Ali Yarrow thought her childbirth experience would be hers to guide. Instead, she found it was guided by the American obstetrics system — a model that was designed by men. Ali documented what she uncovered in her eye-opening book, Birth Control, and joins us to share what she learned about maternal care in the U.S., how we got here, and how to advocate for ourselves in a system stacked against both patients and providers.

*When you use our affilate links to purchase books, we earn a commission, which helps support our work!

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Recommendations from the archive

• #27 Rewriting Your Birth Story

• #28 The Missing Chapter to Ina May’s Guide

• #218 Ina May’s Guide, Completely Revised and Updated

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Doula Resources

Doulas often lead to better birth outcomes. Find one in your area through DONA International.

Doula Training

If you’re a birth partner, you can train to be a doula yourself!

• DONA birth doula certification training

• CAPPA birth doula certification training

• MaternityWise Institute birth doula certification training

Low-Cost/No-Cost Doula Services

Many cities have low/no-cost doula programs for low-income individuals. Contact local birthing centers, hospitals, and state health departments for more info. Below are some examples.

• NYC’s Citywide Doula Initiative

• HealthConnect One community based doula services

• Community Doula Network (DC Area)

• Happy Mama Healthy Baby Alliance (LA Area)

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Sponsors (using our links supports the show!)

• Blissy: 60 nights risk-free plus 30% off at blissy.com/LONGSHORTPOD with code LONGSHORTPOD

• Alloy: $20 off your first order at myalloy.com/LONGSHORT with code LONGSHORT

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