Send us a text

What if sleeping beside your baby isn’t dangerous—but actually protective? In this episode, we talk about one of the most instinctive things mothers do—and one of the most feared and judged: co-sleeping. Today's guest is Isadora Ambrose, founder of Happy Co-Sleeper and a certified holistic infant sleep specialist.

Why are parents told to never sleep with their babies when every cell in their body wants to keep them close at night?  Isadora breaks down what makes co-sleeping safe (and what makes it unsafe), how studies are often misinterpreted, and why so many parents end up co-sleeping anyway—without the right support or setup. We discuss breastfeeding, chest-sleeping, the role of the mother’s body in keeping babies safe, and how co-sleeping protects against sleep deprivation and unsafe sleep situations. (You'll also hear Isadora's opinion on the SNOO!)

We also explain how co-sleeping changes as your child grows—what to do as your baby becomes a toddler, how to bring a new sibling into the mix, and how to keep your relationship intact while sharing sleep with your child.

This is an honest, reassuring conversation for anyone who's ever felt torn between what feels natural and what they've been told is “safe.” 

Happy Co-Sleeper

Isadora on Instagram

Remember to watch our full episodes on YouTube!

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample packNot a Sponsor but HIGHLY recommended: ENERGYbits Save 20%

Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Cynthia and Trisha are back with the March Q&A episode! This one kicks off with a fun discussion on things that our Instagram followers think people should know but don’t—like how, when you say you’re eating a kiwi, you’re actually referring to either a kiwi bird or, worse, a person from New Zealand!

In today’s Q&A episode, we answer these questions:

1. Do I need to schedule a cesarean at 40 weeks if I’m planning a VBAC? My OB says I do.
2. How do I know when it’s time to wean from breastfeeding, and how can I do it without feeling guilty?
3. What are my options if my state says it’s illegal to give birth at home after a previous cesarean?

In the extended, ad-free version, available on Patreon and Apple subscriptions, we cover:

• My second birth was only 45 minutes long, and my baby was born in the car on the way to the hospital. How can I prevent or better prepare for a rapid birth with my third baby?
• Will dropping a pumping session with my eleven-week-old baby affect my milk supply?
• How long is too long to wait to deliver the placenta, and how can I help it come out more quickly?

Finally, in the "quickies" segment, we touch on a variety of topics, including alternatives to Pitocin, botox while breastfeeding, swimming in public pools during the third trimester, finances & family planning, and dealing with the awkward situation of being told your baby can't attend a baby shower—and much more!

Remember you can watch all our episodes now in full video format on the Down to Birth YouTube channel! 

Thank you, as always, for your fantastic questions! Keep them coming to our hotline at 802-438-3696. We promise we won’t answer! :)

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Not a Sponsor but HIGHLY recommended: ENERGYbits

Remember to watch our full episodes on YouTube!

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

In today's episode, Dr. Jenn Simmons shares her powerful journey from a leading breast cancer surgeon to an advocate for functional medicine and holistic health. Drawing from her personal experience with illness and healing, Dr. Simmons discusses the dangers and limitations of traditional breast cancer screening with mammography and offers insight into safer, more effective alternatives like QT imaging, the ARIA test, and the importance of self-breast exams.

This conversation is especially relevant for pregnant and postpartum mothers who want to make informed decisions about their health. We cover how lifestyle choices, metabolic health, and early detection practices can play a significant role in breast cancer prevention.

If you've ever questioned mammography, you were right to do so. Today, we offer evidence-based alternatives to conventional care, expose the myths and dangers of mammography, and teach you about the most important tool that you already have to help detect and prevent breast cancer. 

Dr. Jenn Simmons on Instagram

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding

Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Labor dystocia, often labeled as "failure to progress," is the leading reason for cesarean birth in the United States. At its core, prolonged labor is frequently influenced by suboptimal fetal positioning, as well as the mother’s biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology. In this episode, we delve into the true causes of labor dystocia and explore how intentional movement and positioning—both during pregnancy and labor—can promote a smoother, more efficient birth.

Our discussion covers:

• The definitions of labor dystocia and why there is no universal consensus;
• How fetal positioning impacts labor progress and ways to optimize it;
• The effects of maternal posture, movement, and soft tissue balance during pregnancy and birth;
• Understanding biomechanics in making space for the baby and easing labor challenges;
• How the medical model misinterprets and over-manages normal variations in labor; and
• Practical strategies to prevent and resolve labor dystocia naturally.

When a mother and baby are doing well in labor there is no upper limit to how long her labor can go. No woman should be diagnosed with failure to progress, a term we reject. This episodes provides insights and tips to optimize your labor and your baby's position and reduced the chances of experiencing a long, difficult labor.

Molly O'brien

Molly on Instagram

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding

Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Do you know the "hi" joke? If not, you haven't been listening long enough or need to go back to our earliest episodes, lol! If you haven't been there you should. We have some amazing episodes from season one.

Anyway, today is all about breastfeeding. Trisha answers our listeners' questions on the following:

Are there any techniques to relieve engorgement and over-production of milk in the early days to be more comfortable? And Cynthia asks Trisha: Why is oversupply such a problem, anyway?

What do you recommend for extra sleepy babies to help them breastfeed when they're demonstrating a preference for bottles over breast? Could being born prematurely have an impact on the situation?

Is it ok to use a portable, hands-free pump instead of double electric pump? And find out why it might be best to engage in a side activity while pumping.

Does breastfeeding reduce your calcium stores in your bones and should you take more calcium while breastfeeding?

For quickies we touch on foreceful letdowns, foremilk/hindmilk balance, breastfeeding apps, breastfeeding without pillow support, cracked nipples, bottle introduction, and our bravest breastfeeding experiences!

Over on YouTube, Trisha provides a demonstration of latch on her preferred bottle for breastfeeding babies. 

To work with Trisha virtually or in person, please text 734-649-6294. In-network coverage with major insurance companies.

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

ENERGYbits--the superfood every mother needs for pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding

Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Welcome to the February Q&A! Today, Cynthia & Trisha kick off the episode by discussing reasons why our community has lost friendships or relationships over their parenting choices. In our regular episode, we answer the following questions:

1. Is there such a thing as a lazy newborn, and if so, what can you do about it?

2. Can my placenta detach in pregnancy? My OB told me I can't have sex because my placenta is low-lying and it could separate.  

3. I have a diagnosis of gestational hypertension. If my blood pressure goes down, do I still need to be induced at week 37 as the OB is recommending? 

In our extended episode, we discuss when or not medications may be needed for postpartum depression, what increases the risk of cervical tears and hematomas, and what to do about respiratory distress in newborns born at home. 

Lastly, in quickies, we talk about doulas at birth, suggest the one question you should ask your midwife or doula, and answer whether you need to track kick counts. We discuss breastfeeding and laser hair removal, phototherapy and jaundice, and whether or not we start our day with a dry or wet toothbrush, among other morning routines. 

Thank you as always for your wonderful questions, and please keep them coming by calling 802-438-3696.  For the extended version of this episode, please subscribe on Apple subscriptions or join us on Patreon.

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

In today’s episode, we explore the powerful benefits of spirulina and chlorella—two superfoods that boost energy, improve digestion, and alkalize your body, especially during pregnancy. Each tiny tablet is pure food with the nutritional equivalent of an entire plate of vegetables. 

Trisha noticed a significant difference in her energy level during her workouts once she started taking spirulina each morning. So we've invited Catharine Arnston, founder of EnergyBits, to explain why these nutrient-dense algae offer superior nutrition. Spirulina, packed with amino acids, delivers 99.9% bioavailable protein for clean, sustained energy. It's also rich in chlorophyll and phycocyanin, which support mitochondrial health and cellular protection. Chlorella, on the other hand, helps detoxify the body and relieve constipation—a common pregnancy discomfort—while replenishing essential nutrients.

During pregnancy, spirulina supports fetal brain development with nutrients similar to breast milk, while chlorella provides immune support and gentle detoxification. Plus, with just one serving equaling 1,000 grams of vegetables, these superfoods make filling nutritional gaps easy and affordable.

We also cover how to incorporate spirulina and chlorella into your routine, recommended doses, and their key differences: spirulina for nourishment, chlorella for detoxification.

If you're looking for a natural way to boost energy, improve digestion, and support a healthy pregnancy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Algae is one of the most rigorously studied foods in the world and has been deemed the solution to world hunger.

We are so excited to bring you this amazing superfood!  Try it today using promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH to save 20% on your first order.  For $7 per week, you can relinquish your worries about ensuring the best nutrition for your baby and your body.

ENERGYbits

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Today we dive deep into an incredibly empowering and unique birth story. Megan Wilson of @wilsonfamilyhomestead shares her journey of unexpectedly giving birth to her 33-week baby in a car and the powerful decision she made to trust her instincts, rather than following the traditional hospital protocol. She purposefully broke her own water in the car to expedite the birth once they were parked in the hospital parking lot.

In an inspiring twist, Megan reveals her decision to have her baby stay in the car with her, avoiding antibiotics, the NICU, and unnecessary interventions, and explains how she relied on her midwife’s guidance as they made their way to a nearby birth center. With a premie weighing in at five pounds, Megan’s determination to do what felt right for her and her baby led to an incredibly positive outcome: a thriving newborn who began breastfeeding right away and never dipped below her birth weight.

This episode is a celebration of maternal intuition, trusting your body, and navigating birth on your own terms. Join us for a heartwarming and real conversation about unconventional birth choices, self-trust, and the power of a mother doing things her way.

#31 | Megan of Wilson Family Homestead's Birth Story: Unattended Home Birth in the Kitchen

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

In this episode, Allison Angelini shares the profound and challenging story of her second pregnancy and birth. From the start, Allison had a premonition that her birth might not go as planned. Compounding her worries, she experienced a traumatic event while camping with her toddler, which left her grappling with PTSD and anxiety throughout her pregnancy.

Despite her fears, Allison pursued a home birth. Her labor was long and intense, complicated by an anterior cervical lip and an instinctive sense that something was off. After her baby’s head was born, his shoulders became stuck—a shoulder dystocia. He entered the world pale, limp, and not breathing. However, his umbilical cord remained intact and pulsing at a strong 150 bpm, allowing him to recover after eight tense minutes in his mother’s arms, still connected to his placenta.

In reflecting on her experience, Allison wonders if her mental state influenced her labor progression and contributed to the shoulder dystocia of her 9 lb. 13 oz. baby. Despite this difficult birth, she later went on to have a smooth home birth with her third child, who weighed almost exactly the same as her second.

Tune in to hear Allison’s honest and introspective journey as she wrestles with the question: Did my PTSD cause a shoulder dystocia?

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.

Send us a text

Welcome to the first Q&A episode of Season 6 with Cynthia & Trisha! We’re kicking things off by discussing some lesser-known causes of cervical scar tissue that could impact labor progress. It’s a good reminder to consider how any procedure or reproductive intervention might affect future births.

In this episode, we answer a new collection of listener questions, including one about a mom-to-be who wants a home birth but is feeling uneasy about having someone else in the house to watch her child during labor. Is a birth center a better option for her? We also talk about postpartum aches and pains—specifically knee, calf, and foot discomfort—and what supplements and activities might help during recovery. Plus, we dive into the rise of shoulder dystocia: why is it happening more often, and what can be done to prevent or address it?

In our extended episode, available to Apple subscribers and on Patreon, we answer more questions, such as: How can you tell if you’re bleeding too much after delivering the placenta in water (with expert advice from Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International)? Do prenatal vitamins actually play a critical role? And when, if ever, does a low fetal heart rate in labor mean you need to cut the cord and separate mom and baby for resuscitation?

We also wrap up with a quick-fire round of Quickies covering everything from laboring on your back and diaper rash to ultrasounds, precipitous labor, and the foods we, personally, could eat every single day.

Tune in for all that and more!

#200 | Physiologic Birth of the Placenta in Water, Optimal Cord Clamping and Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage with Barbara Harper

**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
DrinkLMNT -- Purchase LMNT with this unique link and get a FREE sample pack

Connect with us on Patreon for our exclusive content.
Email [email protected]
Instagram @downtobirthshow
Call us at 802-GET-DOWN

Watch the full videos of all our episodes on YouTube!

Work with Cynthia:
203-952-7299
HypnoBirthingCT.com

Work with Trisha:
734-649-6294

Please remember we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed medical provider for all your healthcare matters.