In this recast episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, host HeHe and certified professional midwife Melissa Chapel dive into candid discussions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The podcast offers a wealth of evidence-based information, understanding the importance of feeling pressure during labor, and recognizing the difference between intermittent and constant rectal or vaginal pressure. Melissa also addresses the controversial practice of being asked not to push if a doctor isn't present. Both emphasize the significance of mental and emotional preparedness in labor. The episode concludes with insights into laboring down, resting stages during labor, and navigating hospital protocols. This episode is a must-listen for expecting parents, laboring mothers, and professionals supporting childbirth.

01:23 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing

03:10 Part Two: Interview with Midwife Melissa Chapel

03:33 Understanding the Urge to Push

10:00 Navigating Hospital Birth Challenges

20:30 Understanding Cervical Dilation

21:15 Factors Affecting Cervical Changes

23:22 The Role of Fear in Labor

26:21 Mental and Emotional Barriers

27:34 The Importance of Acceptance in Birth

31:25 Laboring Down: Rest and Be Thankful

35:24 Navigating Hospital Births

38:03 Resources and Support for Birth

40:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, as well as a doula trainer of over 20 years. She is passionate about women’s health from a holistic and nourishing perspective, and advocates for women’s wellness in all areas of their lives. She has worked with midwives and birthing women all over the world, including in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and loves seeing how women’s lives improve with access to safe and effective midwifery care. She’s the owner of Fresh Melissa, a company dedicated to creating tasty treats that are also healthy. She is the mother of 4 children and 3 grandchildren that she adores. In between catching babies, Melissa loves to explore as much of the world as she can – from international travel to exploring the mountains in her backyard.

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