84: Friday Free Talk: Surviving the Holidays After A Loss

In this episode, HeHe provides an in-depth guide to finding the perfect doula to support your birth journey. She covers the best time to hire a doula, what to consider when choosing one, and the variety of doula types available. HeHe emphasizes the importance of knowing your birth goals and expectations, and offers practical advice on interviewing potential doulas, including essential questions to ask. She also highlights the benefits of having a doula, from reducing the risk of a C-section to increasing breastfeeding success. Additionally, HeHe discusses how to find doulas using websites like doulamatch.net and community resources, and explores the significance of doula teams, backup plans, and business credentials. 00:00 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast 01:26 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing 03:13 Finding the Right Doula for Your Birth 12:17 The Role and Benefits of a Doula 18:08 How to Choose and Interview Your Doula 33:50 Final Thoughts and Next Steps INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Check out the free webinar to help you avoid a c-section!  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!

29 Jan 34min

Join HeHe and guest Anna Cosentino in this eye-opening episode where Anna bravely shares her harrowing experience with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) during her pregnancy. Despite a history of endometriosis and POTS, Anna initially had a symptomless pregnancy, only to be struck by severe vomiting and nausea at five and a half weeks. She details her struggles with medical providers who dismissed her symptoms, her battle to get life-saving IV fluids, and her fight for appropriate care. Topics covered include the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, the role of community and support, and practical advice for others facing similar challenges. Anna also discusses her post-pregnancy journey and the lasting effects of HG. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with HG or severe morning sickness during pregnancy.   Understanding HG and Its Impact Personal Pregnancy Journey Begins Challenges with Healthcare Providers Severe Symptoms and Seeking Help Postpartum Reflections and Advice Advocating for Yourself Resources and Support for HG   Guest Bio: Anna is 25 years old and just had her first child, a little girl! She works full time at a church in the Atlanta area working in music and production with middle and high school students. Anna developed HG at 5 weeks of pregnancy and proceeded to throw up 5-15x a day for the remainder of my pregnancy until she delivered. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe 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: Find more resources from HER foundation: https://www.hyperemesis.org/ A Screening Tool: https://www.hyperemesis.org/tools/help-score/ 2023 article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532917/ ACOG: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy ACOG Practice Bulletin 189: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2018/01/nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy

24 Jan 41min

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes back Dr. Darrell, an experienced OBGYN, to discuss a range of important topics related to childbirth, including the role of doulas, the impact of medical interventions, and the complexities of the healthcare system. They dive deep into how doulas support birth, partner dynamics, and the trust crucial in the birthing process. Dr. Darrell also shares insights on fetal heart rate monitoring, the financial aspects of different birth methods, and the significance of being well-informed as parents. HeHe emphasizes the importance of making educated choices and establishing good relationships with healthcare providers.    The Role of Doulas in Birth Hospital Dynamics and Doula Relationships Financial Incentives in Birth Methods Litigation and Medical Interventions Fetal Heart Rate Concerns Fetal Scalp Electrodes Explained Reflecting on Past Experiences with Doulas The Role and Independence of Doulas Building Trust and Connection with Doulas Challenges and Misconceptions about Doulas 35:25 Personal Birth Experiences and Reflections Breech Births and Residency Stories The Evolution of Obstetric Practices The Future of Birth Centers and C-Sections The Importance of Being an Informed Consumer Guest Bio: Dr. Darrell Martin, MD, FACOG, is an esteemed gynecologist, gynecological surgeon, and beacon of healthcare advocacy with a distinguished career spanning over forty years in women's health. His unwavering dedication to patient choice and care has led him to the forefront of legislative change, testifying before Congress in staunch support of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and the rights of patients to choose their healthcare providers. Notably, his passionate advocacy for nurse-midwifery in Tennessee, has cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the advancement of the profession. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe 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!   Grab the Scripts for Advocacy here!   LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.darrellmartinbooks.com/

22 Jan 58min

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe has an engaging discussion with Dr. Darrell Martin, a retired Obstetrician-Gynecologist, who strongly advocates for the midwifery model of care. Dr. Martin shares his journey in obstetrics, emphasizing patient autonomy and providing insights from working with midwives. The conversation covers Dr. Martin's career, the importance of trust and informed decision-making in prenatal care, and the evolution of maternity care in the U.S. Dr. Martin also discusses his book 'In Good Hands,' reflecting on his experiences and the systemic challenges and politics within the healthcare system. The dialogue highlights the profound impact of collaborative care and explores practical advice for navigating birth choices. This episode is a treasure trove of information for expecting parents, offering a blend of personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based practices to support a confident and informed birth experience.   Dr. Darrell's Journey into Obstetrics Challenges and Changes in Obstetrics Midwifery and Collaborative Care Legal and Professional Battles Success in Atlanta Advice for Expecting Parents The Objectivity of Practice Employees Questions to Ask About Your Provider Hospital Policies and Inductions The Role of Midwives in Birth Financial Incentives in Birth Practices The Shift to Epidural Use Collaborative Care Between Provider and Patient The Importance of Trust in Prenatal Care Challenges in Large Practices Promoting Partner Involvement Guest Bio: Dr. Darrell Martin, MD, FACOG, is an esteemed gynecologist, gynecological surgeon, and beacon of healthcare advocacy with a distinguished career spanning over forty years in women's health. His unwavering dedication to patient choice and care has led him to the forefront of legislative change, testifying before Congress in staunch support of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and the rights of patients to choose their healthcare providers. Notably, his passionate advocacy for nurse-midwifery in Tennessee, has cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the advancement of the profession. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe 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!   Grab the Pitocin Guide here!    LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.darrellmartinbooks.com/

17 Jan 1h 3min

HeHe welcomes Zhenya Lindgardt, President and CEO of Sera Prognostics, to discuss the critical issue of preterm birth, its rising incidence in the U.S., and innovative solutions available today. Zhenya explains the definition and statistics of preterm birth, and introduces the Preterm test, a blood test that predicts the risk of preterm birth as early as 18 weeks of gestation. The conversation also covers the effectiveness of Sera Prognostics' intervention bundles, improvements in pregnancy care, and the importance of innovation in maternal health. Listeners will learn about the accessibility and process of the Preterm test and the overall goal of making this technology widely available to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.   Understanding Preterm Birth Advancements in Preterm Birth Testing Interventions for High-Risk Pregnancies Clinical Trials and Results At-Home Testing and Accessibility Innovation in Maternal Health Guest Bio: Zhenya Lindgardt is an accomplished leader in healthcare innovation, currently serving as the President, CEO, and Board Director of Sera Prognostics, Inc. and CEO of The Commons Project Foundation. As the leader of Sera, Zhenya is revolutionizing the maternal and infant health space by addressing the preterm birth crisis with cutting-edge science. With a rich background including senior roles at Uber Technologies and a 19-year tenure at Boston Consulting Group, she has demonstrated expertise in driving growth and fostering innovation. Her contributions span multiple therapeutic areas and focus on leveraging data to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   https://www.facebook.com/serapregnancy https://www.instagram.com/serathepregnancycompany?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== https://www.linkedin.com/company/sera-prognostics 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: Websites: Sera | The Pregnancy Company PreTRM® Premature Birth Risk Blood Test from Sera March of Dimes Report Card CDC NYU article about racial disparities in pre-term birth rates What is causing the rise in pre-term birth?   Diagnostics: AVERT Trial Press Release: Sera PreTRM® Test Prevention Strategy Demonstrates 18% Reduction in Severe Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Newly Published AVERT Trial | Sera   AVERT Trial Data: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/14/1462

15 Jan 41min

Join HeHe in this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, where she discusses the essentials of functional movement and strength training during pregnancy and postpartum with physical therapist Elaina Manolis. Discover the crucial role of muscle strength in preventing injuries and ensuring a smoother postpartum recovery. Learn about balancing mobility with stability, the impact of hormones, and the significance of a structured corrective exercise regimen. Elaina provides expert insights based on her extensive experience and personal journey, emphasizing the importance of preparing your body for the physical demands of motherhood. Tune in for actionable tips, evidence-based information, and valuable resources to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond with confidence.   The Importance of Functional Movement During Pregnancy Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries and How to Prevent Them Postpartum Functional Movement and Corrective Exercises Finding the Right Physical Therapist   Guest Bio: Elaina was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM and has been a studio-trained dancer since the age of 3. She was a member of her high school danced team and won 3 State titles. She then coached that team for 6 years while dancing on her college dance team at the University of New Mexico. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science at UNM in 2010 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at UNM in 2015. She got married in 2015 and moved to the Dracut, MA where her husband was born and raised. She started her own self-pay physical therapy practice, EDM Physical Therapy, LLC, and is also a full-time treating therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Outpatient center in Boston, MA focusing on injury prevention and performance enhancement. Additionally, she is a contract physical therapist for NeuroTour Physical Therapy, providing backstage treatment to the performers in the Broadway shows that She is currently serving as a committee member for professional development for the International Association of Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS) and is in her final year of studies for her terminal academic degree as a Doctor of Science (ScD) in Physical Therapy through Texas Tech University. Additionally, she is adjunct faculty in the DPT programs at both UMass Lowell and MGH Institute of Health Professions.   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Elaina 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: Book with Elaina: www.edmphysicaltherapy.janeapp.com Get 20% off an initial evaluation with the code TBH20 typed in the "How Did You Hear About Us?" section when booking! (The EMR platform I use has not yet integrated an actual discount code section so this is my workaround!)

10 Jan 39min

In this episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe and Lisa Villani, founder of Empowered Birth Coaching, dive into the significance of prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy. They discuss first-trimester genetic screening, gestational diabetes testing options, and the controversy around routine ultrasounds. Lisa shares her expertise on how to make informed decisions about these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding your options and advocating for your preferences. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing prenatal care and preparing for a confident birth experience.   Defining Unnecessary Interventions First Trimester Tests and Genetic Screening Gestational Diabetes Screening Options The Controversy of Routine Ultrasounds Cervical Checks: What You Need to Know Understanding Cervical Exams The Importance of Bishop Score Preterm Labor and Cervical Checks Consent and Body Autonomy Making Informed Decisions Navigating IV Fluids During Labor The Debate on Birthing Positions Empowering Your Birth Experience   Guest Bio: Lisa is an ICF-certified Pregnancy Coach & Doula Mentor. Lisa empowers women to advocate for themselves and navigate the medical system with confidence by helping mothers connect with dedicated doulas. She has made it her mission to amplify the voices of women and birth workers alike so that mothers have the support they deserve! You can find her on IG as @loudmouthdoula or tune into Loud Mouth Doula podcast!   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Lisa 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: Freebie for doulas: 3 Must-Ask questions for a killer consultation for doulas: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/3questions    Fierce Mama Circle online community for pregnant and postpartum mothers: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/circle Use code BIRTHLOUNGE for 1 month free in Fierce Mama Circle

8 Jan 1h 7min

Join HeHe in this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Dr. Steph Lopez, a former NASA psychologist, to explore the intricacies of pregnancy anxiety, birth preparation, and postpartum mental health. Discover expert tips on managing fears, embracing uncertainty, and building confidence throughout your birthing journey. Learn about the importance of self-acceptance, handling negative self-talk, and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Whether you're preparing for birth or navigating early parenthood, this episode provides valuable strategies to help you feel empowered and informed.   Understanding and Managing Anxiety The Power of Intuition vs. Fear Facing Fears in Pregnancy and Birth The Psychology Behind Failure and Birth Trauma Dealing with Disregulation and Control Embracing Life's Challenges The Power of Acceptance Self-Acceptance vs. Self-Improvement Breaking Cycles and Parenting Navigating Intrusive Thoughts   Guest Bio: Dr. Steph is an I/O Psychologist and Brain Based Coach. She guides women to heal and become more emotionally resilient so that they feel happy, present, at ease, and capable. She previously worked at NASA and is the founder of The BRAVE Method. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube.   Connect with Dr. Steph 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: Free class on how to ditch anxiety: www.brave-method.com/anxiety HEHE - $200 off of BRAVE Breathwork, which is designed to recalibrate your nervous system and bring you out of fight or flight

27 Dec 20241h 12min