The Birth Lounge Podcast

What actually shapes the way we connect with our babies? Our biology or our environment? In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Rocio Zunini to unpack the wildly fascinating science of parenthood and attachment styles.

You’ll learn how your brain literally changes during pregnancy and parenting (yes, your brain rewires itself!), why nurturing is far more powerful than we ever realized, and how those early interactions shape lifelong emotional regulation and resilience.

Dr. Zunini breaks down groundbreaking research on how nurturing behavior in animals translates to humans, from secure to anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles and what that means for how we show up as parents.

They also dig into how mothers’ and fathers’ brains adapt differently, the critical role of “allo parents” (those loving caregivers beyond mom and dad), and how awareness and mindful connection can actually rewrite generational patterns.

If you’ve ever wondered how to raise emotionally secure, confident kiddos or how your own upbringing plays a role in the parent you’re becoming, this one’s a must-listen.

PSA for all my mamas worried about “big baby” talk:
Our brand new course — Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby is officially live and in pre-sale until November 1! This class busts through every scare tactic, lays out the real evidence, and gives you the exact tools to advocate for yourself with confidence (no matter how big your baby is). Grab your spot at thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

00:00 The Impact of Environment on Development

01:40 Introduction to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:58 Understanding Big Baby Myths

04:51 The Science of Attachment Styles

09:31 Interview with Dr. Rocio Zunini

11:19 The Importance of Parent-Child Bonding

22:51 Emotional Regulation and Brain Development

26:02 Balancing Work and Parenting

26:21 Differences Between Moms and Dads

31:56 Navigating Childhood Wounds and Parenting

33:31 Clean Living with Just Ingredients

37:23 Understanding Wounds and Resilience

38:58 The Concept of Orchid Genes

40:42 Exploring Attachment Styles

43:19 Breaking the Cycle of Insecure Attachment

47:45 Nature vs. Nurture Debate

48:29 The Impact of Nurture on Stress Systems

54:38 Gender Differences in Nurturing

01:00:35 The Role of Allo Parents

01:03:18 Adoption and Attachment

01:05:03 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Guest Bio:

Rocio is a neuroscientist and mother of two. She is the founder of Newborn Parents, which was born out of the fusion of her two passions: the brain and the relationship between parents and their infants. She educates parents and professionals about parental brain science so that they can take advantage of the profound brain changes that accompany mastrescence and patrescence. She is also co-directs and co-faciliates the Nurture Neuroscience Professional Certification along her friend and colleague Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Zunini on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Check out my brand new course Birthing Your Big Ass Baby

 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Sign up for Dr. Rocio and Dr. Greer’s 5-day FREE Event: Nurture Neuroscience for Professionals

https://www.nurture-neuroscience.com/free-event-for-professionals

www.newbornparents.net

In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in early parenthood SIDS and co-sleeping. Despite the scary warnings you’ve probably heard from the AAP or your pediatrician, many families still find themselves wondering how to safely sleep near their baby. And honestly? That’s a valid question.

We’ll explore what the research actually says about bedsharing, the science of a baby’s biological need for closeness, and how parents can make informed choices that balance safety and connection. You’ll hear about the work of James McKenna, Helen Ball, and La Leche League’s Sweet Sleep, plus insights from Sarah Ockwell-Smith that bring real-world practicality to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever felt torn between expert advice and your natural instincts, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and calm in your family’s sleep choices.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Safe Sleep Practices

01:18 Personal Story: Transforming a Mother's Sleep Routine

03:28 Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide

07:22 The Science Behind Newborn Sleep

09:06 Interview with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum

17:07 Understanding Co-Sleeping and Bed Sharing

22:32 Safe Sleep Guidelines and SIDS

28:39 Controversial Topics: Vaccines and SIDS

31:06 Global Perspectives on Safe Sleep

35:22 Purity Coffee: A Healthier Choice

38:43 Addressing Sleep Challenges in Babies

42:16 Embracing Flexibility with a Newborn

44:04 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

46:11 Building a Support System for New Moms

52:28 Debunking Myths About Newborn Habits

56:47 The Impact of Sleep Training on Mental Health

01:06:43 Tips for Optimal Baby Sleep

01:13:17 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Guest Bio:

Greer Kirshenbaum PhD is an Author, Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant and Family Sleep Specialist and Mother. She trained at the University of Toronto and Columbia University with additional training at New York University and Yale University. Greer has combined her academic training with her experience as a doula and mother to lead The Nurture Revolution. A movement to nurture our babies’ brains to revolutionize mental health and impact larger systems in our world. Greer wants families, professionals, and workplaces to understand how early caregiving experience can boost mental wellness and diminish depression, anxiety, and addiction in adulthood by shaping babies’ brains through simple intuitive enriching experiences in pregnancy, birth and infancy. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com and on Instagram @drgreerkirshenbaum.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Greer on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

LINKS MENTIONED:
www.nurture-neuroscience.com

 

Reviews of the research on SIDS and infant death

James McKenna: https://cosleeping.nd.edu/

Helen Ball: https://evolutionaryparenting.com/bed-sharing-and-co-sleeping-research-overview/

La Leche League's Sweet Sleep book: https://llli.org/resources/sweet-sleep/

Sarah Ockwell-Smith: https://sarahockwell-smith.com/

 

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth, our go-to for buttery-soft, temperature-regulating bamboo sheets and loungewear that actually lasts. Cozy Earth products are made from responsibly sourced materials that keep you cool, cozy, and comfortable through pregnancy, postpartum, and all the snuggly moments in between.

Use code HEHE for an exclusive discount at cozyearth.com and treat yourself to the comfort you deserve.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into one of the most overlooked parts of preparing for parenthood, financial stability. While the world loves to scare you about “big babies” and sell you all the baby gear under the sun, HeHe and her guest, Dan Brigham (aka Budgeters Anonymous), are here to help you focus on what actually matters: building a strong financial foundation for your growing family.

Together, they unpack the sneaky expenses new parents often overlook, smart budgeting strategies that actually work, and how intentional planning can bring more peace and less panic to your postpartum season. Dan shares his journey of overcoming debt, creating financial freedom, and shifting the mindset from “surviving” to thriving.

They also get real about emergency funds, 529 plans, IRAs for kids, and how to get on the same financial page with your partner.

This is the money talk every parent needs: judgment-free, empowering, and designed to help you build the future your family deserves.

PSA for all my mamas worried about “big baby” talk:
Our brand new course — Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby is officially live and in pre-sale until November 1! This class busts through every scare tactic, lays out the real evidence, and gives you the exact tools to advocate for yourself with confidence (no matter how big your baby is). Grab your spot at thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

00:00 Introduction: Financial Stability for New Parents

00:49 The Myth of the Big Baby

01:31 Understanding Macrosomia and Birth Advocacy

03:05 Introducing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

03:27 Pre-Sale Announcement and Course Details

05:01 Budgeting for a Baby: An Essential Guide

05:45 Meet Dan Brigham: Budgeting Expert

08:25 Defining Financial Responsibility

12:22 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt

15:52 Intentional Spending and Budgeting Frameworks

23:34 Making a Baby Budget: Practical Tips

32:33 The Reality of Social Media and Financial Comparisons

35:31 No Spend Weekends: Finding Purpose Beyond Money

38:10 Nesting Instincts and Cozy Earth

41:06 Budgeting for a Baby

44:03 Emergency Funds and Financial Priorities

47:15 Setting Up Financial Accounts for Your Child

51:45 Tracking Expenses and Budgeting Tools

58:59 Mindsets for Financial Success

01:06:57 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

 

Guest Bio:

Dan is the founder of Budgeters Anonymous and has free resources on his website. Dan’s focus is Faith, Fitness, Family and Finance. 

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dan on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

Find Dan here: budgetersanonymous.com

In this powerful episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with infectious disease scientist, Ellie to pull back the curtain on what’s really behind vaccines, immunity, and medical ethics. After years working in big pharma, Ellie began questioning what she saw from the inside, and now she’s here to help parents unpack the complex, often confusing world of vaccine science through an evidence-based, transparent lens.

Together, HeHe and Ellie dive into everything from the ingredients found in common vaccines (and why they’re there!) to the differences between live and attenuated viruses. They also explore the ethics of vaccine research, including the use of fetal cell lines, vaccinated vs. unvaccinated clinical trials, and how informed consent fits into modern medicine.

This conversation isn’t about fear, it’s about facts. It’s about asking better questions, understanding your options, and feeling confident in the choices you make for your family’s health. Ellie brings scientific clarity, a refreshing dose of honesty, and a deep respect for parental autonomy to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever wanted a clearer understanding of vaccines and the ethics behind them, this episode is a must-listen.

03:27 Announcing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

05:34 Vaccine Exploration Series Finale

06:19 Ingredients in Vaccines: What You Need to Know

07:35 Interview with Infectious Disease Scientist Ellie

12:11 Ellie's Journey from Big Pharma to Vaccine Skepticism

40:44 Ethical and Scientific Concerns in Vaccine Development

01:02:33 Pharmaceutical Interactions and Clinical Trials

01:04:28 Autonomy and Vaccine Mandates

01:05:17 Herd Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy

01:06:38 Transparency and Trust in Healthcare

01:15:49 Ethics of Vaccine Studies

01:19:12 Challenges in Scientific Research

01:23:55 Vaccine Ingredients and Allergies

01:26:42 Live vs. Attenuated Vaccines

01:29:49 Shingles and Vaccine History

01:33:43 Scientific Communication and Public Trust

01:43:08 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Guest Bio:

Ellie is an infectious disease scientist with a powerful personal story and a passion for making science accessible. With a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology and an M.S. in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Ellie has spent years on the front lines of science—from developing vaccines for potential bioweapons during her graduate research to working in assay development and infectious disease research within the pharmaceutical industry.

Four years ago, she made the bold decision to step away from pharma and pursue a path that blends science, personal experience, and public education. Ellie was born with a left radial clubbed hand, congenital heart issues, and other challenges caused by a pharmaceutical product—an experience that has shaped her unique perspective on medicine. After undergoing countless surgeries, she deeply understands the life-saving value of western medicine, while also recognizing that alternatives can have a place in care.

Ellie now dedicates herself to helping people understand complex scientific topics so they can make empowered, informed health decisions. She believes that her journey—both scientific and deeply personal—is no accident. Through all the challenges she has faced, she’s seen the hand of Jesus guiding her path and believes God has kept her alive for a greater purpose. 

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Ellie on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

https://cogforlife.org/

 https://www.cellosaurus.org/  You can search a variety of ways in the site, but one is 'browse by group' and click 'Vaccine production cell lines' 

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most important (and often misunderstood!) newborn topics: Vitamin K. HeHe is joined by Katie Collins, a board-certified physician assistant, to unpack everything you need to know about Vitamin K supplementation: what it is, why it matters, and how to make an informed choice that feels right for your family.

Together, they break down the different options for Vitamin K (injection vs. oral dosing), the real risks of vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB), and how birth interventions like antibiotics or Pitocin can play a role. You’ll also hear about common misconceptions around the Vitamin K shot, what that black box warning actually means, and the truth about side effects like jaundice and ingredients such as aluminum.

If you want evidence-based clarity so you can feel confident about protecting your baby’s health from day one, this episode is a must-listen.

00:00 Introduction and Parental Freedom

01:31 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

02:31 The Big Baby Myth

06:37 Vitamin K Injection: Common Questions and Concerns

07:32 Meet Katie Collins: A Holistic Approach to Medical Topics

11:47 Understanding Vitamin K in Newborns

19:38 The Role of Breast Milk and Feeding in Vitamin K Levels

23:48 Impact of Birth Interventions on Vitamin K

31:06 Delayed Cord Clamping and Its Benefits

39:51 Options for Vitamin K Supplementation

41:11 Oral Dosing Regimens for Vitamin K

44:34 Risks of Declining Vitamin K Supplementation

52:43 Vitamin K and Circumcision

54:22 Vitamin K Injection and Bilirubin Concerns

57:57 Black Box Warning on Vitamin K Injection

01:02:43 Aluminum in Injectables: Safety Concerns

01:19:39 Detoxing After Vaccination

01:22:12 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Guest Bio:

Katie Collins, known as Katie the PA on social media, is a board certified Physician Assistant who merges conventional medical training with a holistic mindset, challenging the mainstream narrative surrounding controversial topics like childhood vaccines, pregnancy and birth, and other top chronic health illnesses. With a robust background in family medicine, urgent care, and weight loss medicine, her main focus is to support the body's innate healing process with diet and lifestyle changes, or typical medical interventions. Today, her primary occupation and top priority is being a wife and mother to her two children. She has transitioned from working full time in the clinic to taking telehealth consults, and creates educational content on her social media platforms.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Katie on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

Preorder available now for Birthing Your Big A** Baby

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Alok Patel, a board-certified pediatrician and national medical contributor for ABC News, to have the real talk about vaccines—no fear, no judgment, just facts and empowerment. Together, they unpack the difference between vaccine hesitancy and being anti-vaccine, why open conversations matter, and how parents can confidently navigate their child’s health choices.

Dr. Patel breaks down what you actually need to know about vaccine schedules, ingredients like aluminum and thimerosal, and the incredible public health wins that vaccines have created. They also dive into hot topics like the RSV vaccine, the “tripledemic,” and how misinformation spreads faster than the truth (and what you can do about it).

Plus, HeHe unveils her brand new course—Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby—to help you shut down “big baby” scare tactics and advocate like the badass parent you are. This episode is packed with clarity, confidence, and evidence-based insight so you can make informed choices for your family—without the fear.

00:00 Introduction and Vaccine Hesitancy

01:00 The Myth of the 'Big Baby'

03:15 Introducing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

05:21 Vaccination Conversations: Should I or Shouldn't I?

06:57 Meet Dr. Alok Patel: Pediatrician and Media Contributor

11:26 The Science Behind Vaccination Schedules

16:36 COVID-19 Vaccine Controversies and Communication Issues

26:41 Global Vaccination Comparisons and Herd Immunity

43:39 Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination

46:45 The Impact of RSV on Children

49:20 The Triple Demic: Flu, RSV, and COVID

50:52 Healthcare System Strain During the Pandemic

51:49 Personal Trauma from COVID-19

57:17 The Importance of Accessible Healthcare Information

01:00:54 Ethical Considerations in Vaccine Studies

01:17:41 Addressing Vaccine Ingredients Concerns

01:23:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Guest Bio:

Dr. Patel is a board-certified pediatrician on faculty at Stanford Children's Health where he works as a pediatric hospitalist, taking care of everything from premature babies to adults and running into all sorts of medical conditions from the routine to bizarre to outright rare. He also serves as the department head of strategic communication. His passion outside the hospital is in journalism, on-air broadcast work, and consulting in both digital health and communications roles. He is a national medical contributor for ABC News, with a health show called "Patel It Like It Is". He's also worked throughout the media industry for CNN, PBS, NBC, and other outlets. 

 

His ethos in medicine is meeting patients where they are and reminding everyone that at the end of the day, we're just humans talking to humans. Keep it laid back.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Patel on IG 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

Worried about a “big baby”? Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby busts the myths, shares the evidence, and gives you the advocacy tools you need for an empowered birth, no matter your baby’s size. Pre-sale now open: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.alokpatelmd.com

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Brian Thornburg, a board-certified pediatrician, to tackle one of the most overwhelming parts of early parenthood: newborn procedures and vaccine decisions.

From the very first hours after birth, parents are presented with a whirlwind of choices—Vitamin K, Hep B, eye ointment, vaccine schedules—and it can feel impossible to sort fact from fear. Dr. Thornburg breaks down what’s truly evidence-based, what questions to ask your care team, and how to advocate for your baby with confidence.

Together, they explore:

• How your newborn’s immune system really works (and mom’s role in it!)
  
  
• The ins and outs of Vitamin K, Hep B, and erythromycin at birth
  
  
• How antibiotics during labor may impact your baby’s gut health
  
  
• Alternative vaccine schedules and what research actually says
  
  
• Hot-button topics like vaccine shedding, autoimmunity, and long-term impacts

This conversation is about informed consent—not scare tactics. You’ll walk away empowered to make decisions that feel right for your family while knowing exactly how to navigate conversations with your providers.

05:09 – Meet Dr. Thornburg: advocacy in pediatrics
08:50 – Newborn immune system + maternal impact
18:49 – Vaccinations in pregnancy: risks + research gaps
34:41 – Newborn procedures explained (Vitamin K, Hep B, erythromycin)
53:11 – Antibiotics, Group B Strep, and gut health
01:00:43 – Gut microbiome, leaky gut, and autoimmunity
01:04:28 – Navigating vaccine schedules + global perspectives
01:19:15 – Making vaccine choices: categories, delays, and risks
01:28:29 – Adverse reactions, VAERS, and herd immunity
01:39:08 – Vaccine shedding + payment myths
01:44:57 – Finding a vaccine-friendly pediatrician

Guest Bio:

Dr. Thornburg Wellness focuses on educating families on health and wellness through the generations by the birth of their babies and raising of their children.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.drthornburg.com

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with clinical pharmacist Dr. Michaela Wachal to unpack the controversy surrounding Tylenol (acetaminophen) use in pregnancy and its potential links to autism and other neurodevelopmental concerns.

Together, they dive into what the research actually says (and doesn’t say), why transparency and informed consent are so important, and how to navigate decisions around medications in pregnancy with confidence. Dr. Wachal also highlights the bigger picture, like how genetics, environmental toxins, and even maternal stress can play a role in outcomes, and why caring for yourself is just as critical as any prescription.

This conversation is packed with nuance, evidence, and practical takeaways to help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to advocate for yourself as you make decisions about your pregnancy care.

00:00 Introduction and Media Misrepresentation

01:05 Personal Story and Birth Lounge App

02:16 Empowering Prenatal Conversations

05:26 Emergency Use Authorization Episode

07:34 Interview with Dr. Michaela Wachal

09:14 Medication Safety in Pregnancy

12:37 Pharmaceutical Industry Failures

15:20 Personal Journey and Advocacy

18:55 Questioning Medical Norms

21:15 Tylenol and Toxins

23:34 Aluminum in Vaccines

27:32 The Importance of Transparency

37:05 Advocating for Education and Understanding

37:51 The Power of Asking Questions

40:21 Nesting and Preparing for Baby

43:17 Managing Fevers During Pregnancy

52:01 Environmental Toxins and Health

01:00:41 Therapies and Support for Children on the Spectrum

01:09:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

 

Guest Bio:

Michaela Wachal, PharmD, CSP, is a clinical pharmacist, Certified Specialty Pharmacist, and Clinical Accreditation Manager with nearly a decade of experience in specialty pharmacy. She holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Doane University. Throughout her career, she’s specialized in complex conditions including oncology, fertility, endocrinology, immunology, mental health, and inflammatory diseases—always with a passion for improving patient care, optimizing healthcare systems, and empowering women in medicine.

Michaela is also a mom of three, including one child with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, which ignited her deep interest in neurodiversity, integrative health, and individualized medicine. After navigating her own family’s challenges, she began researching functional and evidence-based approaches to support children and families living with complex needs. Online, Michaela shares insights from scientific studies on autism, ADHD, vaccines, autoimmune conditions, toxins, and more, always with a focus on helping parents make informed, evidence-based choices.

Her work blends professional expertise with personal passion, making her a trusted voice in both the pharmacy world and the parenting community.

 

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Wachal on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

RESEARCH MENTIONED:

• 2021 there's a call for action published supported by 91 scientists, clinicians and public health professionals across the globe recommended that pregnant women should be cautioned at the beginning of pregnancy to forego APAP unless it is medically indicated and to minimize the exposure by using the lowest effective dose for shortest possible time https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34556849/

 

• Boston Birth cohort published in 2020 looked at acetaminophen metabolites in cord blood samples collected at birth and unchanged acetaminophen levels were detected in all cord plasma samples and acetaminophen burden was associated with higher odds of ADHD  and ASD daignosis there was a 2.3 to 3.5 increased risk for ADHD and 1.6 to 4.1 increased risk for ASD https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31664451/

 

• Recently in August Harvard did an analysis using the Navigation Guide methodology that supports evidence consistent with an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence of Neurodevelopmental disorders. This included 46 studies with 27 reporting positive associations with the higher quality studies more likely to show positive correlations
• https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-025-01208-0

 

• Nurses Health Study https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30923825/

• Spanish birth cohort where acetaminophen exposure was associated with more hyperactivity/impulsivity https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27353198/

 

• In 2018 there was a review that showed that 9 prospective cohort studies that all suggested an association between prenatal APAP exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes - ADHD, ASD or lower IQ and longer duration was associated with increased risk https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29341895/

 

• 2022 a prospective cohort study in Pennsylvania looked at 2,423 moms using data and children who were exposed to APAP during pregnancy scored higher for child behaviors, sleep problems and attention problems  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36170224/

Keywords: Tylenol pregnancy, acetaminophen pregnancy, Tylenol autism risk, pregnancy medication safety, prenatal care, evidence-based pregnancy, maternal health, neurodevelopment, pregnancy decision making, informed consent pregnancy, pregnancy medications, Dr. Michaela Wachal, Birth Lounge podcast, pregnancy self-care, pregnancy toxins

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe shines a light on the often-overlooked role of doulas in the NICU. While most doula trainings don’t cover NICU-specific education, families navigating this space need that extra layer of support. 

Special guest Mary Farrelly, a NICU nurse, doula, and educator, joins the conversation to talk about the unique challenges families face in the NICU, from feeding goals to bonding to the critical transition home. Mary shares how doulas can bridge the gap between families and medical teams, showing up with trauma-informed care and warm, collaborative energy. She also introduces her NICU Doula Academy, which is training birth professionals to better support NICU families through compassion and evidence-based knowledge.

This episode is packed with tips, strategies, and heart-centered insight for doulas who want to expand their impact and confidently support families in the NICU.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Doula Support in NICU

01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:37 Introducing The Birth Lounge App

03:50 Navigating the NICU as a Doula

04:59 Meet Mary Farrelly: NICU Nurse and Doula

06:32 The Role of Doulas in the NICU

10:02 Emotional and Practical Support for NICU Families

20:44 The Drama Triangle in Doula Work

25:01 Bridging the Gap Between Doulas and Healthcare Professionals

39:22 Establishing Doula Roles in the NICU

39:41 Modeling Safety and Building Rapport

41:21 Warm Doula Energy and Collaboration

45:15 Encouraging Family Involvement in Care

52:08 Supporting Bonding and Skin-to-Skin Contact

56:42 Facilitating Feeding Goals in the NICU

01:01:13 Post-Discharge Support and Transition Home

01:08:35 NICU Doula Certification and Training

01:13:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, and educator who helps bridge the gap between families and the NICU with evidence-based, empowering support. As the founder of The NICU Translator, she creates resources and trainings to help both parents and professionals feel more confident navigating life in—and after—the NICU. Mary is also the creator of the NICU Doula Academy, a certification program that trains doulas and perinatal professionals in trauma-informed, NICU-specific support. Through workshops, birth planning tools, and professional education, Mary is on a mission to create more joy and less trauma in the NICU experience

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Mary on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/join

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.thenicutranslator.com

Free NICU Birth Plan Template: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

Get on the NICU Doula Academy Waitlist here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy

We’re closing out NICU Awareness Month with a powerful episode all about putting YOU back in the driver’s seat of your baby’s NICU journey. Too often, parents feel sidelined in the chaos of beeping monitors and medical jargon—but you are your baby’s best advocate, and this episode will help you step into that role with confidence.

Today we’re joined by Mary Farrelly, a NICU nurse, doula, and founder of the NICU Translator, who brings her expertise straight to your ears. Together, we unpack what parents can really expect in the NICU, from levels of care and skin-to-skin bonding to navigating feeding challenges and advocating for your baby’s needs.

This conversation isn’t just about surviving the NICU, it’s about finding your power, building trust with your care team, and knowing how to show up for yourself and your baby.

Tune in to learn:

• What every parent should know about the NICU environment
  
  
• How to advocate for your rights and preferences
  
  
• Why skin-to-skin and bonding time are essential (and how to make sure you get them)
  
  
• How to handle feeding challenges with confidence
  
  
• Practical tools for your NICU birth plan
  
  

If you’re a NICU parent—or love someone who is—this episode will leave you feeling informed, supported, and ready to face whatever comes your way.

0:00 Introduction to NICU and Parenting

01:10 Personal Story and Birth Lounge App

02:15 Empowering Prenatal Appointments

05:24 Navigating NICU Emotions and Questions

07:02 Introducing Mary Farrelly and NICU Support

17:47 Understanding NICU Environment and Care

31:43 Parental Rights and Advocacy in NICU

39:45 Advocating for Your NICU Preferences

41:08 The Importance of Parental Self-Care

43:51 Bonding with Your NICU Baby

54:32 Feeding Challenges and Solutions in the NICU

01:03:27 Creating a NICU Birth Plan

01:10:50 Resources and Support for NICU Parents

01:15:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, and educator who helps bridge the gap between families and the NICU with evidence-based, empowering support. As the founder of The NICU Translator, she creates resources and trainings to help both parents and professionals feel more confident navigating life in—and after—the NICU. Mary is also the creator of the NICU Doula Academy, a certification program that trains doulas and perinatal professionals in trauma-informed, NICU-specific support. Through workshops, birth planning tools, and professional education, Mary is on a mission to create more joy and less trauma in the NICU experience

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Mary on IG 

 

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

 

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

 

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.thenicutranslator.com

Free NICU Birth Plan Template: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

 

Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist: 

https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy

Listen to The NICU Translated Podcast here: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/

YOUTUBE LINKS:

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.