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
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Ep. 292: VBAC Water Birth with Jess Jaruczyk
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Jess shares her inspiring water birth story with HeHe on this episode of the podcast, marking the first time this topic is explored on the show. She recounts her journey from her first challenging labor to her triumphant fifth birth, a water birth of her baby boy. Jess delves into her experience with hospital births, including an emergency C-section, and her determination to have a natural birth. Despite doubts and challenges, she successfully found a supportive midwife and had an empowering water birth. The conversation highlights the benefits of water birth, the crucial role of midwives, and the significance of mindset in overcoming birth-related fears. Jess also touches on her postpartum experience and gives insight into the coaching work she does to aid women in overcoming limiting beliefs.
Jess's Birth Story: From Hospital to Water Birth
The Water Birth Experience
Navigating VBAC and Finding the Right Provider
Preparing for an Unmedicated Birth
Postpartum Reflections and Coaching Insights
From Jess:
Years ago, I suffered a loss that ripped to the core of my heart. I searched for books and information of how to get past the pain and brokenness. When I couldn’t find information on how to get my heart and mind past the trauma, I buried the pain deep and moved on from there. The problem with burying things is that they find a way to surface through triggers and you find yourself responding from a place of doubt, fear and pain. Without realizing it, you have a new normal, a new learning history that shapes all of your future behaviors and beliefs. It wasn’t until I received emotional healing that my mindset shifted, and with a renewed mind I was able to respond to triggers and people for a healthy place. It was a process of renewing my mind, being intentional with my thoughts and taking the negative one’s captive. I now know which are the lies and which are the truths and when I‘m navigating triggers, transition, or looking to step into the next area of growth. I know how to navigate my heart, mind, body and spirit from a place of truth.
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:
Use code WELLNESS10 for 10% any coaching packages
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Join HeHe and Dr. Ellese Nickels as they dive into the complex world of birth options and healthcare navigation. Ellese, a pelvic floor physical therapist, shares her two vastly different birth stories—one in a local birth center during the pandemic and another in a hospital setting following startling ultrasound results. Together, they explore the significance of informed choices, respectful care, and the challenging journey through the medical system. Ellese also discusses her shift from home birth plans to hospital delivery due to a false positive heart anomaly and how it reshaped her professional practice. Don't miss the insightful discussion on advocacy, trust in healthcare providers, and finding empowerment through childbirth.
Discussing Birth Stories and Healthcare Insights
First Birth Experience: Dreamy Yet Challenging
The Impact of Birth Experience on Body Image
Second Birth Story: From Home Birth Plans to Hospital Care
Navigating a False Positive Diagnosis
The Provider's Responsibility in Patient Communication
Addressing Soft Skills in Medical Training
Challenges in Medical Practice and Patient Trust
Navigating Amniocentesis Results and Long QT Syndrome
Confronting Medical Recommendations and Seeking Expert Advice
Transitioning to Hospital Birth and Final Preparations
Reflecting on the Birth Experience and Systemic Issues
Postpartum Care and Virtual Support Services
Guest Bio:
Ellese Nickles is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, who specializes in treating women during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from UNC in 2016 and has practiced in outpatient orthopedics, pelvic health physical therapy and early intervention with children 0-3 years old. In addition to her career in physical therapy Ellese has experience in personal training, group fitness and teaching yoga and combines these skills with her clinical expertise to holistically help women navigate motherhood.
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:
Get a free month, just for our listeners, when you sign up for one of Dr. Ellese’s programs.
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Ep. 290: Could Catheters be causing Unnecessary Cesareans? with Dr. Douglas Wood, OBGYN
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Dr. Wood joins the show to discuss his groundbreaking new invention aimed at reducing unnecessary C-sections. The conversation explores the evolving trends in epidural use, the importance of patient autonomy, and effective coaching during labor. Dr. Wood elaborates on the issues surrounding 'failure to progress' and introduces his innovative catheter designed to mitigate common complications associated with Foley catheters during labor. This informative episode sheds light on improving maternal and infant health outcomes and offers insights into the future of obstetric care.
Epidurals: Trends and Practices
Coaching During Labor
Failure to Progress: Understanding the Issue
The Role of the Foley Catheter
Innovative Catheter Design
Addressing Failure to Progress
Managing Foley Catheters: Challenges and Solutions
Discussing Pitocin: Usage and Misconceptions
Innovative Medical Device: Development and Challenges
Crowdfunding for Medical Innovation
Help Dr. Wood Prevent The Primary Section | C-section Reduction Project (Powered by Donorbox)
About Dr. Wood:
Dr. Douglas Wood is a highly accomplished Obstetrician and Gynecologist with over 24 years of solo practice experience, managing and delivering more than 9,500 pregnancies. He serves as a Laborist and Hospitalist at UPMC, OBHG, and VeloSource, bringing a wealth of clinical expertise to these roles. Dr. Wood is also a product developer and patent holder, contributing to advancements in the field of obstetrics by reducing the US c-section rate. He holds academic appointments as OB/GYN Clinical Faculty at several institutions, including Baptist Health-UAMS Medical Education Program and New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. A decorated military veteran, he was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait with the Arkansas Army National Guard, where he served as a Lieutenant Colonel. Dr. Wood is board-certified in OB/GYN and has been recognized for his excellence in teaching with the NYIT Outstanding Preceptor Award in 2021.
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:
Thank you to EISCO for the quality of their models. We’d like to give recognition to hBARSCI. hBARSCI is the distributor that helped supply us with the model. For any potential customers, hBARSCI
Help Dr. Wood Prevent The Primary Section | C-section Reduction Project (Powered by Donorbox)
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Ep. 289: Unpacking the Role of Ethics in Birth with Jennifer Dunatov
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Join HeHe and Dr. Jennifer Dunatov, an ethicist, in an eye-opening conversation about the vital role of ethics in childbirth. Discover what an ethicist does, how ethics consultations can support both patients and providers, and the complexities of navigating medical dilemmas in birthing spaces. Learn about real-life scenarios, the importance of patient autonomy, and ways to ensure your wishes are respected during labor and delivery. This episode is a must-watch for expectant parents, doulas, and healthcare professionals seeking to understand the intersection of ethics and birth.
Understanding the Role of an Ethicist
Ethics in Birthing Spaces
How to Request an Ethics Consult
Navigating Values Conflicts
Ethics Education for Providers
The Process of an Ethics Consult
Provider Hesitations and Ethical Dilemmas
Patient Autonomy and Medical Advice
Ethics Consults: When and Why to Call
Navigating Hospital Ethics Mechanisms
Real-Life Ethical Scenarios in Birth
The Role of Ethics in Patient Care
Addressing Ethical Conflicts in Labor
Guest Bio:
Dr. Jennifer Dunatov is a health care ethicist living and working in the greater Los Angeles area. She consults, teaches and writes on all things birth ethics. Jennifer co-founded the No Trauma Mama® Project in 2017 after learning as a new mother about the global epidemic of obstetric violence and birth trauma. She believes when people experience ethical and respectful births, it can be transformative for birthing people, families, and entire communities.
Jennifer has served in clinical and academic roles for 19 years. She is currently Senior Director of Ethics in Southern CA for a multi-state health care system.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Connect with Dr. Jennifer Dunatov 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:
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Wednesday Aug 28, 2024
Join HeHe in an enlightening conversation with Labor & Delivery nurse Jen Atkisson, known as the 'Pitocin Queen,' as they dive deep into the controversial use of Pitocin in labor and delivery. In this episode, they discuss when and why Pitocin might be used, how to use it responsibly, and the critical importance of evidence-based practices. Jen shares her insights on natural oxytocin versus synthetic Pitocin, the potential risks and benefits, and ways to avoid unnecessary interventions. This transparent and data-driven discussion aims to empower expectant parents and healthcare providers with the knowledge necessary for safer, more satisfying birth experiences.
Understanding Pitocin and Its Uses
Oxytocin vs. Pitocin: Key Differences
The Role of Oxytocin in Labor
Pitocin Administration and Safety
Nervous System and Labor
Personal Experiences and Reflections
Challenges in Healthcare and Pitocin Use
Effective Pitocin Dosing Strategies
Risks and Complications of Pitocin
Unexpected Labor Story
Signs of Labor and Cervical Exams
Understanding Pitocin Usage
Managing Pitocin Dosage
Dealing with Excessive Contractions
Pitocin Protocols and Guidelines
Patient Advocacy and Pitocin
Third Stage of Labor and Pitocin
Alternatives to Pitocin
Guest Bio:
With over 17 years of unique experiences in nursing and consulting, I've seen the same patient safety & legal themes come up over and over again. And they're not what you think they are! Because keeping our moms and babies safe is always our first priority, I needed to make this information available to all nurses!
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 Aug 23, 2024
Ep. 287: Choosing an Egg Donor with Laura Watson
Friday Aug 23, 2024
Friday Aug 23, 2024
Today, HeHe is joined by fertility coach, Laura Watson, to explore the conversation of growing your family through donor eggs, how to navigate that decision making process and what that process looks like! Laura shares the various routes families can consider when trying to find a donor, how to discover agencies in your area and how to talk to your kids about being donor conceived. If you've been navigating this conversation in your own life and are feeling alone in the grief and big feelings that often accompany the decision to use donor eggs-- this is a must listen because Laura shares what that process was like for her. We will also dive into anonymous vs known donors, what to know about the legal contracts (your rights and your donor's rights) and the financial commitment involved!
Guest Bio:
Laura Watson is a fertility coach and mom to two donor conceived children. Her personal journey included failed fertility treatments, several unsuccessful rounds of IVF, and three heartbreaking pregnancy losses before completing her family with donor egg IVF. She now supports women pursuing fertility treatments to build their families and helps them find control, confidence, and even joy in a complicated process. Laura founded her coaching services, Positive Fertility, in 2022. She is the author of the Positive Fertility Blog, was a featured author in the 2021 collaborative book, Infertility Success: Stories of Help and Hope for Your Journey. She lives in Boston, MA, USA with her husband and two children.
INSTAGRAM:
Connect with Laura Watson 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:
Connect with Laura here: h
Wednesday Aug 21, 2024
Ep. 286: The Role of Mitochondria in Fertility with Dr. Kalea Wattles
Wednesday Aug 21, 2024
Wednesday Aug 21, 2024
Join HeHe as she sits down with Dr. Kalea Wattles to uncover the overlooked connection between mitochondrial health and fertility. In this episode, Dr. Wattles explains the fundamental role of mitochondria in cellular energy production and how it impacts ovulation, egg quality, and overall reproductive health. She delves into the significance of mitochondrial support for both partners in enhancing fertility outcomes and offers actionable advice on lifestyle changes, supplements like CoQ10, and gentle detox practices. This enlightening discussion empowers listeners to prepare for family planning at a cellular level, whether they are actively trying to conceive or planning for the future.
Understanding Mitochondria
Mitochondria's Role in Fertility
Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Fertility Challenges
The Love Story of Mitochondria and Granulosa Cells
Mitochondria in Sperm Cells
Emerging Mitochondrial Therapies
Lifestyle Factors Affecting Mitochondrial Health
Melatonin and Mitochondrial Health
Toxin Exposure and Mitochondrial Health
Favorite Clean Products for Mitochondrial Health
Understanding Supplement Dosages and Side Effects
Exploring the Benefits of Myo-Inositol and Turmeric Cautions
Considerations for Hypothyroidism and Insulin Use
Magnesium's Role in Mitochondrial Health
Gentle Detox Strategies for Preconception
The Importance of Regular Bowel Movements
Discussing Mitochondrial Health with Your Doctor
Identifying Mitochondrial Dysfunction Symptoms
The Impact of Cortisol on Mitochondrial Health
Proactive Fertility Planning in Your 20s
The Role of Male Fertility in Conception
Guest Bio:
Dr. Kalea Wattles is a naturopathic doctor, certified functional medicine practitioner, and founder of Functional Fertility. As an educator, podcaster, speaker, and clinician, Dr. Wattles combines cutting edge science with treasured traditional wisdom, applying a systems biology approach to discover the root cause of fertility struggles. With a deep commitment to advancing the field of functional medicine and improving patient outcomes, her patient-centered approach helps individuals cultivate abundant health for pregnancy and beyond.
INSTAGRAM:
Connect with Dr. Kalea Wattles 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:
Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://primallypure.com/
Haircare Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://innersensebeauty.com/
Makeup Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://arazabeauty.com/
Clean skin care HeHe uses and loves: https://www.cocokind.com/
Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/
Find a functional Medicine provider near you: https://www.ifm.org/
Connect with Dr. Wattles here: https://drkaleawattles.com/
Friday Aug 16, 2024
Ep. 285: Understanding Sperm Quality with Dr. Jessica Ryneic, OBGYN/REI
Friday Aug 16, 2024
Friday Aug 16, 2024
Join HeHe as she sits down with Dr. Jessica Ryniec from CCRM Fertility of Boston to delve into the crucial topic of sperm quality and male fertility. In this episode, they discuss what sperm quality means, how sperm analysis is conducted, and the impact of lifestyle, supplements, and medications on sperm health. Dr. Ryniec also provides insights into the factors affecting sperm morphology, the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and the potential effects of lifestyle choices like bicycling and using hot tubs. Learn about the role of antioxidants in sperm health, the importance of using fertility-friendly lubricants, and the process and benefits of freezing sperm for future fertility planning. Whether you're trying to conceive or just curious about reproductive health, this episode offers invaluable information and expert advice.
Understanding Sperm Quality
Sperm Morphology and Variations
Key Terms in Semen Analysis
Who Should Get a Semen Analysis?
Impact of Lifestyle on Sperm Quality
Supplements and Medications for Sperm Quality
Lubricants and Sperm Health
Steps for Getting a Semen Analysis
Freezing Sperm: When and Why
Guest Bio:
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!
Wednesday Aug 14, 2024
Ep. 284: Understanding Egg Quality with Ashe Milkovic
Wednesday Aug 14, 2024
Wednesday Aug 14, 2024
Join HeHe as she welcomes Ashe to the show to dive into the latest insights on fertility, specifically focusing on egg and follicle quality. They discuss the science behind egg development, the impact of lifestyle and diet on fertility, and the critical role of follicle health. Ashe also debunks common myths and emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader endocrine system, digestive health, and stress management for optimal fertility. Whether you're preparing for conception or just curious about reproductive health, this episode is packed with valuable information.
Expanding Topics: From Pregnancy to Fertility
Understanding Egg Quality
Defining Egg Quality
The Science Behind Egg Development
Follicle Development and Its Importance
Impact of Lifestyle on Follicle Health
The Role of Supplements and Probiotics
Testing and Personalized Recommendations
Exploring DUTCH and GI Map Tests
Understanding the DUTCH Test
Adrenal Health and Hormone Metabolism
When to Consider the DUTCH Test
Alternative Hormone Testing Methods
Introduction to the GI Map
The Importance of Individualized Functional Testing
Cycle Day Three Blood Test Explained
Recognizing Digestive Health Symptoms
Improving Bowel Movements
Stress and Egg Quality
Toxic Load and Generational Fertility
Guest Bio:
Ashe Milkovic is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Functional Hormone Health Expert. As the founder and CEO of The International Association for Functional Hormone Health, Ashe strives to make advancements in women's health accessible by teaching tools and strategies to health professionals to expand their knowledge, skill sets, and practices in functional hormone health. Through her association, Ashe is on a mission to educate, collaborate, and create a thriving community of skilled practitioners that are passionate in helping to transform the lives of women all over the globe.
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://iafhh.com/training - Free Training, Revolutionizing Hormones
https://iafhh.com/practitioner-directory
Visual of follicle development discussed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278951/figure/morpho-physio-ovary_f_morpho-physio-ovary_figure1/#:~:text=It%20takes%20~290%20days%20for,)%20or%20gonadotropin%2Ddependent%20period.
Book mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Nutrition-Your-Genes-Traditional/dp/1250113822
YOUTUBE LINKS:
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
Wednesday Aug 07, 2024
Join HeHe as she delves into an important conversation with lawyer Hermine Hayes-Klein on the legal challenges and solutions surrounding informed consent and women's rights in childbirth. The episode discusses systemic flaws in the U.S. hospital system that often violate birthing individuals' rights and how these can be tackled. Hayes-Klein shares her personal experiences and strategies for understanding and asserting one’s rights, the pivotal role of the right healthcare provider, and the significance of doulas in protecting patient autonomy. Learn about practical advice, legal support, the impact of obstetric violence, and crucial conversations every doula must have to ensure a respectful and empowered birthing experience.
Understanding Informed Consent in Childbirth
Global Perspectives on Maternal Health
The Reality of Obstetric Practices
The Law of Informed Consent
Case Studies of Obstetric Violence
The Role of Nurses in Informed Consent
Challenges and Solutions in Maternal Care
The Unique Evil of Female OBs
Understanding Withdrawn Consent
The Reality of Anesthesia Failures
Navigating Consent Forms
Doctors as Service Providers
The Right to Refuse a C-Section
The Rise of Unassisted Births
The Role of Doulas in Childbirth
Empowering Doulas to Advocate
Guest Bio:
Hermine is an attorney specializing in human rights and pregnancy and childbirth. Her law practice focuses on defending midwives And advocating for access to midwifery, and holding obstetric providers, responsible for the violation of informed consent. Through the birthright law project, she offers document packages for Doula and for out of hospital, midwives, as well as assistance with birth plans and getting them respected.
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:
Connect with Hermine:
Nursing article:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1751485123001587?via%3Dihub
Examples of articles referencing how informed consent improves outcomes:
https://www.envisionhealth.com/news/2024/shared-decision-making-in-healthcare#:~:text=How%20do%20informed%20consent%20and,the%20overall%20cost%20of%20care.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486853/