Birthing Instincts

Latest Episodes:

The Remembering: Debut Episode of At Her Feet Oct 06, 2023

Show notes

Unearth the rich and mesmerizing traditions of midwifery as Blyss announces her new podcast, At Her Feet, with her co host Lindsey. This episode is a homage to midwives across the globe, their vibrant cultures, and the pivotal role they play in the birthing process. Settle in as Blyss and Lindsey share their journey from a transformative retreat in Mexico to the profound wisdom passed down by our ancestors.

Blyss and Lindsey explore the historical influence of midwifery across various cultures. Their travels to India, Bali, and Mexico have shown them the global lack of midwives and the urgent need for proper training and resources to reduce maternal and child deaths. They illuminate the impacts of modern medicine on traditional midwifery and the perpetual importance of preserving this age-old wisdom. Tune in as Blyss and Lindsey voice their passion for midwifery and our endeavor to keep these sacred traditions alive.

Episode resources:

Book: Immaculate Deception: A New Look at Women and Childbirth in America

Key highlights:

Introducing the Bridge Midwives Project
Introducing At Her Feet
The Magical Ice Bath Experience
Discovering Grandmother Wisdom and Traditional Midwifery
Exploring Midwifery and Traditional Birth Practices
The Influence of Culture on Midwifery

Connect with Lindsey:

Website: theremembering.co

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#329 The Common Denominator is Isolation Oct 04, 2023

Show notes

Postpartum mental health is the focus of today’s podcast with guest, Cynthia Overgard of the Down to Birth podcast. We dive into this often-overlooked topic and the importance of a strong support system. Dr. Stu returns from teaching in Wisconsin and Blyss is back home on birth watch.

This critical conversation with Cynthia takes us inside the escalating complications in hospital births. From dissecting the potential reasons behind these increasing complications to taking a hard look at the role of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cynthia brings an enlightening perspective to these important maternal health issues. This dialogue doesn’t shy away from examining the shifting trends in high-quality care, bringing you comprehensive insights into the sphere of maternal health.

About Cynthia Overgard:

Cynthia Overgard is the producer of Down to Birth Show, a weekly podcast she co-hosts with CNM Trisha Ludwig. Cynthia is a published writer in the field of maternal health, and has taught HypnoBirthing to more than 2,000 couples in the past 16 years. Cynthia is trained in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and has run a weekly postpartum support group since 2015. She has an undergraduate degree in Sociology and an MBA in Finance. Cynthia continues to teach HypnoBirthing classes to couples globally.

Connect with Cynthia:

Website: HypnoBirthingCT.com

Instagram: @downtobirthshow

Email: cynthia@hypnobirthingct.com

Key highlights:

Increasing Complications in Hospital Births
Understanding Postpartum Depression and Support
Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression
Isolation's Impact on Postpartum Mental Health
Men's Mental Health During Pregnancy
Postpartum Anxiety and Psychosis
Support and Strategies for Postpartum Wellbeing
The Power of Love and Connection

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#328 Dear Hospitals, When We Need You, Where Are You? Sep 27, 2023

Show notes

Working for women and not the law, traditional midwife, Rebecca Walker joins the show to discuss birthing in a maternity care desert. Dr. Stu reviews hospital rankings with suspicion and Blyss reads an impassioned letter from a Scottish doula in despair.

This episode uncovers the harsh realities faced by women in rural areas seeking maternity care. Dr. Stu, Blyss, and Rebecca dissect hospital policies that deny care during birth, discuss the disturbing rise of forced C-sections, and debate the legal status of traditional midwifery. With the dire need for more midwives ringing loud and clear, this episode pushes us to think about the intricacies of maternity care and the struggles endured by women in their quest for a safe and empowering birth experience.

Key highlights:

Influencers and the Reality of Instagram
Doulas During the Pandemic
Maternity Care and the Need for Midwives
Hospital Refusal of Care During Birth
Legal Status of Traditional Midwifery
Problems With Forced C-Sections
Challenges and Controversies in Obstetrics
Comparing Hospital Rankings and Midwife Statistics

Episode resources:

Article: Why I Am Taking a Break
Article: Best Hospitals for Obstetrics & Gynecology
Website: org

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#327 Interesting Stuff about Fibroids Sep 20, 2023

Show notes

On short notice, Blyss gives Dr. Stu a request for a deep dive into the common finding of uterine fibroids. Listener questions and common doctor recommendations are addressed. Whether pregnant or not, many women will be confronted with this diagnosis. Symptoms, treatment, outcomes, and options are all discussed in today's episode. The data may surprise you.

Dr. Stu and Blyss delve into the treatment options for fibroids, emphasizing the importance of patient-specific strategies and shared decision-making. They then discuss the potential effects of uterine fibroids on pregnancy outcomes. This includes exploring the theories behind the pain associated with red degeneration and the effects of fibroids on pregnancy outcomes. Finally, they examine the data from recent studies comparing the risk of conditions like postpartum hemorrhage, retained placenta, and uterine rupture in women with fibroids to that of control subjects. Tune in for this comprehensive session on fibroids, pregnancy, and birth choices.

Key highlights:

Fibroids' Impact on Pregnancy
Myomectomy and Vaginal Delivery Considerations
Racial Disparities in Fibroid Treatment
Treatment Options for Fibroids
Uterine Fibroids and Pregnancy Outcomes
Uterine Rupture Risks After Myomectomy

Episode resources:

Article: Management of Symptomatic Uterine Leiomyomas
Article: Contemporary Management of Fibroids in Pregnancy
Article: Trial of labor after myomectomy and uterine rupture: a systematic review

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#326 Do Current Medical Guidelines Make Us Safer? Sep 13, 2023

Show notes

By almost any parameter of general health we are a sicker society than we were 50 years ago. Models of wellness abound yet we are still told to follow only some science. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in pregnancy. Blyss & Dr. Stu share their recent "rememberings" from traveling to visit a nurturing community of birth workers and the positive experiences of listeners. Then we look at some medical dictates which Blyss sees as irresponsible and which infuriate Dr. Stu. The contrast is revealing and people are waking up.

In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss explore the complexities of maternity care and trusting one's intuition amidst challenging situations. Drawing on a follower's experience, they underscore the importance of validating intuition and making informed decisions based on evidence, common sense, and personal experiences. Further, they scrutinize the increasing rates of birth interventions and their negative impacts, prompting a reflection on current practices and the need for safer environments for childbirth.

Key highlights:

Midwifery Conference Highlights
Maternity Care Challenges and Trusting Intuition
Increasing Rates of Birth Interventions and the Negative Impacts
ACOG's Support for Vaccinations in Pregnancy
Vaccine Safety and Mandates in Pregnancy

Episode resources:

naturalbirthathome.com
Carolinabirthjunkies.com
Book: Immaculate Deception
Article: The Rapid Decline of Birth Rates

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#325 A Walk Through History with Farm OG Midwife, Pamela Hunt Sep 06, 2023

Show notes

Still riding the high of the Louisville conference, Blyss & Dr. Stu take a drive back in time to the Farm in Tennessee. With Buffalo Springfield on the radio and Dr. Stu in awe of the surroundings, the midwives tell Blyss an emotional tale of The Farm's past and future.

They explore the complexities of Tennessee's midwife law, the critical role of licensure, and the essential need for collaboration with doctors. Above all, these midwives emphasize the importance of client autonomy, the value of face-to-face communication, and the power of storytelling in sharing wisdom. In the end, Dr. Stu and Blyss were left with a profound appreciation for their dedication to the art of midwifery, and believe you will be too, as you listen to their shared wisdom and experience.

Key highlights:

Journey Towards Becoming a Midwife
Building A Community Without Electricity and Water
Emergency Childbirth Training
The Beginnings of Midwifery Services
Low C-Section Rates in Midwifery
Transition From Nursing to Midwifery
Comparison of Licensed and Traditional Midwives
Trusting Birthing Community Magic

Episode resources:

Book: Spiritual Midwifery

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#324 A Gathering of Birth Nerds Aug 30, 2023

Show notes

The normalization of breech and twin birthing and the skills to make that happen were the reason the birth community came together in Louisville, KY for four days in September. Blyss & Dr. Stu share the stories and memories from a weekend of learning and bonding. We are stronger as a community united.

You'll discover how the positioning of a baby's arms affects their rotation during breech birth, and the essential factors to monitor during delivery - the color, tone, capillary filling, and cord of the baby. Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the intricacies of twin pregnancies and the complications that may arise, including twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). They also cover the importance of understanding when to intervene. Despite the often challenging and complex nature of these discussions, the underlying message is one of empowerment, education, and encouragement. So join in as we navigate these fascinating topics, challenge conventional wisdom, and celebrate the miracle of birth.

Key highlights:

Obstetric Training and Flexible Delivery Methods
Breech Babies and Shocking Numerical Findings
Doctor Issues With Twin Birthing
Pregnancy Complications and Ultrasound Technology
Historical Significance of Fetal Heart Tones
Burden of Proof in Medical Interventions
Shoulder Dystocia During Childbirth

Episode resources:

Twin Breech conference: belovedholistics.com/conference

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#323 Nothing About Shoulder Dystocia is Predictable Aug 23, 2023

Show notes

Blyss is soaking up Sedona while Dr. Stu has the privilege of teaching breech to doctors in Chicago. Today's topic by popular request is shoulder dystocia, sharing truth, and dispelling fear. There are no signs and no way to prevent the condition, so why all the interventions?

Get ready to uncover the truth about birth options and practices when it comes to shoulder dystocia. Blyss and Dr. Stu unravel the myths surrounding shoulder dystocia and share first-hand experiences, with a focus on various maneuvers that can be lifesaving in these situations.

Key highlights:

VBAC Ban Lifted in Santa Barbara
Shoulder Dystocia, Myths, and Maneuvers
Understanding Shoulder Dystocia and Risk Factors
Obstetrician and Midwife Training
Shoulder Dystocia Delivery Complications and Concerns
Shoulder Dystocia and Trusting Birth Advice

Episode resources:

Article: Cleveland Clinic: Shoulder Dystocia
Article: ACOG: Shoulder Dystocia

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#322 An Ectopic Podcast on Ectopic Pregnancy Aug 16, 2023

Show notes

Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu define "ectopic" and discuss ectopic pregnancy and share their ectopic thoughts on that. The medicalized birth system continues to alienate us and positive breech stories enlighten us. Dr. Stu shares stories from his childhood home and Blyss finds a gem in hers.

In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the risk factors of ectopic pregnancies, the paramount importance of differential diagnosis, and the range of treatments available. They shed light on some personal experiences, including one involving an abnormal Doppler reading at a 35-week pregnancy, and the implications of inducing at 37 weeks. Through their words, they hope to inspire a sense of wonder about the marvel that is God's design, challenging the egotism of the human race.

Has our society become too risk averse? With compelling statistics about the rate of women being induced, Dr. Stu and Blyss spark your curiosity to ponder over this crucial question. Tune in for more!

Key highlights:

Birth Conversations and Minnesota Memories
Ultrasounds and Ectopic Pregnancies Concerns
Inducing at 37 Weeks Controversy
Future Reflections and Contemplating Change
Positive Breech Birth Stories
Ectopic Pregnancy Risk Factors
Understanding and Treating Ectopic Pregnancies

Episode resources:

Article: Cleveland Clinic: Ectopic Pregnancy
Article: NIH: Recurrent Ectopic Pregnancy: Current Perspectives
Article: ACOG: Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy
Book: Holistic Midwifery: A Comprehensive Textbook for Midwives in Homebirth Practice

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

#321 What Happened to the Precautionary Principle? Aug 09, 2023

Show notes

Protection from untested interventions has long been the basis for ethical decisions in medicine and especially pregnancy. So what happened? Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss the wisdom of Naturopathy and the attack on longstanding principles and wisdom from many fronts. ACOG changes ethics and the Arrive Trial isn't all that we were sold.

In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the ACOG Committee Statement No. 6: Ethical Considerations for the Delivery of Obstetric and Gynecologic Care During a Pandemic.

They scrutinize the risks associated with untested products for pregnant and breastfeeding women, the ethics of using such products, and heartrending news of sudden cardiac events in young people. The ebbs and flows of this conversation lead to the significance of finding a healthcare provider that resonates with your beliefs.

Key highlights:

Vaccines, Child Visits, and Medical Ethics
Corruption in the Medical World
Nature's Importance and Preventive Actions
Ethics and Vaccination in a Pandemic
The ARRIVE Trial's Impact on Induction Rates

Episode resources:

This show is supported by:

LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
Email: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com
Call-in line: 805-399-0439

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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