Evidence Based Birth®
The Evidence Based Birth® podcast covers research evidence on hot topics about pregnancy and childbirth. Its mission is to help birth workers build evidence-based knowledge, skills, and power to protect families' ability to give birth with empowerment. The podcast also aims to provide accurate information for parents seeking to empower their prenatal, birth, and postpartum experiences.
Episodes
EBB 411 - Advocating for a Family Centered Cesarean with Holly and Nathan Miller, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates
When Holly and Nathan Miller learned their baby was breech late in pregnancy, the unmedicated vaginal birth they had been preparing for suddenly felt out of reach. Living in rural South Georgia, they explored their options, including finding a provider experienced in vaginal breech birth, but ultimately faced limited choices close to home. In this episode, EBB Childbirth Class graduates Holly an
EBB 410 - Evidence and Controversy Surrounding Freebirth
In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Sara Ailshire examine the available evidence on planned unassisted birth, also known as freebirth, defined as intentionally giving birth without a qualified midwife or physician present. They explore why some people choose a planned unassisted birth, including previous trauma, distrust of the medical system, barriers to preferred care, and a desire for
EBB 409 - Business Advice for New Doulas with Katie Nyberg, Doula Trainer and Founder of The Iowa Baby Ladies
A passion for supporting families during birth is the foundation for a career as a doula. But once that foundation has been laid, it takes business skills, boundaries, and collaboration to be sustainable. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Katie Nyberg, founder of The Iowa Baby Ladies, about her journey from fifth-grade teacher to doula, trainer, and owner of one of Iowa's largest do
REPLAY: EBB 344 - Crash Course in Perinatal Mood Disorders and Treatment with Dr. Kat Kaeni, Perinatal Psychologist and Past Board Chair of Postpartum Support International
Perinatal mental health is often a misunderstood landscape shaped by stigma, cultural expectations, and invisible struggles that touch entire families. In this replay episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with Dr. Kat Kaeni, perinatal mental health certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook, and host of the Mom & Mind podcast, to break the silence around postpartum anxiety, d
EBB 408 - "What They Didn't Tell Me about Birth and Parenthood" with Dr. Jessica Vernon, Board-Certified OB/GYN and Perinatal Coach
Pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care should support the whole person, physically and mentally. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with board-certified OB/GYN and perinatal coach Dr. Jessica Vernon about how integrative medicine can create a more holistic and personalized approach to obstetric care. Dr. Vernon explains how integrative care combines traditional Western medicine with comple
EBB 407 - Migraines and Insulin and Umbilical Vein Varix, Oh My! An Empowering Pregnancy and Hospital Birth Story with Heidi Gustad, Librarian and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate
After years of hearing traumatic birth stories and questioning whether parenthood was right for her, Heidi Gustad entered pregnancy determined to make informed decisions every step of the way. When she was diagnosed with insulin-managed gestational diabetes, debilitating migraines, and a rare umbilical cord abnormality called an umbilical vein varix, the birth center birth she had envisioned was s
EBB 406 - Critical Info Every Expecting Family Should Know about Cytomegalovirus (CMV) with Megan Nix, Author of Remedies for Sorrow
Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading infectious cause of congenital disorders in the United States, but many pregnant families have never heard of it. In this episode, Dr. Dekker is joined by author Megan Nix who shares the personal story behind her memoir, "Remedies for Sorrow," and discusses how gaps in the system leave many families unaware of this common virus. Megan shares how her
REPLAY: EBB 267 - Debunking Myths about Fundal Massage with Barbie Christianson, RN
Fundal massage, also known as uterine massage, is often performed as a routine procedure after birth, but research shows it does little to prevent postpartum hemorrhage and can be painful for many. On today's replay episode of the EBB Podcast, nurse, community educator, and advocate Barbie Christianson joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to talk about the myths surrounding this common postpartum procedure an
EBB 405 - Navigating Unexpected Turns in Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum with Emily Cook, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate and Preeclampsia Survivor
Emily Cook hoped for a low-intervention birth. But after managing high blood pressure throughout her pregnancy, her plans changed when she was diagnosed with preeclampsia late in her third trimester. In this episode, Emily shares how the EBB Childbirth Class helped her prepare to navigate an unexpected induction, magnesium therapy, and an epidural while still advocating for the birth experience
EBB 404 - Mini Q&A about Average Time Spent Pushing, Precipitous Labor, and Okra Water During the Third Trimester
How long does the pushing phase of labor typically last? Does precipitous labor run in families? And can drinking okra water actually make labor and birth easier? In this Q&A episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker tackles three questions submitted by EBB Pro Members. First, Dr. Dekker details the findings of a recently published study from France that found many birthing people spent less than 15 minutes act
EBB 403 - Why Is My Hospital's Cesarean Rate So High (or Low)? with Dr. Emily White VanGompel, Family Medicine Physician and Research Scientist
Even when caring for similar patient populations, some hospitals have significantly higher Cesarean rates than others, and factors like teamwork, psychological safety, leadership, staffing, and beliefs about childbirth can affect outcomes. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with family physician and researcher Dr. Emily White VanGompel about how the culture of labor and delivery units can s
Special Announcement: Join me in Summer School!
This summer, join Dr. Rebecca Dekker and the EBB Research Team for a four-part live series on "How to Read Research," starting June 30. Get access to the full Summer School Series by joining the Quarterly EBB Pro Membership at a special summer rate! Plus, enroll by June 28 and receive a free digital EBB Pocket Guide to Labor Induction! Learn more and save your seat in our virtual classroom: ebbirt
REPLAY: EBB 196 - Pelvic Biomechanics and Movement in Labor with Brittany Sharpe McCollum
The way we move during labor shapes far more than our comfort. It helps determine how a baby navigates through the pelvis, and whether a birth can unfold with fewer interventions! In this replay episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Brittany Sharpe McCollum, a childbirth educator, doula, lactation counselor, and pelvic biomechanics educator. Brittany explains how the bones of the pelvis move duri
EBB 402 - Cultural Aspects of Lactation and Infant Feeding in India with Yogyata Wadhwa, IBCLC and Young Child Feeding Specialist
The ways we feed and care for babies are shaped not only by research, but also by family traditions, cultural values, and generations of shared wisdom. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Yogyata Wadhwa, an IBCLC, childbirth educator, birth doula, sleep consultant, and infant feeding specialist based in India. Drawing on her experience supporting more than 10,000 families, Yogyata sha
EBB 401 - Perinatal Mental Health for 2SLGBTQ+ Parents with Dr. Leiszle Lapping-Carr, Clinical Psychologist
Research shows that queer and trans parents face significantly higher rates of perinatal depression and anxiety, but affirming and community-centered support can make a big difference. In this episode, clinical psychologist and researcher Leiszle Lapping-Carr joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to talk about the unique mental health challenges 2SLGBTQ+ parents may experience during pregnancy and postpartum a
EBB 400 - Best of Evidence Based Birth®
Happy EBB 400! In honor of this milestone, Team EBB is looking back on some of our and your favorite episodes of the EBB Podcast from the past nine years. From advocacy in birth and improving maternity care to exercise in pregnancy, postpartum support, Vitamin K, and upright birthing positions, this anniversary episode highlights the stories and evidence that have shaped the EBB community since 20
EBB 399 - Benefits and Safety of Exercise during Pregnancy with Ashley Reid, Exercise Physiologist and Author of "Active Mom"
Pregnancy fitness advice has changed dramatically over the last few decades, but many parents still receive outdated recommendations rooted more in fear than evidence. After receiving outdated advice during her own pregnancy, exercise physiologist and prenatal/postnatal wellness practitioner Ashley Reid was inspired to help moms stay active through every stage of motherhood. In this episode, Dr. R
EBB 398 - Supporting Neurodivergence in Birth and Postpartum with Victoria White, Doula and Author of "Why Neurodivergent Birth Matters"
Many neurodivergent people move through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum feeling misunderstood and unsupported in healthcare settings that were not designed with their minds in mind. In this episode, doula and founder of Neurodivergent Birth Victoria White shares how her own later-in-life autism and ADHD diagnoses reshaped her understanding of her postpartum experiences and why many neurodivergent
REPLAY: EBB 253 – Preparing for a 38-week Labor Induction due to Intrauterine Growth Restriction with Leah Bergman, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate
What happens when your carefully planned, low-intervention birth transforms into something entirely unexpected? In this replay episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker revisits her conversation with Leah Bergman, a graduate of the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class, and her birth story of navigating a surprise diagnosis of fetal growth restriction (sometimes called intrauterine growth restriction or IU
EBB 397 - Words of Wisdom about Birth that Can Bring You a Sense of Calm and Peace
Pregnancy and birth don't require perfection to be empowering. In this solo episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker shares share five life lessons she's learned over 14 years as a nurse, mother, and founder of Evidence Based Birth. She offers grounding guidance for navigating pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood with more trust, self-compassion, and calm. This episode centers on the idea that you don't have
EBB 396 - Inequities in VBAC Access with Dr. Nicholas Rubashkin, MD, PhD
The evidence shows that vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) is a safe option for many families, but it's still frequently inaccessible to them. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Nicholas Rubashkin discuss the systemic barriers that limit families' opportunities to choose a VBAC. They explore how hospital policies, outdated guidelines, and clinical tools like the VBAC calculator have shap
Induction Bootcamp Coming Soon
Learn more about EBB's upcoming Induction Bootcamp on Tuesday, April 28 from 2:00 - 4:30 PM EDT. To save your seat or access the replay, join the EBB Pro Membership for just $39 for your first 30 days: ebbirth.com/membership.
EBB 395 - Postpartum Practices from African American Traditions with Shafia Monroe, Midwife and Author of Mothering the Mother
Postpartum care wasn't always rushed, clinical, or isolating. In many African-American communities, the weeks after birth were treated as sacred time where families and communities gathered to care for the mother so she could focus on caring for her baby. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with renowned midwife, cultural historian, and author Shafia Monroe about the traditions documented
REPLAY: EBB 357 - Making Decisions about Elective Induction of Labor with Dr. Ann Peralta & Kari Radoff, CNM, from Partner to Decide
Every pregnant person deserves the information and support they need to make truly informed decisions about labor induction. In this encore episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Dr. Ann Peralta and Kari Radoff, CNM, the co-creators of Partner to Decide, a nonprofit improving decision-making in perinatal care. They discuss their free, multilingual decision aid that helps families understand their
EBB 394 - Team EBB's Stance on AI in our Workplace
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how people search for information, including how families learn about pregnancy and birth. As this technology grows, it raises important questions about accuracy, ethics, and the role of human expertise in healthcare information. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Sara Ailshire share a behind-the-scenes look at how Evidence Based Birth® develo
EBB 393 - Evidence on Inducing at 41 Weeks or Later
At the 41-week mark in pregnancy, conversations and decisions about induction can start to feel more urgent and complex. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Sara Ailshire share why the 41st week has become such a focus in maternity care and what the evidence actually says about induction at this milestone. They discuss elective induction versus expectant management and key findings from
EBB 392 - Enduring a 54-Hour Long Induction for Preeclampsia with Paige Wener and Kevin Booth, Graduates of the EBB Childbirth Class
EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Paige Wener and Kevin Booth hoped for a low-intervention water birth at their midwife-led birth center in rural Vermont. But at 38 weeks and 6 days, a routine prenatal visit led to a surprise diagnosis of preeclampsia and recommendation for induction. In this episode, Paige and Kevin share the story of their 54-hour induction, including misoprostol, a Cook catheter,
EBB 391 - Electronic Fetal Monitoring Advocacy Tips with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, OB/GYN and Author of The Birth Book
Electronic fetal monitoring is one of the most common interventions in hospital birth, but it's also one of the least understood. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln about what continuous electronic fetal monitoring actually does, what the research says, and why it became such a routine part of labor care in the first place. With recent media
EBB 390 - Simple but Effective Communication Techniques for Hospital Birth with Dr. Amber Weiseth, DNP, RNC-OB of Ariadne Labs and TeamBirth
In this episode, we explore how the traditional "game of telephone" model in hospitals can leave birthing people out of critical decisions about their own care and what happens when we redesign the system to center them instead. Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with Dr. Amber Weiseth, obstetric nurse and Director of the Delivery Decisions Initiative at Ariadne Labs, to talk about TeamBirth—a simple, e
EBB 389 - The Global Impact of Midwifery with Stephanie Marriott, Midwife Advisor for the International Confederation of Midwives
Some of the most effective solutions for improving birth outcomes worldwide are rooted in relationships, not technology. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker speaks with midwife Stephanie Marriott of the International Confederation of Midwives about the global impact of midwifery care. She outlines what defines a midwifery model of care, why continuity of midwife-led care matters for both outcomes
EBB 388 - Updated Evidence on Induction for Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes (GDM) is one of the most common reasons families are advised to plan for an early birth. But what does the evidence actually say about induction for GDM? Does it lower the risk of Cesarean? Prevent big babies? Reduce stillbirth? Or does the timing matter more than the induction itself? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Dr. Morgan Richardson Cayama walk through the update
EBB 387 - Doulas in the Operating Room, Risk of Repeating a Severe Tear, and White Coat Hypertension in Pregnancy with the EBB Research Team
In this episode, the EBB Research Team is answering three questions we received from our Pro Members! We take a close look at the evidence behind doula presence in the operating room, the risk of experiencing another severe perineal tear after a previous injury, and what white coat hypertension in pregnancy can tell us about future risk. Each question reflects real situations birth workers are
EBB 386 - A Peaceful yet Urgent Cesarean Birth Story with Krista DeYoung, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate and Placental Abruption Survivor
In EBB 350, Krista DeYoung called in from her hospital room after weeks of inpatient monitoring for partial placental abruption. She and Dr. Rebecca Dekker had just finished a crash course on preparing for a Cesarean, not knowing that information would be needed just 30 minutes later. In this follow-up episode, Krista returns to share what happened next: the urgent decision-making, the move to lab
REPLAY: EBB 118 - How to Have a Healthy Postpartum Transition with Dr. Alyssa Berlin
In one of the most popular podcast episodes ever published by Evidence Based Birth®, Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with Dr. Alyssa Berlin, a clinical psychologist specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting, to discuss ways to make the transition to postpartum smoother, healthier, and more joyful for families. Together, they unpack why two-thirds of couples report a drop in relationshi
EBB 385 - A Healing Birth Center Waterbirth with Michaela Raines, EBB Childbirth Class Graduate
A healing birth can change the way you understand everything that came before it. In this episode, Dr. Dekker talks with EBB Childbirth Class graduate Michaela Raines about experiencing a deeply healing birth after a first birth that didn't go as planned. Michaela shares her first hospital birth story—including unexpected interventions, a long pushing phase, perineal trauma, and a NICU stay—and ho
EBB 384 - Evidence on "What is a Due Date?"
What is a due date, and how accurate is it, really? Dr. Rebecca Dekker is joined by Dr. Sara Ailshire of Team EBB to walk through the latest research on due dates, pregnancy length, and what happens when pregnancies go past term. They share the new research on ultrasound dating, the natural length of pregnancy, genetics, and stillbirth risk. They also talk about what a due date actually represents
EBB 383 - Impact of Extreme Weather on Pregnancy with Alicia Race, Climate Resilience Policy Advocate
From heat waves to winter storms to hurricanes, extreme weather events are increasingly part of everyday life, and learning how they intersect with pregnancy and birth can empower families and birthworkers alike. Alicia Race, a climate resilience policy advocate with the Union of Concerned Scientists, is joining Dr. Rebecca Dekker this week to share how these events—especially during what experts
Special Announcement from EBB
Be the first to hear about the special event we're planning for 2026! To get on the waitlist for the upcoming event, visit ebbirth.com/waitlist.
EBB 382 - The Power of Your Birth Story with Lisa Greaves Taylor, Host of the Birth Matters Podcast
Long before labor begins, the stories we hear about birth are already shaping our expectations and choices. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Lisa Greaves Taylor, founder of Birth Matters NYC Childbirth Education, director of the East River Doula Collective, and host of the Birth Matters podcast, about the power of birth stories as tools for education, healing, and self-advocacy.
EBB 381 - Ask Me Anything with Dr. Rebecca Dekker
As 2025 comes to an end, guest host Dr. Sara Ailshire turns the tables and interviews Dr. Rebecca Dekker about the biggest childbirth trends, lessons, and breakthroughs of 2025, and what exciting changes are coming to EBB in 2026. Together, Sara and Rebecca dive into the shifting landscape of birth: the unprecedented rise in labor inductions, how AI is complicating the search for evidenc
Bonus Announcement from EBB
The EBB End of Year Countdown Sale, featuring three days of one-day-only deals, is happening December 29 through December 31. Over those three days, we will release a different EBB tool or program at a special price, with each deal available for just 24 hours. Here's what's coming in the sale: Monday, December 29 - Quarterly EBB Pro Membership PLUS a FREE physical Pocket Guide of your
EBB 3 - Why Is It So Hard to Get Evidence Based Care?
In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker dives into the evidence-practice gap, the disconnect between what research tells us is best during childbirth and what is actually happening in labor and delivery units around the world. She walks through the latest statistics on Cesarean rates, VBAC access, and the widespread use of non–evidence-based interventions, as well as the persistent underuse of practi
EBB 380b - Combating Birth Trauma in Mexico with Sofía Herrera, Psychologist and EBB Instructor
After what should have been a joyful birth, Sofía Herrera (childbirth educator, EBB Instructor, Hypnobirthing instructor, and social & clinical psychologist) spent nearly 20 years believing she had postpartum depression, until her investigation revealed the truth: she had experienced birth trauma. That realization became the catalyst for her work supporting birthing families and confronting the w
EBB 380a - Combatiendo el trauma del parto en México con Sofía Herrera, psicóloga e instructora de EBB
Tras lo que debería haber sido un parto feliz, Sofía Herrera, (educadora perinatal, instructora de EBB, instructora de Hipnoparto y psicóloga social y clínica) pasó casi 20 años creyendo que padecía depresión posparto, hasta que sus estudios revelaron la verdad: había sufrido un trauma obstétrico. Esta revelación se convirtió en el motor de su trabajo de apoyo a las mujeres que dan a luz y de su
REPLAY: EBB 221 - Evidence on Birthing Positions and Tried-and-True Midwifery Practices for Protecting the Perineum
In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker explores the research on birthing positions and tried-and-true midwifery practices for protecting the perineum during childbirth. She explains why the flat-on-your-back position we often see on television isn't ideal and walks through the key differences between upright, sacrum-flexible positions, and common hospital practices like lithotomy and routine episiot
EBB 379 - A Challenging Birth Story with GBS, Prolonged PROM, Pitocin, and an Epidural, with EBB Childbirth Class Graduate Erica Wright and EBB Instructor Tara Thompson
After more than 80 hours of labor, Erica Wright found herself exhausted, emotional, and determined to keep trusting her body. With the steady support of her doulas (including EBB Instructor Tara Thompson), she discovered that birth doesn't have to go "according to plan" to be powerful. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Erica and Tara about how preparation, advocacy, and teamwork
EBB 378 - Embracing the Dual Calling of Doula Work + Midwifery with Chanté Perryman and Elder Charlotte Shilo-Goudeau
Across generations, birth workers have held space for families with skill, love, and deep purpose. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Elder Midwife Charlotte Shilo-Goudeau, a licensed Certified Professional Midwife from Louisiana, and Chanté Perryman, Director of Programs at Evidence Based Birth®, certified doula, and student midwife. Together, they explore what it means to embrace th
Bonus Announcement: Surprise Project for Doulas
Introducing the My Doula Visit Workbook by Evidence Based Birth®. A tangible, interactive, and evidence-based guide designed to facilitate conversations, strengthen the doula-client relationship, and guide families through the most pressing topics related to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. What's Inside the My Doula Visit Workbook? A 115-page, full-color, spiral-bound workbook packed with evid
EBB 377 - Medicaid Coverage for Doula Care with Amy Chen, Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program
What if everyone had access to a doula, no matter their income? In this episode, Dr. Dekker talks with Amy Chen, Senior Attorney at the National Health Law Program (NHeLP), about the growing movement to make doula care accessible through Medicaid and insurance coverage. Amy shares how her personal birth experiences inspired her work advocating for Medicaid reimbursement for doulas and explain
EBB 376 - How to Find and Interview a Doula with Team EBB Members Julie Fors and Chanté Perryman
Hiring a doula can be one of the most impactful choices you make during pregnancy, but how do you actually find the right one? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Team EBB members and experienced doulas, Julie Fors and Chanté Perryman, to share insider tips on finding and interviewing a doula with confidence. Julie and Chanté walk you through where to begin your search, the mo
REPLAY: EBB 218 - The Evidence on Perineal Massage during Labor with Dr. Rebecca Dekker
Can perineal massage during the pushing phase of labor really prevent tears? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker takes a close look at the research to uncover whether this technique truly helps reduce perineal trauma during childbirth. She explains how health care staff provide perineal massage during labor, breaks down findings findings from key studies and meta-analyses, and examines how biases
EBB 375 - A Rainbow Baby and Preeclampsia Birth Story with Dr. Sara Ailshire and Dr. Siavash Samei
Dr. Sara Ailshire, an anthropologist and Evidence Based Birth® Research Team member, and her husband, Dr. Siavash Samei, an environmental archaeologist, share the story of welcoming their rainbow baby after loss. In this episode, Sara and Siavash open up about navigating miscarriage care in the wake of changing abortion laws in Ohio, the anxiety and hope of pregnancy after loss, and Sara's experie
EBB 374 - Educating the Public about Stillbirth Prevention with Ingrid Haas, Director of the Short Film "PUSH"
Filmmaker Ingrid Haas is the writer and director of PUSH, a short film created in partnership with PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy to raise awareness about stillbirth prevention. In this episode, Ingrid shares her personal journey through pregnancy loss, how those experiences led her to advocate for families, and the creative process behind PUSH and the Stillness is an Illness campaign. Together, In
Signature Training Announcement - Unpacking New Research on Big Babies
What does the newest research on Big Babies say? We'll be unpacking it all during our live 90-minute Signature Training + Q & A on Wednesday, October 15 at 7 PM EDT, exclusively for EBB Pro Members. In this session (1.5 contact hours), we'll walk you through the latest evidence, address common questions, and bring clarity to this ginormous issue in birth. You'll also get the chance to ask your big
EBB 2 - What is Evidence Based Care?
Evidence based care is a term you hear often in medicine, but what does it really mean—especially when it comes to pregnancy and birth? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker takes you inside the foundations of Evidence Based Birth®, explaining what evidence based care is (and isn't), and why it matters for families, providers, and communities. Dr. Dekker breaks down the three essential pillars
EBB 373 - How to Confront Tokophobia and Clear Fears about Childbirth with Alexia Leachman, Author and Podcast Host of "Fear Free Childbirth"
For some, the thought of pregnancy and birth fills them with a visceral panic they can't explain. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker's talking tokophobia—the fear of pregnancy and birth—with Alexia Leachman, founder of Fearless Birthing and host of the Fear Free Childbirth Podcast. Alexia shares her personal journey of discovering and healing her own tokophobia, how she developed her unique "
EBB 372 - Comfort Measures and a 41-Week Induction with Hopey Fink and Ben Levin, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates
At 41 weeks, Hopey Fink and Ben Levin's birth plans shifted after elevated blood pressure readings led to an induction conversation. But, with the support of their doula, care team, and each other, the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class graduates navigated every twist with confidence. In this episode, Hopey and Ben reflect on preparing for a low-intervention birth, the role of comfort measures
REPLAY: EBB 283 - How Colonialism, Environmental Instability, & Politics Impact Birth in Puerto Rico with EBB Instructors, Tania Silva Meléndez and Tamara Trinidad González, CPM
In today's episode, I'm revisiting a deeply important conversation with Tania Silva Meléndez and Tamara Trinidad González, two inspiring birth workers and Evidence Based Birth® Instructors based in Puerto Rico. Tania and Tamara share their personal journeys into birth work and what led them to become changemakers in Puerto Rico's birth community. They speak candidly about the immense challenges
EBB 371 - Reclaiming Black Midwifery in the South with Dr. Nikia Grayson, Chief Clinical Officer of CHOICES in Memphis
Dr. Nikia Grayson, nurse midwife, family nurse practitioner, and anthropologist, joins us to share how she's helping reclaim and restore Black midwifery in the South. As Chief Clinical Officer at CHOICES Center for Reproductive Health in Memphis, TN, Dr. Grayson has led groundbreaking efforts to open Memphis' first and only birth center, launch the nation's first Black Midwifery Fellowship, and pr
EBB 370 - Updated Evidence on Diagnosing Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes (GDM) is one of the most common health issues during pregnancy, and diagnosing it is more complicated than you might think. In this episode, Dr. Dekker is joined by EBB Research Team member Dr. Morgan Richardson Cayama to cover the newly updated evidence on how GDM is diagnosed. They walk through the physiology behind GDM, current testing methods, and why there's still intern
EBB 369 - What is Mistreatment in Childbirth? with Dr. Morgan Richardson Cayama from Team EBB
Dr. Morgan Richardson Cayama, public health researcher, doula, and member of Team EBB, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to explore the critical issue of mistreatment in maternity care. Drawing from her doctoral research—including interviews with Black women in Florida and data from the Giving Voice to Mothers study—Dr. Morgan shares what respectful maternity care really looks like, and how the lac
EBB 368 - Redemptive Cesarean after Planning a Home VBAC with Rikki and Nova Jenkins
Rikki and Nova Jenkins join Dr. Rebecca Dekker to share the personal and powerful story of their second birth: a planned home VBAC that ultimately led to a hospital transfer. Rikki, Evidence Based Birth® Instructor Coordinator, doula, and IBCLC, reflects on the trauma of her first Cesarean birth and the deep healing she found through midwifery care, doula support, and intentional preparation. Nov
EBB 367 - Early AROM and High-Dose Pitocin with all Inductions? Breaking Down the Latest Induction Trends with Jennifer Anderson, RN, Doula, and EBB Instructor
Jennifer Anderson, RN, experienced doula, Evidence Based Birth® Instructor, and member of Team EBB, returns to the podcast to join Dr. Rebecca Dekker in unpacking a new trend in labor induction protocols—starting Pitocin at higher doses and incorporating early artificial rupture of membranes (AROM). Drawing from her work with high-risk clients and firsthand experience inside hospital syste
EBB 1 - Intro to Evidence Based Birth®
What happens when a nurse finishing up her PhD in evidence-based practice becomes a parent and realizes her own birth care was anything but evidence-based? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker take us back to the very beginning and shares how her first birth experience set her on a mission to change maternity care. She reflects on her two contrasting birth stories: one marked by unnecessary interve
Special Announcement - August with Team EBB
Welcome to a special announcement episode of the Evidence Based Birth® Podcast! This August, we're celebrating the incredible people who make up Team EBB. Each Wednesday, you'll hear directly from team members as they share their experiences and expertise. Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch full episodes on our YouTube channel, and be sure to follow us on Instagram (@ebbirth) for even m
REPLAY: EBB 216 - The Evidence on Prenatal Perineal Massage for Preventing Tears in Childbirth with Dr. Rebecca Dekker
Curious if prenatal perineal massage actually works to prevent tears during childbirth? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker examines the evidence on perineal massage in late pregnancy, separating fact from fiction and sharing what the research really shows. You'll learn what major studies say about perineal massage, why some commonly cited research may not be trustworthy, and whether this practice
EBB 366 - Practical Ways of Preparing for Postpartum with Sophie Walker, Author and Host of the Australian Birth Stories Podcast
Sophie Walker, host of the Australian Birth Stories podcast and author of The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth and The Complete Guide to Postpartum: A Mother-Focused Companion for Life After Birth, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to explore what it really takes to plan for a nourishing postpartum experience and the challenges and strengths of the Australian birth system. Sophie shares ho
EBB 365 - Battling a Birth Injury with Leah Van Dale, Former WWE Wrestler and EBB Childbirth Class Graduate
Leah Van Dale, former WWE superstar known as Carmella and founder of the women's health platform Snatch, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to share her deeply personal story of postpartum recovery after a traumatic birth injury. Leah opens up about her journey through multiple pregnancy losses, the decision to hire a doula, and how the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class helped her prepare for her firs
EBB 364 - How to Prevent and Heal Birthworker Burnout with Doctoral Student Ihotu Ali and Grace Flannery, Certified Professional Midwife
Licensed community midwife Grace Flannery and doctoral student Ihotu Ali, founder of the Oshun Center for Intercultural Healing, join Dr. Rebecca Dekker for a moving conversation about burnout, boundaries, and building sustainable birth work. Together, they explore the root causes of burnout in maternity care, from systemic extraction to internalized pressure, and how the path to healing lies in
EBB 363 - A Remarkable Journey from "Babies Are Not Pizzas" Student to Critical Care Nurse to Nurse Midwife with Liz Carr, CNM
From ICU to birth center, Liz Carr's story is a reminder that midwives come to this work through many paths, and each journey holds wisdom for the future of maternal care. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker reconnects with former nursing student turned certified nurse midwife, Liz Carr. Liz shares her unique trajectory: from critical care nursing to catching babies, from witnessing obstetric
EBB 362 - Doula Wisdom and Holistic Practices for Pregnancy and Postpartum with Carson Meyer, Doula and Author of Growing Together
Carson Meyer, doula, certified nutrition consultant, and author of Growing Together, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker for a conversation about reclaiming the sacred, intuitive, and evidence-based aspects of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Carson shares how she stepped into birth work at a young age, driven by a desire to transform a system that can leave parents disempowered and unsupported. She opens
REPLAY: EBB 210 - Evidence on Warm Compresses and Hands-on vs. Hands-off for Protecting the Perineum
Curious how to actually prevent perineal tears during childbirth? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker breaks down the latest research on three of the most talked-about methods: 1) using warm compresses, 2) provider "hands on" techniques, 3) provider "hands off" techniques, and how these approaches measure up when it comes to protecting your perineum. You'll learn surprising facts, like how a simp
EBB 361 - Supporting Intersex Communities during Birth with Niki Khanna and Catherine Clune-Taylor, Co-Presidents of InterACT
Most parents are told their baby is either a boy or a girl. But what happens when a baby is born with intersex traits—and how can birth workers and clinicians respond with compassion, accuracy, and care? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker speaks with Niki Khanna, MA, MFT, and Dr. Catherine Clune-Taylor, co-presidents of InterACT, about how to support families when a baby's physical sex character
EBB 360 - Overcoming Challenges with Low Milk Supply with Katie James, Midwife, IBCLC, and Host of the Midwives' Cauldron Podcast
Struggling with low milk supply can feel overwhelming, isolating, and confusing. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Katie James to demystify the realities of low milk supply. Together, they explore the hormonal, medical, and systemic factors that can affect lactation, as well as the critical importance of early postpartum
Special Announcement - Become an EBB Instructor
Special Announcement from EBB! If you're an experienced birth worker or health care professional and you're interested in becoming an Evidence Based Birth Instructor, applications for 2025 are opening soon for a limited time only! Podcast listeners who are interested in becoming an EBB Instructor are invited to join us for a live Q & A session on Wednesday, May 28 at 1:00 PM EDT. We'll b
EBB 359 - Mini Q & A on Early Induction for Gestational Hypertension, Acupuncture/Acupressure for Labor, and Time Intervals between Pregnancies
In this Q&A episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker answers questions submitted by EBB Pro Members—each exploring a different facet of evidence-based maternity care. First, she explores the latest evidence on early induction for gestational hypertension, including findings from the WILL trial and other recent studies. What are the real risks and benefits of inducing labor at 37 or 38 weeks for gesta
EBB 358 - "I Need to Give Consent" and Seeking Trauma-Informed Birth Support after a First Traumatic Experience with Rivka and Steven Dubinsky, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates
A traumatic first birth can shape everything that follows—but with the right support, education, and advocacy, it's possible to turn fear into empowerment. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Rivka and Steven Dubinsky as they share the transformative journey from a traumatic hospital induction and birth injury to a redemptive second birth experien
EBB 357 - Making Decisions about Elective Induction of Labor with Dr. Ann Peralta & Kari Radoff, CNM, from Partner to Decide
Every pregnant person deserves the information—and support—they need to make truly informed decisions about labor induction. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Dr. Ann Peralta and Kari Radoff, CNM, co-creators of Partner to Decide, a nonprofit initiative improving decision-making in perinatal care. They discuss the creation of their free, multilingual decision aid that supports fam
REPLAY: EBB 206 - Evidence on Perineal Tears and the Importance of Avoiding Episiotomy with EBB Founder, Dr. Rebecca Dekker
In today's episode, we're diving into the evidence on perineal tears and the importance of avoiding episiotomies during childbirth. We'll talk about what perineal tears are, the different types that can occur, and the potential health consequences that can follow. You'll also hear about the various factors that may increase or decrease the risk of tearing during birth. Finally, we'll cover why it'
EBB 356 - NICU-Informed Doulas: What Are They, And How Can They Change the NICU narrative? with Mary Farrelly, RN, Doula, and Founder of the NICU Translator
Navigating a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Mary Farrelly, a certified NICU nurse, doula nurse educator, and founder of The NICU Translator. With over a decade of experience in a Level 4 NICU, Mary shares how families can find empowerment and confidence in the NICU. Mary discusses the im
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