• #371 The Ever Changing Definitions Of Fetal Growth Restriction

    Responding to listener questions we address the question of “What is IUGR?” Before we get there Blyss waits on a birth and listens to Dr. Stu’s concerns about entropy winning and way too much idiocy, fear and hyperbole being shoveled around out there.

    We discuss critical women's health topics, questioning the necessity of C-sections for lupus patients, and exploring the potential toxicity of the glucose drink used for gestational diabetes testing. Our conversation highlights the pressing need for balanced, evidence-based discourse surrounding pregnancy and birth.

    We delve into the complexities of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), examining the arbitrary nature of the 10% percentile threshold and the potential for over-testing and unnecessary interventions. Featuring listener emails and real-life examples, we advocate for less intrusive, more supportive care, emphasizing the importance of individualized care versus standardized medical models.

    Key highlights:

    • Lupus and Pregnancy
    • Championing Birth Choices and Advocacy
    • Questioning Vaccine Recommendations and Ethics
    • Defining and Understanding Fetal Growth Restriction Parameters
    • Evaluating Growth Restriction Diagnosis and Surveillance
    • Questioning Routine Pregnancy Interventions

    Episode resources:

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    E371 - 1h 44m - Jul 24, 2024
  • #370 Birth Time: The Documentary

    Two of the four co-creators, Jerusha Sutton and Jo Hunter join us to discuss the backstory and making of their film and what is happening with birth in Australia. Blyss and Dr. Stu loved the film and share their insights with the filmmakers on what would it take for all women to emerge from their births physically well and emotionally safe.

    About Jerusha Sutton:

    Jerusha Sutton is a doula, and birth and family photographer and videographer. She is one of the co-creators of Birth Time: the documentary, a co-host of Birth Time: the podcast, a public speaker for birth advocacy, and an MC.

    After becoming a doula in 2006 and working extensively in Australia and the UK, she was astounded by the beauty that she witnessed in the birth space and how vastly different it was to what we were seeing in mainstream media, so soon after set out to capture imagery of birth to that would portray the beauty, power and vulnerability of birth that she was seeing first hand. With a background in acting and film production, the creation of Birth Time was a culmination of her experience and passions.

    About Jo Hunter:

    Jo Hunter is a homebirth midwife and an activist. She is a co-creator of Birth Time: the documentary, as well as a co-host of Birth Time: the podcast.

    Jo has worked with birthing families for 26 years, first as a doula and childbirth educator and for the past 16 years as a homebirth midwife.

    She is a guest lecturer for the Bachelor of Midwifery degree and regularly presents at conferences and runs workshops related to midwifery and home birth.

    Key highlights:

    • Birth Documentary Creation Process and Message
    • Impact of Birth Documentary on Legislation
    • Government, Lobbyists, and Healthcare Funding
    • Including Partners in Home Births
    • Challenges in Obstetric Care System
    • National vs. State Birth Regulations
    • Exploring Birth Rights and Advocacy
    • Challenging Medical Advice in Birth

    Episode resources:

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    Connect with Jerusha Sutton:

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    E370 - 1h 34m - Jul 17, 2024
  • #369 Phases, Not Stages, of Labor - The Wisdom of Dr. Rachel Reed

    A special treat today as Blyss and Dr. Stu chat with author, former midwife and wise woman, Rachel Reed, on reclaiming physiologic childbirth for those willing to listen. She recounts a bit of the history of what happened to diminish midwives, the original birth-keepers, and the medicalized takeover by those with no connection to tradition. She reminds us that physiologic birth includes pathology but not the iatrogenic mistreatment that hospital birth and obstetricians have wrought. Dr Stu shares some resume' inflation absurdity and takes to task a foolish Instagram personality.

    About Dr. Rachel Reed:

    Dr Rachel Reed is an author, educator, researcher, and international speaker. Rachel has over 20 years of experience attending births in a range of settings and circumstances, including independent homebirth midwifery. As a researcher, Rachel studies women’s experiences of birth and the influence of care-provider interactions. She has published widely in journals, magazines, and books. She is also the co-host of The Midwives’ Cauldron podcast and writes an award-winning blog. Rachel is an experienced educator, has designed and implemented midwifery degree programs in academia, and delivered workshops nationally and internationally. Her current focus is creating online education resources and facilitating her Reclaiming Childbirth Collective to support care providers and educators with evidence-based knowledge and community.

    Key highlights:

    • Success With Mono-Amniotic Twins Delivery
    • Physiology of Childbirth
    • Medical System Influence on Midwifery
    • Impact of Caregivers on Birth Experience
    • Rethinking Stages of Labor
    • Framing Birth Through Rites of Passage
    • Reevaluating Birthing Practices and Traditions
    • Reclaiming Birth

    Episode resources:

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    E369 - 1h 38m - Jul 10, 2024
  • #368 Boys to Men: The Importance of Masculinity

    Culture and society may have erred when they decided we don't need strong men and fathers. Ashley Mariani, MSW joins Blyss and Dr. Stu to discuss the role of the male partner in pregnancy and equipping them with the skills to navigate medical settings confidently in support of their partner. Male participation in the birth process can lead to deeper trust, intimacy and respect in the couple and a stronger family bond.

    About Ashley Mariani:

    Ashley Mariani, also known as The Rogue Therapist, is a registered social worker and the visionary behind Mind Online, a unique online therapy clinic based in Ontario, Canada, that embraces a holistic, non-clinical approach. Specializing in navigating the emotional complexities of sex, intimacy, childbirth, and the evolving relationship that follows, Ashley provides vital support to couples during these pivotal life stages. As a dedicated breathwork facilitator and an advocate against obstetric violence, she promotes client autonomy and encourages a critical examination of conventional systems.

    Holding an undergraduate degree in Sexuality, Marriage, and Family, and a Master’s in Social Work, Ashley has also developed a groundbreaking certification course for new dads. This program empowers them to become lead advocates in the birthing process, equipping them with the skills to navigate medical settings confidently, address personal insecurities, and ensure a safe and respectful experience for their partners. This course is essential for any expectant father committed to actively supporting his partner through one of life’s most transformative experiences.

    Connect with Ashley Mariani:

    Key highlights:

    • Supporting Men in Pregnancy and Fatherhood
    • Modern Masculinity and Femininity
    • Navigating Birth Trauma and Intimacy
    • Empowering Fathers in Birth Planning
    • Reclaiming Rite of Passage for Boys
    • Teaching Practical Skills and Independence
    • Intimacy After Childbirth

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    E368 - 1h 34m - Jul 3, 2024
  • #367 It's Not Simple: MTHFR Explained

    What if understanding one gene could significantly change your approach to fertility and pregnancy? Join us as we catch up with Dr. Ben Lynch, a pioneer in the field of epigenetics and naturopathic medicine, who sheds light on the powerful MTHFR gene and its wide-ranging implications.

    Dr. Lynch takes us on a journey from his traditional medical roots to his breakthrough work with genetic variations and their impact on health. Learn how these variations influence fertility, pregnancy, and even conditions like ADHD and diabetes starting in the womb. We also tackle the critical yet often misunderstood topic of miscarriages, emphasizing the role of male fertility and the importance of lifestyle choices to optimize pregnancy health.

    About Dr. Ben Lynch:

    Dr. Ben Lynch is the best-selling author of Dirty Genes and President of Seeking Health, a company that helps educate both the public and health professionals on how to overcome genetic dysfunction. He received his doctorate in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University. He lives in Seattle, WA with his wife and three sons.

    Connect with Dr. Ben Lynch:

    Key highlights:

    • Causes of Miscarriages and Male Fertility
    • Genetic Testing and Health Effects
    • Understanding MTHFR Genetic Variations
    • Industrialized Food Revolution and Nutrition Deficiency
    • Homocysteine Processing and Methylation
    • MTHFR, Midline Defects, and Spina Bifida

    Episode resources:


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    E367 - 1h 48m - Jun 26, 2024
  • #366 Placentas: Way More Sacred Than a Biohazard

    Join us for an eye-opening episode as we welcome Kimberly Denitz-Zuleger, a passionate doula and maternal health activist from Southern California. With a wealth of experience encapsulating over 400 placentas since 2015, Kim shares her profound knowledge on the multifaceted roles and cultural symbolism of the placenta. We traverse the spiritual and medicinal benefits of placenta consumption and the serene practice of cord burning, providing a holistic view into informed postpartum care decisions.

    We dive deep into the complexities faced by a second-time mom at 42 weeks, balancing the fine line between necessary medical interventions and trusting the natural birthing process. Through these narratives, we illuminate the emotional dynamics between parents and caregivers, emphasizing the significance of trust and intuition. Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt stories, insightful discussions, and the celebration of life’s beginnings.

    About Kimberly Summer Denitz-Zuleger, CLEC, CPT, PMH-C, Doula:

    Kimberly Denitz-Zuleger is a So Cal native, mother, writer, doula, and maternal health activist. She is the Global Chapter Director for the International Cesarean Awareness Network and co-leader for the Ventura and Santa Barbara Chapters. She has encapsulated over 400 placentas since 2015 and has been part of many placenta medicine rituals with people from varying cultures around her community. Her credentials include multiple certifications in the fields of health care, and maternal mental health, as well as a degree in Behavioral Science, although it’s her real-world experience that has taught her everything she knows. She is most happy jumping in the ocean after a long trail run in the mountains.

    Connect with Kimberly Denitz-Zuleger:

    Key highlights:

    • Midwifery, Birth Spaces, and Anatomy
    • The Marvels of the Placenta
    • Cultural Birthing Rituals and Placenta Encapsulation
    • Importance of Physiologic Delivery Process
    • Placenta Encapsulation and Spiritual Beliefs
    • Lotus Birth and Ceremony Practices

    Episode resources:

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    E366 - 1h 26m - Jun 19, 2024
  • #365 A Neonatal Doctor Making A Difference

    At a time of great anxiety, Neonatologist and NICU specialist Priyush Patel, MD shares his humanistic approach to care.

    While Blyss is busy birthing, Midwife Lindsey Meehleis shares a birth story leading to the Serendipitous meeting in the NICU.

    But don’t worry, there is still plenty of wobbly healthcare systems and dumb doctor dogma going around as Dr. Stu explains.

    About Dr Piyush (pronounced pee-yoush) Patel:

    Dr. Patel graduated medical school in 2004 and has prided himself as an outside-the-box thinker and his ability to connect with families on a deeper level to help bridge their beliefs with the medical team caring for their baby. In such a stressful situation, which is oftentimes unexpected, there are numerous emotions that families experience and he has been able to intuitively calm their nerves to help them enjoy their journey in the NICU as best as possible.

    Key highlights:

    • Rethinking Mandatory GBS Screening and Treatment
    • Problems With for-Profit Healthcare
    • NICU Protocol and Individualized Care
    • Term Hospital Babies in the NICU
    • Rare Home Births in NICU
    • Importance of NICU Specialists
    • Improving Communication in NICU Care

    Episode resources:

    Connect with Dr. Patel:

    • Email: drpiyush888@gmail.com

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    E365 - 1h 27m - Jun 12, 2024
  • #364 Freebirth: Free to Choose

    Today we have midwife and mom, Catalina Clark, as our guest to share her journey as we discuss freebirthing from all angles.

    About Catalina Clark:

    I am a woman, mother, daughter, sister, midwife and student on the healing path. With 10 years experience in birth, I have found my way home to supporting women in alignment with the natural world and the power of physiologic birth.

    As a midwife of healing, I am here to walk with you along your path, to love you wherever you are and support you on your personal journey. I am not here to fix you or tell you what to do. To heal is to reclaim and reweave the fabric of your True Self back into your being, perfect and complete just as you are. When co-creating together we are stepping into a mutual relationship of universal love and trust with each other, ourselves and the divine.

    My journey of remembrance began entrenched in the medical model. After countless disempowering experiences I began seeking council outside the medical industrial system. In my studies over the past decade with a variety of traditional healers I began weaving a new path for myself, which led me to my true calling as a spiritual midwife.

    It is with great humility, honor and respect that I walk alongside all those with the willingness to step into the unknown, to untangle stories of the past and return to our hearts.

    Key highlights:

    • Discussion on Birthing Choices
    • Challenging Obstetrician Views on Free Birthing
    • Empowering Pregnancy
    • Exploring Fear and Inner Work
    • Anxious Thoughts About Baby's Health
    • Importance of Informed Birth Decision-Making
    • Challenging Birth Paradigms and Prenatal Preparation
    • Supportive Midwifery Practices
    • Transformation and Growth in Midwifery

    Episode resources:

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    E364 - 1h 31m - Jun 5, 2024
  • #363 The Significance of Integrating Reflexes, Who Knew?

    Such an important conversation with our guests, Emily Roper, ( Neuro-Developmental Delay Therapist) & Beth Shayler, (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant), on looking for the root causes and alternative approaches to developmental delays and the mental health of babies and children. Why is something so basic so unknown to the allopathic medical world? Blyss & Dr. Stu learn about the importance of spontaneous labor and the birth process on the neurological development of the fetus and baby. How we birth and raise our children matters. It just makes sense and it has never been more true than now that we need to trust our instincts when it comes to medical advice.

    Medical billing is just another example of a system out of control. Dr. Stu takes to the mic on "The Experience Miracles Podcast"

    Key highlights:

    • Fetal and Newborn Reflexes
    • Long-Term Effects of C-Sections
    • Holistic Approach in Child Healthcare
    • Child Development and Reflex Integration
    • Evolution of Tummy Time
    • CDC Milestones and Common Sense
    • Environmental Studies and Publication Delays

    Episode resources:

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    E363 - 1h 30m - May 29, 2024
  • #362 Studies Are Just Pieces Of Evidence with Dr. Emiliano Chavira

    Interpreting the value of a study can be difficult. With Blyss taking some healing time, Dr. Stu interviews Dr. Emiliano Chavira, MD, MPH, FACOG and MFM sub-specialist who shares his expertise on this subject. From randomized trials to meta-analyses we learn that a study is never definitive. Working within the "high risk" system, Dr. C has insight and wisdom that we want our fellow travelers to hear. What's the definition of IUGR, what are the problems with moving the bar and why so much color Doppler?

    About Dr. Emiliano Chavira:

    Dr. Chavira is board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology with a subspecialty certification in Maternal-Fetal Medicine. He completed both his Ob/Gyn residency training as well as his fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine (high risk pregnancy) at LAC+USC in Los Angeles, California. In his years as a specialist working in tertiary referral centers, he has cared for some of the most complicated and high-risk pregnancies, dealing with both maternal medical issues as well as complex fetal problems. His passion is to provide objective and caring guidance to his patients with the aim of instilling knowledge, understanding, empowerment, and hope in difficult circumstances. In addition to caring for complicated pregnancies, he also has an interest in ethical dilemmas in modern obstetric care, particularly as related to vaginal breech birth, multiple gestations, and VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean).

    Key highlights:

    • Flaws in Term Breech Trial
    • Debate on 39-Week Induction Safety
    • C-Section Rates in Labor Induction
    • Opinions on ARRIVE Trial and C-Section
    • Defining Intrauterine Growth Restriction
    • Impact of Fear in Pregnancy Monitoring

    Episode resources:

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    E362 - 1h 50m - May 22, 2024
  • #361 Congenital Uterine Alternatives

    The uterus is a miraculous creation but sometimes it doesn't follow nature's blueprint. Today on the podcast we discuss these fairly common blips (AKA anomalies or abnormalities) and their significance.

    With awareness and empathy, we weave through personal stories and clinical presentations, highlighting the profound impact these uterine anomalies can have on fertility and pregnancy. We dissect the various types of these conditions, the possible complications, and the importance of a compassionate, patient-centric approach to care. It's a deep exploration of a topic that's typically clouded by misunderstanding, so we aim to bring light and informed guidance to those it affects.

    Blyss shares a VBAC story as she continues to "patiently" recover. Dr. Stu wonders about the saying, "Life is like riding a bicycle!" and reads an uplifting twin story.

    Key highlights:

    • VBAC Support and Hospital Policies
    • Long Labor Story With A Happy Ending
    • Controversy Over Doula Regulation
    • Understanding Congenital Uterine Abnormalities
    • Management of Uterine Anomalies and Complications

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    E361 - 1h 36m - May 15, 2024
  • #360 Some Clarity To The Confusion of Rashes In Pregnancy

    Skin disorders exclusive to pregnant women have always been puzzling to Blyss & Dr. Stu. How do we know one from the other? Today we look at the dermatoses of pregnancy and differentiate the physiologic from the pathologic.

    You'll hear us dissect the five major types of rashes that can puzzle even seasoned healthcare professionals, the challenges of medical information access, and personal accounts of birth timing, premature labor, and the vital role of clear clinical documentation. We also delve into the nuances of supporting births in the community, examining the value of trust and adaptability when changes arise, such as a different midwife attending a birth, and discussing the impact of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) testing on hospital transfers and treatment.

    We also take a critical eye to medical misinformation spread by healthcare professionals on social media and the exasperating experiences with insurance companies, using personal anecdotes to highlight the issues. We also examine a range of skin and hair changes during pregnancy, and take a thought-provoking look at how control over medical literature might shape our understanding of autoimmune diseases and their potential environmental triggers.

    Blyss shares a birthkeeper dilemma while Dr. Stu does his civic duty.

    Key highlights:

    • Medical misinformation and insurance frustrations
    • How skin conditions affect pregnancy
    • Many rashes are annoying but not harmful
    • What can be done for relief from pregnancy rashes?
    • Exploring medical literature and information control

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    E360 - 1h 49m - May 8, 2024
  • #359 Unraveling the Legal Wrangling & Strangling of Midwifery

    Blyss returns only a week post op! She is a Goddess! Today's guests, Lenny Sue Tinseth & Corinne Flatt, OG Nevada midwives share their thoughts on the laws of Nevada, California and the state of midwifery. So much wisdom, so few diplomas!

    About Lenny Sue Tinseth:

    Lenny Sue is a Licensed California Midwife, a Certified Professional Midwife and a Certified Health Coach. She has been practicing Midwifery in the Lake Tahoe, Reno Nevada and surrounding areas for 38 years.

    Having practiced in a grass roots unlicensed environment in her early years, both in Nevada and California has given her the perspective of licensure’s pros and cons.

    She is a member of Nevada Midwives Association.

    NMA is devoted to maintaining full access to midwifery care for all women in the state of Nevada.

    She has been an advocate during the last 2 legislative sessions in Nevada to ensure proposed licensure does not limit families receiving access to midwifery care.

    About Corrine Flatt:

    Corrine is a midwife, serving families in southern Nevada since 1998, the founder of Pinkpeas Pregnancy and Parenting Care, and a long-time activist for birth freedom. Find Corrine everywhere on the internet, but don't miss the speech she made on Birth Freedom in Panama at dondeseayconquiensea.org

     Key highlights:

    • Home Birth Midwife Conference Announcement
    • Challenges of Birthing Freedom in Nevada
    • Modern Midwifery Practice and Medicalization
    • Restrictions on Midwife Practices in Nebraska
    • State by State Birth Rights Debate
    • Global Push for Midwifery Regulation

     

    Episode resources:

     

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    E359 - 1h 36m - May 1, 2024
  • #358 Homebirth Safety: What to Believe?

    The two authors who despise home birth are at it again with a new pre-print on the "Enduring Safety Concerns" of community birthing. Does their evidence hold water? The disconnect of priorities by organized medicine continues. Dr. Stu is joined by guest co-host Lindsey Meehleis, to break down the data.

    Together, Dr. Stu and Lindsey dissect this paper that scrutinizes the safety of out-of-hospital births, and discuss the complexities surrounding breech births, twin pregnancies, and the sacred moments of life and death, advocating for the wisdom of traditional midwifery in today's polarized birth setting debates.

    They take a closer look at the ACOG's rigid stance on planned home birth risks, untangling the often-misleading statistics that shape many women's choices about their birth setting.

    California no longer tracks stillbirths! What? We send blessings to and burn a candle for Blyss who had hip replacement surgery today.

     

    Key highlights:

    • Holistic Home Birth
    • Fetal Death Reporting Controversy
    • Debate on Planned Home Birth Safety
    • Challenges in Traditional Midwifery Training
    • Home Birth Studies

     

    Episode resources:

     

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    E358 - 1h 36m - Apr 24, 2024
  • #357 "Born At Home", A New Documentary

    Today on the podcast Blyss & Dr. Stu chat with the creators of a new film exploring home birth. The film explores the empowering journey of home birth and combines the wisdom of families, midwives, doulas, and some of our favorite people in the birth world. We also discuss the importance of how babies enter this world and, of course, catch up and reveal some new dumb doctor dogma.

    About Eleanor Currie:

    Eleanor Currie is a documentary filmmaker, videographer, photographer and mother of two beautiful children. She has a passion for telling stories about the human experience. Her newest film 'Born At Home' (created with long-term friend, Amanda Banks) explores the emotional journey of homebirth. 

    About Amanda Banks:

    Amanda is mother of two children, both born at home. She has always had a passion for health which led her to complete a Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) and now works as an Acupuncturist in Brisbane, supporting families through fertility, pregnancy and beyond for over 8 years. Amanda was the former Convenor for Homebirth QLD for 2.5 years until mid 2023 and worked as a maternity consumer representative on the QLD Normal Birth Strategy.

    Empowered by the homebirth of her second child in 2020, Amanda together with long term dear friend Eleanor, set out to create a film exploring Homebirth in QLD. She is the co-creator and Producer of Born at Home.

    About the Documentary Born At Home:

    Where and how women choose to birth matters. Born at Home is a stunning documentary film exploring what it takes to have a positive and transformative birth experience. Born at Home is an informative and emotive documentary exploring homebirth. This is a must-see event for all birth nerds, birth workers, mothers, those curious about birth and those seeking an alternative option to hospital birth.

    Key highlights:

    • Birth at Home Documentary Filmmakers
    • Home Birth Documentary Discussion
    • Contrasting Birth Experiences in Film
    • Life Choices and Home Birth Perspectives
    • Free Birth and Home Birth Exploration

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    E357 - 1h 30m - Apr 17, 2024
  • #356 A Look Back at the History of U.S. Childbirth

    Blyss responds to a comment about safety and mortality. There will always be disputes about what safety means and to know where we are we need to know where we were. Today Blyss & Dr. Stu look back at childbirth in America over the last 300 years and try to sort through the accomplishments and clarify the statistics.

    In an episode that's both a history lesson and a call to action, we reflect on the transformative journey of childbirth practices. Venture through time with us, from the days of home births and midwives to the formalization of hospital deliveries and the controversial medical interventions that followed. We peer into the darker chapters of obstetrics, acknowledging the exploitation that has tainted its history, and celebrate the triumphs that have led to significant declines in maternal and infant mortality rates. 

    This is a story of advancement and advocacy, of reclaiming agency and acknowledging the past to better navigate the present. Let's continue this dialogue and foster a future where the instincts of birthing and the wisdom of midwifery guide us toward a safer, more empowered experience for all.

    Key highlights:

    • Birth Choices and Maternal Mortality
    • History of Obstetric Interventions
    • History of Childbirth Practices in America
    • Evolution of Obstetrics and Childbirth
    • Declines in Infant Mortality and Interventions
    • Maternal and Infant Mortality Trends

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    E356 - 1h 27m - Apr 10, 2024
  • #355 Letters & Twins & Breeches, Oh My

    While it's not yellow brick, Dr. Stu is on the road teaching breech and twins and renewing family ties in California. Blyss joins in to share stories and wisdom and sanity, as usual.

    Echoing the dedication of mothers and birth workers, we dive into stories that underscore the triumphs of natural birth, like a listener's VBAC victory over early induction using natural remedies—proof that self-advocacy can indeed rewrite the standard medical narrative. These stories aren't just about births; they're about the struggle for autonomy and the challenging journey of advocacy within a system that sometimes seems set up for our silence.

    This episode is a blend of education, empowerment, and the drive for a maternity care system that honors the sanctity and individuality of the birthing process. Join us as we celebrate the power of informed decision-making, the legacy of childbirth, and the enduring spirit of woman-centered care.

    Key highlights:

    • Natural Birth Advocacy and VBAC Success
    • Challenges With Breech Delivery Options
    • Regulatory Challenges in Midwifery and Healthcare
    • Midwives vs Medical Standardization
    • Questioning Medical Fear-Mongering
    • Maternity Care and Obstetrician Education

    Episode resources:

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    E355 - 1h 28m - Apr 3, 2024
  • #354 SSRI Mythology: Bundling or Bungling

    Academia just can't stop meddling with nature especially when profit is involved. Today Blyss & Dr. Stu explore another likely fallacy of "Big Medicine" - the Chemical imbalance Theory of Depression. Even feral cats get it. Why can't they?

    We delve into the complexities of managing low platelet counts during pregnancy and the importance of respecting the body's natural processes, juxtaposing this against the philosophy of minimal intervention at home births.

    We navigate the contentious issues surrounding pharmaceutical interventions and discuss the implications of readily available over-the-counter contraceptives and the possible health risks of daily routines, such as prolonged bra usage. We share thought-provoking insights into the links between hormonal birth control, depression, and the subsequent use of SSRIs, shedding light on the cascading effects of health decisions. We scrutinize the long-held serotonin theory of depression, questioning the ethics of drug marketing and the necessity for more informed public knowledge about the treatment of depression.


    Key highlights:

    • Birth Choices and Pharmaceutical Controversy
    • Platelet Count and Birth Philosophy
    • Health Risks of Contraception and Bras
    • Debunking the Serotonin Theory of Depression
    • Risks of Using SSRIs During Pregnancy
    • Critiquing Medical Guidelines

    Episode resources:

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    E354 - 1h 46m - Mar 27, 2024
  • #353 Is There An Ideal Interpregnancy Interval?

    Trying to clarify the questions about child spacing, Blyss & Dr. Stu discover nature is pretty wise. What are the medical recommendations and how do they compare? We review some of the guidelines and share our opinions. We discuss the rhythm of natural child spacing through ecological breastfeeding and contrast it with the rigidity of medical guidelines, advocating for a healthcare model that respects the unique journey of each mother.

    We challenge the cultural obsession with the speed of labor and dissect the impact of our discussions by sharing the courageous decision of a labor and delivery nurse to switch to a home birth midwife. 

    As we address the realities of postpartum depression, we stress the vital roles of healthcare providers in supporting new mothers. We question the effectiveness of the current medical model in addressing nutritional needs and mental health issues during the postpartum and interpregnancy periods, advocating for a healthcare model that ensures thorough diagnosis, effective treatment, and diligent follow-up. This episode is a call to action for a more compassionate and tailored approach to reproductive health. Blyss shares about a birth with low platelets and Dr. Stu has some daughter time.

    Key highlights:

    • Interpregnancy Interval and Natural Birth
    • Debating Emergency Cesarean for Fetus' Heart
    • Challenging Medical Practices and Recommendations
    • Breastfeeding and Interpregnancy Intervals
    • Women's Health and Postpartum Depression


    Episode resources:


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    E353 - 1h 26m - Mar 20, 2024
  • #352 Regulatory Overreach & What Is Going On In Hawaii

    Our guest today is "Birth Attendant", Jaymie Lewis who shares her insight into Hawaii's birthing world. Blyss & Dr. Stu chime in on the creeping blob that is the administrative state and wonder when the last time a regulation made things better.

    About Jaymie Lewis:

    Jaymie is a mother of three children all born at her residence In Hawaii. The birth of her 1st child brought her into birth work in 2010 when she began an apprenticeship with two different naturopathic physicians and a CPM. She started an independent midwifery practice in 2014 attending anywhere from 40-60 births per year. She joined several other midwives across the islands igniting strong activism regarding REAL choices in childbirth. In 2017 she helped create Hawaii Home Birth Collective which is an advocacy organization dedicated to expansion of midwifery care and to the preservation and integration of traditional and indigenous practices of the childbearing cycle. The long arm of the medical industrial complex swept in and deemed her a “birth attendant” in 2019 because she did not have any “formal” education” and as of last July has been pushed out of practice due to Hawaii’s restrictive midwifery law. Jaymie is a dreamer, a realistic optimist, and a lifetime learner, knowing that when there is compression, there is also an opportunity for infinite expansion.

    Key highlights:

    • Home Births and Midwifery Regulations
    • Bureaucracy and Midwifery Laws
    • Challenges and Barriers in Midwifery
    • The Impact of Standardization on Midwifery
    • Laws and Colonialism in Hawaii

    Episode resources:

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    E352 - 1h 30m - Mar 13, 2024
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Birthing Instincts
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