March 25, 2025

Microchimerism & Postpartum Health: How Your Baby’s DNA Affects Your Health EP 208

16 minutes

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Did you know that a mother carries her child's cells inside her body for life? Not just emotionally, but physically.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into microchimerism, the phenomenon where fetal cells remain inside a mother’s body forever. These cells are found in the heart, brain, bones—everywhere. Some research suggests they aid healing, repair tissues, and may even protect against neurodegenerative diseases. But here’s the kicker: in some cases, they might also contribute to autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s and lupus.

Motherhood literally rewires a woman’s body at a cellular level. Microchimerism isn’t just a scientific curiosity—it’s a critical piece of the postpartum health puzzle. The difference between these cells becoming a healing force or a health risk depends on how well a mother’s body recovers after birth. And that’s exactly why postpartum nutrition and holistic recovery are non-negotiable.

The six-week checkup isn’t enough. If we don’t start prioritizing nutrient repletion, inflammation reduction, and real postpartum support, we are failing women—period. If you’re a postpartum provider, advocate, or anyone working to change the broken system of postpartum care, this episode is a must-listen.

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Key Time Stamps:

00:00 – Intro: The revolutionary science of microchimerism.
02:37 – Fetal cells stay in a mother's body for life—what does this mean?
05:45 – The autoimmune connection: Can these cells trigger disease?
07:51 – The healing power of microchimerism—how it might protect moms.
09:48 – Postpartum depletion & inflammation: The real problem.
11:55 – Why nutrition is the foundation of maternal health.
14:30 – How postpartum care MUST evolve to address long-term healing.

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