Have you ever wondered how you can make a profound difference during one of the most critical times in a person's life? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we unveil the details of our upcoming birth doula training program for fall 2024. With nearly a decade of experience, we are thrilled to share that this immersive training, which runs from mid-September to mid-October, offers both virtual and in-person sessions. For $850, participants receive 30 hours of comprehensive instruction, a detailed manual, and the chance to earn an optional certification through the Midwives College of Utah. The program is rich with real-life case studies, birth video analyses, and guest speakers covering essential and specialized topics.

Throughout our conversation, we delve into the history of birth in the U.S., explore the disparities that exist, and discuss the vital role doulas play in addressing these issues. We’ll also cover cultural components, current research for professional development, and structured prenatal visit plans. Our training prepares you to handle high-risk scenarios and underscores the importance of trauma-informed care. This is your chance to build a supportive community with fellow doulas and elevate your skills in a truly transformative environment. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to join our doula family and make a meaningful impact! Tune in and find out how you can be a part of this transformative journey.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
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Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Ever wondered why the second stage of labor, the pushing phase, can vary so much in duration? From understanding how the cervix fully dilates to the natural shifts in contraction patterns, we'll explore why pushing can take anywhere from minutes to hours, especially for first-time mothers. We’ll share heartwarming and eye-opening stories from my 20 years of experience as a doula, aiming to reassure and inform expectant parents about what's truly normal during this time.

In today's episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast, we'll also discuss the emotional and physical journey of the second stage of labor for both first-time and repeat mothers. Learn why your "trailblazer" baby might make a longer pushing phase a common experience and how subsequent births could be different. Whether you're a first-time parent or adding another member to your family, this episode is packed with practical advice and empowering information to help you feel prepared for a positive birthing experience. Join us for an enlightening conversation on labor that’s both educational and comforting.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

What if understanding the stages of labor could transform your childbirth experience, making it more empowering and less daunting? On The Ordinary Doula Podcast we uncover the intricate journey of labor, breaking it down into digestible stages. This episode hones in on the often misunderstood first stage of labor, encompassing early labor, active labor, and the crucial transition phase. Through real-life examples and practical advice, we explore how early labor can be surprisingly manageable, allowing you to continue with daily activities, and prepare you for the more intense contractions of active labor. Discover the signs that indicate progression and learn how to recognize the nuances of your unique experience.

Transitioning into the final part of this enlightening episode, we tackle the often intimidating transition phase. Learn to identify important indicators such as trembling, hormonal shaking, and even those moments of self-doubt and irrational thoughts. While these signs may feel overwhelming, they are actually positive markers of progress. I offer insights on providing and receiving calm, intense support during this time, and discuss the physical sensations like rectal pressure that signal the baby's imminent arrival. Personal anecdotes underscore the uniqueness of each labor experience, reinforcing the importance of being prepared for a variety of scenarios. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and tools designed to support you through a positive and empowering childbirth journey.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

What if there were simple, evidence-based strategies to minimize your risk of perineal tearing during childbirth? Join us on this enlightening episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we welcome Dr. Katie Taylor, a pelvic floor physical therapist from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We dive deep into one of the most common fears for expectant mothers, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the perineum, the different grades of tearing, and factors that might increase your risk. Learn about the impact of labor positions, swelling, and circulation, and discover practical tips to enhance your birthing experience.

Imagine having the freedom to move, access to tubs and showers, and the option to choose diverse pushing positions during labor. That’s exactly what we explore as we discuss the advantages of out-of-hospital births and the increasing acceptance among younger OB-GYNs of varied pushing positions, even with epidurals. Dr. Taylor shares invaluable insights on how prenatal education and advocacy, including starting perineal massage at 30 weeks, can prepare your body for delivery. We also contrast traditional hospital pushing methods with the benefits of mobility and positioning to optimize circulation and reduce swelling during extended pushing phases.

Discover the concept of laboring down, a crucial technique for women with epidurals that allows the uterus to naturally push the baby lower before active pushing begins. Dr. Taylor emphasizes the importance of discussing this option with your healthcare provider and understanding hospital policies. We also delve into effective pushing mechanics and the significance of listening to your body during labor. To further support your journey, we introduce Thrive by Taylor Wellness, an online platform offering comprehensive resources for pregnancy and postpartum care, empowering you through education and support. Don't miss this empowering and informative episode designed to give you the tools for a positive birth experience.

Guest: Dr. Katie Taylor
https://taylorptandwellness.com/

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we uncover the often forgotten, yet vital period right after birth and how different birthing environments like hospitals, birth centers, and home births come with their own sets of challenges. Drawing from 20 years of experience, you'll hear personal stories that underline the crucial nature of support in these initial moments. We delve into the unexpected hurdles new parents face once they’re home, like recovery, breastfeeding, and juggling household responsibilities. This episode offers practical tips to ease these challenges, ensuring a smoother postpartum experience.

Discover the indispensable role a supportive inner circle plays in a new mother's recovery. We'll discuss how family, friends, and professional doulas can cater to the unique needs of new mothers, providing both physical and emotional support. Learn how postpartum care can assist with breastfeeding, help process the birth experience, and contribute to overall well-being. The episode is laden with actionable advice, from preparing for everyday tasks to seeking emotional support, all aimed at fostering a gentle and successful transition into parenthood. Tune in to gain the confidence and resources you need to navigate this transformative period with grace and ease.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Ever wondered why protein is so crucial during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we talk with Brittany Fox, a nutritional therapy practitioner and functional hormone specialist, who reveals the often-overlooked importance of protein intake for expecting and new mothers. Throughout her journey, motivated by her own postpartum struggles and her clients' needs, Fox discovered the transformative effects of adequate protein consumption on fetal development, maternal health, and physiological functions such as tissue growth, blood volume expansion, liver detoxification, and hormone function. She advocates for women to consume between 90 to 140 grams of protein daily, tailored to their unique circumstances like breastfeeding or high activity levels.

Moreover, we emphasize the broader nutritional requirements during pregnancy and breastfeeding, highlighting how a mother’s body often sacrifices its own health to nourish the baby. Fox discusses the nutritional guidance gaps in standard prenatal care and recommends valuable resources like "Real Food for Pregnancy" by Lily Nichols. Our conversation also delves into the importance of seeking personalized nutritional advice to prevent nutrient depletion and underscores the significance of making small, manageable changes for better overall well-being. Don’t miss Brittany Fox’s expert tips and practical advice for supporting both the baby’s growth and the mother’s healing process.

Guest: Brittany Fox
Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/deep.roots.nutrition/
Website: https://www.deeprootsnutrition.net/links

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Listen as we discuss the art of co-regulation and its profound effect on the dynamic dance between mother, baby, and birth team. This isn't just about the physical act of giving birth; it's a deep dive into the emotional synchronicity that can turn a labor room from a place of chaos into a sanctuary of calm.

Ever wondered what invisible threads connect a birthing mother to her support system? We unravels this mystery, revealing how the energy shifts with each person's arrival and departure from the birth space. We share stories that illuminate the critical role emotional support plays, not just for the birthing person but for their partners too. This episode doesn't just shine a light on the practicalities of labor—it shines a light on the heart of it. Whether you're a soon-to-be parent or a seasoned pro in the birth community, these insights offer a fresh perspective on the transformative power of presence during one of life's most miraculous moments.

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker

Is urinary incontinence after childbirth just something moms have to live with? Not according to Dr. Katie Taylor, a pelvic floor physical therapist from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. On this episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast, Dr. Taylor debunks common myths around postpartum pelvic floor issues and shares her compelling journey of starting a practice amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She sheds light on the often-overlooked importance of pelvic floor health, from pregnancy through postpartum, and tackles a variety of conditions such as incontinence, painful intimacy, and hemorrhoids.

Dr. Taylor guides us through the nitty-gritty of a pregnancy preparation program tailored for individualized care from 20 to 40 weeks. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of what to expect during a visit to a pelvic floor physical therapist, with detailed explanations of both external and internal evaluations. Dr. Taylor emphasizes the vital role of muscle function and relaxation techniques in labor, and how personalized treatment plans and home exercises can make a world of difference in a healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Finally, we dive into the critical need for postpartum pelvic floor therapy, challenging the misleading belief that the six-week medical clearance means full recovery. Dr. Taylor outlines the holistic approach necessary for better healing, highlighting the impact of factors like genetics, lifestyle, and physical activity. She encourages women to seek support, feel empowered, and take charge of their health by addressing even the subtlest signs of pelvic floor dysfunction. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical advice for better women's health and recovery, making it a must-listen for anyone invested in maternal well-being.

Special Guest: Dr. Katie Taylor
https://taylorptandwellness.com/

Visit our website, here: https://birthlearning.com/
Follow us on Facebook at Birth Learning
Follow us on Instagram at @birthlearning

Show Credits

Host: Angie Rosier
Music: Michael Hicks
Photographer: Toni Walker
Episode Artwork: Nick Greenwood
Producer: Gillian Rosier
Voiceover: Ryan Parker