Birthing Instincts
The birth world can be overwhelming for parents and practitioners alike. Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young, with their combined 55+ years of experience, are here to support you in this beautiful rite of passage. Join the weekly conversation as they blend wisdom and humor in discussing recent births, the latest research, traditional healing, and instinctual birth.
Episodes
#475: Birth Story & Body Health with Holistic Aesthetician, Michelle Vaughan
What happens when a traumatic first birth becomes the catalyst for a completely different second experience?This week, Blyss and Stu welcome holistic esthetician Michelle Vaughn to share the story of two births that couldn't have been more different, and how those experiences transformed not only the way she views birth, but the way she approaches health, skincare, motherhood, and everyday liv
#474: The Mystery Of Postpartum Preeclampsia
Postpartum preeclampsia is one of the least talked about, but potentially most serious, complications after birth. This week, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss explore what we know, what we don't, and why every new mother should understand the warning signs, even after a healthy pregnancy and birth.Together they review the latest evidence surrounding postpartum hypertension and postpartum preeclampsia
#473: Pursuing Peace With Courage & Confidence
This week, we're setting aside our usual topic-driven format to share something even more meaningful: real stories from our fellow travelers.Join us in reading one of the most moving letters we've ever received.A certified nurse-midwife shares the heartbreaking story of carrying a daughter diagnosed with anencephaly. Although her daughter, Olivia, was stillborn, she describes her birth as
#472: Lupus in Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks Without the Fear
In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Stu take a deep dive into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in pregnancy.Together they explore what lupus is, how it affects pregnancy, and what current evidence says about risks such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and congenital heart block. Along the way, Stu revisits the decades-old Hadlock fetal growth cur
#471: How Birth Shapes Mothers, Babies, and The Future, with Suzanne Arms
This week, Blyss and Stu welcome birth pioneer, author, filmmaker, and educator Suzanne Arms, one of the most influential voices in the natural birth movement of the last half-century.Long before conversations about physiological birth, informed consent, and the over-medicalization of maternity care became mainstream, Suzanne was asking difficult questions. Her groundbreaking 1975 book *Immaculate
470: "Allowed" To Birth with Documentary Filmmaker, Jacinta Lagos
What happens when a birth photographer picks up a camera and decides she can no longer stay silent?This week, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss welcome Jacinta Lagos, an award-winning birth photographer, doula, filmmaker, and creator of the powerful new documentary, Allowed to Birth: The Journey of a Global Midwife.Born and raised in Argentina, Jacinta grew up believing cesarean birth was simply "how
#469: Should 38-Week Induction For Big Babies Become A Thing?
This week, Blyss and Stu take a deep dive into the increasingly popular recommendation of inducing labor at 38 weeks for suspected “big babies”.Prompted by a recent social media post from a prominent obstetric influencer, they examine two studies being used to justify earlier inductions for "big babies" and ask an important question: do the data actually support the conclusions being promo
#468: Everybody's Doing It", Not A Legal Standard Of Care With Hermine Hayes-Klein, ESQ.
What happens when hospitals decide informed consent no longer applies to breech birth?In this powerful and deeply important episode, Blyss and Stu welcome back attorney and birth rights advocate Hermine Hayes-Klein to unpack a landmark Oregon malpractice trial centered on coercion, informed consent, and the growing normalization of mandatory cesarean sections for breech babies.This is not just a c
#467: Magic Wand, The Benefits of Red Light Therapy With Liz Frey....
This week, Dr. Stu and Blyss break down a recent Substack article reviewing large studies comparing planned home birth and hospital birth for low-risk women. The data? Fewer interventions, lower C-section rates, fewer infections, less hemorrhage, and fewer severe tears with planned home birth. But as always, the conversation goes deeper, into absolute vs. relative risk, the infamous cascade of int
#466: Update On The Use Of TXA (Tranexamic Acid)
What happens when a medication designed to stop hemorrhage quietly starts creeping into routine birth care?This week, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss take on TXA (tranexamic acid), what it is, when it actually makes sense, and why they’re increasingly concerned about how it’s being used in modern maternity care.From postpartum hemorrhage protocols to the growing push for prophylactic use during cesarean
#465: For All The Midwives In Texas: Fighting Injustice with Salli Gonzalez & Octavia Martinez, Esq
In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss sit down with Texas midwife Salli Gonzalez and attorney Octavia Martinez to unpack a case that should concern not only licensed midwives, but anyone with a license.Together they discuss what happens when a midwife follows protocol, transfers appropriately, and still becomes the target?What happens when unverified screenshots, incomplete records, an
#464: A Confused Mixture Of Topics: Clearing The Desk
This week’s podcast Blyss and Stu come to you with no guest and no single topic, just a “hodgepodge” of what’s been piling up in Dr. Stu’s mind attic.From collapsing birth options and disappearing breech skills…to food, fear, and the quiet coercion baked into modern maternity care.It may seem random, but there is a common thread here: Systems replacing skills, policy replacing autonomy, and women
#463: The 20 Week Ultrasound: Dissecting the Anatomy Scan
The 20-week anatomy scan has become a routine part of modern pregnancy, but is it truly essential, or just another layer of over-monitoring?After receiving a listener question, Dr. Stu and Blyss dissect the purpose, limitations, and unintended consequences of the anatomy scan. From what providers are actually looking for, to why so many women walk away with more anxiety than answers, this episode
#462: When Surrounded, Take The First Opportunity To Fight Like Hell With Del Bigtree
What if the system you trust never did the science you assume it did?In this explosive episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss sit down with Del Bigtree to pull back the curtain on vaccines, medical authority, and the institutions shaping maternal and pediatric care. From ACOG recommendations to the hidden realities behind “safe and effective,” this conversation challenges everything we’re told—and asks the qu
#461: Fertility Back In Balance With Acupuncturist Emily Marson
What if infertility isn’t a broken body… but a disconnected one?In this episode, Blyss and Stu sit down with integrative fertility expert Emily Marson to challenge everything you’ve been told about conception, IVF, and what it actually means to “optimize” the body for pregnancy.From the forgotten intelligence of the body to the overreach of modern fertility medicine, this conversation pulls back t
#460: The Process Is The Punishment....And The Reward with Angee Hock
A home birth.A tragic outcome.And a midwife the state tried to make an example of.In this episode, Blyss and Stu talk with Angee Hock to unpack what it’s really like to be prosecuted for birth work. From a traumatic breech birth to jail time, national headlines, and a courtroom battle that could have changed everything, this conversation goes where most won’t.But what came out of her trial may cha
#459: Over-Monitoring & Outcomes, How Are We Doing & Who Benefits.
What happens when we monitor birth too much?In this episode, Blyss and Stu pull back the curtain on one of the most normalized, and least questioned, practices in modern obstetrics: continuous monitoring. What starts as “safety” can quietly become interference, and the consequences aren’t small.Together, they break down how over-monitoring can derail physiologic birth, increase unnecessary interve
#458: Why Home Birth? A New Book For Fathers To Be With Jacob Dubois
What happens when a skeptical dad starts asking real questions about birth? Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss sit down with Dad Jacob Dubois, author of Why Home Birth, to talk about how he went from doubter to outspoken home birth advocate, and why fathers may be one of the missing voices in the fight to reclaim birth from the medical system.About JacobJacob Dubois is a devoted husband to Madison and a pr
#457: Asymptomatic Bacturia & UTIs in Pregnancy. Balancing Antimicrobial Stewardship
Is every positive urine culture in pregnancy a problem that needs antibiotics? Dr. Stu and midwife Blyss explore ACOG’s UTI guidelines, the evidence behind screening, and the growing concern about microbiome disruption and antibiotic resistance.References:Motherhood Equipped Podcast: 62. Birth Freedom, Breech Truth, and Why Physiologic Birth Matters with Dr. Stuart FischbeinPatreon.com/BirthingIns
#456: Principalities & Powers & Protecting Traditional Midwifery with Abby Iovine
On this week’s episode Blyss and Stu introduce guest Abigail Iovine, a Pennsylvania traditional midwife, and her mission to create legislation to protect traditional midwifery through her organization The National Alliance for Traditional Birth Rights. Iovine discusses how legislation and institutional credentialing can criminalize basic midwifery care and shrink options. This episode outlines har
#455: An Amazing OB Who Listens & Supports Triplets Vaginally with Dr. Michael Hervey II
With Blyss away, Stu sits down with Phoenix OB-GYN Michael Hervey II to explore what true physician–midwife partnership looks like in real time. Together, an OB and midwife team delivered a remarkable set of hospital triplets born in rapid succession within minutes, totaling just over fifteen pounds. It’s a conversation about collaboration over hierarchy, shared skill, and how complex physiologic
#454: Getting Your Hands Wet: Water & Wisdom From Barbara Harper
Blyss and Stu are joined by guest Barbara Harper, founder of Waterbirth International, an internationally recognized expert on water birth and gentle birth. Join us for a roller coaster of an episode where we dig into the history of water birth, tell stories about how society lost its way in the world of birth, and dive into the physiology of birthing in water. Truly an episode you won’t forget.Ab
#453: Energetic Imprinting & Integration with Pre & Perinatal psychology practitioner, Mary Jackson
In this week’s episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Blyss Stu challenge one of the most ignored questions in modern obstetrics: what does birth actually do to a human being? Joined by midwife and pre- and perinatal psychology educator Mary Jackson, they explore how experiences from conception through early childhood leave lasting imprints on the nervous system, emotional development, and lif
#452: The Importance of Gathering - We Are The Microbiome
In this episode, Blyss and Stu are joined by Nathan Riley and Carol Gautschi to discuss the profound importance of in-person gatherings within the birth work community. The conversation covers the unique value of face-to-face interactions, the differences between organic and inorganic communication, and the challenges and rewards of organizing birth-related events. They reflect on the impact of be
#451: We are not packaging sausages - Why Doulas should remain independent with Shellie Poulter & Ivy Joeva
This week on the podcast, Blyss and Stu take a hard look at what’s happening to the world of doula support as insurance and institutions move in. They’re joined by two seasoned doulas, Ivy Joeva and Shellie Poulter, who bring decades of experience advocating for women in birth. Together, they unpack how policy, regulation, and insurance reimbursement can quietly shift doula care away from individu
#450: What’s To Do About Fluoride?
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu explore the history, benefits, and controversies surrounding fluoride in drinking water, highlighting different perspectives and potential health implications. References:The Way Forward Podcast: Ep 213: The Corrupted World of Medicalized Birth with Dr. Stu FischbeinThe Highwire: EPA LOSES HISTORIC FLUORIDE CASEThe Tennessean: Fluoride has been a public health
#449: A Free OB: A Conversation with Dr. Poppy Daniels on The Dangers of DepoProvera
This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss welcome special guest Dr. Poppy Daniels, a holistic OB-GYN with over 22 years of private practice experience. They discuss the severe side effects of Depo-Provera, revealing alarming risks like bone loss, weight gain, immune suppression, and even brain tumors. She advocates for a more informed and individualized approach to female health, emphasizing the need fo
#448: Tampons: Convenience Does Not Imply Safety
In this week’s episode Stu is finally back and excited to engage in a candid discussion with Blyss about the overlooked risks of using tampons, highlighting a 2024 study that found harmful metals and chemicals in these products. They explore the hidden dangers of tampons. Stu emphasizes the lack of long-term safety testing and regulatory oversight for menstrual products, and Blyss discusses altern
#447: Midwifery Past, Present and Future: Wisdom from Adele Rose
In this week’s episode Blyss interviews Adele Rose, an elder and mentor in the midwifery community, about her long-standing career and insights on the evolution of midwifery. Adele shares her personal journey from listening to her mom’s birth stories at the age of five to practicing as both a lay and licensed midwife for decades. They discuss the significant changes in community practices, the imp
#446: Baby Aspirin for All??
In this week’s episode you get a special sneak peak into The Birthing Instincts Patreon Community. With Dr. Stu still healing from knee surgery we decided to share an exclusive Bonus Content episode with you on baby aspirin. Together, Blyss and Stu explore the medical community's perspective on aspirin, discussing its potential benefits in preventing preeclampsia, growth restriction, and other
#445: Women Are Not a Formula: Debunking VBAC Myths with Sarah Stead
Dr. Stu hosts a special edition podcast featuring Sarah Stead, a registered massage therapist specializing in C-section recovery. Together they dive into various topics surrounding Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). They discuss the importance of informed consent, the flaws in using VBAC calculators, and societal and systemic issues affecting VBAC rates.About Sarah SteadSarah Stead is a register
#444: Restoring Midwifery: Breaking Down the Indefensible
In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss interview Rowan Bailey and Sarita Bennett, two midwives who have faced significant legal and professional challenges. They discuss Rowan's experience of being jailed for practicing traditional midwifery and Sarita's struggles with administrative hearings. The conversation dives into the importance of traditional, individualized midwifery ca
#443: Delusional Optimism: A Discussion of Recent Article On the Freebirth Society
In this episode, Blyss and Stu address a recent Guardian article discussing free birth and the Free Birth Society. They welcome guests Joni Edelman and Ivy Joeva to explore the complexities of unassisted births, the importance of informed consent, and sovereignty in childbirth. The conversation highlights both the potential risks and benefits of free birth, as well as the influence of social media
#442: Allegations Are Not Evidence With Paul Golden: A Man For All Seasons
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu introduce Paul Golden, a maternal and neonatal medical and legal specialist, midwife, and international advocate. Together they discuss the intricacies and challenges of midwifery practice around the world. Paul highlights his experiences working in various countries, combating legal threats to midwives, and advocating for birthing rights, while emphasizing th
#441: Early Intervention for Newborn Trauma & Other Wisdom with Peds & Wellness Chiropractor, Tony Ebel
This week’s episode discusses the profound impacts of birth trauma on the nervous system and the transformative potential of pediatric chiropractic care. Blyss and Stu invite Tony Ebel, a wellness chiropractor, to explore the benefits of chiropractic interventions. They also discuss the importance of holistic, less interventionist approaches in childbirth and medical care, emphasizing simplicity,
#440: Thrive Again With Crowdheath CEO Andy Schoonover
In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss discuss healthcare challenges and solutions with Andy Schoonover, CEO of Crowdhealth. Schoonover shares his personal journey that led him to start Crowdhealth, an innovative alternative to traditional health insurance that leverages community crowdfunding to cover medical expenses. The conversation examines the inefficiencies and complexities of th
#439: Where Did The Courageous Doctors Go?
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu enjoy another hodgepodge discussion where they dig into the intricacies of dealing with unexpected medical issues such as heavy postpartum bleeding linked to a fibroid, iron deficiency, and the unconventional use of Jay breathing during labor. The episode features strong themes of patient advocacy, the importance of seeking multiple opinions, and the personal
#438: Wellness Is Free! A Conversation On Trimester Zero With WeNatal Founders Vida & Ronit
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu invited Vita and Ronit, the founders of WeNatal, for a conversation about the significance of 'Trimester Zero,' the period leading up to conception, and its impact on egg and sperm quality. The founders share their personal journeys through pregnancy loss and how it led to the creation of WeNatal. They emphasize the importance of holistic health, inclu
#437: What Is The Value Of The Fetal Non Stress Test?
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu do a deep dive into the methodology, history, and current practices surrounding the non-stress test (NST) used in prenatal care. They answer all your questions: What is a non-stress test? Where did it come from? How did it become so accepted? Does it actually tell you what it's supposed to tell you? And, is there evidence that a previous stillbirth is an i
#436: What Is Vs. What Could Be. Models Of Care In Flux
Blyss is back and Stu has a hodgepodge of topics to cover with her. Blyss shares her enriching experience at an international midwifery conference in Greece, while Dr. Stu sheds light on the impersonal nature of modern medical practices and the hope brought by the Alice Walton School of Medicine. The episode enriches listeners with firsthand stories of birth, the dynamics between midwives and heal
#435: The Making of a Good Man with Ashley Mariani
In this week’s episode of The Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu is joined by Ashley Mariani, also known as 'The Rogue Therapist' from Instagram, to discuss the complexities of fatherhood and relationships. While Blyss is traveling, Ashley and Dr. Stu get deep and personal in conversation about how men can navigate fatherhood, improve their relationships, and break generational trauma. A
#434: Decisions, Cesareans & How to Advocate with HeHe Stewart
In this episode of The Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu is joined by HeHe Stewart from The Birth Lounge Podcast to explore common reasons for C-sections, how hospital policies and interventions often lead to unnecessary surgeries, and strategies for avoiding them. The episode features poignant birth stories that highlight the challenges and triumphs of navigating the medical system to achieve a
#433: Q & A with Dr. K, Pregnancy Specialist
In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu hosts a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist known on Instagram as Dr. K Pregnancy Specialist. From the rising C-section rates and the impact of continuous fetal monitoring, to the role of litigation in shaping medical practice, Dr. K shares her insights and the importance of incorporating midwifery approaches. Together, they also address more sensitive topics l
#432: The History of Alcohol & Pregnancy
In this weeks episode, Blyss and Stu examine the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure, providing historical context and the latest research findings. They discuss the relevance of abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy and the challenges of interpreting self-reported research data. Mentioned in This EpisodeStu’s 9/11 reflections on PatreonPresident Trump Signs Executive Order Limiting Big Pharma
#431: "Hold Your Beer" It's Fetal Macrosomia Guidelines
This week Blyss and Stu go on a deep dive into macrosomia, also known as a large baby. They review extensive data from multiple sources, including ACOG, NICE guidelines, and the Big Baby Study, and discuss the implications of predicted and actual macrosomia. They discuss risk factors, maternal and fetal morbidity, ultrasound accuracy, the pros and cons of induction of labor, and the impact of the
#430: Blood Transfusion Alternatives & Risks Explained
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss was experiencing issues with her wifi so Stu tackled the topic of blood transfusions solo. He discusses the challenges and alternatives to blood transfusions, particularly focusing on the concerns of patients who decline blood products due to personal, medical, or religious reasons. The episode covers recent studies on the risks associated w
#429: The Passing of a Legend: Our Tribute To Michel Odent
In this heartfelt episode, Blyss and Stu pay tribute to the late Michel Odent, a luminary in the field of childbirth and midwifery. They reminisce about his groundbreaking contributions in the world of birth. A strong supporter of water birth, advocating for hormonal understanding in labor, and his unwavering belief in the power of love and natural birthing processes, he is truly a legend that has
#428: Venous Thromboembolism (DVT & PE) in Pregnancy, Sorting Through The Data
In this week's episode, Blyss and Stu discuss the medical complexities of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) during pregnancy. They particularly focus on a listener's experience with blood clots during her second pregnancy and explore the risks, treatments, and recommendations associated with VTE. The discussion includes in-depth analysis of medical guidelines, the ef
#427: Changing The Narrative with Girls Who Know® Founder Laurisa Paul
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss interview Larissa Paul, founder of 'Girls Who Know®,' an organization dedicated to educating young girls about their bodies, menstrual cycles, and childbirth. They highlight how early education, and the knowing one's body can empower young girls, reduce fear, and lead to better birthing experiences. About Laur
#426: Gail Tully of Spinning Babies, Finally
In this episode, Stu and Blyss are joined by Gail Tully, the founder of Spinning Babies, to discuss the intricate dynamics of birth and fetal positioning. Gail shares both her personal journey and the scientific insights that have shaped Spinning Babies. Together they explore how balance, gravity, and movement can impact labor, and how practitioners and expectant mothers can prepare for a smoother
#425: Yoga Is A State Of Being with Claire Holloway
In this week's episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss Young are joined by Claire Holloway, founder of the Center for Bright Beginnings. Claire discusses the deeper philosophy of yoga, highlighting its relevance not just during pregnancy but as a preparation for home birth and beyond. She explains how yoga supports autonomy and personal sovereignty, guiding individ
#424: If You Teach A Woman To Fish...A Talk On Restorative Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Marguerite Duane
This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss are joined by Dr. Marguerite Duane to discuss the shortcomings of conventional infertility treatments and the promising potential of Restorative Reproductive Medicine (RRM). Dr. Duane, a family physician and expert in RRM, explains the importance of treating infertility as a symptom of underlying health issues rather than as a disease itself. Together, they dive
#423: Elective Sterilization: Navigating Permanent Birth Control
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss discuss elective sterilization methods such as vasectomy and tubal ligation. The episode details the procedures, potential complications, and success rates of reversals, offering a comprehensive overview of the various sterilization methods. Blyss brings the conversation back to natural and ancient methods of contraceptio
#422: What Are Legitimate Reasons For Induction?
In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu discuss various reasons for medical inductions, the process involved in hospital inductions, and alternative methods like castor oil and homeopathic remedies that can be pursued for a more natural approach. Listener stories highlight personal experiences with induction, offering insight into both the challenges and positive outcomes associated with this interv
#421: Turn Down The Power: Patti Wood On Radiation Exposure
This week Blyss and Stu welcome Patti Wood, founder and executive director of Grassroots Environmental Education, to discuss the potential risks of exposure to cell phones and other wireless devices, particularly focusing on their effects on fetal development and general human health. About Patti:Patricia Wood is the founder and Executive Director of Grassroots Environmental Education, a not-for-p
#420: Periodontal Disease & Health Is Often Overlooked with Stacia Garmon, RDH
In this episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss are joined by Stacia Garmon, a dental hygienist who shares her expertise on periodontal disease and its potential impact on overall health, including its association with heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Additionally, Stacia shares her pregnancy journey with her son Dax,
#419: Thank you, I love you. Our Conversation on the book "Yoni Owner's Manual" with Ibu Robin Lim
In this week's podcast, Blyss and Stu are joined by renowned midwife and author Robin Lim to explore her new book, The Yoni Owner's Manual. Robin shares her awe-inspiring experiences and insights into midwifery, childbirth, and the spiritual aspects of the female body, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and the interconnectedness of humans with nature and the divine.About Robin:Robin L
#418: What Zookeepers Know & Obstetricians Have Forgotten: A Conversation with Author Milli Hill
In this edition of The Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu hosts an enlightening discussion with guest Millie Hill, a renowned writer and feminist advocate. Millie, the author of 'The Positive Birth Book' and 'Birth Like a Feminist,' shares her journey from a drama therapist to a prolific writer on childbirth and women's health. The conversation delves into the significance of
#417: Midwifery & The Conundrum Of The Legislative Process with Ellie Stangl
This week Dr. Stu is solo as Blyss is away and joined by guest Ellie Stangl, a certified doula and legislative aide in Nebraska. Together they delve into the legislative process affecting maternity care: Does anyone understand the process? Does it make any logical sense? The short answer is no, but dive into this conversation with us to dig deeper and discuss the complications and frustrations of
#416: Disentangling Mono-chorionic Twins
This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss do a deep dive into mono-chorionic twin pregnancies, with a focus on debunking common myths about mono-mono twins. Drawing on recent research and personal experiences, they explore topics like the risks of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), cord entanglement, and the overall safety of vaginal deliveries for mono-mono twins.ResourcesBetween a Shot and a Ha
#415: Your Menstrual Cycle As A Window To Your Health. Our thoughtful discussion with "The Fifth Vital Sign" author, Lisa Hendrickson-Jack
This week Blyss and Stu discuss the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle with guest Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, author of The Fifth Vital Sign. Lisa brings not only her personal experiences with menstrual health, but also her expertise in the roles of basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and cervical position in fertility awareness. They highlight the broader health implications of suppre
#414: Advocacy is a Team Sport
Join us for an in-depth conversation with Meredith Nelson and Alicia Fishbein, board-certified patient advocates and seasoned doulas from Intentional Birth. The episode explores the critical role of advocacy in childbirth, covering topics from prenatal visits to labor and NICU challenges. Learn how to navigate hospitals, advocate effectively for clients, and transform traumatic experiences into em
#413: Rediscovering Ancient Postpartum Traditions: Pelvic Steaming with Valerie Wiesner
While Dr. Stu was busy teaching breech in Texas, Blyss hosted Valerie Wiesner to discuss the practice of vaginal steaming, its benefits, and the ancient traditions associated with it. Valerie shares her extensive experience in sacred postpartum care and describes how steaming can help with postpartum recovery, menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, and even prostate health in men. Additionall
#412: When Advocacy Isn’t Enough with Lara Janson
In this episode, Blyss is joined by Lara Jason, an assistant professor of sociology at Grinnell College, as she shares her powerful and emotional story about her breech birth experience. Despite her extensive preparations and strong advocacy skills, Lara experienced a traumatic birth intervention that violated her consent, echoing her past experiences with sexual assault. This episode underscores
#411: Awareness & The Healing Of Future Generations with Dr. Stanton Hom
This week we welcome Dr. Stanton Hom, to discuss a variety of topics from the impacts of vaccinations on children to the decline in global fertility rates. About Dr. Stanton Hom – DC, DACCP, CCWP is the Founder of Future Generations: a global movement normalizing vibrant health for life by providing freedom focused care and education so we can experience our innate genetic potential.Together, he
#410: Labor Preferences, Not Birth Plan! No Apology With Doula Lia Berquist
This week, with Blyss still on the road, Stu is joined by guest co-host Raquel Hernandez as they talk to guest Lia Berquist about the importance of birth plans. Lia, a doula and birth educator, provides insights on what it takes to create a strong birth plan. She emphasizes the foundational role of comprehensive childbirth education and the need for individualized, flexible, and positively framed
#409: Facts On Vax & So Much Else with Dr. Paul Thomas
In this week's episode of The Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss and Stu welcome renowned pediatrician and author Dr. Paul Thomas to discuss his book, Vax Facts. They discuss a range of topics related to pediatric health and vaccinations. Dr. Thomas talks about his background, the studies he's conducted on vaccine safety, and the differences in health outcomes between vaccinated and unvacci
#408: Neonatal Jaundice. Be Vigilant, Not Overzealous.
This week Dr. Stu and Midwife emphasizes discuss newborn jaundice, including its types, causes, and treatments. They explore physiologic jaundice, breastfeeding jaundice, and human milk jaundice, explaining the pathophysiology behind each and the typical clinical signs to observe. Blyss emphasizes the importance of vigilant yet balanced medical care and the role of physiologic processes in newborn
#407: Waking Up and Challenging the Narrative
Blyss and Stu discuss a wide range of topics affecting maternity and healthcare, from home births and their underestimated safety to the new regulations threatening the role of doulas. They critique flawed studies, including the infamous Wax paper, and highlight a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice holding doctors accountable for administering COVID-19 vaccines without proper prescript
#406: Trusting your scope of comfort with Free Birth Society Founder, Emilee Saldaya
Since the airing of this episode, we have been made aware of a Reddit post sharing a number of allegations against the practices and character of our guest. We are aware of the situation and encourage everyone to be diligent when seeking out resources/support.https://www.reddit.com/r/FreeBirthSocietyScam/______This week Blyss and Stu invite Emilee Saldaya, the founder of the Free Birth Society, on
#405: "Call The Neighbour" Birthing Wisdom From Traditional Birth Companion, Billie Harrigan
In this episode, Blyss and Stu delve into a rich conversation with Billie Harrigan, who discusses her role as a traditional birth companion and the importance of home birth. Billie offers insights into the origins and flaws of regulated midwifery, the rise of obstetric violence, and the increasing stillbirth rates. She emphasizes the need for resilience and trauma-informed care, and shares her app
#404 Birth & Beliefs, Some Core Principles From Liz Wheeler
Liz Wheeler from Blaze TV's 'The Liz Wheeler Show' joins the Birthing Instincts Podcast for an insightful discussion on the flaws within the American medical system and the importance of trusting one's body in the birthing process. Liz shares her personal journey through preterm labor, experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, and navigating the medical interventions that followed.The d
#403 VBAC or Cesarean, An Honest Assessment of Risk & Benefit.
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu explore the risks and benefits of cesarean sections (C-sections) and vaginal births after cesareans (VBACs). They discuss the pros and cons of home births versus hospital births. In a hospital setting, expectant parents benefit from a large, skilled medical team, while home births offer more control over the birthing experience a
#402 Why Does Mystery Stop At The Hospital Door?: A discussion of Homeopathy with Midwife Laurie Fremgen
In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, we explore the possibilities of homeopathy and homeopathic remedies. The benefits of this type of alternative treatment for pregnancy, labor, and related issues are numerous, with the most significant advantage being the absence of side effects. Mothers can be prescribed homeopathic remedies without the fear of adverse reactions that are often ass
#401 Are We Done With Oxygen? NRP revisited with Michele Kazmier
Join Blyss and Dr. Stu in this episode as they welcome Michele Kazmier to the show. Michele is a home birth midwife passionate about holistic neonatal transition. During the episode, she shares her insights on the NRP guidelines for newborn care, explaining why oxygen is often used for resuscitating newborns at birth instead of room air, and how to assess babies at birth to determine if they are c
#400 The Sanctity of Postpartum with Birthfit's Lindsey Matthews Cantu
In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Lindsey Mathews Cantu, a strength and conditioning coach at Birthfit. Birthfit offers specialized strength and conditioning training tailored for mothers and their motherhood journey. Throughout the conversation, Lindsey shares her personal experience of giving birth and discusses how her philosophies influenced this meaningful momen
#399 Let's Begin Again with Zach Bush, MD
Welcome to another episode of Birthing Instincts Podcast. In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Zach Bush, MD, to the show. Zach is an incredible thinker and orator on many relevant topics that affect us all. The conversation ventures into the realm of maternity care, optimal health, and the medical system in general. Zach's responses to these various topics couldn't be more than eye
#398 Bandl's Ring, like life itself, is perplexing
Before getting into today's topic, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the maternity care crisis in California that has been impacting local birth centers. They explain Bandl's Ring more in-depth and explain how it's detected. Bandl's Ring is a constriction in the uterus and a sign of obstructed labor. It obstructs normal labor and can put the lower uterine segment at risk of rupture.Althoug
BONUS Reflecting on a Monumental Weekend in Washington D.C.: Empowering Change in Maternal Health
In this special bonus episode Dr. Stu recaps his remarkable experiences in Washington D.C. with Lindsay Meehleis and Katie Allen. They had the honor of attending the 'Make America Healthy Again' gala and be a part of history. The episode captures emotional reflections and insights into their advocacy efforts, aiming to bring significant changes to the public health system, particularly in
#397 From The Cry Of A Mother, "Just The Inserts" was Born
Why isn't healthcare more personalized? This is the question our guest today aims to address. Alexandra is the founder of Just the Inserts, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals with accessible and transparent information about medical choices. In today's conversation, you'll learn about the reasons behind this lack of personalization, the role pharmaceutical companies play in
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