Dr. Rebecca Dekker welcomes Dr. Kat Kaeni, a perinatal mental health certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook, and host of the Mom & Mind podcast. Dr. Kat shares her personal journey with postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD, and how it shaped her commitment to supporting parents during the perinatal period. They explore the spectrum of perinatal mental health conditions, from baby blues to postpartum psychosis, and discuss the stigma, barriers to care, and strategies for managing symptoms. Dr. Kat explains the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness techniques, and the importance of accessing resources like Postpartum Support International. Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of perinatal mental health disorders, including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis. Sensitive topics such as intrusive thoughts, stigma, feelings of guilt and shame, and the potential for harm to self or others are addressed. Listener discretion is advised, and we encourage anyone who may be affected by these topics to reach out for support through Postpartum Support International or a trusted healthcare provider. (00:07:28) Unique Challenges in Perinatal Mental Health (00:11:05) Caregivers' Mental Health and Bonding Challenges (00:16:32) Parental Isolation Stemming from Anxiety and Depression (00:21:53) Emergent Postpartum Psychosis Symptoms (00:27:08) Overcoming Stigma in Perinatal Mental Health (00:31:54) Thought and Behavior Change Therapy for Depression (00:36:56) Perinatal Mental Health Challenges and Support EBB 197 – Addressing Perinatal Mental Health for Communities of Color with the Co-Founders of the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color, Divya Kumar, Jabina Coleman, and Desirée Israel Postpartum Support International The Mom & Mind Podcast The Pregnancy Workbook: Manage Anxiety and Worry with CBT and Mindfulness Techniques For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Morgan Richardson Cayama, EBB Research Fellow and doctoral candidate in public health, are sharing the top 10 evidence-based strategies for reducing your risk of a Cesarean birth. Drawing from the latest research, including insights from the ARRIVE trial and EBB’s Signature Articles, Rebecca and Morgan discuss actionable methods such as choosing a provider and birth setting with low Cesarean rates, receiving midwifery-led care, using labor support like a doula, staying mobile during labor, and avoiding non-medically indicated interventions. They also talk about the impact of tools like peanut balls, the role of intermittent fetal monitoring, and options for breech pregnancies. (04:38) Provider Attitude Impact on Cesarean Rates (08:34) Cesarean Risk Reduction Through Midwifery Care (11:03) Lower-Risk Birth Settings for Cesarean Prevention (19:34) Reduced Cesarean Risk with 39-Week Induction (22:21) Optimal Timing for Hospital Admission in Labor (27:53) Upright Positions and Cesarean Risk in Labor (33:24) Upright Birthing Positions for Safer Delivery (34:53) Reducing Cesarean Rates through Intermittent Auscultation Check out the ARRIVE Trial Signature Article for evidence on elective induction at 39 weeks Friedman’s Curve and Failure to Progress: A Leading Cause of Unplanned Cesareans Evidence on: Induction or Cesarean for a Big Baby Evidence on: Doulas EBB 45 – How do peanut balls support labor? Evidence on: Birthing Positions Evidence on: Fetal Monitoring EBB 296 – Evidence on Breech Birth with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Sara Ailshire, MA EBB 297 – Frequently Asked Questions about Breech with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Sara Ailshire, MA Use Leapfrog Group Hospital Ratings, a Tool to compare Cesarean rates and maternity care statistics by hospital. Get a copy of Dr. Dekker’s book, Babies are Not Pizzas. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, learn how Dr. Kimarie Bugg’s lifelong dedication to lactation and health equity is transforming lives nationwide. Dr. Bugg is President of Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE) and the first African American International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Dr. Bugg shares her journey into the field of lactation, sparked by personal challenges breastfeeding her first set of twins in the late 1970s. She recounts the evolution of breastfeeding support, her groundbreaking work at Grady Hospital in Atlanta, and the founding of ROSE, a nonprofit addressing breastfeeding inequities in the African American community. Dr. Bugg discusses the systemic barriers to breastfeeding, including workplace challenges, access to lactation support, and the lack of consistent education for healthcare providers. She emphasizes the importance of policy change, workforce development, and healing generational trauma through initiatives like ROSE’s "Breast Friend" and the Reaching Our Brothers Everywhere (ROBE) programs. Tune in for a conversation about the critical role of breastfeeding equity, the unique challenges faced by African American families, and the power of community-driven solutions. (09:34) Empowering Black Nurses in Breastfeeding Support (8:08) Supporting Breastfeeding in African American Community (27:08) "Breast Friend Program: Reducing Breastfeeding Disparities" (28:22) Empowering Communities for Inclusive Breastfeeding Support (32:46) Reframing Breastfeeding Narratives in African American Community (34:54) Enhancing Breastfeeding Equity Beyond Hospital Stay (41:39) Community Transformers: Empowering Maternal Health Support Explore ROSE's programs, including Breast Friends, Community Transformers, and more here. Learn about Boston Medical Center's Community and Hospitals Advancing Maternity Practices (CHAMPS), a Baby-Friendly hospital initiative, here. Learn more about the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine here. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Happy New Year to all our listeners! Join us in listening to a mini story about how our team got together last fall... and be the first to learn about a major event we're planning for you in 2025! To get on the waitlist for the upcoming event, visit ebbirth.com/waitlist

Happy New Year! Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB research fellows Morgan Richardson Cayama and Sara Ailshire as they celebrate the evidence from 2024. From updating key research on waterbirth, doulas, and elective inductions to launching new handouts, webinars, and pocket guides, it was a busy and rewarding year for Team EBB. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s ahead in 2025, including an updated virtual conference, fresh podcast episodes, and exciting new research. Let’s celebrate the wins, reflect on the research, and dream big for what’s next! (00:04:06) Benefits of Water Birth in Hospitals (00:05:13) Positive Outcomes of Water Birth Research (00:10:58) Water Birth Safety: Preventing Infections and Complications (00:14:16) Water Birth Cord Avulsion Risk Factors (00:23:23) Cultural Relevance in Doula Support Services (00:25:23) Integral Role of Doulas in Childbirth (00:30:40) Elective Inductions at 39 Weeks Impact (00:44:11) Vitamin K Update: Black Box Warning Insights (00:52:20) "Top 10 Evidence-Based Cesarean Risk Reduction Strategies" The Evidence on: Waterbirth EBB 300: The Evidence on Waterbirth EBB 318: Advocating for Waterbirth in Hospitals EBB 287: Positive Hospital Waterbirth Story EBB 268: Debunking Myths about PROM, GBS, and Waterbirth EBB 258: Waterbirth Story with Cord Avulsion EBB 230: Inspirational Home Waterbirth Story The Evidence on: Doulas EBB 309: The Evidence on Doulas The Evidence on: The ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 Weeks ARRIVE Trial Signature Article Pain Management Series EBB 312: Injectable Opioids EBB 317: Epidurals for Pain Management EBB 320: Epidurals and the Pushing Phase of Labor Rh Incompatibility EBB 329: Blood Types, Rh Incompatibility, and RhoGAM Shot For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with EBB Childbirth Class graduates Kat Sullivan and Ben Winston about their journey through pregnancy and birth. Kat shares her deeply personal experience of living with emetophobia—the fear of vomiting—and how it impacted her pregnancy and decision to pursue a home birth. From navigating intrusive thoughts and panic attacks to finding a supportive care team and discovering the power of SSRIs, Kat and Ben open up about their challenges and triumphs. Hear how they prepared for labor, the role of their midwives, and how the EBB Childbirth Class helped them feel informed and empowered. Whether you're curious about home births, mental health in pregnancy, or simply love heartfelt birth stories, this episode is a must-listen! Content Note: The first half of the interview will discuss distressing symptoms related to emetophobia, panic attacks, and OCD, as well as considering pregnancy termination due to emetophobia. (00:01:24) Joyful Home Birth Experience despite Challenges (00:04:56) Empowered by Supportive Providers for Emetophobia (00:10:17) Navigating Mental Health in Parenthood Transition (00:17:53) Navigating Challenges with a Strong Support System (00:30:10) Unpredictable Transitions in Labor and Birth (00:35:03) Empowering Decisions Through Evidence-Based Home Birth (00:36:07) Empowering Parents Through Evidence-Based Childbirth Education Learn more about Kat and Ben's EBB Instructor, Emily McMichael, here or follow her on Instagram here! For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB Research Fellow Morgan Richardson Cayama tackle your questions about the ARRIVE trial and elective inductions at 39 weeks. They explore the evidence behind this controversial study, discuss the implications for Cesarean rates, and unpack the concept of patient autonomy in maternity care. Plus, they share practical tips for managing pressure to induce and delve into how the ARRIVE trial impacts outcomes like breastfeeding, epidurals, and costs. Tune in to hear this Q&A session originally broadcast to listeners worldwide. Episode 334: The ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 Weeks (03:38) How often are we seeing pressure from obstetricians to induce? (07:20) How can you manage pressure from an obstetrician to get an induction at 39 weeks? (12:00) What are the geographic trends in induction rates? (15:30) What are the statistics on infant death and mortality? (19:56) What happens if a midwife or obstetrician refuses a 39-week elective induction requested by a birthing person? (21:50) Why did the ARRIVE trial report such high rates of preeclampsia and hypertension? (32:16) Is induction considered to be more cost-effective? (34:54) Are inductions affecting breastfeeding and epidural rates? (36:54) Is there research around maternal satisfaction and birthing experience? (40:11) Why are IVF and advanced maternal age clients often pressured or offered induction? (41:24) What strategies can doulas use to support clients facing discussions about 39-week induction with their provider? For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Jessica Brumley, a Certified Nurse Midwife and President of the American College of Nurse Midwives, joins Dr. Dekker to explore the transformative impact of respectful maternity care. Dr. Brumley reflects on her journey to midwifery, inspired by a lifelong commitment to equitable and compassionate healthcare. Together, they discuss the importance of supporting normal physiology in birth, the guiding principles of the midwifery model, and the need for systemic change to foster respectful care in hospitals. Dr. Brumley also shares insights from her work with the Florida Perinatal Quality Collaborative, including initiatives to reduce unnecessary interventions and amplify patient voices. Tune in to learn how respectful care can improve outcomes, build trust, and why a “midwife for every community” could change the landscape of maternal health in the United States. (00:07:30) Equitable and Respectful Maternity Care Advocacy (00:28:57) Promoting Respectful Maternity Care in Workplaces (00:30:28) Creating a Culture of Respect in Healthcare (00:30:49) Cultural Respect in Healthcare Settings (00:34:24) Promoting Equitable and Respectful Healthcare Practices (00:43:11) Elevating Midwifery Practice for Improved Healthcare (00:44:47) Retention Strategies for Midwifery Professionals Resources: EBB 324 – Blending Birth, Science, Technology, and Storytelling with Erica Chidi, Co-founder and CEO of LOOM EBB 332 – Advocating for Yourself during Prenatal Visits with Retired Obstetrician Dr. Leslie Farrington, Co-Founder of the Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood Read Protecting Your Birth: A Guide For Black Mothers in The New York Times. Learn about the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) and the ICM's RESPECT Presentation (mentioned by Jessica) Learn about the Florida Perinatal Collaborative Learn more about Dr. Brumley and her work Learn about the American College of Nurse Midwives For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, I’m joined by Camden Crane Wachowiak—a health coach, EBB Childbirth Class graduate, and new mom—who shares her high-risk pregnancy and birth journey. Camden walks us through her induction experience after her water broke at term and her decision to labor with non-pharmacological comfort measures. We also talk about Camden's approach to navigating unique health considerations during pregnancy, including antiphospholipid syndrome and a cardiac pacemaker. She reflects on the empowering choices she made with her partner, such as hiring a supportive doula, and the role of the EBB Childbirth Class in helping them feel informed and confident. Discover how Camden built a team of providers who respected her strength, addressed her concerns without excessive intervention, and supported her in achieving a safe and positive birth experience. (05:45) Experienced Doula Enhancing Birthing Experiences (09:52) Personalized Obstetric Care Based on Medical History (17:50) Natural Methods for Inducing Labor Contractions (19:39) Natural Comfort Techniques During Medication-Free Labor (23:32) Enduring labor pains without medical intervention (25:05) Breathwork and Support in Intense Childbirth (35:26) Vital Importance of Newborn Resuscitation Training (37:27) Embracing Motherhood: Navigating New Priorities and Routines (43:26) Transformative Role of Postpartum Communities Learn more about Camden’s fitness coaching business, Camden C3 Fit here. EBB 288 – From Birthing in the Pandemic to Birthing a Career as a Postpartum Doula and Chef with Malisa Dekker of Planted Postpartum EBB 305 – A High-Risk Pregnancy and Miraculous Birth with Krista and John DeYoung, EBB Childbirth Class Graduates For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Team EBB's Chanté Perryman, Rikki Jenkins and Sara Ailshire are taking over the podcast to share their tips for transitioning home from the hospital and supporting new parents postpartum! Rikki, a seasoned childbirth educator, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and Instructor Program Coordinator at EBB, stresses the importance of having a strong support system and being open about postpartum mental health. Sara, a Research Fellow at EBB, draws from cultural practices and her own journey into parenthood to discuss the importance of accepting help and cherishing special moments with a newborn. Together, with Chanté, Director of Programs at EBB, they remind us to celebrate the transition into parenthood and practice self-compassion during this transformative period. Don't forget to sign up for the waitlist for the new EBB Pocket Guide to Newborn Procedures! (00:04:59) New Beginnings: Homecoming Baby Celebration (00:11:15) Building a Strong Postpartum Support System (00:12:34) Postpartum Support through Meal Trains (00:13:36) Setting Boundaries for Postpartum Support (00:31:04) Multilingual Breastfeeding Support and Resources (00:31:20) Partners' Support in Postpartum Hydration Plan (00:41:04) Neglecting Self-Care: Early Postpartum Warning Signs (00:46:48) Supportive Partner Role in Preventing Postpartum Depression (00:50:30) Navigating Postpartum Mental Health Challenges (00:53:28) Transformative Self-Compassion in Parenthood Resources on Nursing and Pumping La Leche League UpToDate: Pumping Breastmilk Learn about the PUMP act, which protects many working parents. See the CDC’s Guidelines for Breast Milk Storage. Learn about common issues in breastfeeding. Watch Global Health Media breastfeeding education videos in a variety of languages. Resources for Car Seats Child Passenger Safety Certified Technicians The Car Seat Lady: Safe newborn head position Chicco newborn car seat position Resources for Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Get an overview on PPD from The Office on Women’s Health Learn about PPA What to Expect: Postpartum Anxiety Support Organizations Postpartum Support International (PSI) PSI Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

We're celebrating the upcoming release of the brand new Pocket Guide to Newborn Procedures! Join us as Dr. Dekker explores essential aspects of newborn care: the evidence on 1) pain management during newborn procedures, 2) baby's first bath, and 3) whether and how newborns should receive screening for low blood sugar. In this episode, you'll learn about newborn comfort techniques like skin-to-skin care, massage, "tucking in," and the use of pacifiers. You'll also walk away with a new appreciation for the evidence on delaying the first newborn bath to 24 hours, and the causes and management of newborn low blood sugars (also known as neonatal hypoglycemia). (00:05:58) Parental Involvement in Newborn Comfort Care (00:08:34) Pain Relief Techniques for Newborn Procedures (00:12:01) Enhancing Newborn Comfort and Pain Management (00:20:22) Newborn Immersion Tub Bathing Advantages (00:31:45) Factors Contributing to Neonatal Hypoglycemia (00:39:31) Managing Newborn Hypoglycemia with Blood Sugar Testing (00:42:49) Enhancing Newborn Comfort and Pain Relief Join the waitlist for the Newborn Procedures Pocket Guide here. Learn more about ingredients in infant cleansers here. Click here for the full list of references. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Join Dr. Rebecca Dekker and EBB Research Fellow Morgan Richardson Cayama as we explore the ARRIVE Trial and its impact on elective induction at 39 weeks. Together, we'll break down what elective induction involves, examine the trial's findings and critiques, and discuss the latest evidence on this increasingly common practice. Elective inductions have surged since the Trial's release. In this podcast episode, we'll talk about the latest post-ARRIVE research, and the benefits, risks, and professional guidelines on elective induction at 39 weeks. Additionally, we'll focus on the crucial role of respectful maternity care when making decisions about induction. This podcast episode is a companion to the Evidence Based Birth® Signature Article on "Evidence on: The ARRIVE Trial and Elective Induction at 39 Weeks." You can access all of the resources, scientific references, and a free 2-page handout at ebbirth.com/arrive. If you prefer to learn via video, check the EBB YouTube channel for the video version of this episode. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, we're talking about uterine fibroids and their impact on pregnancy and birth with Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell, a board-certified OB/GYN and nationally recognized expert in fibroid treatment. Dr. Gillispie-Bell shares her wealth of knowledge on this critical, yet often overlooked, topic—explaining everything from what fibroids are to the various treatment options available. We cover how fibroids affect reproductive health, debunk myths about Cesarean versus vaginal birth, and discuss the racial disparities in fibroid care that Black women face. Dr. Gillispie-Bell also opens up about her personal connection to this field, tracing her passion for fibroid treatment back to her own mother’s journey. Content Note: This episode contains discussions of maternal mortality and pregnancy-related death. Please take care while listening. 02:30 Understanding Uterine Fibroids and Their Prevalence 04:22 Symptoms and Health Consequences of Uterine Fibroids 08:05 Dr. Gillispie-Bell's Interest in Fibroids and Racial Disparities 16:13 Minimally Invasive Procedures for Fibroids 19:12 Hysterectomy as a Treatment Option 21:55 Considerations for Fibroid Treatment in Relation to Fertility 24:19 Safety and Impact on Fertility of Certain Fibroid Treatments 26:11 Primary Surgical Procedure: Myomectomy 28:19 Hysteroscopic Fibroid Removal Resources Follow Dr. Gillispie-Bell on Instagram here. Help prevent maternal mortality with the CDC – Hear Her Campaign. Learn more about fibroid advocacy by visiting the White Dress Project and the Fibroid Foundation. Follow the work of the Louisiana Perinatal Quality Collaborative. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker’s book, “Babies Are Not Pizzas: They’re Born, Not Delivered!” If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Leslie Farrington, an African-American retired OB/GYN, birth justice advocate, and co-founder of the Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood, shares how her early experience with midwifery inspired her passion for patient-centered care. As a physician who later recognized the harmful effects of “physician supremacy” in the medical system, she details her transformation into an advocate for liberation and anti-racism in healthcare. She discusses how systemic issues impact Black maternal health and introduces the ACTT (Ask, Claim, Trust, Tell) framework, a powerful toolkit designed to empower birthing families to advocate for themselves during prenatal care. Dr. Farrington also offers practical strategies for building confidence, addressing power imbalances in medical settings, and ensuring patients are heard and respected. (00:00) Empowering Pregnant Individuals in Prenatal Care (14:13) Advocating for Black Maternal Health Equity (17:55) Empowering Patients in Prenatal Healthcare Settings (26:23) Fostering Collaborative Relationships for Patient-Centered Care (32:50) Enhancing OB/GYN Care for African American Parents (42:00) Advocacy Training for Black Maternal Health Learn more about the Black Coalition for Safe Motherhood here. Download the Irth App here. For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Chiropractor Dr. Lisa Vawter is all about women's health, especially when it comes to prenatal and postpartum care. With certifications in the Webster technique, Spinning Babies®, and BirthFit™, she's got all the tools to support expectant and new moms in a holistic way. Dr. Vawter is a firm believer in the power of chiropractic care to ease pregnancy symptoms like low back pain and sciatica, focusing on things like posture, muscle engagement, and body balance. Inspired by her own pregnancy journey, Dr. Vawter provides personalized and compassionate care to make sure birthing people have a safe and comfortable journey into parenthood. Listen as we talk about: Dr. Lisa Vawter's journey of being pregnant while in chiropractic school An overview of the anatomy of the spine, hips, and pelvis The kinds of normal bodily changes that happen in pregnancy How body mechanics and everyday movements can impact comfort in pregnancy Simple, bite-size exercises to help with re-alignment of your neck and pelvis Types of chiropractic adjustments used in pregnancy, including the Webster technique Information on the safety of chiropractic care in pregnancy Visit Dr. Vawter's website here, or follow her on Instagram here. Learn more about Spinning Babies® and BirthFit™. For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, we're joined by EBB Childbirth Class graduates Dr. Emily Guilfoy and her husband, Doug, as they share their unmedicated birth story. Dr. Emily, a chiropractor, walks us through her preparation for birth using self-hypnosis and the mental and physical strategies she employed for a calm, empowering labor. Together, they discuss their experience in the EBB Childbirth Class, working with their doula, and how they created a serene birthing environment in a hospital setting. Dr. Guilfoy also tells us how her personal history of having a hip replacement surgery impacted her pregnancy and birth options. From managing labor to navigating hospital policies, tune in to hear about how they achieved the birth experience they envisioned. Resources: Learn more about Hypnobabies here. EBB 322 – Harnessing the Power of the Mind to Enhance Joy and Comfort in Childbirth with Kerry Tuschhoff, Founder of Hypnobabies For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this episode, we're exploring the fascinating science of blood types and blood incompatibility in pregnancy. You’ll learn about the basics of blood types, how they are inherited, and why knowing your blood type is crucial—especially during pregnancy. Rebecca and Sara also discuss the implications of Rh incompatibility, ABO incompatibility, and other rare blood types on maternal and fetal health. (17:15) Rhogam Injection: Preventing Rh Incompatibility Complications (18:23) Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn: RH Incompatibility (20:24) Rh Sensitization: Newborn Hemolytic Complications (21:33) Rh Incompatibility Risk in Pregnancy Testing (22:45) Global Shortages Impacting Postpartum Rhogam Access (25:15) ABO Incompatibility Impact in Pregnancy (35:44) Critical Need for Anti D Immunoglobulin Access (35:44) RhoGAM: Preventing Newborn Disease through Donations For the full list of references and resources, visit the EBB website here! For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Neysha Reyes Cruz’s journey to becoming a birth doula was sparked by witnessing the inadequate support and resources during a friend’s hospital birth in Puerto Rico. Her personal experiences and those of her family have further fueled her commitment and passion for advocating on behalf of women, particularly within Hispanic and Latinx communities. Neysha recognizes the significant need for more bilingual doulas to ensure culturally competent care and clear communication for non-English speaking patients. In response, she is actively working to train and certify young Latina women as bilingual doulas in Kansas City, aiming to address this critical gap and improve maternal health outcomes. Learn more about Olas de Amor here, or follow them on Instagram here! Find resources from Nuture KC here. Get support from Parto En Casa here. Get support from Esperanza Birth here. Get the EBB pocket guide in Spanish here! To view this episode's transcript in English or Español, click here. For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

We are joined by Kimberly Turbin and Michele Monserratt-Ramos, staunch advocates against obstetric violence driven by personal experiences and a commitment to marginalized communities. Note: Read the transcript in English or español here! Or watch with closed captions on the EBB YouTube channel. Kimberly's advocacy began after a traumatic birth experience in 2013, which she courageously shared publicly to ignite awareness and debate on obstetric mistreatment. Michele, with her extensive background in public interest and healthcare safety, collaborates with Kimberly to address maternal health issues, particularly affecting Latina women in California. Their joint efforts focus on systemic change, emphasizing the need for resources, education and support to ensure informed healthcare decisions and improved maternal health outcomes. Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of obstetric violence. Listener discretion is advised. Learn about Consumer Watchdog here. Watch Kimberly Turbin's birth video here. Follow Kimberly Turbin on Instagram. For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Lisa Smith, a registered dietitian and host of the Pretty Well podcast, joins us on the EBB podcast to discuss the crucial topic of reducing toxins in the home during pregnancy and postpartum. Lisa shares her personal health journey, including her experience with Hashimoto's disease (an autoimmune condition impacting the thyroid), and highlights the importance of reducing environmental toxins to promote optimal health. Listen and learn about the connection between toxins and gut health, how industrial chemicals are found in umbilical cord blood, and steps expectant parents can take to lower toxin levels in their environment. From understanding the dangers of heavy metals and "forever chemicals" to making informed choices about food and household products, Lisa shares practical tips to creating a healthier home for you and your family. Tune in to Lisa's podcast Pretty Well, here, and follow the show on Instagram here! For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.