In this re-aired fan-favorite episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Rixa Freeze, research professor and president of Breech Without Borders, to challenge everything you think you know about breech birth. Together, they unpack the real facts, not the fear, behind breech birth, from what it actually is to the true statistics and why the right provider can change everything.

Dr. Freeze breaks down short- and long-term risks for both mom and baby, exposes how outdated research continues to shape today’s birth practices, and explains how upright birth positions can dramatically improve outcomes. You’ll also hear what’s really going on behind the scenes when families try to find breech-competent providers (and how to advocate when your baby’s got their own plans for positioning!).

Whether you’re currently expecting a breech baby or just want to be prepared for anything, this episode is packed with evidence, empowerment, and that signature HeHe honesty that helps you feel calm, confident, and in control of your birth choices.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of infant and maternal mortality statistics.

00:00 Introduction and Common Misconceptions About Breech Birth

00:52 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:01 Black Friday Sale Announcement

02:15 The Birth Lounge: Comprehensive Childbirth Education

04:48 Special Offers and Membership Perks

08:51 Exclusive Black Friday Deal Details

09:38 Re-airing Popular Episodes During Maternity Leave

10:51 Introduction to Breech Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze

11:55 Understanding Breech Birth Basics

16:18 Safety and Risks of Breech Birth

25:46 Maternal and Long-term Outcomes of Breech Birth

29:24 Understanding Long-Term Effects of Birth Decisions

30:34 Insights on Preterm Breech Births

31:08 Discovering a Clean Brand: Just Ingredients

33:40 Hospital vs. Home Birth Data for Breech Births

36:47 Encouraging Breech Birth Training for Providers

42:53 Labor and Birth Positions for Breech Births

54:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Rixa Freeze holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Iowa and is an internationally recognized researcher, professor, and mother of four. As president of Breech Without Borders, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, she specializes in vaginal breech birth and advocates for autonomy and human rights in childbirth. Her work bridges history, research, and education to bring evidence-based, respectful care to every birth setting.

Dr. Rixa blogs at Stand and Deliver (rixarixa.blogspot.com) and is passionate about all things birth- and breastfeeding-related. 

This is a re-air of episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze, which you can find here: 

https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-179-the-safety-of-breech-birth-with-rixa-freeze/

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