British osteopath, Doula & Birth Mentor, Shellie Poulter shares her insight and experience with coercion in the birth space and solutions for its betterment. We discuss how mistreatment in the hospital system is not limited to patients and families. A jet-lagged Dr. Stu shares the tale of his time teaching in the U.K. while Blyss dealt with a tough birthing situation. 

It's an open dialogue where no topic is off-limits. We dive headfirst into the harsh reality of coercion in healthcare and its uncanny resemblance to abusive behavior. As we navigate the underbelly of medicine, we also explore the fascinating world of the polyvagal theory, shedding light on how medical professional's behavior can be influenced by their stress responses. We also discuss the cold indifference many pregnant women face from their healthcare providers. 

From nutrition during pregnancy to the intrusive nature of hospital interference in physiologic birth, we guide you through an enlightening narrative that emphasizes the importance of reform in birthing practices.

Key highlights:

• Complications and Support During Birth
• Navigating Vaginal Bleeding and Birth Choices
• Coercion and Lack in Medical Care
• Polyvagal Theory and Medical Treatment Dynamics
• Trauma and the Birth Experience
• Pregnancy Nutrition
• Physiologic Birth and Hospital Interference
• Abusive Practices in Hospital Settings

Episode resources:

• Article: Birth Space – Supportive or Coercive? By Shellie Poulter

About Shellie Poulter:

Shellie trained in Osteopathic and Naturopathic medicine in 2005 and has been working as a doula and cranio-sacral therapist, mentor and lecturer for 17 years. She teaches birthing biomechanics and trauma informed, non-violent communication courses as well as holding monthly Bitesize Birth lectures and safe discussion spaces for birth workers.

Connect with Shellie Poulter:

• Instagram: @theserenitydoula
• website www.theserenitydoula.co.uk

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
• Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com