Blyss and Stu host Julie Hewett, a Clinical Psychologist and mother of two based in Santa Monica. Julie is passionate about helping people who have felt silenced to empower their voices to be heard. This took on very personal meaning to her this past year when she struggled with a fear-based medical system to deliver her breech baby on her own terms. Blyss, Stu, and Julie share their sympathies for those subjected to the broken medical system and strive to empower patients to demand the care they deserve.  
 In this episode of Birthing Instincts:Unpacking the birth culture in Santa Barbara Questions to ask your birth care provider (early on)The placenta birthing processJulie’s experience with the medical systemCritiquing medical professionals’ note-taking processDealing with your own trauma as a trauma-informed professionalThe psychosocial problems at the root of many of our cultural systems  
 This show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts  to get a free sample pack!
 Connect with Julie:Instagram: @psykodrjulieWebsite: drjuliehewett.com
 Connect with Dr. Stu:Instagram: @birthinginstinctsWebsite: birthinginstincts.com
 Connect with Blyss:Instagram: @birthingblyssWebsite: birthingblyss.com
 
 This show is produced by Soulfire Productions 


#273 What We Say and The Way We Say It

The birth world can be overwhelming for parents and practitioners alike. Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young and their combined 55+ years of experience are here to support you in this beautiful rite of passage.Join the weekly conversation as we blend wisdom and humor in discussing our recent births, the latest research, traditional healing, and instinctual birth.  

Alternative Health

Health

Kids & Family

Parenting

Health & Fitness

Today we have midwife and mom, Catalina Clark, as our guest to share her journey as we discuss freebirthing from all angles. About Catalina Clark: I am a woman, mother, daughter, sister, midwife and student on the healing path. With 10 years experience in birth, I have found my way home to supporting women in alignment with the natural world and the power of physiologic birth. As a midwife of healing, I am here to walk with you along your path, to love you wherever you are and support you on your personal journey. I am not here to fix you or tell you what to do. To heal is to reclaim and reweave the fabric of your True Self back into your being, perfect and complete just as you are. When co-creating together we are stepping into a mutual relationship of universal love and trust with each other, ourselves and the divine. My journey of remembrance began entrenched in the medical model. After countless disempowering experiences I began seeking council outside the medical industrial system. In my studies over the past decade with a variety of traditional healers I began weaving a new path for myself, which led me to my true calling as a spiritual midwife. It is with great humility, honor and respect that I walk alongside all those with the willingness to step into the unknown, to untangle stories of the past and return to our hearts. Key highlights:Discussion on Birthing ChoicesChallenging Obstetrician Views on Free BirthingEmpowering PregnancyExploring Fear and Inner WorkAnxious Thoughts About Baby's HealthImportance of Informed Birth Decision-MakingChallenging Birth Paradigms and Prenatal PreparationSupportive Midwifery PracticesTransformation and Growth in MidwiferyEpisode resources:Join our Patreon! com/birthinginstinctspodcastConnect with Catalina:Website: catalinaclarkbirth.comInstagram: @catalina.clarkThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderBIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness programChristian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth courseConnect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comCall-in line: 805-399-0439Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com


#364 Freebirth: Free to Choose

Such an important conversation with our guests, Emily Roper, ( Neuro-Developmental Delay Therapist) & Beth Shayler, (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant), on looking for the root causes and alternative approaches to developmental delays and the mental health of babies and children. Why is something so basic so unknown to the allopathic medical world? Blyss & Dr. Stu learn about the importance of spontaneous labor and the birth process on the neurological development of the fetus and baby. How we birth and raise our children matters. It just makes sense and it has never been more true than now that we need to trust our instincts when it comes to medical advice. Medical billing is just another example of a system out of control. Dr. Stu takes to the mic on "The Experience Miracles Podcast" Key highlights:Fetal and Newborn ReflexesLong-Term Effects of C-SectionsHolistic Approach in Child HealthcareChild Development and Reflex IntegrationEvolution of Tummy TimeCDC Milestones and Common SenseEnvironmental Studies and Publication DelaysEpisode resources:Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastStu as a guest on The Experience Miracle’s Podcast: Delivering Truth: An MD’s Response to Fear-Based BirthArticle: The Importance of Integrating Reflexes by Sonia StoryConnect with our guests:Emily Roper: Emily@earlyrootstherapy.comBeth Shayler: shayler.elizabeth@gmail.comThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderBIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness programChristian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth courseConnect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comCall-in line: 805-399-0439Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

#363 The Significance of Integrating Reflexes, Who Knew?

Interpreting the value of a study can be difficult. With Blyss taking some healing time, Dr. Stu interviews Dr. Emiliano Chavira, MD, MPH, FACOG and MFM sub-specialist who shares his expertise on this subject. From randomized trials to meta-analyses we learn that a study is never definitive. Working within the "high risk" system, Dr. C has insight and wisdom that we want our fellow travelers to hear. What's the definition of IUGR, what are the problems with moving the bar and why so much color Doppler? About Dr. Emiliano Chavira: Dr. Chavira is board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology with a subspecialty certification in Maternal-Fetal Medicine. He completed both his Ob/Gyn residency training as well as his fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine (high risk pregnancy) at LAC+USC in Los Angeles, California. In his years as a specialist working in tertiary referral centers, he has cared for some of the most complicated and high-risk pregnancies, dealing with both maternal medical issues as well as complex fetal problems. His passion is to provide objective and caring guidance to his patients with the aim of instilling knowledge, understanding, empowerment, and hope in difficult circumstances. In addition to caring for complicated pregnancies, he also has an interest in ethical dilemmas in modern obstetric care, particularly as related to vaginal breech birth, multiple gestations, and VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). Key highlights:Flaws in Term Breech TrialDebate on 39-Week Induction SafetyC-Section Rates in Labor InductionOpinions on ARRIVE Trial and C-SectionDefining Intrauterine Growth RestrictionImpact of Fear in Pregnancy MonitoringEpisode resources:Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastArticle: 6 Basic Types of Research Studies (Plus Pros and Cons)Article: This Is How Much Home Birth Costs in Every StateThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderBIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness programChristian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth courseConnect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comCall-in line: 805-399-0439Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com


#362 Studies Are Just Pieces Of Evidence with Dr. Emiliano Chavira

The uterus is a miraculous creation but sometimes it doesn't follow nature's blueprint. Today on the podcast we discuss these fairly common blips (AKA anomalies or abnormalities) and their significance. With awareness and empathy, we weave through personal stories and clinical presentations, highlighting the profound impact these uterine anomalies can have on fertility and pregnancy. We dissect the various types of these conditions, the possible complications, and the importance of a compassionate, patient-centric approach to care. It's a deep exploration of a topic that's typically clouded by misunderstanding, so we aim to bring light and informed guidance to those it affects. Blyss shares a VBAC story as she continues to "patiently" recover. Dr. Stu wonders about the saying, "Life is like riding a bicycle!" and reads an uplifting twin story. Key highlights:VBAC Support and Hospital PoliciesLong Labor Story With A Happy EndingControversy Over Doula RegulationUnderstanding Congenital Uterine AbnormalitiesManagement of Uterine Anomalies and ComplicationsEpisode resources:Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastNational Library of Medicine: The impact of congenital uterine abnormalities on pregnancy and fertility: a literature reviewUp To Date: Congenital uterine anomalies: Clinical manifestations and diagnosisThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderBIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness programChristian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth courseConnect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comCall-in line: 805-399-0439Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

#361 Congenital Uterine Alternatives

Skin disorders exclusive to pregnant women have always been puzzling to Blyss & Dr. Stu. How do we know one from the other? Today we look at the dermatoses of pregnancy and differentiate the physiologic from the pathologic. You'll hear us dissect the five major types of rashes that can puzzle even seasoned healthcare professionals, the challenges of medical information access, and personal accounts of birth timing, premature labor, and the vital role of clear clinical documentation. We also delve into the nuances of supporting births in the community, examining the value of trust and adaptability when changes arise, such as a different midwife attending a birth, and discussing the impact of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) testing on hospital transfers and treatment. We also take a critical eye to medical misinformation spread by healthcare professionals on social media and the exasperating experiences with insurance companies, using personal anecdotes to highlight the issues. We also examine a range of skin and hair changes during pregnancy, and take a thought-provoking look at how control over medical literature might shape our understanding of autoimmune diseases and their potential environmental triggers. Blyss shares a birthkeeper dilemma while Dr. Stu does his civic duty. Key highlights:Medical misinformation and insurance frustrationsHow skin conditions affect pregnancyMany rashes are annoying but not harmfulWhat can be done for relief from pregnancy rashes?Exploring medical literature and information controlEpisode resources:Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastDermatoses of pregnancyBirthing Instincts Event: The Talk: Bringing the Homebirth Hesitant on BoardThis show is supported by:LMNT | Go to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with every orderBIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness programChristian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com/birthinginstincts to get 30% off Christian Hypnobirthing's Faith-Filled Childbirth courseConnect with Dr. Stu & Blyss:Instagram: @birthinginstincts / @birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com / birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.com Call-in line: 805-399-0439Podcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

#273 What We Say and The Way We Say It

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