Autumn is here and beside the display of nature's splendor comes the inevitable cold and flu season with all it's precautions and warnings. Blyss & Dr. Stu refuse to blindly accept the standard recommendations offered by organized medicine. Together they dive into what is known about influenza in pregnancy and share their wisdom and typically strong opinions.

In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss explore the power of advocacy during pregnancy and birth. They explore the pros and cons of the RhoGAM shot during pregnancy, discuss intermittent fetal monitoring during labor, and the topic of delaying the standard shot of Pitocin after delivery. This chat is punctuated by a journey back in time to the complex history of midwifery and medicine, the shift from apprenticeship to professional schooling, and the upcoming challenges if this trend continues.

Key highlights:

• Influenza in Pregnancy
• Empowering Advocacy in Pregnancy and Birth
• Apprenticeship in Midwifery and Medicine
• Vaccination and COVID-19 During Pregnancy
• Risks of Flu Vaccination in Pregnancy
• Controversy Surrounding Vaccinations in Pregnancy

Episode resources:

• Fluzone package insert: https://www.fda.gov/media/170019/download?attachment
• Pregnancy as a risk factor for severe outcomes from influenza virus infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
• CDC: Cold vs. Flu
• CDC: Vaccines and Pregnancy: 9 Things You Need to Know
• Article: Assessment and Treatment of Pregnant Women With Suspected or Confirmed Influenza
• Blyss’ instagram post on c-sections

This show is supported by:

• LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every order
• Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first month or first 3 months of a one-month subscription at thisisneeded.com.
• BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS1 for a discount on the Basics Prenatal program, or INSTINCTS2 for a discount on the Basics Postpartum program.

Connect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:

• Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyss
• Website: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.com
• Email: [email protected] 
• Call-in line: 805-399-0439