show, Dr. Stu and Blyss are joined by their former patient and good friend, Desiree Doan. Desiree shares the details of all three of her birth stories: A hospital transfer, a successful VBAC, and how she navigated placenta accreta spectrum or, as Desi says, “That time my placenta went wild!”. Her story of self-advocacy is both awe-inspiring and informative…It’s amazing what a determined baby and mother are capable of accomplishing.
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Blyss and Stu host Julie Hewett, a Clinical Psychologist and mother of two based in Santa Monica. Julie is passionate about helping people who have felt silenced to empower their voices to be heard. This took on very personal meaning to her this past year when she struggled with a fear-based medical system to deliver her breech baby on her own terms. Blyss, Stu, and Julie share their sympathies for those subjected to the broken medical system and strive to empower patients to demand the care they deserve.
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In today’s episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss get fed up after more listener letters continue to demonstrate the pervasiveness of medical professionals gaslighting their clients. On the contrary, one woman’s successful VBAC ripples through her community and empowers its women. The two also comment on the ethics of censorship and the importance of speaking your truth.
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Today on the show, Dr. Stu and Blyss chat with documentary filmmakers, Ricki Lake & Abby Epstein. The two share their wisdom and passion in a timeless discussion about two of their most prominent documentaries, The Business of Being Born & Business of Birth Control. Although the former was released in 2008, many of the themes within the film still ring true today. Recognizing that younger generations are more conscious about what they put into their bodies, and that they often question the motives of the medical establishment, Ricki and Abby feel poised that the impact of their work will sustain for years to come.
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As listeners continue to share their stories with Blyss and Dr. Stu, the fact that so many OBs & MFMs continue to dis-empower women, to the point of them doubting their bodies, only becomes more and more puzzling. Why does this keep happening? Sometimes, it can appear as if the days of vaginal birth, VBAC or not, are limited. Women possess the magical, innate, ability to successfully grow human beings. They also possess the ability to birth them, instinctually, under a wide variety of circumstances. In this episode, we hear many women’s stories about their struggles with finding supportive care. We also hear of some triumphs, which bless Dr. Stu and Blyss with a sense of pride and purpose for the impact they continue to make on mothers around the world.
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Today, Blyss and Stu touch on a variety of topics, including proper language towards women who’ve endured miscarriages or abortions, Diethylstilbestrol syndrome (DES syndrome) and v@ccines. Dr. Stu Tells also the tales of two VBA3C moms and shares #ReteachBreech gratitude for his latest seminar in Sedona, AZ.
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Acclaimed birth worker, Lindsey Meehleis, joins Dr. Stu and Blyss for a passionate conversation about their profession. Lindsey is a mom and traditional spiritual midwife who has been serving childbearing women through birth, lactation and emotionally through trauma release work since 2004. She works in Southern California and has had the pure honor of witnessing over 1300 births. She believes that “great grandma wisdom” is one of the most essential rememberings to tap back into during each rite of passage that we weave through as women in our lifetimes.
Today on the show, Dr. Stu, Blyss and Lindsey talk about their shared mission of creating a space and culture where birth workers can talk about their profession without fear of prosecution, and their desire to aid mothers in welcoming babies into the world in the most peaceful way they know possible—at home.
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In today’s episode, Blyss and Stu share their thoughts on listeners’ letters and questions and also take some time to discuss the recent passing of an icon. By example, language, and compassion we are changing the discussion. May our efforts create a better experience for our daughters and their daughters too. We invite you to give your gift, whatever it may be, as boldly and as passionately as you can. Our gift, truth and love are all we have to offer one another.
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Blyss shares the story of her most recent great birth and chimes in as Dr. Stu gets passionate while discussing the FDA’s recent authorization to begin jabbing babies as young as six months, and the fallacy of continuous electronic fetal monitoring.
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Dr. Stu returns from Oahu and joins Blyss and a live audience in her new community in Santa Barbara, California to answer questions and discuss C-sections, VBACs, breech, vaginal steaming and more.
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Blyss and Dr. Stu catch up on the events of the week—of course, with a healthy dose of cynicism—and respond to a few letters from listeners. They then discuss the pros and cons of certain ACOG protocols, while taking a deep dive on what is and is not normal bleeding throughout each trimester of pregnancy, as well as postpartum.
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Today, Dr. Stu vents to us from his hotel room in Redding, California after reteaching breech, then travels to Stratford on Avon, UK to chat all things birth with British author & doula, Sally Anne Beresford. The two speak passionately about womens’ human rights to childbirth and their conversation reaffirms that the issues that so many mothers experience here in the US are also present across the pond.
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In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the difference between a Colposcopy, LEEP and Cone Biopsy. They also share a variety of letters from listeners–many who were left without answers or dealt with health care professionals that lack awareness of social cues. Today’s show is yet another reminder of the unfortunate fact that the fear of the birth person or team you hire is sometimes the catalyst for the resistance to the birth you deserve and desire.
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Today, Dr. Stu and Blyss take a glance into the past to inform the present. Dr. Stu reads a chapter about the history of whooping cough from a book he’s been reading titled, “Dissolving Illusions: Disease, Vaccines, and The Forgotten History”. Although the book was published nine years ago, and its focus is historical, it offers lots of insight into the development, administration, and propaganda behind the world’s current most popular vaccine. This episode serves as a stark reminder that history repeats itself.
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Today’s show features two conversations: Blyss joins in an alliteration of B’s, while Stu connects from his RV. Stu also leaves the Beast behind and travels to the village of Shoreham in Kent, UK to meet with the prolific and informed hypnobirthing instructor, Erin Fung of Better Birth UK.
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Blyss Young of Birthing Blyss joins Dr. Stu to reminisce, vent a little and discuss a home birth quandary.
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In this episode, mental and physical wellness and hopeful visions are the subject of today's podcast. Blyss and Dr. Stu read listener letters and discuss more truths and lies. Plus, learn why we need to always follow the money and why the mainstream medical model may not be worth saving.
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Dr. Stu & Blyss sit down for a conversation with author, sage, and award-winning science journalist. Jennifer Margulis, PhD. They muse on their attendance to the #HEALNC gathered in Raleigh, NC and basked in wisdom with the author of "Your Baby, Your Way'' & "The Vaccine Friendly Plan”. Plus, Jennifer gives tips on eating a low-toxin diet, explains why aspirin may actually be the superior painkiller, and shares her own personal story battling the birthing medical complex.
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Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss RV life and physiologic vs. coached pushing with tears and repairs on today's episode. Learn some tips for preventing tearing from happening in the first place and feel empowered as a woman to take back the power during labor.
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Maryn Green of Indie Birth joins Blyss to discuss ancient wisdom and remind women to take back birth. A midwife since 2009 (first as a licensed midwife and now as an independent, autonomous midwife in Kentucky), Maryn has years of professional wisdom that she’s here to share. She’s well known for her international association, the Indie Birth Association, which serves and educates women and midwives all over the world. Plus, Dr. Stu began his cross country travels with a reteach breech seminar in Kentucky and stories of breech birth.
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Taking more time to feel, to contemplate and to care is sound medicine. With this theme in mind, Blyss and Dr. Stu engage listener comments and discuss a variety of topics the medical/technical model has got wrong.
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Today on the show we’re joined by Blyss’ Innate Journey partner, Haize Hawke Rosen! A Spiritual Facilitator, Mentor & Master Doula, Haize is here to share the wisdom of sex and intimacy in birthing. Her and Blyss give tips on using intimacy to induce labor, why partners need to actively work towards healthy intimacy postpartum, and how to implement some of their best practices into your pregnancy journey. Plus, Dr. Stu is wiser for it as he begins his travels.
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Today we talk about real indications and methods for labor induction. Blyss shares her midwife wisdom on “natural” alternatives while Dr. Stu exposes how every hospital intervention just happens to generate revenue!
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Our health is under siege with lies by liars with nefarious motives. From HPV vaccine to SIDS, Blyss & Dr. Stu expose the culprits in today's episode. Listen to learn all about vaccine injuries, and whether or not the HPV vaccine is a smart choice for you and your family.
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Today we meet the infamous Dr. Flores! Dr. Stu and Blyss speak with the home birth obstetrician and mom about her path and passions and talk twins, including an amazing story of double breech babies. Plus, Dr. Stu gets unintended international exposure from @korraobidi.
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Dr. Stu laments more rules that solve nothing and diminish the individual while Blyss "blaised" her fellow birthkeepers. Then they dive into why newborns are born with vitamin K deficiencies and lament on the need for critical thought in our society.
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Food rumors lurk in today’s episode as Dr. Stu and Blyss unpack some common pregnancy food myths, and bring some uncommon sense to the table. Learn whether or not your favorite foods are safe to eat while pregnant, and hear some old wives tales about food safety from around the globe!
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This week Blyss & Dr. Stu review a paper on "Alternative Perinatal Practices" and explore the verbiage and biases of experts and rule-makers whose principles are better than yours. They chat all things lotus births, delayed bathing, and about the corruption within American medical journals.
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Today we discuss hyperemesis remedies after Blyss meets an icon and Dr. Stu gets canceled. Get diet, lifestyle, and homeopathic tips on dealing with hyperemesis and morning sickness, plus hear the story of how Dr. Stu ruffled some feathers in the birthing world!
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Kristine Lauria, an incredibly skilled midwife & storyteller, joins our podcast to share her amazing midwifery wisdom. Kristine specializes in high risk obstetrics and is a staunch advocate for autonomy in women's health, working internationally for MSF (Doctors Without Border) providing humanitarian aid. Blyss & Dr. Stu feel blessed by and in awe of her kindred spirit as she shares her stories, wisdom, and what happens when we don’t interfere in birth.
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In today's episode Blyss and Dr. Stu give their take on the important topic of hypertension and preeclampsia in pregnant women. Plus, some more letters from listeners and the truth about the dreaded “white coat syndrome”. Country roads and flashbacks also on the menu.
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In today’s podcast Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss personal experiences with the variant and review their birth statistics. Finding the positive in a sea of confusion and an important letter about CMV.
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Today’s show is about acronyms galore! Blyss & Dr. Stu review VBAC/HBAC/TOLAC and the FDA on Diclegis, too. More dopamine and less use of the term "provider" in 2022. Plus, they touch on the efficacy of monoclonal antibodies, and Dr. Stu shares the story of a serendipitous meeting of a past patient and listener of the podcast.
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On this solo episode, Dr. Stu reviews some published information on home birth and the jab, and shares healthy skepticism on opinions masquerading as fact. Listen as Dr. Stu brings things back down to reality with some basic critical thinking.
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Dr. Stu and Blyss are back together again! From an Instagram Live Event, some questions from listeners are addressed as Blyss and Dr. Stu reunite less than six feet apart! They share their tips on home births, pregnancy risk with age, and learning how to trust your midwife.
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Dr. Stu loved this podcast so much, he wanted to share it here for all of the Birthing Instincts Podcast listeners! In this episode, Erin and Dr. Stu discuss breech birth, the misconceptions, Dr. Stu’s successes in facilitating vaginal breech births at home, and why a C-section doesn't have to be a foregone conclusion!
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Stephanie Dawn, radical detox goddess and founder of Sacred Birth Work, joins Blyss & Dr. Stu to discuss her journey through breast cancer and her expertise in wellness. She shares her cancer journey, from being diagnosed, to seeking out alternative treatments in Mexico, and everything in-between. Plus, Blyss returns to LA & Dr. Stu unveils his "Test of Time" hypothesis."
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Blyss & Dr. Stu catch up on listener letters reinforcing the benefit of skills training and some really dumb doctor dogma. Dr. Stu shares another home twin birth story.
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Tears of joy and sorrow as Blyss shares some wisdom on the anniversary of Skye’s passing. And Dr. Stu fails at making a long story short about two VBA2C births.
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Midwife and author Nicole Morales joins Blyss & Dr. Stu to discuss her new book, The Breech Release. Midwife wisdom abounds but wisdom everywhere else continues to be AWOL. Nicole shares what she's learned in her professional experiences and how breech home births are more than just spinning babies.
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Today we share stories of home twins, a breech and the laws of placental physics while standing up for principles against a very slippery slope. Blyss and Dr. Stu share thoughts and wisdom. They debunk some myths about placenta blood flow and discuss the lack of accountability within vaccine manufacturers.
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Blyss illuminates some needed common sense in our conversation on newborn resuscitation with holistic neonatal transition and NRP guru Michele Kazmier, CNM. As a former NICU nurse, Michele shares her wisdom and professional experience on unnecessary interventions within the mainstream medical model and how she now teaches practical skills for other midwives in the community setting.
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More inconsistency from the ruling class, more distrust from the masses. And community birthing gets a boost from an unlikely source. Learn all about the practice of “off labeling” use, and how it’s revealing hypocrisy within the FDA.
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ACOG threatens disciplinary action against spreaders of inaccurate information. Let’s hold them to their threat. The team talks genetic screening while Blyss shares a letter on a genetic cascade of interventions and Dr. Stu gets passionate about the Rome declaration.
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Blyss & Dr. Stu explain 1st trimester lab tests and expose more nonsense including a chilling punch from the Federation of State Medical Boards. Learn which labs Blyss and Dr. Stu like to test for that aren’t standard, and how to be the best advocate for your own health and pregnancy.
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After ingesting a lot of nonsense regurgitated by the false gods of science, Blyss and Dr. Stu digest some facts and thoughts on Diabetes and Pregnancy. As it turns out, a lot of the information we’ve been told about diabetes when it comes to pregnancy, may not be so true after all! Plus, stay tuned to hear the truth about so-called Facebook fact checkers, why the scientific method is being thrown out the window, and how we can all stay sane in these crazy times.
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Today on the show, human rights attorney, Hermine Hayes Klein, joins the podcast to share her insights on informed consent, coercion and doula roles with Blyss and Dr. Stu. Hermine shares her wisdom and professional experience working within childbirth advocacy, and gives hope to soon-to-be moms to have whatever kind of birth experience they choose.
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On topics from the path to midwifery, to the use of language, from twins to quads to natural birth and immunity, Blyss and Dr. Stu explore ways to avoid the potholes and make it through the other side. Plus, listen until the end to hear them give practical advice for those thinking about going down the career path of becoming a midwife.
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Today on the show, Blyss reminds us of what is valuable and Dr. Stu explains the inexplicable, They discuss the recent changes in Texas abortion law and the possible repercussions of it. And if you’re ever dealt with frustration that insurance won’t cover your ideal birthing situation, Blyss shares some encouragement to parents who are dealing with that. Plus learn why fear is an excellent motivator, and whether or not Ivermectin is a viable tool for treating COVID patients.
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Today on the show, Dr. Stu and Blyss share their recent travel happenings and dive into some personal vaccine encounters. Plus, they tackle some questions sent in from listeners, including how they’ve dealt with trying to keep a healthy work-life balance and what tips they’ve learned from their years juggling careers and family.
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Robert Kennedy's The Real Anthony Fauci
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Blyss and Dr. Stu are back together again to tackle tough issues and current events. They catch up on their personal travels, then dive into current COVID happenings and the real life horror stories of medically sanctioned kidnapping. They share the tragic stories of some families whose children were taken by CPS, and how the parents are fighting back against it.
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Today on the show, Dr. Stu is flying solo and gives us a deep dive into the American Medical Association (AMA). Listen as he shares his insight about the lack of transparency the AMA truly has, why they don’t really represent most doctors, and what organizations we should be putting our trust in instead.
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Dr. Stu and Blyss catch up on what’s been going on in their world, then chat about some questions listeners sent in and go over a breech birth. Plus Dr. Stu explains why informed consent is so vital, and gives an in-depth explanation of Group B Strep and everything you need to know about what your rights are.
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Americans are slowly losing their trust in medical institutions, and often for good reason. Dr. Stu and Blyss discuss why so many medical establishments are crumbling before our own eyes, and some of the corruption that led to it. Plus, Dr. Stu gives updates on the stubborn twin babies, and Blyss shares a touching post.
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Doula and birth educator, Ivy Joeva, joins Dr. Stu She shares her work and how she helps prepare women’s bodies for pregnancy. They discuss how Ivy’s spirituality intersects with her practice, the biggest issues she’s seeing with both men and women’s fertility, and how she’s even helping those on the artificial reproduction journey with her practices. Plus, listen to the biggest 4 factors Ivy has pinpointed when it comes to fertility, and how you can utilize them for your fertility health.
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
On today’s episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss catch up and chat about all the happenings in their lives. They discuss the hypocrisies behind COVID restrictions, when castor oil doesn’t help stubborn twins, and the meaning behind the name “Birthing Instincts”. Plus, listen to Dr. Stu’s read his short story based off “If You Give A Mouse A Cookie” that tells the tale of female disempowerment when it comes to their own pregnancies.
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
Dr. Stu joins Blyss in her new kitchen on wheels to discuss listener questions and spider bites. Our duo discusses a more honest article on vaccine counseling and whether the term "trusted healthcare provider" can now join the ranks of military intelligence, jumbo shrimp, and plastic silverware as an iconic oxymoron.
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast
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Blyss is away so Dr. Stu has a conversation with his past and present self and discovers that not much has changed in 30 years. Absurdity and being wrong a lot doesn't seem to cause those in charge to slow down and reflect.
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
Dr. Stu dusts himself off to hijack a slogan that's trending, and Blyss thinks it's about time. Our duo review ABO incompatibility and bask in two different beautiful home births and find that wisdom can come from anywhere.
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
What's the deal with everyone being on low-dose aspirin in pregnancy? Blyss and Dr. Stu also review the data and, not surprisingly, have an opinion. Blyss is fed up with the f@#kery as Dr. Stu shares an all too common tale of the cascade of interventions and the futility of zero.
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Dr. Stu reviews The Twin Birth study and politely responds to some angry Facebook trolls using ACOG's own words and reason. Blyss jumps in with both feet to discuss chorionicity and add her midwife wisdom.
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Blyss and Dr. Stu discover they aren’t yet old dogs. The third stage of labor still has new tricks to teach us. Join in the conversation as we share tales of perplexing placentas and listener comments.
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Evidence Based Birth Podcast episode 172
This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
The mammalian birth model is perfectly designed, and anything outside of that is an intervention. Today’s topic focuses on how the medical model disrupts the birthing process, when to allow nature to play its role, and when it might be time to step in.
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50% Health Care Worker are Reluctant to get Covid Vaccine
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Hemophilia mom, Eve Thies, gets a "do over" as she recounts her two birth stories with Blyss & Dr. Stu.
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Maybe academia just sees the world differently. More division and suspicion and the destruction of trust in the medical system as Dr. Stu once again deconstructs the ethics of the self-proclaimed ethicists. Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss another way to communicate. There is some good news, too!
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
In today's show, Blyss and Dr. Stu continue the theme of questioning everything. From virtual funerals to airline face mask "law" to how to live healthily. After another beautiful primip home breech birth, Dr. Stu headed to Oregon to bring back pearls from the Healthy Immunity 2021 Conference.
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Desiree on IG @wildwolfherbs
Paul Thomas on IG @Paulthomasmd
This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu are getting into the ethics of decision-making and informed consent. Between gray area guidelines, personal bias, and passed down dumb doctor dogma, this topic can be confusing. Today Dr. Stu and Blyss share their perspective on the foundational value of their practice.
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Show References:
Follow @_milkandthemoon_
Dr. Stu’s letter from the AMA
ACOG Committee Opinion No. 664
Episode 151: Subtle Coercion is Still Coercion
Episode 157: Last Incubator on the Left
The Straw Men of Ethics: A Different Opinion
This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
In this edition of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu share their backstory. How did we end up here in Blyss’s kitchen? Dr. Stu’s Dumb Doctor Dogma segment shows the dogma is systemwide and an idyllic breech home birth in the canyon and a sweet letter of gratitude from breech parents remind us of the beauty and awe of birth.
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This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
Ruby slippers aside, on this opening episode of the Birthing instincts podcast Blyss and Dr. Stu explore and discuss the differences between the home birth midwifery model of care and the hospital medical model of care. Success, safety & satisfaction all matter. We debut our new Midwife Wisdom and Dumb Doctor Dogma segments and catch up on births and letters as usual. Welcome to our podcast.
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References:
Against the Wind Podcast with Paul Thomas
This show is produced by Soulfire Productions
Blyss and Dr. Stu talk birth and take a refreshing plunge into listener questions on hypertension in pregnancy, a new editorial supportive of the home birth option in slate.com and more on breeches & twins. Dr. Stu sat for a Welsh documentary, and Xander gets his first bath.
Lest we forget in the midst of all the craziness! It is the simple things sometimes. Dr. Stu went to the movies!! But had to drive 450 miles to do it. Blyss @birthingblyssmidwifery joins Dr. Stu to discuss lockdown malevolence, data on 1st twin breech, & interlocking heads, putting “stuff” into our bodies could be reckless and the latest in other birth and health common sense.
Listening to this episode may expose you to logic and reasoning. Blyss Joins Dr. Stu on a variety of topics affecting the birthing world. Privacy, thrombocytopenia in pregnancy, more virus updates, and some parallels on how we treat aging and the birthing are on the breakfast table.
Blyss and I discuss current topics affecting the birth world. Risks of cesarean section, Covid-19 vaccination in pregnancy update, another loss of choice for LA moms, and intermittent monitoring are on the breakfast table.
Back on with Blyss! Since when did speaking out become a health hazard? We will catch up and talk pros and cons of midwife licensing, vaccination for young women and listener correspondence. An excellent new documentary is out on a pioneer in fetal health.
Blyss is on her way home from Hawaii so Dr. Stu talks on twins, IUGR, placentas, breech and more Medical Board malfeasance. Reader letters, the latest news and a nod to the "mishpoche".
Blyss is off in Hawaii, well deserved, while I discuss the power of No! So much to catch up on from the past two weeks. Stu reviews three sets of twin births and the liberty of self-employment. Join me for some common sense.
@birthingblyssmidwifery @drstantonhom
There’s a new home birth drama taking Netflix by storm. Blyss & Dr. Stu share their movie review and review a strange birthing week.
Blyss dodges a Covid-19 bullet and the Dynamic Duo discuss staying healthy and the alter egos of NIPT, melatonin & Green Journal confusion.
Blyss & Dr. Stu look back at a year of births and share their wisdom on listener topics.
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.
