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
14 minutes ago
14 minutes ago
In this episode of the Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe interviews Dr. Chris Motley, an alternative health practitioner specializing in traditional Chinese medicine, frequency medicine, and kinesiology about the importance of the lymphatic system. They discuss how proper lymphatic drainage supports overall health, reduces stagnant toxins, and impacts everything from hormones to immune function. Dr. Motley shares practical tips for enhancing lymphatic movement through practices like dry brushing, gua sha, and vibrational plates, emphasizing the emotional and physical benefits of lymphatic massages. The conversation also touches on the safety and benefits of lymphatic drainage during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding. HeHe and Dr. Motley explore how personalized care and traditional practices can significantly improve wellbeing. This episode is packed with data-driven insights and practical advice for anyone looking to optimize their health through lymphatic health.
00:00 Introduction to the Fascial and Lymphatic Systems
01:22 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast
03:03 The Importance of Lymphatic Drainage
05:12 Introducing Dr. Chris Motley
08:54 Understanding the Lymphatic System
15:13 Emotional and Physical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage
19:58 Choosing the Right Practitioner
22:44 Personal Insights and Elemental Qualities
33:32 Understanding Your Element and Body
34:30 Facial Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine
37:14 Lymphatic Drainage Techniques
39:58 Lymphatic System and Immune Function
47:51 Lymphatic Health and Hormones
55:52 Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy and Postpartum
01:02:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Dr. Chris Motley is a globally recognized alternative health practitioner specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, frequency medicine, and kinesiology. His mission is to eliminate fear surrounding health information and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.
As the host of the Ancient Health Podcast, Dr. Motley merges ancient Eastern wisdom with cutting-edge Western innovations to offer practical solutions for today’s health challenges. With over 120K downloads, the podcast has featured leading experts such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Josh Axe, and Dr. Mindy Pelz.
Dr. Motley’s unique approach integrates modern technology with time-honored healing practices, recognizing physical, neurological, and emotional health as interconnected aspects of overall well-being. He holds a B.S. in Biology from Austin Peay State University, a Doctorate of Chiropractic, and certifications in Acupuncture, Kinesiology, and Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).
Through his transformative approach to medicine and passion for holistic health education, Dr. Motley continues to inspire individuals on their journey to optimal wellness.
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:
Get a 15 Day Free trial of Dr. Motley’s Membership program (https://www.doctormotley.com/offers/LHigrcfn)
3 days ago
3 days ago
This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy pregnancy and postpartum period! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your pregnancy and postpartum feel a little more luxurious: https://cozyearth.com/
Grab HeHe’s Scripts for Advocacy here!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host Hehe welcomes Dr. Melanie Jackson, a renowned midwife and PhD holder in midwifery, also known as Melanie the Midwife. They dive into the intricacies of the hospital birth system, discussing how over-medicalization can affect birth outcomes and the importance of educating oneself to navigate these systems effectively. Dr. Jackson shares insights on the cascade of interventions, the significance of understanding hospital policies, and ways to take radical responsibility for your birth experience. Both Hehe and Dr. Jackson advocate for women to be well-informed and proactive in their childbirth planning. They also touch upon the similarities and differences between the Australian and U.S. healthcare systems, the rising cesarean rates, and how confirmation bias affects the acceptance and practice of new medical research. The episode wraps up with a discussion of Dr. Jackson’s resources, including her Guide to a Great Birth and the Great Birth Rebellion podcast.
00:00 Introduction to Birth and Interventions
01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast
01:14 Understanding the Cascade of Interventions
02:30 Navigating the Hospital System
03:32 Introducing Dr. Melanie Jackson
05:42 Resources for Advocacy and Research
08:42 Meet Preg Nancy: A Unique Educational Tool
15:34 The Industrialization of Birth
27:54 The Power of Advocacy and Education
43:38 Equipping Your Birth Support Team
44:46 Taking Control of Your Birth Experience
46:48 The Reality of Postpartum Comfort
49:25 Understanding C-Section Rates in Australia
50:16 The Impact of Medicalization on Birth
57:24 The Role of Research and Confirmation Bias
01:06:53 Navigating Hospital Policies and Personal Responsibility
01:17:26 Resources and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Dr Melanie Jackson (AKA Melanie The Midwife) loves to help midwives and women around the world better understand and apply the research relating to matrescence (the process of becoming a mother). She does this as the host of The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast, supporting and mentoring midwives, as well as educating mothers.
Melanie has a PhD in Midwifery - Birth Outside the System: Wanting the Best and Safest. She has various publications in academic journals. Mel has worked in multiple research roles and lectured at Western Sydney University.
Since 2009, Mel has been a Privately Practising Midwife, providing homebirths in the Blue Mountains. She has mentored midwives into private practice in every state and territory across Australia and supports rebellious midwives around the world through The Assembly of Rebellious Midwives and The Convergence of Rebellious Midwives.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Connect with Mel the Midwife 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:
Friday Jul 11, 2025
Friday Jul 11, 2025
In this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe dives into the world of skincare during pregnancy with nurse practitioner Claire O'Bryan, founder of The Skin Clique. They explore the surprising fact that most skincare ingredients are not regulated by the FDA and discuss what it truly means for a product to be 'clean'. They tackle common pregnancy skincare concerns such as melasma, acne, and the safety of popular ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid. The episode also touches on the controversial topics of Botox, fillers, and the efficacy of supplements like collagen in skincare. Claire provides practical advice on crafting an effective, simple daily skincare routine and the importance of sunscreen, while addressing misconceptions about the need for sunscreen. Tune in to get evidence-based answers to your burning skincare questions and learn how to navigate the complexities of beauty products safely in pregnancy and beyond.
00:00 Introduction to Skincare Safety
02:00 Common Skincare Concerns During Pregnancy
03:50 Interview with Claire O'Bryan
04:51 Skincare Regimens and Fads
07:20 Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients
11:06 Acne Treatments During Pregnancy
15:33 Retinol Alternatives and Supplements
20:37 Daily Skincare Routine Essentials
25:16 Sunscreen Myths and Facts
34:51 Effective Sunscreen Reapplication
35:42 Blue Light Protection in Sunscreens
36:32 Impact of Screen Time on Skin
38:39 Understanding Botox and Fillers
44:32 Botox Safety During Pregnancy and Nursing
50:36 Microneedling and Skincare During Pregnancy
01:01:34 Preventing and Treating Stretch Marks
01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Claire O'Bryan is a dynamic nurse practitioner and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering women and amplifying the voices of female healthcare leaders globally. Her mission extends beyond traditional medical aesthetics – she's reshaping how we think about healthcare delivery while paving the way for women in leadership.
As the co-founder of Skin Clique, Claire continues to help revolutionize the medical aesthetics industry through a groundbreaking concierge model. Since launching Skin Clique in 2019, what began as a vision for more accessible skin health has grown into a nationwide network of 1,000 skilled providers across 43 states. This expansion reflects not just business success but a transformation in how people access professional treatments and skincare. It is the modern approach to skin health.
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: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page
LINKS MENTIONED:
www.skinclique.com: Use code Claire10 for a discount!
Pregnancy safe skincare:
https://shopmy.us/collections/549485
Collagen meta analysis:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/?utm_source
ACOG
ACOG Skin Conditions
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy
Retinol VS Bakuchiol in a double blind RCT
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/
Systematic Review of Retinol VS Bakuchiol
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/
Collagen
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Join us in this solo-cast of the Birth Lounge podcast where HeHe dives into a Q&A from her instagram community! In this episode, she is addressing some of your most pressing questions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Topics covered include the differences between 'on paper' and actual pregnancy weeks, the nuances of cervical checks and how to decline them, navigating anxiety and nutrition during early pregnancy, how to handle airport security while pregnant, and the intricacies of declining certain medical procedures like membrane sweeps and scheduled C-sections. HeHe also shares essential tips on dealing with family visits to newborns and addressing the impact of GBS testing and breech births. Don't miss this episode to help ensure a healthy and autonomous pregnancy and birthing experience.
00:00 Introduction and Zero Tolerance Policy
00:56 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast
01:24 How to Get Your Questions Answered
03:15 Understanding Pregnancy Weeks
05:59 Declining Cervical Checks
11:42 Coping with Pregnancy Anxiety and Weight Loss
14:14 Traveling While Pregnant
18:11 Declining a Scheduled C-Section for Breech Baby
22:44 Managing Weight Monitoring During Prenatal Visits
26:57 Group B Strep Testing Concerns
30:57 Membrane Sweeps: Risks and Benefits
32:04 Setting Boundaries for Newborn Visits
36:05 Addressing Concerns About VBAC
45:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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:
Pushing Freebie: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pushing
Secret Sauce to Pushing Course: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/secretsaucetopushing
GBS information: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/
Membrane Sweep, Ep. 268: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V41R8PDhH2Kia48mdqdub?si=kz6gtEh6SJGIGOz_pT1j6w&nd=1&dlsi=7b03c32c4cd24188
Radiation when Flying:
- https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/data-research/facts-stats/air-travel.html
- https://www.tsa.gov/videos/travel-tips-pregnant-travelers
- https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radiation-and-airport-security-scanning
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC153688/
- https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/flying-and-health
- https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/air-travel-exposes-you-to-radiation-how-much-health-risk-comes-with-it/
Don't weigh me cards:
https://more-love.org/product/dont-weigh-me-cards-postage/
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Friday Jul 04, 2025
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes special guest Helena Woods, a world-traveling astrocartographer and author of 'Slow Living.' Helena shares insightful knowledge on astrocartography, the astrology of location, and how it can influence your life map, career success, relationships, and motherhood. The discussion also delves deep into the power of manifestation and astrology, revealing how to live a magical life aligned with your astrological placements. HeHe and Helena explore the profound effects of migrating and how one’s birth chart and astrological lines can uncover significant opportunities and connections globally. Additionally, Helena offers valuable tips for each zodiac sign on how to embrace pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. Tune in for an enlightening episode filled with wisdom on manifesting the life you desire through the lens of astrological insights.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:42 Manifestation Practices and Personal Insights
02:54 Guest Introduction: Helena Woods
04:39 Astrocartography Explained
09:07 Understanding Astrological Lines
23:11 Relocation Astrology and Its Impact
27:19 Future Predictions and Technological Advancements
39:33 Astrological Signs and Family Dynamics
45:57 Unexpected Pregnancy and Trusting the Universe
48:41 Astrological Insights on War and Global Conflict
56:36 The Role of Technology and AI in Future Conflicts
01:04:07 Astrology and Personal Relationships
01:12:47 Astrological Guidance for Each Zodiac Sign
01:19:52 Resources and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Helena Woods is a world traveling astrocartographer, Youtuber, online course creator and author of the book Slow Living. As an astrologer, she uniquely specializes in location, helping people create magical lives in places they thrive. Originally from San Diego, California, she now lives abroad in France but travels often as she shares her astrocartography findings with others. Living slowly around the world, she creates from her heart to inspire others to create a magical life in a place they love. Since her business began, she's taught over 1500 students the power of location using astrology, timing and astro maps. She's been featured in The Economist, Conde Naste Traveler and more!
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:
https://helenawoods.com/freebies
https://helenawoods.com/courses
YOUTUBE LINKS:
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy postpartum! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your postpartum feel a little more luxurious.
In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe discusses the key components of comprehensive postpartum preparation. She covers essential tools to make postpartum life easier, strategies for health and nutrition, best practices for feeding your newborn, and actionable tips to optimize both your and your baby's sleep. HeHe also highlights the resources available in the Birth Lounge membership and app, including evidence-based articles and supportive community features. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health, informed decision-making, and how to prepare for a smoother transition to motherhood.
00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Preparation
00:53 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast
01:16 Postpartum Prep Overview
01:52 The Birth Lounge Membership and App
04:57 Diving into Postpartum: Four Key Categories
05:40 Home Systems and Responsibilities
10:33 Postpartum Preparation Tools
24:38 Health and Nutrition for Postpartum
30:22 Feeding Your Baby: Tips and Support
39:18 Newborn Sleep Essentials
47:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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:
Nyssa Care postpartum underwear
Cozy Earth Pajamas and Sheets (use code HEHE for 40% off!)
Ep. 219 baby reflux with Aine Homer
YOUTUBE LINKS:
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
In this fascinating episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe is joined by Psychic Medium Jessica Lynne to delve into the world of psychic mediumship, spirit babies, energetic blocks, and the power of surrendering in life and labor. Jessica shares her extraordinary abilities to connect with the spirit world, offering comfort and guidance to those seeking connections beyond the material realm. They discuss the concept that babies choose their parents, the lessons learned through challenging experiences, and the role of spirit guides. Jessica also provides personal insights for HeHe's pregnancy, including an intuitive sense of a baby boy and a unique vision of a potential shower birth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about spirituality, mediumship, and the magical connections that exist in our lives.
00:00 Introduction to the Episode
01:50 Exploring Psychic Mediumship
03:09 Personal and Energetic Blocks
16:30 Intentional Language and Manifestation
20:35 Trusting the Journey
30:17 Introduction to Spirit Babies
31:03 Choosing Our Parents and Babies
31:45 Personal Reflections on Parental Relationships
34:32 Expectations and Realities of Pregnancy
35:35 Gender Intuition and Preparations
38:08 Birth Plans and Spiritual Connections
49:17 The Role of Faith and Spirituality
51:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Jessica Lynne is a gifted medium whose extraordinary abilities have intrigued and captivated seekers looking for connections beyond the material world. Emerging as a guiding light and source of comfort, Jessica assists those in search of reconnecting with departed loved ones. Using her profound spiritual insight and empathetic approach, Jessica Lynne has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the living and the spirit world.
Jessica has had the honour & privilege of reading for an array of celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and business owners. She has recently been featured on The Morning Show, 7News, The Australian, Marie Claire, Mamamia & Body+Soul, to name a few.
Jessica conducts her readings online so she can connect with clients all over the world.
If you would like to connect with Jessica you can follow her on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship, check out her website at www.jessicalynnemediumship.com or listen to her podcast "Talk Spirit To Me"; ranked #2 on the Apple Charts for Spirituality:
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:
www.jessicalynnemediumship.com
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes Linzay Davis, founder of Hello Bundle, to discuss the complex landscape of parental leave in the United States. They explore topics such as the lack of a standardized national paid parental leave policy, the nuances of FMLA, options available through individual states and employers, parental leave for entrepreneurs, and advice on how to best prepare for maternity or paternity leave. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding company policies, state programs, and the potential legal issues surrounding parental leave. Linzay shares valuable insights and actionable steps for expecting parents to maximize their time off and financial support during this critical period.
00:00 Introduction to Parental Leave Issues in the US
01:35 Guest Introduction: Linzay Davis from Hello Bundle
02:31 Understanding Parental Leave Options in the US
03:01 Navigating FMLA and Short-Term Disability
04:57 Challenges and Confusion Around Parental Leave
06:11 Exploring Job Protection and Accommodations
07:35 The Reality of Parental Leave in the US
19:45 Legal Rights and Risks of Asking for Accommodations
24:19 Planning and Preparing for Parental Leave
25:43 Parental Leave for Non-Gestational Parents
26:51 Understanding Short Term Disability and Parental Leave
27:50 Navigating HR and Company Policies
33:15 State vs. Employer Leave Policies
36:05 Parental Leave for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Employees
42:31 Best Practices and Resources for Parental Leave
43:26 Top States and Companies for Parental Leave
47:00 Creating an Ideal Nationwide Parental Leave Policy
48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Hello, Bundle helps new and expecting parents navigate parental leave in the US so they can take the most paid time off possible when they have a baby.
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:
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
In this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes Ashlee Brown, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mother of three, to discuss the crucial topic of perceived versus true low milk supply. The conversation starts with the prevalence of perceived low milk supply and its impact on breastfeeding duration. Ashlee shares her personal pregnancy journey and emphasizes the importance of understanding how your body changes during this period. They delve into the significance of early breastfeeding, the first hours after birth, and pumping strategies to build an optimal milk supply. The discussion also covers the role of flange sizes, hormonal influences, and the importance of proper latch techniques. Ashlee explains the benefits of evidence-based tools and supplements, and addresses common myths surrounding lactation. She also highlights the issue of widely spaced tubular breasts and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) as potential reasons for low milk supply. Tune in to discover effective solutions and strategies for successful breastfeeding and learn how to distinguish between perceived and actual low milk supply.
00:00 Introduction and an update on HeHe’s Pregnancy Journey
03:12 The Birth Lounge App: Features and Benefits
06:04 Introduction to Low Milk Supply
06:53 Meet Ashlee Brown: Lactation Consultant
07:52 Understanding Low Milk Supply: Myths and Facts
23:24 Causes and Solutions for Low Milk Supply
29:07 The Importance of Proper Flange Sizes
33:07 Challenges with Breast Pumps and Wearable Pumps
37:26 Choosing the Right Breast Pump
38:29 Reusing Pumps for Future Children
40:28 Power Pumping and Its Effectiveness
44:14 Strategic Pumping to Increase Supply
49:18 Supplements and Diet for Milk Supply
53:04 Medications for Low Supply
55:08 Understanding Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)
59:21 The Importance of Weighted Feeds
01:04:46 Final Thoughts and Support for Low Supply Moms
Guest Bio:
Ashlee is a mom of 3, IBCLC, and the owner of Kentucky Breastfeeding Center located in Lexington, KY. She started as a childbirth educator and earned her IBCLC via pathway 3 mentorship at Novant Prince William hospital in Manassas, VA. She specializes in tongue & lip ties, low supply, and mentorship for future IBCLCs. Her passion is educating other professionals on the benefits of breastfeeding and the field of lactation.
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:
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe discusses one of the most requested topics, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), with midwife Melissa Chappell. Melissa, who owns Utah Birth Suites and founded Songbird Maternity, offers a holistic view on women's health and is a staunch advocate for informed consent and patient autonomy. The conversation dives deep into what GDM is, how it occurs, the importance of testing, and why the typical 50-gram glucose challenge may not always reflect reality. The duo also covers alternative testing methods, including continuous glucose monitoring, diet and exercise's role, and the impact of GDM on the baby. Melissa sheds light on the myths and truths about GDM, the implications of controlled versus uncontrolled GDM, and the risks associated with traditional medical practices, such as induction. Listeners will walk away feeling informed and empowered to engage in confident discussions with their healthcare providers. Tune in to get evidence-based insights, especially focusing on holistic and patient-centered care approaches for managing gestational diabetes.
00:00 Introduction to Gestational Diabetes
01:27 Meet Our Expert Guest: Melissa Chappell
02:33 Understanding Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
03:03 Testing and Alternatives for Gestational Diabetes
03:53 Impact of Gestational Diabetes on Mother and Baby
10:16 Historical Perspective and Current Statistics
12:42 Challenges with Current Testing Methods
16:26 Managing Gestational Diabetes: Diet and Monitoring
24:07 Risks and Misconceptions about Big Babies
31:37 Pitocin Use and Its Implications
39:13 Increased Medical Interventions in Pregnancy
40:17 The Impact of Glucose Restriction on Babies
42:31 Research Findings on Blood Glucose Thresholds
44:24 Managing Gestational Diabetes with Diet and Exercise
48:50 Alternative Testing Methods for Gestational Diabetes
01:00:06 Understanding HbA1c and Its Limitations
01:08:04 Postpartum Care for Babies of Gestational Diabetic Mothers
01:12:42 Connecting with Melissa and Doula Training Opportunities
01:14:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, and as well is a doula trainer of over 22 years. She is passionate about women’s health from a holistic and nourishing perspective, and advocates for women’s wellness in all areas of their lives. She has worked with midwives and birthing women all over the world, including in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and loves seeing how women’s lives improve with access to safe and effective midwifery care. She is the mother of 4 children and 4 grandchildren that she adores. In between catching babies, Melissa loves to explore as much of the world as she can – from international travel to exploring the mountains in her backyard.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Connect with Melissa and her daughter 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:
Lily Nichols: Real Food in Pregnancy
Use code HeHe to sign up for doula education and 25% off the Birth Education Library with Melissa at https://www.melissachappell.com/
RESEARCH:
https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-023-05779-z
Gestational diabetes and the risk of late stillbirth: a case-control study from England, UK - PubMed
Big Babies: the risk of care provider fear | Dr Rachel Reed