Birth, Baby! | Guidance for Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum, and Parenting

Navigating Loss and the Journey of Healing

Diamond Williams shares her personal journey of multiple pregnancies, miscarriages, and the inspiration behind writing her book. She emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and support for those experiencing pregnancy loss. Diamond turned to writing as a way to heal and found solace in sharing her story with others. Diamond reflects on the need for better education and support for women during pregnancy and birth. The conversation explores the role of doulas in different birth scenarios, including unmedicated births, epiduralized births, C-sections, and inductions. Doulas provide physical and emotional support, help with decision-making, and advocate for the birthing person's wishes. They can also be valuable in cases of pregnancy loss or trauma. She has an incredible book you can check out called The Lost Trimester that you can find here: https://amzn.to/3XVcVrD https://linktr.ee/diamondnicolewilliamsPlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.com Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

An Attorney’s Proactive Approach to a Safer Birth

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Gina Mundy, an attorney and author, who shares tips on how to avoid needing an attorney after giving birth. They discuss the importance of choosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, and how doulas can play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive birth experience. They also highlight the common use of the drug Pitocin in labor inductions and the need for parents to be informed about its potential risks. In this conversation, they discuss the use of Pitocin during labor and the importance of understanding its administration. Gina emphasizes the need for doctors and nurses to agree on the protocols for Pitocin use and highlights the potential risks of contracting too much on Pitocin, which can stress the baby. Gina also discusses the importance of monitoring the baby's heart rate during induction of labor and the need for adequate staffing in labor and delivery units. She encourages parents to educate themselves about Pitocin and to have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.As an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, Gina brings over two decades of expertise in analyzing the common mistakes made during labor and delivery. Drawing from her extensive experience, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," offering practical advice to help parents prevent these errors and prioritize the health and well-being of their baby. Tune in to discover Gina's proactive approach to birth preparation, where she emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, effective communication with healthcare providers, and advocating for your birthing preferences. Learn how to navigate the healthcare system with confidence, avoiding potential pitfalls and ensuring a positive outcome for you and your baby. Whether you're a first-time parent or preparing for another childbirth journey, this episode provides invaluable guidance on how to approach birth with empowerment and knowledge. Join us as we delve into Gina's proactive strategies for a safer and more fulfilling birthing experience.Don't miss out on this insightful conversation – because every parent deserves the support and resources to navigate childbirth with confidence and peace of mind. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and empower yourself with Gina Mundy's proactive approach to a safer birth journey. Website: www.ginamundy.comAmazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQInstagram: @‌GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/Twitter: @‌ginamundy _ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_TakeawaysChoosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, is crucial for a safe and positive birth experience.Doulas can provide valuable support and advocacy during labor and delivery.Pitocin, a commonly used drug for labor induction, can have individualized effects and parents should be informed about its potential risks.Preparing for childbirth and making informed decisions beforehand can help navigate interventions and ensure a positive birth experience. Pitocin is commonly used during labor, but there is disagreement among doctors on how to administer it.Contracting too much on Pitocin can stress the baby and potentially lead to complications.Monitoring the baby's heart rate is crucial during labor when Pitocin is used.Adequate staffing in labor and delivery units is important to ensure the safety of both the mother and baby.Parents should have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!
(00:00) - Introduction and Sponsor Message
(01:27) - Welcome and Appreciation for Listeners
(03:01) - Choosing the Right Delivery Team
(04:26) - The Role of the Doctor in the Delivery Team
(09:31) - Understanding the Risks of Pitocin
(13:30) - The Importance of Labor and Delivery Nurses
(15:51) - The Role of Doulas in Birth
(25:22) - How to Have a Safe Pitocin Induction
(27:15) - Preparing for Childbirth and Informed Decision-Making
(27:43) - Understanding the Administration of Pitocin
(29:01) - The Risks of Contracting Too Much on Pitocin
(33:30) - The Importance of Monitoring the Baby's Heart Rate
(39:44) - The Need for Adequate Staffing in Labor and Delivery Units
(49:26) - Including Discussions about Forceps and Vacuum in the Labor and Delivery Plan

Birth Stories: Cory’s Story of Navigating Conflict with her OBGYN

Cory shares her journey to getting pregnant and the challenges she faced due to her autoimmune disorders. She discusses the importance of preconception health and the support she received from her functional medicine doctor. Cory also talks about her decision to have a natural birth and the challenges she faced with her OB who did not align with her birth preferences. She shares her experience of feeling dismissed and pressured to undergo interventions. Despite the obstacles, Cory and her husband remained firm in their choices and prepared for a natural birth. Cory shares her birth story, detailing the progression of her labor and the challenges she faced along the way. She discusses the early stages of labor, the moment her water broke, and the decision to go to the hospital. Cory reflects on the anxieties she had throughout her pregnancy and the panic she experienced during labor. She talks about the importance of having a supportive birth team and the role her doulas played in advocating for her. Despite facing interventions and challenges, Cory ultimately achieved her goal of a vaginal birth.Tune in to hear Cory's honest account of the highs and lows of her pregnancy, as she navigated through the complexities of medical decisions and birthing preferences. From the excitement of early pregnancy to the challenges of advocating for her desired birth experience, Cory's story resonates with authenticity and resilience.  Discover how Cory's choice of OB and birth team influenced her birth experience, and gain valuable insights into navigating the healthcare system to achieve a birth free from unnecessary interventions. With heartfelt advice and firsthand wisdom, Cory offers encouragement to expectant parents seeking to make informed choices about their birthing journey.  Whether you're a parent-to-be or a birth professional, this episode provides invaluable perspectives on the importance of informed decision-making and effective communication in pregnancy and childbirth. Join us as we celebrate Cory's journey of growth and empowerment, and learn from her experiences to create the birth experience you desire.  Don't miss out on this inspiring episode – because every birth story has the power to inspire and educate. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and be empowered by Cory's transformative journey of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a birth filled with intention and empowerment.Takeaways- Preconception health is important for women with autoimmune disorders who want to get pregnant- Finding a healthcare provider who aligns with your birth preferences is crucial- Advocating for your birth choices can be challenging, but having a supportive partner and doula can make a difference- It's important to trust your instincts and make decisions that feel right for you and your baby Having a supportive birth team is crucial during labor and delivery.- Anxiety during labor is common, and it's important to address any concerns with your healthcare provider.- Medical interventions, such as epidurals and Pitocin, can be helpful in certain situations.- Having a birth plan is important, but it's also important to be flexible and open to changes.- Reflecting on your birth experience can help process any emotions or trauma that may have occurred.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!
(00:00) - Introduction to Birth Baby Academy
(02:16) - Birth Story Introduction
(03:09) - Challenges with Autoimmune Disorders
(08:23) - Desire for a Natural Birth
(25:41) - Pressure to Schedule Induction
(36:45) - Emotional Impact and Preparation for Birth
(38:14) - Onset of Labor
(38:44) - Early Stages of Labor
(41:02) - Water Breaking and Hospital Arrival
(48:03) - Dealing with Medical Professionals
(56:13) - Challenges and Interventions
(01:05:17) - Pushing and Delivery
(01:09:22) - Reflection and Gratitude

Count the Kicks: Ensuring Baby’s Well-being with Kimberly Isburg

Join us for a crucial episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast as we unravel the importance of kick counting in pregnancy. Many expectant parents have heard about kick counting but may feel unsure about how to effectively practice it. That's why we're thrilled to have Kimberly Isburg, an expert from Count The Kicks, to guide us through this essential prenatal ritual.  Count the Kicks is an evidence-based stillbirth prevention program that teaches pregnant women to monitor their baby's movement patterns in the third trimester. The program was created by five Iowa moms who lost daughters to stillbirth and infant death. They were inspired by research from Norway that showed a 30% reduction in stillbirths when moms were educated on fetal movement. Count the Kicks recommends starting kick counting at 28 weeks and provides a free app to make it easy. The app allows users to track their baby's movements, set reminders, and share data with their healthcare provider.  In this informative conversation, Kimberly sheds light on the benefits of kick counting, including its role in reducing the risk of stillbirth. From understanding the frequency of kick counts to distinguishing between normal and concerning movements, she shares invaluable insights to empower expectant parents in monitoring their baby's well-being.  Discover how the Count The Kicks app simplifies the kick counting process, providing a user-friendly tool to track fetal movements and promote peace of mind throughout pregnancy. Learn about the ideal frequency of kick counts, common misconceptions about fetal movement, and how to interpret changes in movement patterns as pregnancy progresses.  Whether you're a first-time parent or experienced in the journey of pregnancy, this episode equips you with practical knowledge to prioritize your baby's health and safety. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast to gain expert advice from Kimberly Isburg and embark on a journey of empowered pregnancy care.  Don't miss out on this insightful discussion – because every kick counts in the journey of welcoming new life into the world.  TakeawaysCount the Kicks is an evidence-based program that teaches pregnant women to monitor their baby's movement patterns in the third trimester to prevent stillbirths.Kick counting should start at 28 weeks, or 26 weeks for high-risk pregnancies or multiples.The Count the Kicks app makes kick counting simple and provides a history of movement data for comparison.Changes in fetal movement, such as a decrease or rapid increase, should be reported to a healthcare provider.Count the Kicks reduces anxiety and increases bonding with the baby.Learn more about Count The Kicks: https://countthekicks.org/  Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!
(00:00) - The Birth of Count the Kicks
(05:11) - When to Start Counting Kicks
(06:12) - How to Count the Kicks
(08:54) - Using the Count the Kicks App
(10:14) - Addressing Changes in Fetal Movement
(16:25) - Dispelling Myths about Fetal Movement
(20:16) - Accessing Count the Kicks Resources

Sibling Support: Navigating Birth with Children Present

In this insightful episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we dive deep into the often-contemplated decision of whether to have siblings present during the birth of a new baby.  Join us as we welcome back the esteemed midwife, Leonora Colen, from Home Birth Honey in Austin, Texas, to explore the nuanced pros and cons of this unique birthing experience.In this conversation, we discuss the topic of siblings in the birth space, particularly for out-of-hospital births. We provide tips for preparing children for the birth of a sibling, including using curated videos to educate them about birth, discussing the sounds of birth, and ensuring that one person is dedicated to the well-being of the child during the birth. We also talk about the challenges of having children present during labor and the importance of having a backup plan. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the timing of labor for second-time parents and the benefits of home birth and midwifery care. To find out more about our guest Leonora and Home Birth Honey:www.homebirthhoney.comIG @HomeBirthHoneyATXPlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Father’s Day Special: The Birth King Showdown!

Join us for a fun Father's Day Special on Birth, Baby! Podcast, where we celebrate the behind the scenes supporters of Ciarra and Samantha – our husbands! In this comedic episode, we invite our very own husbands to the mic for a friendly yet competitive showdown to determine the ultimate "Birth King." Get ready for laughter and surprises as we put our partners to the test with a fun and interactive quiz designed to challenge their knowledge of all things pregnancy and childbirth. From vocabulary trivia to labor scenarios, who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted title of Birth King? But it's not just about the game – throughout the episode, we share touching anecdotes and heartfelt moments, celebrating the unique bond between fathers and their little ones. Hear personal stories, hilarious mishaps, and heartwarming reflections that highlight the joys and challenges of entering parenthood. Whether you're a parent-to-be, a seasoned mom, or simply a fan of heartwarming family tales, this Father's Day Special promises to entertain and inspire. Tune in as we honor the amazing dads in our lives and discover what it truly means to be a Birth King!Don't miss out on this special episode filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of dad jokes. Happy Father's Day from Birth, Baby! Podcast – where every day is a celebration of family. To learn more about our birth doula training and certification program, check out Birth, Baby! Academy. Have you ever considered being a Birth Doula? Now you can train with the hosts of Birth, Baby! Podcast. There is an online, self-paced program or you can attend a LIVE 3-day workshop in person with Ciarra and Samantha.  Facebook: www.facebook.com/birthbabyacademyIG: www.instagram.com/birthbabyacademyWebsite: www.birthbabyacademy.com  Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Navigating Weight Gain in Pregnancy: Expert Advice with Midwife Insights

In this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we delve into the often-misunderstood topic of weight gain during pregnancy. Join us as we welcome back Leonora Colen of Home Birth Honey, a seasoned midwife with years of experience guiding expectant mothers through this transformative journey. Together, we explore the various factors influencing weight gain, from prenatal health to societal pressures, offering practical tips and evidence-based advice.  Expect insightful discussions on the importance of balanced nutrition, safe exercise routines, and debunking common myths surrounding pregnancy weight gain. Our guest shares her expertise on monitoring weight gain responsibly, ensuring both maternal and fetal well-being without unnecessary stress or anxiety. We also touch on the effects the popular weight loss drug, Ozempic, is having on fertility!Whether you're an expectant mother navigating your own pregnancy or a curious listener seeking informed perspectives, this episode equips you with valuable insights to embrace this unique phase of life with confidence and empowerment.  Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast for a compassionate conversation on nurturing your body and baby, and discover how to approach weight gain in pregnancy with wisdom and grace. Don't miss out on this enriching episode!   wwww.homebirthhoney.comIG @‌HomeBirthHoneyATX   Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!   Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Birth Stories: Courtney’s IVF Journey

Welcome to another episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, where we delve into the inspiring journey of conception and birth. In this episode, we are privileged to hear Courtney's deeply personal story of becoming a mother and her transformation into a birth worker.  Courtney takes us through her experience with IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), sharing the emotional and physical challenges of procedures like egg retrieval and the rollercoaster of emotions involved in the process. She candidly discusses the highs and lows of her pregnancy journey, reflecting on how each milestone shaped her anticipation of motherhood.  The heart of Courtney's narrative lies in her birth experience, where she not only welcomed her child but also discovered a newfound passion for birth work. She recounts the details of her labor and delivery, highlighting the parts of her birthing experience and ignited her desire to support others on their birth journeys.  Throughout the episode, Courtney's story is woven with authenticity and insight, offering a glimpse into the complexities of fertility treatments, the joys and fears of pregnancy, and the profound impact of childbirth on personal growth. Her journey from fertility patient to birth advocate is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of bringing new life into the world.  Join us as Courtney shares her story of hope, resilience, and the birth that sparked her journey toward becoming a birth worker. Whether you're navigating fertility challenges, preparing for parenthood, or curious about birth work, Courtney's journey offers valuable perspectives and heartfelt encouragement.  Tune in to this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast to hear Courtney's inspiring Birth Story and discover how her journey has shaped her passion for supporting others through their own birth experiences.  Courtney is a birth and postpartum doula in the Austin area. She is also a Spinning Babies Parent Educator and works for Empowered Beginnings. To learn more about her: www.empoweredbeginningsatx.com/birth-doulasPlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!  

Role of the Community in Birth and Beyond

Sabrina Ortolano is back! In this episode we go deeper into what a community and village looks like in the perinatal period. We talk about how we can be a better village and what helpful support looks like.  Sabrina Ortolano is a Birth Doula who has been supporting families for nearly thirty years. She is also the owner of IPSB, Los Angeles’ longest-running bodywork school, where she is the head instructor for courses on prenatal massage and this history of birth in the United States. Sabrina’s teaching emphasizes how to provide the best care and support for clients navigating major life transitions and milestones, with a particular focus on the birth experience and its various nuances.  In this episode, the hosts discuss the role of the community in the postpartum period and how it can help new parents adjust to their new roles. They emphasize the importance of asking for help and accepting support from friends, family, and chosen community members. They also highlight the need for better infrastructure and policies to support families during the postpartum period. The conversation touches on topics such as the physical and emotional challenges of postpartum, the importance of self-care, and the impact of community support on crime rates and overall well-being. In this conversation, Sabrina and the Birth, Baby! hosts discuss the importance of building a support system during the postpartum period. They emphasize the need for friends and family to offer help and for expectant parents to be humble enough to accept it. They also discuss the importance of practicing self-care and focusing on positive moments. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community when building a village and offers tips for supporting families. They highlight the need for more accessible resources and trauma-informed care. The episode concludes with a call to action for everyone to support expectant parents and create thriving communities.Owner & Director atIPSB - School of Integrative Psycho-Structural BodyworkIPSB Wellness, Education & MediaEmail: sabrina@ipsb.comInstagram: @‌ipsb_massageLearn More About IPSB here: www.IPSB.com TakeawaysAsking for help and accepting support from the community is crucial during the postpartum period.Better infrastructure and policies are needed to support families during the postpartum period.The postpartum period involves physical and emotional challenges, and it's important to prioritize self-care.Community support during the postpartum period has a positive impact on crime rates and overall well-being. Building a support system during the postpartum period is crucial for the well-being of expectant parents.Friends and family should offer help and support without judgment, allowing the expectant parents to share their feelings and ask for help.Practicing self-care and focusing on positive moments can help improve mental health during the postpartum period.The LGBTQIA+ community faces unique challenges when building a support system and accessing healthcare during pregnancy and postpartum.There is a need for more accessible resources and trauma-informed care for expectant parents.Everyone should take action to support expectant parents and create thriving communities.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!  This episode is sponsored by Birth, Baby! Academy. www.BirthBabyAcademy.com  
(00:00) - Introduction and Overview
(01:01) - Expanding on the Role of Community in the Postpartum Period
(09:29) - Concrete Ways the Community Can Help
(13:45) - Practical Support for New Parents
(16:33) - The Importance of Self-Care
(25:32) - Building a Support System
(29:44) - Understanding Postpartum Feelings
(33:05) - Practicing Self-Care
(36:29) - Challenges Faced by LGBTQIA+ Families
(39:22) - Creating Accessible Resources
(47:02) - Taking Action to Support Expectant Parents

History of Birth and the Village in the US

In this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we're joined by Sabrina Ortolano, a birth doula with nearly 30 years of experience, to talk about the history of birth and the village in the United States. The birth scene has changed so much over the years, and it has an impact that people don’t always realize. We discuss the evolution of birth practices in the United States and the impact on the parent-child bond. We also explore the concept of the village and how it has changed over time, from a community of support to a paid service. The conversation highlights the importance of accessible and affordable support for families during the perinatal period.Sabrina Ortolano is a Birth Doula who has been supporting families for nearly thirty years. She is also the owner of IPSB, Los Angeles’ longest-running bodywork school, where she is the head instructor for courses on prenatal massage and this history of birth in the United States. Sabrina’s teaching emphasizes how to provide the best care and support for clients navigating major life transitions and milestones, with a particular focus on the birth experience and its various nuances.  Owner & Director atIPSB - School of Integrative Psycho-Structural BodyworkIPSB Wellness, Education & MediaEmail: sabrina@ipsb.comInstagram: @‌ipsb_massageLearn More About IPSB here: www.IPSB.com  Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!