The Birth Lounge Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 288: How Pitocin Impacts Labor: Evidence-Based Insights and Best Practices with Jen Atkisson, RN Aug 28, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe in an enlightening conversation with Labor & Delivery nurse Jen Atkisson, known as the 'Pitocin Queen,' as they dive deep into the controversial use of Pitocin in labor and delivery. In this episode, they discuss when and why Pitocin might be used, how to use it responsibly, and the critical importance of evidence-based practices. Jen shares her insights on natural oxytocin versus synthetic Pitocin, the potential risks and benefits, and ways to avoid unnecessary interventions. This transparent and data-driven discussion aims to empower expectant parents and healthcare providers with the knowledge necessary for safer, more satisfying birth experiences.

Understanding Pitocin and Its Uses

Oxytocin vs. Pitocin: Key Differences

The Role of Oxytocin in Labor

Pitocin Administration and Safety

Nervous System and Labor

Personal Experiences and Reflections

Challenges in Healthcare and Pitocin Use

Effective Pitocin Dosing Strategies

Risks and Complications of Pitocin

Unexpected Labor Story

Signs of Labor and Cervical Exams

Understanding Pitocin Usage

Managing Pitocin Dosage

Dealing with Excessive Contractions

Pitocin Protocols and Guidelines

Patient Advocacy and Pitocin

Third Stage of Labor and Pitocin

Alternatives to Pitocin

Guest Bio:

With over 17 years of unique experiences in nursing and consulting, I've seen the same patient safety & legal themes come up over and over again. And they're not what you think they are! Because keeping our moms and babies safe is always our first priority, I needed to make this information available to all nurses!

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Jen on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Connect with Jen here!

Ep. 287: Choosing an Egg Donor with Laura Watson Aug 23, 2024

Show notes

Today, HeHe is joined by fertility coach, Laura Watson, to explore the conversation of growing your family through donor eggs, how to navigate that decision making process and what that process looks like! Laura shares the various routes families can consider when trying to find a donor, how to discover agencies in your area and how to talk to your kids about being donor conceived. If you've been navigating this conversation in your own life and are feeling alone in the grief and big feelings that often accompany the decision to use donor eggs-- this is a must listen because Laura shares what that process was like for her. We will also dive into anonymous vs known donors, what to know about the legal contracts (your rights and your donor's rights) and the financial commitment involved!

Guest Bio:

Laura Watson is a fertility coach and mom to two donor conceived children. Her personal journey included failed fertility treatments, several unsuccessful rounds of IVF, and three heartbreaking pregnancy losses before completing her family with donor egg IVF. She now supports women pursuing fertility treatments to build their families and helps them find control, confidence, and even joy in a complicated process. Laura founded her coaching services, Positive Fertility, in 2022. She is the author of the Positive Fertility Blog, was a featured author in the 2021 collaborative book, Infertility Success: Stories of Help and Hope for Your Journey. She lives in Boston, MA, USA with her husband and two children.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Laura Watson on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Connect with Laura here: h

Ep. 286: The Role of Mitochondria in Fertility with Dr. Kalea Wattles Aug 21, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe as she sits down with Dr. Kalea Wattles to uncover the overlooked connection between mitochondrial health and fertility. In this episode, Dr. Wattles explains the fundamental role of mitochondria in cellular energy production and how it impacts ovulation, egg quality, and overall reproductive health. She delves into the significance of mitochondrial support for both partners in enhancing fertility outcomes and offers actionable advice on lifestyle changes, supplements like CoQ10, and gentle detox practices. This enlightening discussion empowers listeners to prepare for family planning at a cellular level, whether they are actively trying to conceive or planning for the future.

Understanding Mitochondria

Mitochondria's Role in Fertility

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Fertility Challenges

The Love Story of Mitochondria and Granulosa Cells

Mitochondria in Sperm Cells

Emerging Mitochondrial Therapies

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Mitochondrial Health

Melatonin and Mitochondrial Health

Toxin Exposure and Mitochondrial Health

Favorite Clean Products for Mitochondrial Health

Understanding Supplement Dosages and Side Effects

Exploring the Benefits of Myo-Inositol and Turmeric Cautions

Considerations for Hypothyroidism and Insulin Use

Magnesium's Role in Mitochondrial Health

Gentle Detox Strategies for Preconception

The Importance of Regular Bowel Movements

Discussing Mitochondrial Health with Your Doctor

Identifying Mitochondrial Dysfunction Symptoms

The Impact of Cortisol on Mitochondrial Health

Proactive Fertility Planning in Your 20s

The Role of Male Fertility in Conception

Guest Bio:

Dr. Kalea Wattles is a naturopathic doctor, certified functional medicine practitioner, and founder of Functional Fertility. As an educator, podcaster, speaker, and clinician, Dr. Wattles combines cutting edge science with treasured traditional wisdom, applying a systems biology approach to discover the root cause of fertility struggles. With a deep commitment to advancing the field of functional medicine and improving patient outcomes, her patient-centered approach helps individuals cultivate abundant health for pregnancy and beyond.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Kalea Wattles on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://primallypure.com/

Haircare Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://innersensebeauty.com/

Makeup Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://arazabeauty.com/

Clean skin care HeHe uses and loves: https://www.cocokind.com/

Dr. Wattles uses and recommends: https://www.avocadogreenmattress.com/

Find a functional Medicine provider near you: https://www.ifm.org/

Connect with Dr. Wattles here: https://drkaleawattles.com/

Ep. 285: Understanding Sperm Quality with Dr. Jessica Ryneic, OBGYN/REI Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe as she sits down with Dr. Jessica Ryniec from CCRM Fertility of Boston to delve into the crucial topic of sperm quality and male fertility. In this episode, they discuss what sperm quality means, how sperm analysis is conducted, and the impact of lifestyle, supplements, and medications on sperm health. Dr. Ryniec also provides insights into the factors affecting sperm morphology, the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and the potential effects of lifestyle choices like bicycling and using hot tubs. Learn about the role of antioxidants in sperm health, the importance of using fertility-friendly lubricants, and the process and benefits of freezing sperm for future fertility planning. Whether you're trying to conceive or just curious about reproductive health, this episode offers invaluable information and expert advice.

Understanding Sperm Quality

Sperm Morphology and Variations

Key Terms in Semen Analysis

Who Should Get a Semen Analysis?

Impact of Lifestyle on Sperm Quality

Supplements and Medications for Sperm Quality

Lubricants and Sperm Health

Steps for Getting a Semen Analysis

Freezing Sperm: When and Why

Guest Bio:

Dr. Jessica Ryniec is double board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She joined CCRM Boston in 2020 after completing her fellowship at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, VT. She received her undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University and her MD from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. During her residency for obstetrics and gynecology at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Ryniec received the Excellence in Female Pelvic Medicine Award and recognition for Outstanding Accomplishment in Women’s Health. In addition to presenting her research at prestigious medical conferences, such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Reproductive Investigation Annual Meeting, Dr. Ryniec has authored several publications for notable peer-reviewed journals, including the American Journey of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Ryniec practices medicine embracing the motto of Cura Personalis, or care of the entire person. She believes in education and in the value of shared decision making and patient empowerment, and spends time on social media educating, empowering, and supporting people while trying to conceive, going through fertility treatments or fertility preservation. She believes in family, and understands that family comes in many forms, and is committed to helping her patients achieve the family they desire. Social Media:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Ryniec on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Ep. 284: Understanding Egg Quality with Ashe Milkovic Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe as she welcomes Ashe to the show to dive into the latest insights on fertility, specifically focusing on egg and follicle quality. They discuss the science behind egg development, the impact of lifestyle and diet on fertility, and the critical role of follicle health. Ashe also debunks common myths and emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader endocrine system, digestive health, and stress management for optimal fertility. Whether you're preparing for conception or just curious about reproductive health, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Expanding Topics: From Pregnancy to Fertility

Understanding Egg Quality

Defining Egg Quality

The Science Behind Egg Development

Follicle Development and Its Importance

Impact of Lifestyle on Follicle Health

The Role of Supplements and Probiotics

Testing and Personalized Recommendations

Exploring DUTCH and GI Map Tests

Understanding the DUTCH Test

Adrenal Health and Hormone Metabolism

When to Consider the DUTCH Test

Alternative Hormone Testing Methods

Introduction to the GI Map

The Importance of Individualized Functional Testing

Cycle Day Three Blood Test Explained

Recognizing Digestive Health Symptoms

Improving Bowel Movements

Stress and Egg Quality

Toxic Load and Generational Fertility

Guest Bio:

Ashe Milkovic is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Functional Hormone Health Expert. As the founder and CEO of The International Association for Functional Hormone Health, Ashe strives to make advancements in women's health accessible by teaching tools and strategies to health professionals to expand their knowledge, skill sets, and practices in functional hormone health. Through her association, Ashe is on a mission to educate, collaborate, and create a thriving community of skilled practitioners that are passionate in helping to transform the lives of women all over the globe.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Ashe on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://iafhh.com/training - Free Training, Revolutionizing Hormones

https://iafhh.com/practitioner-directory

Visual of follicle development discussed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278951/figure/morpho-physio-ovary_f_morpho-physio-ovary_figure1/#:~:text=It%20takes%20~290%20days%20for,)%20or%20gonadotropin%2Ddependent%20period.

Book mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Nutrition-Your-Genes-Traditional/dp/1250113822

YOUTUBE LINKS:

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

Ep. 283: Your Legal Rights & Informed Consent in Childbirth: Insights from Advocate & Lawyer Hermine Hayes-Klein Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe as she delves into an important conversation with lawyer Hermine Hayes-Klein on the legal challenges and solutions surrounding informed consent and women's rights in childbirth. The episode discusses systemic flaws in the U.S. hospital system that often violate birthing individuals' rights and how these can be tackled. Hayes-Klein shares her personal experiences and strategies for understanding and asserting one’s rights, the pivotal role of the right healthcare provider, and the significance of doulas in protecting patient autonomy. Learn about practical advice, legal support, the impact of obstetric violence, and crucial conversations every doula must have to ensure a respectful and empowered birthing experience.

Understanding Informed Consent in Childbirth

Global Perspectives on Maternal Health

The Reality of Obstetric Practices

The Law of Informed Consent

Case Studies of Obstetric Violence

The Role of Nurses in Informed Consent

Challenges and Solutions in Maternal Care

The Unique Evil of Female OBs

Understanding Withdrawn Consent

The Reality of Anesthesia Failures

Navigating Consent Forms

Doctors as Service Providers

The Right to Refuse a C-Section

The Rise of Unassisted Births

The Role of Doulas in Childbirth

Empowering Doulas to Advocate

Guest Bio:

Hermine is an attorney specializing in human rights and pregnancy and childbirth. Her law practice focuses on defending midwives And advocating for access to midwifery, and holding obstetric providers, responsible for the violation of informed consent. Through the birthright law project, she offers document packages for Doula and for out of hospital, midwives, as well as assistance with birth plans and getting them respected.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

Connect with Hermine on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Connect with Hermine:

Birthrightslawproject.com

hayeskleinlaw.com

Nursing article:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1751485123001587?via%3Dihub

Examples of articles referencing how informed consent improves outcomes:
https://www.envisionhealth.com/news/2024/shared-decision-making-in-healthcare#:~:text=How%20do%20informed%20consent%20and,the%20overall%20cost%20of%20care.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486853/

Ep. 282: Understanding Vasa Previa, VCI & MCI: Rare Umbilical Cord Insertions Explained with OBGYN, Nathan Riley Aug 02, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe and Dr. Nathan Riley as they delve into the complexities of Marginal Cord Insertion (MCI), Velamentous Cord Insertion (VCI), and Vasa Previa, rare conditions that affect the umbilical cord's attachment to the placenta. Dr. Riley explains these conditions in detail, discusses their implications for labor and delivery, and provides guidance on how to manage them. Learn about the risks, potential complications, and how to have informed discussions with healthcare providers. This episode is packed with valuable insights for expectant mothers and birth workers alike. You won't want to miss it!

Understanding VCI and MCI

Diagnosing Cord Insertions

Risk Factors and Associations

Impact on Labor and Delivery

Nutritional and Lifestyle Considerations

Midwife vs. OBGYN: Understanding Different Approaches

Diagnosing and Managing Marginal Cord Insertion

Induction Decisions: Weighing the Options

Natural Induction Methods: Gentle Approaches

Understanding Vasa Previa: Risks and Realities

Navigating Low Intervention Births with Diagnoses

Community and Support: A New Consultation Model

Upcoming Conference: Learning and Networking Opportunities

Empowering Doulas: Knowledge and Advocacy

Guest Bio:

Dr. Nathan Riley is a holistic obgyn providing patient-centered, freedom-focused practice helping women find their healing signal through the noise. He also helps women birth on their own terms.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

Connect with Nathan on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS/resources MENTIONED:

Connect with Dr. Nathan Riley here

Twin & Breech Conference

References:

Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand - 2015 - Ebbing - Third stage of labor risks in velamentous and marginal cord insertion a.pdf

Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand - 2016 - Ebbing - Velamentous or marginal cord insertion and the risk of spontaneous preterm.pdf

marginal and velamentous outcomes.pdf

velamentous cord.pdf

Ep. 281: Micro Dosing in Motherhood with Tiffany Hurd Jul 31, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe as she dives deep into the world of micro dosing psilocybin with expert Tiffany Hurd. In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of psilocybin, its history, and its modern-day use, particularly focusing on microdosing. Tiffany sheds light on the science behind psilocybin, its potential benefits for mental health, creativity, and emotional well-being, and addresses the legal landscape surrounding its use. We also discuss its application in motherhood and how to responsibly integrate it into one’s life. For anyone curious about alternative therapies or looking to deepen their understanding of psilocybin, this is the perfect place to start.

Understanding Psilocybin and Microdosing

Historical Context and Modern Use

The Science Behind Psilocybin

Personal Stories and Experiences

Microdosing in Motherhood

Legality and Accessibility

Legal Status and Accessibility of Psilocybin

Future of Psilocybin: Medical and Therapeutic Models

Different Experiences: Microdosing vs. Higher Doses

Preparation and Integration in Psychedelic Therapy

Ayahuasca vs. Psilocybin: A Comparative Discussion

Safety Considerations and Contraindications

Consumption Methods and Dosage

Guest Bio:

Tiffany Hurd is a Microdosing and Plant Medicine Mentor, Speaker and Psychedelic Consultant based in San Diego who teaches the use of psychedelics within an intentional framework as a supportive and expansive offering for humanity’s healing, personal growth, and wellness.

As a seasoned expert in her field, she educates on how to effectively and intentionally work with psychedelics to facilitate personal transformation, human optimization and enhanced wellness with a focus on the intersections of physical and mental health

Having over fourteen years of experience working in high-level executive positions in Neurology and Neuroscience for Fortune 500 Companies, and over four years of experience consulting teams and coaching individual clients, Tiffany combines her business acumen and expertise to her clients. she teaches people how to effectively and intentionally optimize their psychedelic experiences through microdosing and integration guidance, somatic nervous system tools, wellness modalities and self ritual practices to help them achieve deep transformation.

With her guidance, individuals can unlock new levels of personal growth and self-awareness, with an approach grounded in compassion, integrity, and respect for the transformative power of psychedelics. Tiffany’s services are suitable for anyone seeking support for physical or mental health challenges, personal growth, or spiritual development.

Connect on Social Media:

Connect with HeHe on Instagram

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

Connect with Tiffany on Instagram

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Connect with Tiffany on her website: https://tiffanyhurd.com

Ep. 280: What Do Nurses REALLY Think About Birth Plans? with Nurse Sydney Jul 24, 2024

Show notes

Have you made a birth plan? Have you heard in the whispers of the internet that they are bad luck? Or that nurses won't respect them? Today HeHe is joined by Nurse Sydney to clear up the confusion around birth plans! Sydney is sharing how birth plans can benefit your care team, what you want to consider when making a birth plan and what goes through a nurse's head when they are handed a birth plan! The is a must-listen for anyone who is planning a hospital birth and wants to prioritize open communication with your medical team to achieve the best birth possible!

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Nurse Sydney on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Ep. 279: Postpartum Care Reimagined: The Village Postnatal Retreat Center with Jen Darwin, L&D RN, Doula Jul 19, 2024

Show notes

HeHe is joined by Jen Darwin to talk about reimagining postpartum in the US! As a former Labor & Delivery RN and now a doula, Jen is no stranger to the disparities that happen in postpartum support for moms-- the lack of 'the village,' the single six-week check up and no paid maternity care. Overall, the United States spends the most money in the world on healthcare per person. However, in regard to maternal outcomes, we typically rank last when compared to other wealthy nations. Today, Jen shares about her postnatal retreat center nestled in San Francisco and provides full-service, round the clock postpartum care for new parents! The retreat center is a comfortable, relaxing place where you, your partner and baby can get the support you need to get off to a healthy start. Meals are prepared for you, dishes are done for you, staff makes your bed, and washing bottles and pumping parts! Their King Studio and King Suites are customized for postpartum recovery and come equipped with heated bidet toilets, rainfall shower heads, and comfortable King Size beds. Whether it’s your first child or your fifth, a “village” of support can offer the resources you need.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with The Village on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

The Village Retreat Center

**Receive $200 Spa Credit and $100 off your total stay when you mention The Birth Lounge Podcast

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