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Down to Birth — Kids & Family
Down to Birth

Join Cynthia Overgard and Trisha Ludwig once per week for evidence-based straight talk on pregnancy, birth and postpartum — beyond the clichés and beyond the system. With 40 years’ combined experience in midwifery, childbirth education and advocacy, publishing, research and postpartum care, we’ve guided thousands of families toward safer, more empowered choices. Down to Birth is all about safe childbirth, while recognizing a safe outcome isn’t all that matters. We challenge the status quo, explore women’s rights in childbirth, and feature women from all over the world, shining shine light on the policies, culture, and systemic forces that shape our most intimate and transformative of life experiences. You’ll hear the birth stories of our clients, listeners and numerous celebrities. You’ll benefit from our expert-interviews, and at any time you can submit your questions for our monthly Q&A episodes by calling us at 802-GET-DOWN. With millions of downloads and listeners in 90 countries, our worldwide community of parents and birth professionals coms together to learn, question and create change, personally and societally. We’re on Instagram at @downtobirthshow and at Patreon.com/downtobirthshow, where we offer live ongoing events multiple times per month. Become informed, feel empowered, and join the movement toward better maternity care in the United States and worldwide. As always, hear everyone, listen to yourself.

Copyright: © 2024 Down to Birth

Latest Episodes:

#237 | On Life Support During Birth: Tess Frame Describes Waking Out of a Coma Postpartum Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

Tess Frame is a mother of two who experienced severe pneumonia in late pregnancy after contracting the flu. Her condition became septic, resulting in organ failure and premature labor. She gave birth by cesarean at thirty-five weeks while comatose, and was intubated in critical care for several weeks after. While in a coma, she experienced and/or perceived traumas she could only begin to unwind after becoming conscious, trying to unravel what experiences were real and what were only imagined in her unconscious state. She was convinced she had been kidnapped and assaulted and struggled to reconcile her conscious and subconscious experiences while in the coma. It was a heart-wrenching twenty-five days before Tess could finally meet her baby, and it took an additional three to four months for Tess to fully feel he belonged to her. She shares her birth story and her ambitious healing journey guided, perhaps surprisingly, by the twelve-step addiction recovery program. Supported by her church and community, she focused on mending her mind, body, and family, ultimately being granted a second chance at life.
Tess on Instagram
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#236 | October Q&A: Mom Friends, Tight Abdominal Muscles, Diabetes & Pregnancy, Velamentous Cords, Vitamin D & Breastfeeding Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

Hello everyone - it's your favorite day of the month, when we take your calls! As always, thank you for submitting your excellent questions to 802-438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). Keep them rolling in! We love hearing from you.
Today, we kick things off with some of the hilarious comments and questions your husbands and partners have said during pregnancy and birth. Next, we dive into our questions beginning with one mom seeking guidance on how best to make mom friends after having a baby. Another listener asks if it is true that her friend needed to have a C-section because her abdominal muscles were too tight. The answer is no, but we brought on pelvic floor specialist, Tara Gibson, to explain why. Next, we give our opinion on the recommendation for a mother with type 1 diabetes to have twice-weekly ultrasounds and non-stress tests starting at 32 weeks. Is having a velamentous cord insertion a reason for needing a C-section or induction?
In the extended version of today's episode, always available ad-free on Apple subscriptions and Patreon, we answer the controversial question about the necessity of Vitamin D drops for breastfed babies, followed by another listener's concern about her "big baby" needing hourly glucose checks, questions on glucose, weaning, and more.
Finally, we close with a round of quickies including a question on VBACs, weaning from breastfeeding, and at last, our "personal question" of the month: the last show we each binged!
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#235 | Solution or Sham? The Anti-Depressant Industry Exposed with Dr. Roger McFillin Oct 18, 2023

Show notes

Dr. Roger McFillin, a seasoned clinical psychologist and the compelling voice of the Radically Genuine Podcast, dares to question the prevailing surge in depression diagnoses in our modern world. He boldly sheds light on the truth about SSRIs, leveling grave accusations of "criminal negligence" at the doctors who knowingly sidestep informed consent requirements. Dr. McFillin uncovers a disturbing reality—one where patients are shielded from the harsh truth of low efficacy rates, serious risks, and debilitating long-term side effects, such as inability to orgasm.

In this episode, Dr. McFillin unveils the elaborate charade woven by the pharmaceutical industry. He underscores the unsettling fact that antidepressants, touted as life-changing solutions, actually provide relief to a mere fifteen percent of those who turn to them, all while carrying a risk of suicide that's double that of a placebo. The heart of our conversation revolves around the calculated cherry-picking of scientific data, which serves to construct a narrative that prioritizes pharmaceutical profits over individual well-being.

Dr. McFillin contends that labeling these medications as "anti-depressants" is a gross misnomer, a stance he courageously shared through his YouTube channel. His insights earned him the attention of influential figures like Joe Rogan, but punishment from YouTube, who mysteriously took down his channel without explanation immediately after he exposed critical research findings. Dr. McFillin's mission is clear: he implores the public to embrace critical thinking and cast aside the blinders that obscure a disconcerting reality—a medical system that peddles drugs not on the basis of research, but rather at the whims of the marketing department.

As we delve deeper into the episode, we explore how the catchphrase "trust the science" often contradicts the actual scientific research. Later on, our conversation shifts over to postpartum depression and the lives of postpartum mothers. These exhausted and overwhelmed women represent just one of many vulnerable groups suffering harm, not help, by the professionals they entrusted.

Join us in this eye-opening discussion as we unravel the layers of deception and confront the unsettling truths about our contemporary medical landscape. Dr. Roger McFillin's unwavering commitment to authenticity challenges the status quo, beckoning us to peer beyond the facade and reckon with the stark realities we collectively face.

Radically Genuine Podcast
Radically Genuine YouTube
Radically Genuine
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and h

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#234 | Cynthia's Second Birth Story: Lessons in Trust Oct 11, 2023

Show notes

Hello, everyone! It's Cynthia here. Today, in celebration of my birthday, I want to share the extraordinary story of my daughter's birth. This personal narrative delves into the pivotal role intuition and self-trust played throughout my conception and pregnancy with her. You'll learn of some unexpected challenges we faced, and you'll hear about our unconventional attempt to reposition our breech baby head-down. Definitely don't try that at home - even though we did.
I hope you enjoy it. Catch Trisha in the outtake.
p.s. I shared my son's birth story way back in Season One, Episode 10 and you can listen to that here or you can read the published article here.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#233 | Esophageal Atresia: When Liz Eidelman's Baby Was Born "Incompatible With Life" Oct 04, 2023

Show notes

Liz Eidelman, whose name some of you may recognize as the funny mom on Instagram @lizeidelman, gave birth to her first child in the hospital with a team of med students present. She had an episiotomy she didn't want, a vacuum-assist that led to another flood of people in the room, and a baby who was whisked away to the NICU within moments of birth, leaving Liz in the dark about her baby's condition. Overhearing nurses whisper, "The mother doesn't know yet," added to her anxiety. What Liz and her husband soon learned was that their baby was born with esophageal atresia, necessitating a life-saving surgery on Day Two of their baby's life.
Now, with the perspective of a few years and two births under her belt, Liz reflects on the many ways in which she was grossly mistreated in her birth, by the very people and system who helped her baby go from a status of "born incompatible with life" to healthy and well. Liz dives into how her labor could have taken a different course, not only the first time but also the second, had she been more aware of her rights within the hospital birth environment. Liz shares her personal story and reveals alarming details that ignited her passion to become a doula. She also created a thriving Instagram community for moms, where humor serves as the antidote for the challenges of parenting, birth, and life. Don't miss this enlightening and empowering episode with Liz Eidelman.
Liz on Instagram
Liz's Doula Page @The.Sage.Sister

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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#232 | September Q&A: Infant Reflux, Tearing, The Homebirth Environment, Waterbirthing with PROM, Esophageal Atresia, Postpartum Cramping, Newborns Sep 27, 2023

Show notes

Hello Friends! It is time for the September Q&A episode! Today, we open with two listener emails sharing their experiences on declining circumcision and accepting a necessary emergency cesarean birth. Next, we dive into your questions beginning with:
Can I still labor and birth in the tub even if my membranes have ruptured before labor begins? Lucky for ya'll, we have Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International pop on the show to answer this question.
Next up, we address whether experiencing a 3rd or 4th-degree tear during your first birth should deter you from pursuing a subsequent vaginal birth. Does it categorize you as high risk? We'll explore this important topic.

Seeking more comprehensive solutions for infant reflux beyond the basics? We've got you covered.

Then, we tackle the dilemma of giving birth at home when it feels safest, despite not feeling the most relaxed due to working from home. We'll share valuable perspectives on making the right choice for you.

Curious about the accuracy of ultrasounds in diagnosing esophageal atresia? Liz Eidelman, a mother of a baby born with EA, joins us to answer this question.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg! In our extended version of this episode, available exclusively on Patreon and Apple subscriptions (ad-free, of course), we delve into a treasure trove of topics, including ABO incompatibility and jaundice, alternatives to ibuprofen for postpartum cramping, the newborn transition, nuchal cords at birth, and much more!
As always, we close with quickies and a personal question about the best advice each of us has ever received.
PS: Don't miss the outtake at the end of every episode.
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#231 | Heart Moms: One Mother's Journey with Congenital Trans-Position of the Great Arteries Sep 20, 2023

Show notes

Jo Young is a "heart mom" from the U.K. Being a heart mom indicates belonging to a community of parents whose children are born with congenital heart defects.
The pivotal moment in Jo's story began at her twenty-week anatomy scan with her husband. It was here that they received the life-altering revelation that their baby girl bore a congenital heart defect requiring immediate postpartum surgery. This condition, known as "transposition of the great arteries" (TGA), unveils a complex anomaly where the aorta attaches to the right side of the heart while the pulmonary artery attaches to the left. This incongruity disrupts the circulation of oxygenated blood within the body. Notably, TGA affects only one in every four thousand live births and often eludes detection during pregnancy.

Jo's narrative unfolds as she recounts the poignant moment when her plans for a home birth dissolved into the stark reality of laboring within the confines of an ambulance. She describes her postpartum moments of cradling her newborn daughter before relinquishing her to the surgical team, and delves into the trials and tribulations of the breastfeeding journey, underscoring the indomitable spirit that she, her partner, and their resilient baby summoned to surmount these challenges.

Jo's story is a beacon of encouragement and a wellspring of inspiration for families navigating the turbulent waters of heart parenthood. Through her compelling narrative, she extends a comforting hand to reassure others of the unwavering support within the heart community. Furthermore, she highlights the remarkable strength and resilience that reside within the spirit and character of these special infants. Join us for a stirring conversation that sheds light on the power of love, hope, and strength in the face of adversity.

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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#230 | The Free Birth Dilemma with Sara Rosser Sep 13, 2023

Show notes

Sara Rosser is a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). While she has not had a free birth herself, she has supported women in her community who have chosen to do so. Free birth (or "wild birth") is a controversial practice in which a woman chooses to give birth in the absence of a trained birth professional, whether that be a midwife or obstetrician. In today's discussion, we dig into why a woman might choose free birth, whether or not free birth is "safe" for a mother and baby, how those women who require medical support are treated if they transfer from a free birth, the role of the doula in free birth, and a general discussion around how and why the free birth movement has taken hold. Ultimately, we seek to answer the question: Are those who support free birth enabling the movement or simply supporting a woman's right to choose what she believes is best for herself and her baby?
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.com
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#229 | Sara Wickham: The Risk of the Risk-Based Approach Sep 06, 2023

Show notes

Dr. Sara Wickham, PhD, MA, PGCert, BA, is a best-selling author, speaker, and researcher who works independently. She has more than twenty years' experience as a midwife; she's lectured in more than 30 countries; and, she is a researcher and author of seventeen books, and has edited three midwifery journals. She is considered a leading expert on the research and evidence around many of the most controversial topics and most difficult decisions in childbirth: Induction, newborn interventions, GBS infection, RhoGAM or Anti-D prophylaxis for Rh-negative mothers, and plus-size pregnancy.
Today, she joins us to talk about risk and risk reduction. In focusing on risk factors or lack thereof in any individual woman, we are generalizing and categorizing her care not based on her individual and holistic assessment, but rather on a risk category that may not actually be the best fit for her and her baby. Sara explains five ways in which we should consider risk and risk assessment in childbirth. For example, are we considering the impact of a risk-centered approach on the long-term health of the mother and baby or how it may undermine a woman's confidence? Ultimately, she questions the conviction that, in childbirth, more action, more tests, and more intervention lead to safer outcomes. And as a bonus, she answers the top-three questions from our community.
Sara Wickham
Sara Wickham on Instagram
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Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products for before, during and after pregnancy
Modern Nursery--Your one-stop shop for eco-friendly, stylish baby gear
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

#228 | August Q&A: Routine PP Pitocin, Insufficient Glandular Tissue, Boundaries with In-laws, Fundal Massage, Fore-milk, Manual Dilation, Weight Gain in Pregnancy, A Husband with Addiction Aug 30, 2023

Show notes

It's time for the August Q&A episode with Cynthia & Trisha! We kick off today's episode with the crazy and unsupportive comments most often heard by our listeners. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and get ready for some laughs. Next, we get into our questions, including:
Is routine Pitocin postpartum necessary?
What can you tell me about insufficient glandular tissue and breastfeeding?
What to do about family members who use sweets as a way to get children's attention?
Is aggressive fundal massage really necessary?
Is too much fore-milk in breastfeeding causing problems for my baby?
and more.
And in the extended version of today's episode found on Apple subscriptions and Patreon we discuss: Experiencing nausea in labor and what can be done about it; manual dilation of the cervix and whether it's effective; how a nuchal hand at birth impacts tearing and whether a cesarean section necessary; and, what is normal weight gain in pregnancy, and what if I have already gained the recommended amount too soon?
Finally, we have our quickie segment in which we answer another ten questions or so, including how period cramps influence labor experiences, heart rate in labor, boy versus girl pregnancies, and more!
Thank you for all your great questions and please keep them coming at 802-438-3696 or 802-GET-DOWN.
**********
Down to Birth is sponsored by:
Needed -- Optimal nutritional products to nourish yourself before, during, and after pregnancy
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT today and receive a free sample kit. Stay salty.
Love Majka Products -- Support your milk supply with nourishing protein powder, hydration boosters and lactation bites.
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort after vaginal birth.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email Contact@DownToBirthShow.com
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric

Needed <-- for 20% off
DrinkLMNT <-- for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits Superfood<--for 20% off
Join Patreon here
IG @downtobirthshow

Call 802-GET-DOWN.
Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

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