Ep. 313: Breaking Barriers in Maternity Care (pt.2 ) with Dr. Darrell Martin, OBGYN on Patient-Centric Healthcare

This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy pregnancy and postpartum period! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your pregnancy and postpartum feel a little more luxurious: https://cozyearth.com/ Grab HeHe’s Scripts for Advocacy here!  Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host Hehe welcomes Dr. Melanie Jackson, a renowned midwife and PhD holder in midwifery, also known as Melanie the Midwife. They dive into the intricacies of the hospital birth system, discussing how over-medicalization can affect birth outcomes and the importance of educating oneself to navigate these systems effectively. Dr. Jackson shares insights on the cascade of interventions, the significance of understanding hospital policies, and ways to take radical responsibility for your birth experience. Both Hehe and Dr. Jackson advocate for women to be well-informed and proactive in their childbirth planning. They also touch upon the similarities and differences between the Australian and U.S. healthcare systems, the rising cesarean rates, and how confirmation bias affects the acceptance and practice of new medical research. The episode wraps up with a discussion of Dr. Jackson’s resources, including her Guide to a Great Birth and the Great Birth Rebellion podcast.   00:00 Introduction to Birth and Interventions 01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:14 Understanding the Cascade of Interventions 02:30 Navigating the Hospital System 03:32 Introducing Dr. Melanie Jackson 05:42 Resources for Advocacy and Research 08:42 Meet Preg Nancy: A Unique Educational Tool 15:34 The Industrialization of Birth 27:54 The Power of Advocacy and Education 43:38 Equipping Your Birth Support Team 44:46 Taking Control of Your Birth Experience 46:48 The Reality of Postpartum Comfort 49:25 Understanding C-Section Rates in Australia 50:16 The Impact of Medicalization on Birth 57:24 The Role of Research and Confirmation Bias 01:06:53 Navigating Hospital Policies and Personal Responsibility 01:17:26 Resources and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Dr Melanie Jackson (AKA Melanie The Midwife) loves to help midwives and women around the world better understand and apply the research relating to matrescence (the process of becoming a mother). She does this as the host of The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast, supporting and mentoring midwives, as well as educating mothers.   Melanie has a PhD in Midwifery - Birth Outside the System: Wanting the Best and Safest. She has various publications in academic journals. Mel has worked in multiple research roles and lectured at Western Sydney University.   Since 2009, Mel has been a Privately Practising Midwife, providing homebirths in the Blue Mountains. She has mentored midwives into private practice in every state and territory across Australia and supports rebellious midwives around the world through The Assembly of Rebellious Midwives and The Convergence of Rebellious Midwives.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Mel the Midwife on IG  Connect with Mel 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: Check out Dr. Mel’s website   The Convergence for midwives Listen to The Great Birth Rebellion

16 Heinä 1h 24min

In this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe dives into the world of skincare during pregnancy with nurse practitioner Claire O'Bryan, founder of The Skin Clique. They explore the surprising fact that most skincare ingredients are not regulated by the FDA and discuss what it truly means for a product to be 'clean'. They tackle common pregnancy skincare concerns such as melasma, acne, and the safety of popular ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid. The episode also touches on the controversial topics of Botox, fillers, and the efficacy of supplements like collagen in skincare. Claire provides practical advice on crafting an effective, simple daily skincare routine and the importance of sunscreen, while addressing misconceptions about the need for sunscreen. Tune in to get evidence-based answers to your burning skincare questions and learn how to navigate the complexities of beauty products safely in pregnancy and beyond. 00:00 Introduction to Skincare Safety 02:00 Common Skincare Concerns During Pregnancy 03:50 Interview with Claire O'Bryan 04:51 Skincare Regimens and Fads 07:20 Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients 11:06 Acne Treatments During Pregnancy 15:33 Retinol Alternatives and Supplements 20:37 Daily Skincare Routine Essentials 25:16 Sunscreen Myths and Facts 34:51 Effective Sunscreen Reapplication 35:42 Blue Light Protection in Sunscreens 36:32 Impact of Screen Time on Skin 38:39 Understanding Botox and Fillers 44:32 Botox Safety During Pregnancy and Nursing 50:36 Microneedling and Skincare During Pregnancy 01:01:34 Preventing and Treating Stretch Marks 01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Claire O'Bryan is a dynamic nurse practitioner and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering women and amplifying the voices of female healthcare leaders globally. Her mission extends beyond traditional medical aesthetics – she's reshaping how we think about healthcare delivery while paving the way for women in leadership. As the co-founder of Skin Clique, Claire continues to help revolutionize the medical aesthetics industry through a groundbreaking concierge model. Since launching Skin Clique in 2019, what began as a vision for more accessible skin health has grown into a nationwide network of 1,000 skilled providers across 43 states. This expansion reflects not just business success but a transformation in how people access professional treatments and skincare. It is the modern approach to skin health.   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG   Connect with Claire 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: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page   LINKS MENTIONED: www.claireobryan.com www.skinclique.com: Use code Claire10 for a discount!    Pregnancy safe skincare:  https://shopmy.us/collections/549485   Collagen meta analysis:  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/?utm_source   ACOG  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/toxic-chemicals-steps-to-stay-safer-before-and-during-pregnancy   ACOG Skin Conditions https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy   Retinol VS Bakuchiol in a double blind RCT  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/   Systematic Review of Retinol VS Bakuchiol  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/   Collagen  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/

11 Heinä 1h 9min

Join us in this solo-cast of the Birth Lounge podcast where HeHe dives into a Q&A from her instagram community!  In this episode, she is addressing some of your most pressing questions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Topics covered include the differences between 'on paper' and actual pregnancy weeks, the nuances of cervical checks and how to decline them, navigating anxiety and nutrition during early pregnancy, how to handle airport security while pregnant, and the intricacies of declining certain medical procedures like membrane sweeps and scheduled C-sections. HeHe also shares essential tips on dealing with family visits to newborns and addressing the impact of GBS testing and breech births. Don't miss this episode to help ensure a healthy and autonomous pregnancy and birthing experience. 00:00 Introduction and Zero Tolerance Policy 00:56 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast 01:24 How to Get Your Questions Answered 03:15 Understanding Pregnancy Weeks 05:59 Declining Cervical Checks 11:42 Coping with Pregnancy Anxiety and Weight Loss 14:14 Traveling While Pregnant 18:11 Declining a Scheduled C-Section for Breech Baby 22:44 Managing Weight Monitoring During Prenatal Visits 26:57 Group B Strep Testing Concerns 30:57 Membrane Sweeps: Risks and Benefits 32:04 Setting Boundaries for Newborn Visits 36:05 Addressing Concerns About VBAC 45:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe 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: Pushing Freebie: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pushing   Secret Sauce to Pushing Course: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/secretsaucetopushing   GBS information: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/   Membrane Sweep, Ep. 268: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V41R8PDhH2Kia48mdqdub?si=kz6gtEh6SJGIGOz_pT1j6w&nd=1&dlsi=7b03c32c4cd24188   Radiation when Flying:  https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/data-research/facts-stats/air-travel.html https://www.tsa.gov/videos/travel-tips-pregnant-travelers https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radiation-and-airport-security-scanning https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC153688/ https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/flying-and-health https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/air-travel-exposes-you-to-radiation-how-much-health-risk-comes-with-it/   Don't weigh me cards: https://more-love.org/product/dont-weigh-me-cards-postage/

9 Heinä 47min

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes special guest Helena Woods, a world-traveling astrocartographer and author of 'Slow Living.' Helena shares insightful knowledge on astrocartography, the astrology of location, and how it can influence your life map, career success, relationships, and motherhood. The discussion also delves deep into the power of manifestation and astrology, revealing how to live a magical life aligned with your astrological placements. HeHe and Helena explore the profound effects of migrating and how one’s birth chart and astrological lines can uncover significant opportunities and connections globally. Additionally, Helena offers valuable tips for each zodiac sign on how to embrace pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. Tune in for an enlightening episode filled with wisdom on manifesting the life you desire through the lens of astrological insights. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:42 Manifestation Practices and Personal Insights 02:54 Guest Introduction: Helena Woods 04:39 Astrocartography Explained 09:07 Understanding Astrological Lines 23:11 Relocation Astrology and Its Impact 27:19 Future Predictions and Technological Advancements 39:33 Astrological Signs and Family Dynamics 45:57 Unexpected Pregnancy and Trusting the Universe 48:41 Astrological Insights on War and Global Conflict 56:36 The Role of Technology and AI in Future Conflicts 01:04:07 Astrology and Personal Relationships 01:12:47 Astrological Guidance for Each Zodiac Sign 01:19:52 Resources and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Helena Woods is a world traveling astrocartographer, Youtuber, online course creator and author of the book Slow Living. As an astrologer, she uniquely specializes in location, helping people create magical lives in places they thrive. Originally from San Diego, California, she now lives abroad in France but travels often as she shares her astrocartography findings with others. Living slowly around the world, she creates from her heart to inspire others to create a magical life in a place they love. Since her business began, she's taught over 1500 students the power of location using astrology, timing and astro maps. She's been featured in The Economist, Conde Naste  Traveler and more!  SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Helena 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://helenawoods.com/freebies https://helenawoods.com/courses helenawoods.com YOUTUBE LINKS: Connect with HeHe on YouTube

4 Heinä 1h 25min

This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy postpartum! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your postpartum feel a little more luxurious.  In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe discusses the key components of comprehensive postpartum preparation. She covers essential tools to make postpartum life easier, strategies for health and nutrition, best practices for feeding your newborn, and actionable tips to optimize both your and your baby's sleep. HeHe also highlights the resources available in the Birth Lounge membership and app, including evidence-based articles and supportive community features. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health, informed decision-making, and how to prepare for a smoother transition to motherhood. 00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Preparation 00:53 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:16 Postpartum Prep Overview 01:52 The Birth Lounge Membership and App 04:57 Diving into Postpartum: Four Key Categories 05:40 Home Systems and Responsibilities 10:33 Postpartum Preparation Tools 24:38 Health and Nutrition for Postpartum 30:22 Feeding Your Baby: Tips and Support 39:18 Newborn Sleep Essentials 47:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe 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: Nyssa Care postpartum underwear  Lasinoh cooling  Silverettes (use code HeHe) Witch hazel pads  Swaddle White noise machine MAM pacifier Cozy Earth Pajamas and Sheets (use code HEHE for 40% off!) Ep 356 with Ashlee Brown Ep. 219 baby reflux with Aine Homer Newborn Sleep Solution  Magnesium calm powder   YOUTUBE LINKS: Connect with HeHe on YouTube

2 Heinä 50min

In this fascinating episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe is joined by Psychic Medium Jessica Lynne to delve into the world of psychic mediumship, spirit babies, energetic blocks, and the power of surrendering in life and labor. Jessica shares her extraordinary abilities to connect with the spirit world, offering comfort and guidance to those seeking connections beyond the material realm. They discuss the concept that babies choose their parents, the lessons learned through challenging experiences, and the role of spirit guides. Jessica also provides personal insights for HeHe's pregnancy, including an intuitive sense of a baby boy and a unique vision of a potential shower birth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about spirituality, mediumship, and the magical connections that exist in our lives.   00:00 Introduction to the Episode 01:50 Exploring Psychic Mediumship 03:09 Personal and Energetic Blocks 16:30 Intentional Language and Manifestation 20:35 Trusting the Journey 30:17 Introduction to Spirit Babies 31:03 Choosing Our Parents and Babies 31:45 Personal Reflections on Parental Relationships 34:32 Expectations and Realities of Pregnancy 35:35 Gender Intuition and Preparations 38:08 Birth Plans and Spiritual Connections 49:17 The Role of Faith and Spirituality 51:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Jessica Lynne is a gifted medium whose extraordinary abilities have intrigued and captivated seekers looking for connections beyond the material world. Emerging as a guiding light and source of comfort, Jessica assists those in search of reconnecting with departed loved ones. Using her profound spiritual insight and empathetic approach, Jessica Lynne has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the living and the spirit world.   Jessica has had the honour & privilege of reading for an array of celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and business owners. She has recently been featured on The Morning Show, 7News, The Australian, Marie Claire, Mamamia & Body+Soul, to name a few. Jessica conducts her readings online so she can connect with clients all over the world.    If you would like to connect with Jessica you can follow her on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship, check out her website at www.jessicalynnemediumship.com or listen to her podcast "Talk Spirit To Me"; ranked #2 on the Apple Charts for Spirituality: Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Jessica 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: www.jessicalynnemediumship.com

27 Kesä 55min

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes Linzay Davis, founder of Hello Bundle, to discuss the complex landscape of parental leave in the United States. They explore topics such as the lack of a standardized national paid parental leave policy, the nuances of FMLA, options available through individual states and employers, parental leave for entrepreneurs, and advice on how to best prepare for maternity or paternity leave. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding company policies, state programs, and the potential legal issues surrounding parental leave. Linzay shares valuable insights and actionable steps for expecting parents to maximize their time off and financial support during this critical period.   00:00 Introduction to Parental Leave Issues in the US 01:35 Guest Introduction: Linzay Davis from Hello Bundle 02:31 Understanding Parental Leave Options in the US 03:01 Navigating FMLA and Short-Term Disability 04:57 Challenges and Confusion Around Parental Leave 06:11 Exploring Job Protection and Accommodations 07:35 The Reality of Parental Leave in the US 19:45 Legal Rights and Risks of Asking for Accommodations 24:19 Planning and Preparing for Parental Leave 25:43 Parental Leave for Non-Gestational Parents 26:51 Understanding Short Term Disability and Parental Leave 27:50 Navigating HR and Company Policies 33:15 State vs. Employer Leave Policies 36:05 Parental Leave for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Employees 42:31 Best Practices and Resources for Parental Leave 43:26 Top States and Companies for Parental Leave 47:00 Creating an Ideal Nationwide Parental Leave Policy 48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Hello, Bundle helps new and expecting parents navigate parental leave in the US so they can take the most paid time off possible when they have a baby. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Linzay on IG  Connect with Linzay on TikTok   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://www.hello-bundle.com/

25 Kesä 51min

In this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes Ashlee Brown, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mother of three, to discuss the crucial topic of perceived versus true low milk supply. The conversation starts with the prevalence of perceived low milk supply and its impact on breastfeeding duration. Ashlee shares her personal pregnancy journey and emphasizes the importance of understanding how your body changes during this period. They delve into the significance of early breastfeeding, the first hours after birth, and pumping strategies to build an optimal milk supply. The discussion also covers the role of flange sizes, hormonal influences, and the importance of proper latch techniques. Ashlee explains the benefits of evidence-based tools and supplements, and addresses common myths surrounding lactation. She also highlights the issue of widely spaced tubular breasts and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) as potential reasons for low milk supply. Tune in to discover effective solutions and strategies for successful breastfeeding and learn how to distinguish between perceived and actual low milk supply.   00:00 Introduction and an update on HeHe’s Pregnancy Journey 03:12 The Birth Lounge App: Features and Benefits 06:04 Introduction to Low Milk Supply 06:53 Meet Ashlee Brown: Lactation Consultant 07:52 Understanding Low Milk Supply: Myths and Facts 23:24 Causes and Solutions for Low Milk Supply 29:07 The Importance of Proper Flange Sizes 33:07 Challenges with Breast Pumps and Wearable Pumps 37:26 Choosing the Right Breast Pump 38:29 Reusing Pumps for Future Children 40:28 Power Pumping and Its Effectiveness 44:14 Strategic Pumping to Increase Supply 49:18 Supplements and Diet for Milk Supply 53:04 Medications for Low Supply 55:08 Understanding Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT) 59:21 The Importance of Weighted Feeds 01:04:46 Final Thoughts and Support for Low Supply Moms    Guest Bio: Ashlee is a mom of 3, IBCLC, and the owner of Kentucky Breastfeeding Center located in Lexington, KY. She started as a childbirth educator and earned her IBCLC via pathway 3 mentorship at Novant Prince William hospital in Manassas, VA. She specializes in tongue & lip ties, low supply, and mentorship for future IBCLCs. Her passion is educating other professionals on the benefits of breastfeeding and the field of lactation. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Ashlee 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: www.kentuckybreastfeedingcenter.com

20 Kesä 1h 9min