We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe has an engaging discussion with Dr. Darrell Martin, a retired Obstetrician-Gynecologist, who strongly advocates for the midwifery model of care. Dr. Martin shares his journey in obstetrics, emphasizing patient autonomy and providing insights from working with midwives. The conversation covers Dr. Martin's career, the importance of trust and informed decision-making in prenatal care, and the evolution of maternity care in the U.S. Dr. Martin also discusses his book 'In Good Hands,' reflecting on his experiences and the systemic challenges and politics within the healthcare system. The dialogue highlights the profound impact of collaborative care and explores practical advice for navigating birth choices. This episode is a treasure trove of information for expecting parents, offering a blend of personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based practices to support a confident and informed birth experience.
Dr. Darrell's Journey into Obstetrics
Challenges and Changes in Obstetrics
Midwifery and Collaborative Care
Legal and Professional Battles
Success in Atlanta
Advice for Expecting Parents
The Objectivity of Practice Employees
Questions to Ask About Your Provider
Hospital Policies and Inductions
The Role of Midwives in Birth
Financial Incentives in Birth Practices
The Shift to Epidural Use
Collaborative Care Between Provider and Patient
The Importance of Trust in Prenatal Care
Challenges in Large Practices
Promoting Partner Involvement
Guest Bio:
Dr. Darrell Martin, MD, FACOG, is an esteemed gynecologist, gynecological surgeon, and beacon of healthcare advocacy with a distinguished career spanning over forty years in women's health. His unwavering dedication to patient choice and care has led him to the forefront of legislative change, testifying before Congress in staunch support of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and the rights of patients to choose their healthcare providers. Notably, his passionate advocacy for nurse-midwifery in Tennessee, has cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the advancement of the profession.
INSTAGRAM:
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:
6 days ago
6 days ago
HeHe welcomes Zhenya Lindgardt, President and CEO of Sera Prognostics, to discuss the critical issue of preterm birth, its rising incidence in the U.S., and innovative solutions available today. Zhenya explains the definition and statistics of preterm birth, and introduces the Preterm test, a blood test that predicts the risk of preterm birth as early as 18 weeks of gestation. The conversation also covers the effectiveness of Sera Prognostics' intervention bundles, improvements in pregnancy care, and the importance of innovation in maternal health. Listeners will learn about the accessibility and process of the Preterm test and the overall goal of making this technology widely available to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Understanding Preterm Birth
Advancements in Preterm Birth Testing
Interventions for High-Risk Pregnancies
Clinical Trials and Results
At-Home Testing and Accessibility
Innovation in Maternal Health
Guest Bio:
Zhenya Lindgardt is an accomplished leader in healthcare innovation, currently serving as the President, CEO, and Board Director of Sera Prognostics, Inc. and CEO of The Commons Project Foundation. As the leader of Sera, Zhenya is revolutionizing the maternal and infant health space by addressing the preterm birth crisis with cutting-edge science. With a rich background including senior roles at Uber Technologies and a 19-year tenure at Boston Consulting Group, she has demonstrated expertise in driving growth and fostering innovation. Her contributions span multiple therapeutic areas and focus on leveraging data to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.facebook.com/serapregnancy
https://www.instagram.com/serathepregnancycompany?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
https://www.linkedin.com/company/sera-prognostics
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:
Websites:
PreTRM® Premature Birth Risk Blood Test from Sera
NYU article about racial disparities in pre-term birth rates
What is causing the rise in pre-term birth?
Diagnostics:
AVERT Trial Press Release: Sera PreTRM® Test Prevention Strategy Demonstrates 18% Reduction in Severe Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Newly Published AVERT Trial | Sera
AVERT Trial Data: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/14/1462
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Join HeHe in this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, where she discusses the essentials of functional movement and strength training during pregnancy and postpartum with physical therapist Elaina Manolis. Discover the crucial role of muscle strength in preventing injuries and ensuring a smoother postpartum recovery. Learn about balancing mobility with stability, the impact of hormones, and the significance of a structured corrective exercise regimen. Elaina provides expert insights based on her extensive experience and personal journey, emphasizing the importance of preparing your body for the physical demands of motherhood. Tune in for actionable tips, evidence-based information, and valuable resources to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond with confidence.
The Importance of Functional Movement During Pregnancy
Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries and How to Prevent Them
Postpartum Functional Movement and Corrective Exercises
Finding the Right Physical Therapist
Guest Bio:
Elaina was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM and has been a studio-trained dancer since the age of 3. She was a member of her high school danced team and won 3 State titles. She then coached that team for 6 years while dancing on her college dance team at the University of New Mexico. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science at UNM in 2010 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at UNM in 2015. She got married in 2015 and moved to the Dracut, MA where her husband was born and raised. She started her own self-pay physical therapy practice, EDM Physical Therapy, LLC, and is also a full-time treating therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Outpatient center in Boston, MA focusing on injury prevention and performance enhancement. Additionally, she is a contract physical therapist for NeuroTour Physical Therapy, providing backstage treatment to the performers in the Broadway shows that She is currently serving as a committee member for professional development for the International Association of Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS) and is in her final year of studies for her terminal academic degree as a Doctor of Science (ScD) in Physical Therapy through Texas Tech University. Additionally, she is adjunct faculty in the DPT programs at both UMass Lowell and MGH Institute of Health Professions.
INSTAGRAM:
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:
Book with Elaina: www.edmphysicaltherapy.janeapp.com
Get 20% off an initial evaluation with the code TBH20 typed in the "How Did You Hear About Us?" section when booking! (The EMR platform I use has not yet integrated an actual discount code section so this is my workaround!)
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
In this episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe and Lisa Villani, founder of Empowered Birth Coaching, dive into the significance of prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy. They discuss first-trimester genetic screening, gestational diabetes testing options, and the controversy around routine ultrasounds. Lisa shares her expertise on how to make informed decisions about these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding your options and advocating for your preferences. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing prenatal care and preparing for a confident birth experience.
Defining Unnecessary Interventions
First Trimester Tests and Genetic Screening
Gestational Diabetes Screening Options
The Controversy of Routine Ultrasounds
Cervical Checks: What You Need to Know
Understanding Cervical Exams
The Importance of Bishop Score
Preterm Labor and Cervical Checks
Consent and Body Autonomy
Making Informed Decisions
Navigating IV Fluids During Labor
The Debate on Birthing Positions
Empowering Your Birth Experience
Guest Bio:
Lisa is an ICF-certified Pregnancy Coach & Doula Mentor. Lisa empowers women to advocate for themselves and navigate the medical system with confidence by helping mothers connect with dedicated doulas. She has made it her mission to amplify the voices of women and birth workers alike so that mothers have the support they deserve! You can find her on IG as @loudmouthdoula or tune into Loud Mouth Doula podcast!
SOCIAL MEDIA:
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:
Freebie for doulas: 3 Must-Ask questions for a killer consultation for doulas: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/3questions
Fierce Mama Circle online community for pregnant and postpartum mothers: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/circle
Use code BIRTHLOUNGE for 1 month free in Fierce Mama Circle
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Join HeHe in this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Dr. Steph Lopez, a former NASA psychologist, to explore the intricacies of pregnancy anxiety, birth preparation, and postpartum mental health. Discover expert tips on managing fears, embracing uncertainty, and building confidence throughout your birthing journey. Learn about the importance of self-acceptance, handling negative self-talk, and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Whether you're preparing for birth or navigating early parenthood, this episode provides valuable strategies to help you feel empowered and informed.
Understanding and Managing Anxiety
The Power of Intuition vs. Fear
Facing Fears in Pregnancy and Birth
The Psychology Behind Failure and Birth Trauma
Dealing with Disregulation and Control
Embracing Life's Challenges
The Power of Acceptance
Self-Acceptance vs. Self-Improvement
Breaking Cycles and Parenting
Navigating Intrusive Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Dr. Steph is an I/O Psychologist and Brain Based Coach. She guides women to heal and become more emotionally resilient so that they feel happy, present, at ease, and capable. She previously worked at NASA and is the founder of The BRAVE Method.
INSTAGRAM:
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:
Free class on how to ditch anxiety: www.brave-method.com/anxiety
HEHE - $200 off of BRAVE Breathwork, which is designed to recalibrate your nervous system and bring you out of fight or flight
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
Dr. Lorraine and Dr. Brie join HeHe to discuss the critical and often overlooked topic of obstetrical violence. In this eye-opening episode, they break down what obstetrical violence is, its impact on women globally, including psychological trauma and avoidable morbidity, and how it violates human rights. The discussion highlights the importance of informed consent, respectful maternity care, and midwifery as potential solutions. The duo also emphasizes the need for systemic changes within the healthcare system to prevent obstetrical violence and improve maternal outcomes. Tune in to learn about practical steps women can take to avoid birth trauma and the crucial role of midwifery in transforming maternity care.
Understanding Obstetrical Violence
Examples and Impact of Obstetrical Violence
Legal Recourse and Advocacy
The Iceberg Analogy and Measurement Tools
Respectful Maternity Care and Systemic Issues
Transparency and Hospital Reporting
Midwifery Care and Trauma Prevention
Systemic Obstacles and Solutions
Navigating the Complexities of U.S. Healthcare
Challenges Faced by Healthcare Providers
The Impact of Insurance on Birth Choices
Midwifery Care and Its Benefits
Policy and Systemic Barriers
The Role of Consumer Advocacy
Future Directions and Solutions
Connecting and Collaborating for Change
Guest Bio:
Lorraine M. Garcia, PhD, WHNP-BC, CNM does research on the problem of obstetric violence in the US maternity care system and the public health and ethical duties to implement solutions. She also works as a Certified Nurse Midwife with experience in home birth, birth center, and hospital-based care. Lorraine is a reproductive justice advocate and frames most of her research with critical lenses from healthcare systems science, structural and organizational theories, and social justice in nursing. Her perspective on the systemic, normalized abuse and mistreatment of childbearing people is aligned with advocacy workers, interdisciplinary scientists, and all interested and affected parties working to end obstetric violence and achieve birth equity.
Dr. Brie Thumm is an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado College of Nursing. She has been practicing midwifery domestically and internationally since 2001 when she completed her Masters in the Science of Nursing at Yale University. She obtained her MBA in Healthcare Administration at Baruch College in New York City and her PhD in health systems research at University of Colorado College of Nursing. Her area of research is perinatal workforce development to address disparities in maternal health outcomes and improve the well-being of health care professionals. Prior to her current position, Brie provided care at Planned Parenthood of New York City, served as the Assistant Director of the Sexual Assault Response Team for the Manhattan public hospitals, conducted mental and behavioral health research at the Rocky Mountain Regional Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center, and led the clinical and research arms of the Maternal Mortality Prevention Program at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. She continues to practice clinically at Denver Health.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Connect with Lorraine on LinkedIn
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:
Lorraine’s website: https://www.makingbirthbettertogether.com/
Lorraine’s Online Store:https://makingbirthbetterstore.com/
Use code
References:
Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. (2022). Respectful maternity care framework and evidence-based clinical practice guideline. Nursing for Women's Health, 26(2), S1−S52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nwh.2022.01.001
Beck, C. T. (2018). A secondary analysis of mistreatment of women during childbirth in healthcare facilities. Journal of Obstetric Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing, 47(1), 94−104. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogn.2016.08.015
Borges, M. T. (2018). A violent birth: Reframing coerced procedures during childbirth as obstetric violence. Duke Law Journal, 67(4), 827−862.
Carlson, N. S., Neal, J. L., Tilden, E. L., Smith, D. C., Breman, R. B., Lowe, N. K., Dietrich, M. S., & Phillippi, J. C. (2019). Influence of midwifery presence in United States centers on labor care and outcomes of low-risk parous women: A Consortium on Safe Labor study. Birth, 46(3), 487-499. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12405
Chadwick, R. (2021). The dangers of minimizing obstetric violence. Violence Against Women, 29(9), 1899−1908. https://doi.org/10.1177/10778012211037379
Cohen Shabot, S. (2021). Why ‘normal’ feels so bad: Violence and vaginal examinations during labour: A (feminist) phenomenology. Feminist Theory, 22(3), 443−463. https://doi.org/10.1177/1464700120920764
Cooper Owens, D. (2017). Medical bondage: Race, gender, and the oigins of American gynecology. University of Georgia Press.
Crear-Perry, J., Correa-de-Araujo, R., Lewis Johnson, T., McLemore, M. R., Neilson, E., & Wallace, M. (2021). Social and structural determinants of health inequities in maternal health. Journal of Women's Health, 30(2), 230−235. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2020.8882
Davis, D. A., Casper, M. J., Hammonds, E. & Post, W. (2024). The continued significance of obstetric violence: A response to Chervenak, McLeod-Sordjan, Pollet et al. Health Equity, 8, 513-518. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/heq.2024.0093
Davis, D. A. (2019). Obstetric racism: The racial politics of pregnancy, labor, and birthing. Medical Anthropology, 38(7), 560-573. https://doi.org/10.1080/01459740.2018.1549389
Garcia, L. M. (2020). A concept analysis of obstetric violence in the United States of America. Nursing Forum, 55(4), 654−663. https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12482
Garcia, L. M. (2021). Theory analysis of social justice in nursing: Applications to obstetric violence research. Nursing Ethics, 28(7−8). https://doi.org/10.1177/0969733021999767
Garcia L. M. (2023). Obstetric violence in the United States and other high-income countries: An integrative review. Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters, 31(1), 2322194. https://doi.org/10.1080/26410397.2024.2322194
Garcia, L. M., Jones, J., Scandlyn, J., Thumm, E. B., & Shabot, S. C. (2024). The meaning of obstetric violence experiences: A qualitative content analysis of the Break the Silence campaign. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 160, 104911. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2024.104911
Hardeman, R. R., Karbeah, J., Almanza, J., & Kozhimannil, K. B. (2020). Roots Community Birth Center: A culturally-centered care model for improving value and equity in childbirth. Healthcare, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hjdsi.2019.100367
Howell, E. A., & Zeitlin, J. (2017). Improving hospital quality to reduce disparities in severe maternal morbidity and mortality. Seminars in Perinatology, 41(5), 266−272. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.semperi.2017.04.002
Jolivet, R. R., Gausman, J., Kapoor, N., Langer, A., Sharma, J., & Semrau, K. E. A. (2021). Operationalizing respectful maternity care at the healthcare provider level: A systematic scoping review. Reproductive Health, 18(1), 194. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-021-01241-5
Julian, Z., Robles, D., Whetstone, S., Perritt, J. B., Jackson, A. V., Hardeman, R. R., & Scott, K. A. (2020). Community-informed models of perinatal and reproductive health services provision: A justice-centered paradigm toward equity among Black birthing communities. Seminars in Perinatology, 44(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.semperi.2020.151267
Logan, R. G., McLemore, M. R., Julian, Z., Stoll, K., Malhotra, N., GVtM Steering Council, & Vedam, S. (2022). Coercion and non-consent during birth and newborn care in the United States. Birth (Berkeley, Calif.), 49(4), 749–762. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12641
Margulis, J. (2013). The business of baby. Scribner.
Mena-Tudela, D., González-Chordá, V. M., Soriano-Vidal, F. J., Bonanad-Carrasco, T., Centeno-Rico, L., Vila-Candel, R., Castro-Sánchez, E., & Cervera Gasch, Á. (2020). Changes in health sciences students' perception of obstetric violence after an educational intervention. Nurse Education Today, 88, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2020.104364
Morton, C. H., & Simkin, P. (2019). Can respectful maternity care save and improve lives?. Birth (Berkeley, Calif.), 46(3), 391–395. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12444
Neal, J. L., Carlson, N. S., Phillippi, J. C., Tilden, E. L., Smith, D. C., Breman, R. B., Dietrich, M. S., & Lowe, N. K. (2019). Midwifery presence in United States medical centers and labor care and birth outcomes among low-risk nulliparous women: A Consortium on Safe Labor study. Birth (Berkeley, Calif.), 46(3), 475–486. https://doi.org/10.1111/birt.12407
Nelson, H. O. (2022). Conflicted care: Doctors navigating patient welfare, finances, and legal risk. Stanford University Press.
Niles, P. M., Baumont, M., Malhotra, N., Stoll, K., Strauss, N., Lyndon, A., & Vedam, S. (2023). Examining respect, autonomy, and mistreatment in childbirth in the U.S.: Do provider type and place of birth matter? Reproductive Health, 20(1), 67. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-023-01584-1
Oparah, J. C., Arega, H., Hudson, D., Jones, L., & Oseguera, T. (2018). Battling over birth: Black women and the maternal health care crisis. Praeclarus Press.
Salter, C., Wint, K., Burke, J., Chang, J. C., Documet, P., Kaselitz, E., & Mendez, D. (2023). Overlap between birth trauma and mistreatment: A qualitative analysis exploring American clinician perspectives on patient birth experiences. Reproductive Health, 20(1), 63. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-023-01604-0
Scott, K. A., Britton, L., & McLemore, M. R. (2019). The ethics of perinatal care for Black women: Dismantling the structural racism in "Mother Blame" narratives. The Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing, 33(2), 108–115. https://doi.org/10.1097/JPN.0000000000000394
Smith, D. C., Phillippi, J. C., Lowe, N. K., Breman, R. B., Carlson, N. S., Neal, J. L., Gutierrez, E., & Tilden, E. L. (2020). Using the Robson 10-group classification system to compare cesarean birth utilization between US centers with and without midwives. J Midwifery Womens Health, 65(1), 10-21. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13035
Smith, S., Redmond, M., Stites, S., Sims, J., Ramaswamy, M., & Kelly, P. J. (2023). Creating an agenda for Black birth equity: Black voices matter. Health Equity, 7(1), 185−191. https://doi.org/10.1089/heq.2021.0156
Thumm, E. B., & Flynn, L. (2018). The five attributes of a supportive midwifery practice climate: A review of the literature. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 63(1), 90−103. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.12707
Thumm, E. B., & Meek, P. (2020). Development and initial psychometric testing of the Midwifery Practice Climate Scale. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 65(5), 643−650. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13142
Thumm, E. B., Shaffer, J., & Meek, P. (2020). Development and initial psychometric testing of the Midwifery Practice Climate Scale: Part 2. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 65(5), 651−659. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.13160
Thumm, E. B., Smith, D. C., Squires, A. P., Breedlove, G., & Meek, P. M. (2022). Burnout of the U.S. midwifery workforce and the role of practice environment. Health Services Research, 57(2), 351−363. https://doi.org/10.1111/1475-6773.13922
Williams, C. R., & Meier, B. M. (2019). Ending the abuse: The human rights implications of obstetric violence and the promise of rights-based policy to realise respectful maternity care. Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters, 27(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/26410397.2019.1691899
Yarrow, A. (2023). Birth control: The insidious power of men over motherhood. Seal Press.
Zhuang, J., Goldbort, J., Bogdan-Lovis, E., Bresnahan, M., & Shareef, S. (2023). Black mothers' birthing experiences: In search of birthing justice. Ethnicity and Health, 28(1), 46−60. https://doi.org/10.1080/13557858.2022.2027885
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Friday Dec 20, 2024
In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe chats with April, a health coach and new mom, who shares her empowering home birth story. From the decision to have a home birth, navigating pregnancy, to the actual birthing experience, April's journey is filled with insightful tips and candid discussions. Learn about choosing the right midwife, preparing for birth and postpartum, and how trust in your body can transform your childbirth experience. Discover how April and her husband prepared for a smooth home birth, the importance of support, and how to handle unexpected situations calmly. This episode is a must-listen for expecting parents exploring birthing options outside of the hospital setting.
Introducing April and Her Birth Story
Deciding on a Home Birth
The Birth Story Begins
Support and Preparation for Birth
Reflecting on the Birth Experience
Emotional Transformation and Parenting
Calmness in Birth and Parenting
Navigating Hospital vs. Home Birth
The Home Depot Adventure
Labor and Pain Management
The Importance of Preparation
Guest Bio:
April Hardeman founded Hardeman Health with the goal to inspire transformation and self-discovery. Through her own journey, April discovered the connection between the mind, body, and spirit and how this connection can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Driven by an unyielding commitment, April provides individuals with indispensable resources, facilitating sustainable lifestyle modifications and elevating overall well-being while enhancing the very fabric of life.
INSTAGRAM:
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.hardemanhealth.com/
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
In this heartfelt episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe and guest Angel dive into a rich conversation about VBACs (Vaginal Birth After C-Section) and home births. Angel shares her personal birth stories, including the challenges of having multiple C-sections and her journey to successful HBA2Cs at home. They discuss the importance of trusting one's intuition, the value of a supportive birth team, and the ongoing debates around midwifery regulations and doula advocacy. With insights from her extensive experience in family education, HeHe guides listeners through the evidence-based practices and options available for expecting parents, aiming to empower them for a confident and informed birth experience no matter the setting and no matter their goals.
Diving into Birth Stories
Navigating Complicated Pregnancies
The Challenges of C-Sections
Triumphs and Traumas of VBAC
The Importance of Intuition in Birth
Advocating for Your Birth Plan
Navigating Intuition and Anxiety
Finding Peace in Decision Making
Personal Home Birth Story
Labor and Contractions Begin
Active Labor and Delivery
Postpartum Care and Experience
VBAC Preparation and Tips
Advocacy and Regulations in Midwifery
Doula Advocacy and Challenges
Guest Bio:
Angel is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Registered Kangaroula, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Microbirth Approved Provider, and Doula, dedicated to providing essential support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
With seven years of experience as a breastfeeding counselor, 5 years as a doula and childbirth educator and 10 years of mom experience with 6 children, Angel pulls on her personal and professional knowledge to educate women on the long term effects of modern health care practices that affect women during pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding.
Angel is the proud owner of Fruit of the Womb Perinatal Services, delivering breastfeeding, prenatal, and birth support to women in the greater Cleveland area.
Listeners can also tune in to The Birth Rebel Podcast, hosted by Angel.
INSTAGRAM:
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:
Friday Dec 13, 2024
Friday Dec 13, 2024
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe engages in a powerful discussion with Frances about navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. They touch on the importance of empowering expecting parents through candid conversations with experts, mental health support, and birth preparation tips. Frances shares insights on the cultural shifts in labor and delivery over the past decade, particularly regarding the importance of asking questions and advocating for oneself in the birth suite. They also delve into the critical issues of racial disparities in maternal healthcare, systemic racism, and the ways healthcare providers can better support Black mothers. The episode concludes with practical advice for healthcare professionals and allies on how to elevate Black voices, hold each other accountable, and create a safer, more respectful birthing environment. Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to a transformative change in maternity care.
A Long-Awaited Conversation
Advocacy in Labor and Delivery
Challenges in the Birth Suite
The Role of Social Media in Birth Conversations
Navigating Hospital Policies and Provider Dynamics
The Importance of Informed Consent
Addressing Racial Disparities in Maternity Care
The Power of Speaking Up
Building Trust Between Patients and Providers
The Importance of Direct Communication
Casual Conversations vs. Critical Moments
The Need for Assurance and Planning
Nurses' Role in Patient Comfort
Addressing Systemic Issues in Healthcare
The Power of White Allies
Training and Protocols for Inclusivity
The Reality of Black Maternal Mortality
Mobilizing for Change
Practical Steps for Improvement
The Importance of Believing Black Women
Guest Bio:
Frances Ivy-Marie is a Mom Content Creator. Her goal is to have Black Mothers have the same chance of surviving childbirth as their white counterparts in the United States, with a dream of that goal making a global impact.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Connect with Frances on TikTok
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!
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Join host HeHe on the Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Liz, the founder of Swaddelini, to discuss her revolutionary baby swaddle. Liz shares her personal journey from new mom to entrepreneur, and how the necessity to help her own baby sleep better led to the invention of the innovative Swaddelini. They discuss the importance of proper baby sleep, the benefits of sensory compression, and the process of developing a baby product that meets the needs of various medical and developmental requirements. Liz also opens up about her own experiences with postpartum emotional distress and how her first employee's journey helped shape her company's values. Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance, motherhood, and groundbreaking innovation in baby sleep technology.
Swaddelini is the soft and stretchy swaddle gives a gentle hug soothing your baby while allowing your baby freedom of movement!
The Birth of Swaddelini
Postpartum Emotional Distress
The Science Behind Swaddelini
The Comfort of Swaddelini
Adapting Swaddelini for Special Needs
Custom Orders and Team Effort
How to Use the Swaddelini
Temperature Control and Safety
Washing and Maintenance Tips
When to Stop Using Swaddelini
Future Innovations and Sensory Products
HeHe's Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide: A Guide to longer stretches of sleep by 6 weeks! Learn how to support your baby’s biological development, prioritize their weight gain goals & capitalize on the most nighttime sleep possible! By understanding newborn development, you will be able to avoid harsh, formal sleep training programs in the future! This Newborn Sleep Solution will teach you everything you need to know to properly support your baby’s sleep needs, understand what is happening in their development in each stage and how to adjust your routines to get your newborn sleeping soundly at night in the first few weeks!
GET YOUR NEWBORN SLEEP SOLUTIONS GUIDE HERE!
INSTAGRAM:
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:
Check out the Swaddelini here!