Emily & Paul share the story of how they did everything they could to help their son to turn from breech to head down (vertex) so Emily could give birth vaginally, to no avail. So, they had to have a scheduled cesarean, but at least were able to go into labor spontaneously before the surgical birth. They share how Emily was diagnosed with a serious complication called HELLP Syndrome and how baby had to go to the NICU for low blood sugar, and some of the challenges that these complications presented.
Read moreBirth Matters Podcast, Ep 17 - A Grumpy Scotsman's Hospital Birth
Liz & Matt share the details of what they call their “grumpy old Scotsman” son’s uncomplicated birth at Manhattan’s New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell. Liz shares how she had lots of back labor and how the epidural only worked partially and temporarily. Later, she shares about her early breastfeeding challenges of oversupply and a food sensitivity they discovered their son has. Matt & Liz also share some tips for partners and for the postpartum period. Then they reflect on the transition into life with their son, after Matt had a daughter many years ago with another partner.
Read moreBirth Matters Podcast, Ep 16 - Home Birth in the "Upside Down" for 2nd-timer Inspires Doula Work
Want to hear a birth story in which an almost 10-pound baby boy is born safe and sound at home after 22 hours of labor? Ready or not, that’s what you're gonna hear today! Hear all about Alishia’s 2nd birth following her first birth in a hospital 15 years prior. Alishia also shares about her journey into birth & lactation work as a woman of color and her hopes of serving underserved populations in central Queens.
Read moreBirth Matters Podcast, Ep 15 - Induction for Cholestasis with Doula Support in 1st birth, Switch to Midwife for 2nd
Melissa shares 2 birth stories on today’s episode. First, she shares her first 1st birth story, which was an unusually quick, 6-hour induction with no pain meds and with doula support. Then she shares her rationale for switching care providers from an OB over to working with a hospital midwife for her 2nd baby’s birth, which was an even faster, 4-hour, unmedicated labor.
Read moreBirth Matters Podcast, Ep 14 - A NYC Actor's Vocal Work in Birth
Today’s birth story begins with a spontaneous rupture of the membranes, laboring at home for a number of hours, eventually transferring to the hospital where the labor continues with induction and epidural. As Amy and her husband are both actors, she describes the ways in which their acting training, specifically breath work & bodywork, helped her find her groove in her 3-hour pushing stage with a fairly large baby. She also details some compelling things to consider in partner communication and establishing healthy boundaries entering parenthood, particularly in light of the hormonal roller coaster we experience after birth.
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