Birth Story Podcast

Today I chat with Gina Mundy about having a safe childbirth in a hospital. Pitocin should have their feelings hurt right now. Trigger warning as we discuss the stuff no one wants to think about, but that we all need to think about. Maternal and Fetal demise mentioned. Birth injuries mentioned. In her own words: I am an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, bestselling author, mother of three and wife. For over two decades, I have analyzed the mistakes that are made during labor and delivery. Drawing on this knowledge, I have authored the book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby. Rather than merely getting involved after an unfortunate mistake was made, I have taken a proactive approach by getting involved before childbirth. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Point 1 Lessons learned from childbirth cases Point 2 Most common facts in a childbirth case Point 3 How to have a safe chilbirth in a hospital Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: My book “A Parent’s Guide to a Safer Childbirth” Website: www.ginamundy.com Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ Instagram: @GinaMundy https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/ Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329 Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/ Twitter: @ginamundy_ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_ XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

We will cover Kathryn’s “Founder’s Story” about why she founded Anja Health - after a near-drowning accident, her brother was left with cerebral palsy and umbilical cord blood stem cells could’ve helped save his life. Since they’re mixed race, they were unable to find a match in public banks, which inspired Kathryn to create an affordable private stem cell safe. We will talk about what cord blood banking is, why is it important and we’ll mention a few case studies, that will showcase a few of the 85+ diseases for which cord blood stem cells are approved as a treatment for. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: If you’re pregnant you should definitely consider cord blood cord tissue and placenta banking. Placenta banking is an under utilized part of the birth plan Why Anja Health is different How cord blood, cord tissue, and placenta banking works and how much it costs. 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Cord blood banking Stem cells Birth plan Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: the Complete plan for Lifetime of storage by Anja Health Kathryn Cross is the CEO and Founder of Anja Health. Currently she is based in LA. Website: anjahealth.com Instagram: @anja.health TikTok: @kathrynanja & @anjahealth Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/anjahealth YouTube Channel: @anjahealth XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

My name is Sarah Latane. I live in the Shenandoah Valley of VA. I am a board certified behavior analyst and a stay at home parent. Brief overview of pregnancy; surprise pregnancy, early symptoms, initial MD care (on accident), early scare, practice transfer to midwife care, later symptoms (including GBS + and hypothyroid). Day/night of birth; prodromal labor and early labor at home, then hospital, never met before midwife, trauma response to cervical exam, decels, epidural, continued decels, cord prolapse diagnosed and emergency c-section. Some birth trauma, definitely the baby blues, then slowly progressing PPD turned postpartum rage, but mostly better now. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Point 1: birth is extremely unpredictable; definitely have strong visions for your birth plan, but research other alternatives just in case (I NEVER considered that I would end up having a cesarean and had not researched or planned for this at all and I think it made coming to terms with it harder). Point 2 : maybe prepare for cervical exam if you have experienced sexual assault before and have a first exam pre-labor? I think this really would have helped me. Point 3 : if possible, try to envision and plan for what after your birth will look like, e.g., what are your boundaries? And who can you enlist to advocate for you? I think (now that I have hindsight) realized boundaries and a strong advocate could have helped me avoid PPD/rage 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Point 1: cord prolapse Point 2 : birth trauma? Point 3 : postpartum depression/rage Instagram: @sblatane XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

This is Part 2 of my discussion with Kelli! During the podcast interviews we are going through 3 different birth stories as well as two losses. Each story is very unique in its own way and just goes to show how every birth can be different. We talk about Kelli's first birth being an induction with various interventions, her experience with two pregnancy losses, as well as the anxiety/mental health struggles she had during pregnancy, to having rainbow babies and a more hands off informed and empowering birthing experiences. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Each birth is different Informed choices Finding a supportive OB or midwife is very important not just for birth but for pregnancy loss 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Natural Birth Hospital Birth Pregnancy after loss Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: Favorite motherhood product: a pumping bra! It took me three kids to discover the magic of being hands free by using a pumping bra! I literally always held my breast pumps to me and when my last baby was in NICU it was such a game changer to be able to use my hands! In Kelli's words: "I am a registered nurse in the Kansas area who has a passion for all things birth. As a die hard patient advocate, I want people to know that their birth doesn’t have to be at the hands of a 9-5 doctor and that people have every right to have a say in their care as well as be able to make informed decisions about their birth without being talked down to or coerced." Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode. Instagram: @kellithelabornurse Facebook Page: Kellithelabornurse: XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

TRIGGER WARNING Miscarriages and miscarriage information. Walking through what it is like to miscarry at home and to have a DNC. Part 2 are her rainbow baby birth stories if you prefer to skip ahead. During the podcast interviews we are going through 3 different birth stories as well as two losses. Each story is very unique in its own way and just goes to show how every birth can be different. We talk about Kelli's first birth being an induction with various interventions, her experience with two pregnancy losses, as well as the anxiety/mental health struggles she had during pregnancy, to having rainbow babies and a more hands off informed and empowering birthing experiences. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Each birth is different Informed choices Finding a supportive OB or midwife is very important not just for birth but for pregnancy loss 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Natural Birth Hospital Birth Pregnancy after loss Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: Favorite motherhood product: a pumping bra! It took me three kids to discover the magic of being hands free by using a pumping bra! I literally always held my breast pumps to me and when my last baby was in NICU it was such a game changer to be able to use my hands! In Kelli's words: "I am a registered nurse in the Kansas area who has a passion for all things birth. As a die hard patient advocate, I want people to know that their birth doesn’t have to be at the hands of a 9-5 doctor and that people have every right to have a say in their care as well as be able to make informed decisions about their birth without being talked down to or coerced." Please link your contact information for me to share in the episode. Instagram: @kellithelabornurse Facebook Page: Kellithelabornurse: XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

In Sarah Beauchamp's own words: "My name is Sarah Beauchamp and I have a Bachelor’s degree with a focus on education. I am a mom of three kids (Almost 6, 4, and 1), a birth doula, a birth photographer, and the creator of the book, Birth Happens. I live in Northern Vermont. I am a doula and birth photographer who will give an overview of my own birth stories and then talk about the book I created, Birth Happens: A Collection of Birth Stories. This book has 128 different birth stories from 8 different countries. There is a focus on positive birth stories, but there are also some that are not as happy. There are home births, birth center births, hospital births, and unassisted births. There are breech births and twin births. The stories are meant to provide inspiration and education to anyone who is pregnant or interested in learning more about birth. I also talk about birth photography and how my goals with the book are my same goals with photography - sharing inspiration and education and helping people realize that birth is really beautiful." 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Birth Happens is available around the globe and is an affordable and accessible way to learn more about birth on your own time Birth is different for every person and every baby. It is mysterious and magical and reading lots of stories and listening to different birth story podcasts is a great way to prepare for birth. Birth doesn’t have to be scary and traumatic. It can be sometimes because it is always unpredictable, but it is also possible to have an empowering and beautiful birth. 3 keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Birth Photography Birth Stories Childbirth Education Website: birthsmiles.com Instagram: @birthsmiles Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083965312591 XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

TLDL: Go to Anjahealth.com and use code BIRTHSTORYTHANKS to get your cord blook banking kit for FREE. That is a $200 OFF code. Don't use the code, pay $200. Use the code and get it for FREE. Need more information on cord blood banking? Listen to episode 88 of the Birth Story Podcast where I interview the CEO. Go to BirthStory.com and use code THANKS23 to get $150 OFF Birth Story Academy + the Birth Story Pregnancy guidebook and journal included for just $49! Seriously you guys! This is how great of a day I am having. I am combining codes and giving ya'll $350. An online chidbirth class and my book for just $49! Don't hesitate. Come join me in class NOW! Happy Thanksgiving! This episode and sale expire Saturday night! XOXO-Heidi

Mae Yoshikawa is a mom, widow, author, model, yogi, and mindfullness guru in Tokyo, Japan. We spent 90 minutes together healing, chatting, and teaching YOU her recipe for peaceful birthing in Japan. In this healing episode, you’ll hear about… What keeps a woman from making not just informed but empowered decisions during pregnancy and at the time of birth. Despite her youth, health, and extremely fit body, Mae learned that she had gotten in her own way. As she looks back at her first birthing experience, she reflects on how she didn’t know that safe, pain-free, natural birth was possible for her, and that she had unknowingly let the subliminal messages of her mother’s birthing advice paint the landscape of her mind negatively. As a long-time yoga and meditation practitioner, Mae is adept at describing some of the energetic aspects of our minds and bodies; the yin and yang, masculine and feminine, as she discovered within herself. Eight years after her first, Mae ultimately had a redemptive birthing experience with her second child. Even then, she almost missed her chance when she thought that being a “nice girl” was about listening to the nurse and going with the ways of culture. At this delicate moment, it was her husband who reminded her of her strengths, joy, and self-empowered choice. Mae’s story of shifting from defeat to ecstasy in the experience of childbirth, as well as all of the learning lessons she has taken away from them, are sure to reach your heart too. You’ll also hear about how she lost her beloved husband suddenly, only five months after this divine homebirth experience. Mae’s third book (her first in English) is a heart-wrenching and heart-arousing memoir titled Kizuki, which chronicles her experience of finding herself again through grief by metaphorically weaving through her experiences of childbirth and childrearing (coming soon). Learn more about Mae and her upcoming book Kizuki at her Flagship Website: https://maey.live/ Find Mae on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maeyoshikawa/ We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

While Lauren was pitching Uber Health to their executive team, she felt a sharp, irregular pain in her stomach. With testing and a diagnostic surgery, she was diagnosed with an incredibly rare disease and was told she may not be able to have a biological child. As you can imagine, her first questions were: how do I navigate this disease? But also, how will I build a family some day? Because so little is known about this disease, it was unclear if she could pursue egg-freezing, so she started looking into donation and what stuck out to her was how antiquated and, for a lack of a better word, “icky” the traditional system felt. While, ultimately, she was very fortunate to have her sister freeze her eggs and donate them to her to potentially use later, and was able to conceive her baby girl unassisted, she never stopped thinking about egg donation. I spent months thinking about the costly, and emotionally and physically taxing feats people go through to build a family, and couldn’t believe no one has been talking about this and yet, egg donation is at the crux of so many other pieces of the industry. It’s an essential part of LGBTQ+ family planning, it goes hand in hand with egg-freezing, and it’s part of the process for many couples who go through infertility. That’s why in 2022, she founded Cofertility, to reshape fertility preservation and third-party reproduction so it’s more accessible, human and community-driven. The company offers a destigmatized, scalable approach to egg donation, which reshapes the cost structure of egg-freezing by matching women who want to freeze their eggs with families who could not otherwise conceive and by donating half, women can freeze their eggs for free. Since their launch last fall, tens of thousands of people have applied to be a part of their egg-freezing programs, and they have activated hundreds of donors. They’ve also taken a firm stance against the historical, predatory practices that involve cash compensation and failing to provide fertility education for the donor’s own reproductive future. In the egg-sharing model, which is what their Split program offers, there is a focus on shared outcomes rather than financial gain. All members get access to their online community, where people talk openly about their egg-freezing experience and support one another through it in real time and they welcome all intended parents — single or coupled, regardless of what brought them here — and support them with compassion and respect for whatever path is best for them. Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: The way we build families is more dynamic than ever and looks different for everyone. Cofertility exists to honor that and offers a destigmatized, scalable approach for bringing egg donation and egg-freezing together. It’s our goal to fix the broken egg donation system. Matching with an Egg Donor should be a positive experience. If you're looking for an egg donor — either due to infertility, cancer, a genetic condition, or not having eggs — you may already feel like the odds are stacked against you. The last thing you need is to feel like you’re “shopping” for a human who plays a critical role in your family-building journey. And we’ll never make it feel that way. We agree with ASRM that egg donor compensation can open the door for exploitation. Plus, a 2021 Harvard study found that 62% of donor-conceived adults felt the exchange of money for donor gametes was wrong, and 41% were troubled by the fact that money was exchanged around their conception. By allowing our donors to freeze their eggs as part of the process, our unique model honors everyone involved. Lauren speaks to intended parents struggling with second infertility all the time at Cofertility, and it’s something her and her husband are going through right now on their journey to baby #2. It can be especially frustrating as it’s surprising and stressful, but it's estimated that nearly one-third of the women...

In this episode we discuss, my experience as a young mother growing up in Boston. Recap of my feelings when I learned I was expecting at the age of 12, prenatal care, foster care, losing my mother exactly one month before having my son. How I worked through pregnancy. Labor and delivery. Why I wrote my story. Who do I hope to reach? Love, Lisa Carter 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Teen Pregnancy Postpartum Depression Black Maternal Health 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Teen Pregnancy Teen Mom Foster Care Summary of guest experience: Lisa Carter, Author, Youth and Family Service provider, mother, wife, GiGi. UMass Boston graduate, Human Services/Community Planning, Originally from Boston, moved to Charlotte 15 years ago. Website: LisaCarterSpeaks.com Instagram: @lisacarterspeaks YouTube Channel:Lisa Carter Speaks Other: LisaCarterSpeaks@gmail.com XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

The birth of my first son was a deviation from my meticulously crafted plans, shrouding me in an unexpected sense of shame. The aftermath gave rise to a tempest of postpartum depression and anxiety, a labyrinthine struggle that eventually became a catalyst for self-discovery. As the years streamed by, the landscape shifted once more - our eagerly anticipated pregnancy dissolved into sorrow through a late miscarriage at 15 weeks, orchestrated by an incompetent cervix. Yet, from the ashes of despair emerged a phoenix of resilience. The subsequent pregnancy came adorned with its own challenges, demanding a cerclage stitch to fortify my cervix. Armed with newfound strength and the harmonious guidance of hypnobabies, I navigated the path to an empowering and joy-filled birthing experience. A journey from despair to triumphant repair and the reclamation of my empowered spirit. XOXO-Theresa Kinter 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Pregnancy with a cerclage Birthing unmedicated with Hypnobabies Misscarriage and support building 3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: Cerclage Hypnobabies Miscarriage Favorite baby product or new motherhood product? What would you buy for someone who was currently pregnant or a new parent?: A pregnancy seat belt buckle (this is a game changer for car comfort) A pair of pregnancy leggings Postpartum underwear Blackout curtains Cosleeper Summary of guest experience: I’m Theresa Kinter, a Digital Art Director at a sports marketing agency in Charlotte, NC. I have a BA in web design but I appreciate art in all forms. When I’m not cosplaying as a business woman, I’m navigating life as a mildly crunchy mom of 2 fun-loving and wild boys. I currently moonlight as an Etsy Shop owner where I create helpful comprehensive guides and cozy comforts like herbal eye pillows. ebsite: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tkstitchyouneed Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TKStitchYouNeed Etsy: https://tkstitchyouneed.etsy.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tkstitchyouneed XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

Counting your baby’s movement starting at the 26th week for high-risk pregnancy and (twins, triplets) and at 28 weeks for all other pregnancies is important because it helps parents to bond with their baby and learn their baby’s specific movement patterns. Baby’s movement communicates their wellbeing. If their movement becomes less or weaker than normal, this can be your baby communicating that they may not be getting the nutrients or oxygen that they need and it is a sign to notify your provider for further evaluation. Monitoring your baby’s movement at the same time every day can help to determine what their normal is so that you can learn more about your baby and be able to be empowered to speak up to your provider if you notice a change in their normal movement patterns. 3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: Count the Kicks is an organization that provides technology for parents to track their baby’s movements and the strength of their movements - you can track twins, it is in 16 languages, there is an app, web-based and printable tracker as well. A study Count the Kicks was a part of showed a decrease in stillbirth by 32% through the use of this app in Iowa alone and a survey of 809 moms who used Count the Kicks reported 77% of moms stated that counting their baby’s movements using the app decreased their anxiety about counting kicks and 84% felt more bonded to their baby. Common Myths about Kick Counting: “My baby is always active, so I don’t need to count kicks.” A baby’s movement is the way they communicate their wellbeing with their parents, so it is important to know the normal movement patterns of the baby so that if there is a change, the parents can quickly notice it. Plus, counting kicks is a way to learn about your baby and bond with them as you learn when they are most active during the day. “Only those experiencing a high-risk pregnancy should pay attention to their baby’s movement.” During pregnancy, we cannot physically see a baby to know they are doing well, so we must pay attention to their movement. Every baby is different from pregnancy to pregnancy. Babies communicate their wellbeing by their movement, so even if a person doesn’t have a high-risk pregnancy, it is still important to learn their baby’s movement so they can notify a provider if that movement pattern changes. “My baby should get 10 kicks in two hours.” Research has shown that knowing a baby’s normal movement pattern will be a better gage to notify the provider if there has been a change. If a baby normally takes two hours to make 10 movements, then that is the baby’s normal. However, if a baby usually takes less time than two hours to make ten movements and it is taking them much longer to make ten movements, this is a sign to notify the provider since we know baby’s move less and may have weaker movements when they are not feeling their best and need evaluation. “I can just use a doppler device to monitor my baby’s wellbeing.” Every doppler device is different, and a change in heart rate can be one of the last signs that a baby’s wellbeing needs evaluation. A change in movement is one of the earliest signs, so that is why it is important to count a baby’s movements and know what the baby’s normal movement pattern is. “If my baby isn’t moving, I should drink something cold or eat something sugary to get my baby moving.” A change in a baby’s movement is one of the first signs that the baby’s wellbeing needs evaluation. A baby’s movement pattern should be the same with or without something cold to drink or something sugary to eat. Therefore, it is best to have the baby evaluated if the parent needs to do something to get the baby moving. “Baby’s kick less near the end of pregnancy.” Baby’s move throughout the pregnancy, even throughout labor. The way the baby’s movement feels may change near the end of pregnancy as the baby has grown, but the time it takes for a baby to make 10 movements should be...

Laura and Heidi open up about their unique cardiac conditions in their pregnancies. Laura continues on about taking Birth Story Academy and crushing a twin vaginal birth! Follow Laura at: https://www.instagram.com/laurajkamps/ XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides 3 Key takeaways from the podcast Cardiac Conditions in Pregnancy Twins Point 3. I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

In her own words, " I am a previous L&D RN now working as a nurse practitioner, but still have a passion for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnancy #1 (39+6 week elective induction at hospital with epidural and 9lb4oz baby boy and <12 hours start to finish), pregnancy #2 (10 month fertility journey, GD, 39w spontaneous FAST labor, 8lb11oz baby boy #2), pregnancy #3 (missed miscarriage, D&C, and complications—spinal headache, retained clots needing cytotec then excess bleeding requiring methergine), and pregnancy #4 made his grand entrance in a quick unmedicated induction with pit and AROM." Ya'll have NO IDEA how much we covered to teach you! Let's jump into this! Follow Alexis: https://www.instagram.com/lexsully XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides 3 Key takeaways from the podcast: Elective inductions Missed Miscarriage I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

Jenny Stinny is here to win us over! She chats all about her births including birthing her twins vaginally in an induction at 39 weeks. She continues to inspire us on IG with her at home work outs through her pregnancies and postpartum periods. She is an avid weight lifter and an incredible mama. We read her children's boo, Monster's Don't Do Yoga, at least once at week at bed time! Make sure to follow Jenny at https://www.instagram.com/jenny_stinny/ And, you can buy her children's book HERE! Make sure to tag both of us on IG when you read it! Jenny first became pregnant in college at JMU and had to decide what to do. We talk about her decision to go to Planned Parenthood and then to keep her baby even though it would be a hard journey. She talks about pregnancy, mental health, loss, unmedicated vs medicated, twins vs singletons and so much more! Have a great time listening! XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides 3 Key takeaways from the podcast The impact of exercise on mental health Twins vs. Singletons Medicated vs. Unmedicated births I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

Straight from hot and steamy Texas, I bring you Morgan Salus. Morgan shares her incredible story of loss, fertility, gestational hypertension, being induced, and her wonderful rainbow birth story. Thanks for being here as Morgan teaches us through her stories. XOXO -Heids We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course! Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides 3 Key takeaways from the podcast Miscarriage Tips with Cytotec Fertility Awareness I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

This episode HAS IT ALL! Spinning Babies CHECK. Functional Midwifery CHECK. Prenatal Nutrition CHECK. Birth Stories CHECK. Have an amazing time listening to Rhea, one of my favorite Nurse Midwives and Spinning Babies instructors! This episode is jam packed. You may even want to take some notes! XOXO- Heids You heard Kristen chat about her experience taking Birth Story Academy! I hope you will jump into my class soon too! It's 6 hours of self-paced content spread over 20 modules....everything you need for your best birth is included down to the birth plan templates and recorded birth affirmations! Head over to BIRTHSTORY.COM and use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF. Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides 3 Key takeaways from the podcast What to do if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes How do know if you are in active labor What is Spinning Babies and how is it applied for vaginal births I’m Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I’ve supported the deliveries of over one thousand babies in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I’ll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy parent on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube My Doula Heidi Website Birth Story Media™ Website

Stefanie Atunes is the Founder of Doula School in Canada. https://doulaschool.ca/ Stefanie has been a Lamaze® Educator and doula since 2002. After the birth of her second son, Stefanie saw just how valuable it is to be prepared for birth and to have good support around you. Stefanie is a visionary in the childbirth field. She leads the Discover Birth organization providing a variety of services to expectant parents and training for those wishing to pursue work in the childbirth field. Stefanie is a former board member with the Association of Ontario Doulas and sits on many local boards and coalitions to improve our communities. She is a Doula Canada approved Birth Doula Trainer, and runs a Lamaze Lamaze-Accredited Childbirth Educator Program. She recently become the Director of Doula Canada, you can read more about their programs here. Stefanie is a contributing author in the best selling Power of Women United and the book Bearing Witness: Childbirth Stories Told by Doulas. She is a regular contributing writer and blogger, and has done many interviews online and for TV/radio. Her belief is that the world can be a better place if parents can have more positive childbirth experiences that allow them to bond properly with their babies. She works tirelessly to change the world in this aspect…one family at a time. Stefanie was awarded ‘Business Woman of the Year for 2022’ by CanadianSME Business Magazine recognizing her contributions to the families of Canada in improving perinatal health outcomes through Discover Birth’s childbirth education, birth and postpartum doula offerings. XOXO- Heidi PS. We just hit 500 attendees to Birth Story Academy! I would love to have you join my online childbirth education course. It's a fun 20 modules of me teaching and entertaining you step by step. Birth plan templates, postpartum plans, hospital packing lists and so much more are all included for FREE including the Birth Story book. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com

This is a 2 part episode. Make sure to listen to Part 1 first! Still looking for a childbirth education course that you will LOVE? Join Birth Story Academy today and learn more from Heidi, a 20 year seasoned doula with a less than 7% cesarean section rate. 20 modules, 6 hours total, self paced and TONS of free downloads. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com About Hannah (and I’m so glad you’re here) As a Registered Massage Therapist governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) I’ve had the privilege of working in various environments including the High Risk Obstetrics Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital where my passion for working with pregnant folks fully emerged. After working at multiple different multidisciplinary clinics in Toronto, I’ve settled into a practice at my home clinic in the West End of Toronto. In 2022, I began my training as a Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator with Doula Training Canada. Over the past decade, I have worked with a wide variety of clients but have been continually drawn towards working with folks during pregnancy and postpartum. In 2020 I was given the privilege of welcoming my son into the world and went through the truly transformative journey of becoming a mother. This ignited a passion within me to fully enter the birth space and offer support for parents during the perinatal period. My work inevitably weaves together my experiences as a mover, movement educator and body worker. I lead with my values. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Indigenous Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, and that the body is deeply political. I acknowledge my privileges as a white, cis-hetero, able bodied woman and remain committed to listening, reflecting and embodying the work of antiracism. I believe your body does not need to change in shape or size to become valuable. I believe that movement has the capacity to heal and can be vital to wellness. Above all else, I believe that each person knows their body best. Now I’m on a mission to bring continuous care to the prenatal and postnatal wellness space for pregnant and birthing people (along with their partners and families) and to help you feel good and liberated in your body. Enjoy her stories! Enjoy her stories! You can contact Hannah at https://www.hannahetlinstein.com/about or https://www.instagram.com/hannahetlinstein.rmt/ XOXO Heidi

This is a 2 part episode. Still looking for a childbirth education course that you will LOVE? Join Birth Story Academy today and learn more from Heidi, a 20 year seasoned doula with a less than 7% cesarean section rate. 20 modules, 6 hours total, self paced and TONS of free downloads. Use code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND for $20 OFF at BirthStory.com About Hannah (and I’m so glad you’re here) As a Registered Massage Therapist governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) I’ve had the privilege of working in various environments including the High Risk Obstetrics Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital where my passion for working with pregnant folks fully emerged. After working at multiple different multidisciplinary clinics in Toronto, I’ve settled into a practice at my home clinic in the West End of Toronto. In 2022, I began my training as a Birth Doula, Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator with Doula Training Canada. Over the past decade, I have worked with a wide variety of clients but have been continually drawn towards working with folks during pregnancy and postpartum. In 2020 I was given the privilege of welcoming my son into the world and went through the truly transformative journey of becoming a mother. This ignited a passion within me to fully enter the birth space and offer support for parents during the perinatal period. My work inevitably weaves together my experiences as a mover, movement educator and body worker. I lead with my values. I believe that Black Lives Matter, Indigenous Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, and that the body is deeply political. I acknowledge my privileges as a white, cis-hetero, able bodied woman and remain committed to listening, reflecting and embodying the work of antiracism. I believe your body does not need to change in shape or size to become valuable. I believe that movement has the capacity to heal and can be vital to wellness. Above all else, I believe that each person knows their body best. Now I’m on a mission to bring continuous care to the prenatal and postnatal wellness space for pregnant and birthing people (along with their partners and families) and to help you feel good and liberated in your body. Enjoy her stories! You can contact Hannah at https://www.hannahetlinstein.com/about or https://www.instagram.com/hannahetlinstein.rmt/ XOXO Heidi