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

A Year In Review...Special Announcement!

We can’t believe it’s been a year already. One year ago, we released our first episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast. Tune in to hear what our top three most listened to episodes are, what OUR favorite episodes were, some sneak peeks into what’s to come, and a special announcement you won’t want to miss! We have had such a great year talking about pregnancy, birth, postpartum, sharing amazing birth stories, and learning alongside our listeners.  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: Generations of Birth - Our Moms Share Their Stories!

We have a special Mother’s Day episode for you!In this heartwarming episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we invite a very special pair of guests - our own moms! Join us as we delve into the intimate and captivating stories of their childbirth experiences. From the anticipation of labor to the unforgettable moment of meeting their newborns for the first time, our moms candidly share their journeys, complete with the highs, the lows, and everything in between.Get ready to be inspired and empowered as these incredible women recount their unique childbirth narratives, offering valuable insights, advice, and even a few laughs along the way. Whether you're expecting, a new parent, or simply curious about the miracle of birth, this episode is a must-listen.  From a teenage pregnancy to a mom with a surprise bookend pregnancy, you won’t want to miss their stories.  Tune in as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and love that transcends generations in this special installment of Birth, Baby! Podcast.  SummaryIn this episode, Ciarra's mom shares her birth story of having Ciarra at the age of 19. She talks about finding out she was pregnant, the early days of pregnancy, and the challenges she faced with her family's reaction. She discusses her experience of labor and delivery, including the lack of support and guidance she received. She also reflects on her postpartum period and the choices she made regarding breastfeeding. The conversation highlights the changes in birthing practices and the importance of having a doula for support. Samantha's mom also shares her birth stories. Samantha's mom had five unique pregnancies and births, each with its own challenges and joys. Samantha's birth experiences ended up mirroring her mother's experience, as they both had high blood pressure during pregnancy. They discuss the importance of mother-baby bonding and the impact of age on pregnancy and postpartum. Samantha's mom also shares how Samantha was involved in the births and became a second mom to her younger siblings. Overall, this conversation highlights the diversity of birth experiences and the strong bond between mothers and their children.Takeaways- The birth story can have a significant impact on a person's life and the way they approach parenting.- The support and guidance of a doula can make a positive difference in the birthing experience.- Birthing practices have evolved over time, with more emphasis on partner involvement and personalized care.- Breastfeeding choices can be influenced by various factors, including support and information available.- Reflecting on past experiences can help inform and improve future birthing practices. Each pregnancy and birth is unique, with its own challenges and joys.- High blood pressure can be a factor in pregnancy and may require medical intervention.- Mother-baby bonding is important for both the mother's and baby's well-being.- Age can impact pregnancy and postpartum experiences.- Sibling involvement in birth can create a strong bond between siblings.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!

Choosing the Right Pediatrician: Tips and Considerations

Ciarra and Samantha help break down what to consider when choosing a pediatrician for your newborn. This is a task that is daunting to so many new parents. Listen to get an idea of the things to consider when making this decision. In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha discuss how to choose a pediatrician for your child. They provide tips and considerations for finding the right pediatrician, such as understanding your goals and priorities, evaluating the pediatrician's approach to breastfeeding and vaccinations, and considering the model of care. They also highlight the importance of having a good rapport with the pediatrician and being able to trust their advice. The hosts emphasize the need for regular well-check visits in the first year of a baby's life to monitor growth, development, and overall health. TakeawaysConsider your goals and priorities when choosing a pediatrician.Evaluate the pediatrician's approach to breastfeeding and vaccinations.Consider the model of care and whether it aligns with your preferences.Build a good rapport with the pediatrician and trust their advice.Regular well-check visits in the first year are important for monitoring growth, development, and overall health. 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!

From a Home Birth to a High-Risk Pregnancy: Advocating for Your Baby’s Care in the NICU

Today we have a Jes, a postpartum doula on the Empowered Beginnings team, on to talk to us about the birth and NICU stay of her second child. She wanted to share this story to bring light to the world of being a NICU parent. Jes is a wife and mother of two children, postpartum doula and pediatric sleep consultant, and a passionate plant and pug lover. Jes shares her birth stories, focusing on her second pregnancy and birth. Her first birth was a natural, birth center birth with midwifery care. For her second pregnancy, she experienced complications with high blood pressure and had to switch to an OB. She was put on bed rest and eventually gave birth at 32 weeks. Despite the challenges, she had an unmedicated birth and her baby was taken to the NICU. Jes reflects on the stark contrast between her two birth experiences and the emotional journey of having a baby in the NICU. She shares her experience of having a baby in the NICU and offers advice for other parents going through a similar situation. She emphasizes the importance of being with your baby as much as possible and taking advantage of the help offered by friends and family. Jes also encourages parents to be advocates for their baby's care and to communicate with the medical staff about their goals and concerns. She shares her own struggles with postpartum depression and highlights the need for mental health support during and after a NICU stay. Jes concludes by reminding listeners to focus on the milestones and progress their baby is making, and to celebrate each small victory.TakeawaysThe importance of informed decision-making in choosing the right care provider and birth settingThe impact of watching documentaries like 'The Business of Being Born' on birth choicesThe challenges and emotions of having a baby in the NICUThe need for support and advocacy during a high-risk pregnancy and birth Be with your baby as much as you can and take advantage of the help offered by friends and family.Advocate for your baby's care and communicate with the medical staff about your goals and concerns.Seek mental health support during and after a NICU stay.Focus on the milestones and progress your baby is making and celebrate each small victory.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!

The Truth About Cervical Exams

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha discuss the topic of cervical exams during pregnancy and labor. They explain what a cervical exam is and what providers are looking for during the exam. They discuss the reasons why providers offer cervical exams and the potential benefits and drawbacks of getting them. They emphasize that cervical exams are not a crystal ball and do not accurately predict when labor will start or progress. They also highlight the importance of informed consent and the right to decline cervical exams. The episode concludes with a reminder that the decision to have a cervical exam is ultimately up to the individual.TakeawaysCervical exams during pregnancy and labor are not a crystal ball and do not accurately predict when labor will start or progress.The decision to have a cervical exam is up to the individual, and informed consent is important.Cervical exams can provide information about the cervix's position, baby's position, and progress during labor.Cervical exams carry the risk of infection and accidental breaking of the water bag.Providers may offer cervical exams to gather information for potential inductions or to establish a baseline for labor progress.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!

The Circumcision Decision

This episode may be hard for some people to listen to, but we feel it's important to talk about it because so many families share with us that they struggle with making the decision of whether or not to circumcise their children. Brendon Marotta, creator of the documentary American Circumcision, joined us to tackle this subject. Brendon Marotta is a filmmaker, author, podcaster, public speaker, and father. His last film, American Circumcision, won multiple awards and played on Netflix. He is the author of The Intactivist Guidebook,  The Haunting of Bob Cratchit, and Children’s Justice. He has spoken at Yale University, the International Conference on Men’s Issues, the International Symposium on Genital Autonomy and Children’s Right’s, and the Association for Pre and Perinatal Psychology. Brendon hosts a regular podcast called The Brendon Marotta Show. He currently lives with his family in Austin, TX.See Brendon’s work here.See Brendon’s credits on IMDB here.Follow Brendon on social media here.SummaryBrendon Marotta, filmmaker and author, discusses the topic of circumcision and the need for education and awareness. He shares his personal journey of discovering the harms of circumcision and his passion for advocating against it. The conversation explores the cultural and societal factors that contribute to the continuation of circumcision, as well as the physical and psychological impacts it has on individuals. The importance of informed consent and questioning societal norms is emphasized. The conversation also touches on the comparison between male and female genital cutting and the need for greater accountability and change in medical practices. The conversation explores the ethical arguments against male circumcision and the importance of bodily autonomy. It highlights the cultural programming and societal norms that influence people's perspectives on circumcision. The discussion emphasizes the need for men to shift their perspective and see circumcision as something that happened to them, not as an immutable part of their identity. It also touches on the importance of uncomfortable conversations and conflict resolution in relationships. The conversation concludes with advice for parents who are deciding whether or not to circumcise their child.TakeawaysCircumcision is a topic that requires education and awareness, as it impacts every person in America in some way.There is a disproportionate lack of public conversation about circumcision, despite its personal and societal implications.Circumcision removes 50% of the shaft skin of the , the highest density nerve endings, and is often done without anesthesia, causing lasting changes in behavior and sexuality.Circumcision is an irreversible and painful procedure that should be approached with informed consent and consideration of the physical and psychological impacts.There is a need for greater accountability and change in medical practices surrounding circumcision, as well as a reevaluation of cultural and societal norms.The comparison between male and female genital cutting highlights the need for consistent ethical standards and the recognition of individual autonomy and bodily integrity. Male circumcision raises ethical questions and challenges the concept of bodily autonomy.Cultural programming and societal norms influence people's perspectives on circumcision.Men need to shift their perspective and see circumcision as something that happened to them, not as an immutable part of their identity.Uncomfortable conversations and conflict resolution are important skills to develop in relationships.Parents should consider their values and the impact of their decisions on their child's bodily autonomy.Proper care for intact genitals is simple and does not require any special procedures.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!

Tongue and Lip Tie Releases: A Pediatric Dentist’s Perspective

In this episode we interview Dr. Jared Poplin about the ins and outs of oral tie revisions. He answers commonly asked questions and addresses fears that many parents experience surrounding this procedure. Dr. Jared Poplin is the owner of Poplin Pediatric Dentistry, a specialized pediatric practice based out of Austin, Texas. A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Poplin excels at working with children with severe dental anxiety or special needs. Dr. Poplin's practice specializes in infant feeding, as well as growth and development, collaborating closely with lactation consultants, speech/feeding therapists, myofunctional therapists along with many other specialties to meet the needs of children and parents. He received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Kansas and went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Temple University School of Dentistry. Along with his educational experiences, Dr. Poplin has done mission work in Haiti and Mexico. Away from the office, Dr. Poplin enjoys spending time with his wife Jessica and his 10-year-old twins, Mason and Olivia.Website: www.austintxpediatricdentist.comInstagram: @‌poplin_pediatric_dentistryhttps://www.facebook.com/poplinpediatricdentistryTakeawaysA pediatric dentist specializes in caring for children's oral health and may have additional training in areas such as tethered oral tissues and early orthodontic growth and development.Collaboration with lactation consultants and other healthcare providers is crucial for comprehensive care when treating tongue and lip ties.The procedure for releasing tongue and lip ties involves using a CO2 laser to precisely cut the tissue, and aftercare involves stretching the area to prevent reattachment.Parents should be prepared for the commitment of aftercare, which involves stretching the area multiple times a day for several weeks.Finding a healthcare provider who takes a collaborative approach and focuses on the individual needs and goals of the patient is important when seeking treatment for tongue and lip ties.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!

Tongue and Lip Ties: An IBCLC’s Perspective on Feeding

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Naiomi Catron of Milk Diva about lip ties, tongue ties, and how they relate to feeding. They discuss the lack of a clear definition for tongue ties and the subjective nature of diagnosing them. Naiomi explains that a tie is a piece of tissue that restricts range of motion and can cause functional deficits. She emphasizes the importance of assessing tongue function and collaborating with other healthcare providers to improve outcomes. Naiomi also addresses the misconception that all babies with ties have breastfeeding issues and highlights the need for non-surgical interventions before considering a release. She discusses the different grades and severities of ties and the importance of post-op care. Naiomi concludes by emphasizing the importance of individualized recommendations based on the baby's specific situation and the parent's goals.Learn More About Tongue Ties and Collaborative Care  How to unlatch properly \Does Clicking = tongue tie? More with Dr. Poplin Ep 31 on the Boob Business Podcast More about Tongue Ties with Autumn Henning MS, CCC-SLP, COM, IBCLCTakeawaysThere is no agreed-upon definition for tongue ties and diagnosing them is subjective.Tongue ties are pieces of tissue that restrict range of motion and can cause functional deficits.Assessing tongue function and collaborating with other healthcare providers is crucial for improving outcomes.Not all babies with ties have breastfeeding issues, and non-surgical interventions should be tried before considering a release.The severity of a tie and the baby's specific situation should be considered when making recommendations.Post-op care is important for successful outcomes after a release.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!

Parent Hacks: Tricks and Tips to Make Life Easier

Let's talk Parent Hacks! In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha share their favorite parent hacks that have made their lives easier as parents. They discuss tips for making the baby's crib easier to clean, using a splash mat under the highchair, using a pacifier to give medicine, freezing breast milk flat, and rotating boxes of toys. They also talk about creative ideas like using animal stickers to help kids put on their shoes, creating a shirt with handprints for each grade, and having a snack bag with individual portions in the car. They share various parenting hacks and tips for making life with kids easier. Some of the hacks include having individual portioned snacks in the car, using a telescoping back scratcher to retrieve dropped toys, keeping a plastic tote or bin in the car for muddy shoes, carrying wet wipes everywhere, having a change of clothes for the entire family in the car, using a car potty for toddlers, using sticky table placemats to reduce mess, and using a fishing lure box or a spinner plate for snacks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding what works best for each family and not being judgmental about different parenting choices.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.comCrib Mattress Protector Waterproof & Noiseless Crib Mattress Pad Cover, Skin Friendly & Breathable & Machine Wash 100% Absorbent Crib Toddler Mattress Protector, (Quilted Improved Thickness)51" Splat Mat for Under High Chair/Arts/Crafts, WOMUMON Baby Washable Spill Mat Waterproof Anti-Slip Floor Splash Mat, Portable Play Mat and Table Cloth (Arrow, 51")Frida Baby Medicine Pacifier, Medi Frida Baby Medicine Syringe & Accu-Dose Pacifier, Baby Medicine Dispenser for Mess & Fuss Free Use‌Kenco Kids Shoe Labels - Cute Right Left Animal Stickers for Children Shoes (Puzzle Piece 30 Pack)Class Of 2035 Grow With Me Space For Handprints On The Back T-Shirt‌For the car:Burskit Snack Bag Clear Chenille Varsity Letter Zipper Pouch for Travel Nylon Clear Cosmetic Bag Makeup Travel Bag for Women (White-Snacks) Chenille Letter Patch Clear Bag,Preppy Multi-purpose PVC&Nylon Clear Makeup Bag with Handles,Large Travel Makeup Toiletry Storage Zipper Pouch, Tote Bag for Women (White-SNACKS)Plazuria (4-Pack) Portable Extendable Telescopic Bear Claws Metal Back Scratchers/Hand Massager/Backslap with Rubber Handles5-Pack Commercial Bus Tubs Box/Tote Box, White Plastic Storage Bin with Handles/Wash Basin Tub (8 Liter)

Birth Stories: Sarah’s Story (TWINS!)

Today we have a past doula client of ours on to talk to us about the pregnancy and birth of her twins! Sarah grew up in the Texas Hill Country, and recently returned in 2019. She met her now husband in 2021 and they were married August 2022. She loves the outdoors, riding horses, playing with her two French Bulldogs, and spending time with friends and family. Sarah and her husband Nolan run a family business, so she is able to stay at home with her babies full time. She is passionate about medical freedom and wants all moms to be comfortable with how they choose to birth! Sarah shares her journey to getting pregnant and the early days of her pregnancy. She discovered she was pregnant with twins and learned about the genetic factors involved. She initially planned for a home birth but had to switch to a hospital birth due to high blood pressure. Sarah discusses the process of induction and the use of Pitocin. She eventually opted for an epidural to manage the pain. Despite the change in plans, Sarah felt supported by her doula team and had a positive birth experience. Sarah shares her birth story of delivering twins in a hospital setting. She discusses the decision to have an epidural and the relief it brought. She also talks about the challenges and emotions she experienced during labor and delivery, including the loss of her mother. Sarah highlights the support she received from her husband, doula, and medical team. After the birth, she discusses the immediate postpartum period, breastfeeding challenges, and the importance of having a support system. Sarah offers advice for parents expecting twins, emphasizing the need for flexibility, hydration, routine, and self-care.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!