Today we have as our guest spiritual midwife, Anna Lundqvist, who chose defiance and de-registering rather than submit to the bloody shit show that is the increasingly regulated and medicalized world of midwifery. Her story and wisdom are compelling. Blyss launches The Bridge Midwives and Dr. Stu speaks out on some new platforms. This conversation aims to strip back the layers to reveal the influences of patriarchy and the church on midwifery and women's rights. We'll navigate through riveting h...
Oct 18, 2023•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 331
In today's episode, we discuss the origins and question the usefulness of estimated due dates. Blyss gets back to birthing and Dr. Stu is gaining media exposure to spread the word. Digging a deeper hole of mistrust, ACOG unequivocally supports the RSV vaccine for pregnant women. Once again, the math and ethics do not line up for them. We question ACOG's support for this barely tested vaccine and the potential risk it poses. The hypocrisy of medical professionals blaming midwives for problems cau...
Oct 11, 2023•1 hr 38 min
Unearth the rich and mesmerizing traditions of midwifery as Blyss announces her new podcast, At Her Feet, with her co host Lindsey. This episode is a homage to midwives across the globe, their vibrant cultures, and the pivotal role they play in the birthing process. Settle in as Blyss and Lindsey share their journey from a transformative retreat in Mexico to the profound wisdom passed down by our ancestors. Blyss and Lindsey explore the historical influence of midwifery across various cultures. ...
Oct 06, 2023•58 min
Postpartum mental health is the focus of today’s podcast with guest, Cynthia Overgard of the Down to Birth podcast. We dive into this often-overlooked topic and the importance of a strong support system. Dr. Stu returns from teaching in Wisconsin and Blyss is back home on birth watch. This critical conversation with Cynthia takes us inside the escalating complications in hospital births. From dissecting the potential reasons behind these increasing complications to taking a hard look at the role...
Oct 04, 2023•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 329
Working for women and not the law, traditional midwife, Rebecca Walker joins the show to discuss birthing in a maternity care desert. Dr. Stu reviews hospital rankings with suspicion and Blyss reads an impassioned letter from a Scottish doula in despair. This episode uncovers the harsh realities faced by women in rural areas seeking maternity care. Dr. Stu, Blyss, and Rebecca dissect hospital policies that deny care during birth, discuss the disturbing rise of forced C-sections, and debate the l...
Sep 27, 2023•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 328
On short notice, Blyss gives Dr. Stu a request for a deep dive into the common finding of uterine fibroids. Listener questions and common doctor recommendations are addressed. Whether pregnant or not, many women will be confronted with this diagnosis. Symptoms, treatment, outcomes, and options are all discussed in today's episode. The data may surprise you. Dr. Stu and Blyss delve into the treatment options for fibroids, emphasizing the importance of patient-specific strategies and shared decisi...
Sep 20, 2023•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 327
By almost any parameter of general health we are a sicker society than we were 50 years ago. Models of wellness abound yet we are still told to follow only some science. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in pregnancy. Blyss & Dr. Stu share their recent "rememberings" from traveling to visit a nurturing community of birth workers and the positive experiences of listeners. Then we look at some medical dictates which Blyss sees as irresponsible and which infuriate Dr. Stu. The contrast is rev...
Sep 13, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Ep. 326
Still riding the high of the Louisville conference, Blyss & Dr. Stu take a drive back in time to the Farm in Tennessee. With Buffalo Springfield on the radio and Dr. Stu in awe of the surroundings, the midwives tell Blyss an emotional tale of The Farm's past and future. They explore the complexities of Tennessee's midwife law, the critical role of licensure, and the essential need for collaboration with doctors. Above all, these midwives emphasize the importance of client autonomy, the value...
Sep 06, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 325
The normalization of breech and twin birthing and the skills to make that happen were the reason the birth community came together in Louisville, KY for four days in September. Blyss & Dr. Stu share the stories and memories from a weekend of learning and bonding. We are stronger as a community united. You'll discover how the positioning of a baby's arms affects their rotation during breech birth, and the essential factors to monitor during delivery - the color, tone, capillary filling, and c...
Aug 30, 2023•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 324
Blyss is soaking up Sedona while Dr. Stu has the privilege of teaching breech to doctors in Chicago. Today's topic by popular request is shoulder dystocia, sharing truth, and dispelling fear. There are no signs and no way to prevent the condition, so why all the interventions? Get ready to uncover the truth about birth options and practices when it comes to shoulder dystocia. Blyss and Dr. Stu unravel the myths surrounding shoulder dystocia and share first-hand experiences, with a focus on vario...
Aug 23, 2023•1 hr 34 min
Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu define "ectopic" and discuss ectopic pregnancy and share their ectopic thoughts on that. The medicalized birth system continues to alienate us and positive breech stories enlighten us. Dr. Stu shares stories from his childhood home and Blyss finds a gem in hers. In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the risk factors of ectopic pregnancies, the paramount importance of differential diagnosis, and the range of treatments available. They shed light on some personal expe...
Aug 16, 2023•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 322
Protection from untested interventions has long been the basis for ethical decisions in medicine and especially pregnancy. So what happened? Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss the wisdom of Naturopathy and the attack on longstanding principles and wisdom from many fronts. ACOG changes ethics and the Arrive Trial isn't all that we were sold. In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss cover the ACOG Committee Statement No. 6: Ethical Considerations for the Delivery of Obstetric and Gynecologic Care During a Pand...
Aug 09, 2023•1 hr 19 min
Dr. Stu had eye surgery, again, this week and celebrated his birthday by recording with the Whimsical Blyss. So with little prep time, we gratefully explore the knowledge of our beloved fellow travelers in letters you have written to us. Through your letters, we've gained valuable insight into your experiences and queries, and together, we tackle them head-on. We explore hot topics in the birthing world, such as breech birth, twin birth, low platelets, and more. These discussions highlight the n...
Aug 02, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 320
We are often told by our doctors why we need a cesarean and how routine they are. But there are a lot of reasons to be wary. Today, Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss what you should know to help make that informed decision and then break down a popular YouTube podcast. Prepare to be enlightened as they unravel the intricate truth of cesarean sections – the most common surgical procedure in the US, and yet, one fraught with overlooked risks and consequences. Unleash your curiosity as we dissect the pow...
Jul 26, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 319
Join us as we celebrate the arrival of Stu’s first grandchild, and finally cover a topic that has been highly requested: cholestasis. This is a lesser-known health issue that affects a significant number of pregnant women and usually results in interventions once it is discovered. You'll walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of cholestasis - from its potential treatments, its impact on the liver, and whether or not it is as scary as it is sometimes portrayed. We dissect the ris...
Jul 19, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Ep. 318
Medical induction of labor continues to rise. Most OBs will want to induce all of you. Does this make sense? No! Blyss & Dr. Stu explain. Blyss hangs with her boys & Dr. Stu becomes a grandpa. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: The alarming rise in induction rates Depersonalization of birth & the risks of a non-individualized approach Methods and risks of Induction: pitocin, water breaking, and downsides Questioning the “risk factors” for induction Diminishing sacred moments &...
Jul 12, 2023•1 hr 40 min
On the Summer Solstice, Dr. Sara Wickham, author and researcher, joins the podcast to share her wisdom. Dr. Stu and Dr. Sara talk about the meaning of risk and prevention and the risk of prevention as it pertains to some very relevant topics: BMI, "Needing" a cesarean, Pitocin & Vitamin K. She is a treasure trove of knowledge. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: Historical roots of medical practices and their impact on the present Shifting language of risk: Embracing "chance" in maternity...
Jul 05, 2023•1 hr 33 min
In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu delve into the term 'Geriatric Pregnancy', debunking myths and embracing evidence around advanced maternal age and the need for individualized care. They also touch upon stories of successful births, medical interventions, and the risks of synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) versus natural oxytocin. Amidst personal anecdotes, survival strategies for a metaphorical apocalypse, and reflections on adaptability, the episode underscores the importance of informed consent a...
Jun 28, 2023•1 hr 21 min
Today, Blyss meets up with Dr. Stu at his new homestead for some in-person podcasting! They discuss thrombocytopenia and low levels of independent thought in so many health care providers. Learn about the importance of a complete blood count and peripheral blood smear, the risks associated with certain medications, and the key characteristics of gestational thrombocytopenia. They also discuss various platelet count thresholds and what they mean for the expecting mother. Blyss explores the world ...
Jun 21, 2023•1 hr 4 min
Today, Blyss and Dr. Stu dive into the topic of low lying placenta and challenge the commonly held perception of it being a high-risk condition, discussing the medical gaslighting that often occurs. Blyss shares her firsthand experience of witnessing an unassisted birth where the mother made the empowered choice to stay home. Together, they provide comforting truths and alternative perspectives on low lying placenta, offering insights that challenge the traditional approach and empower women to ...
Jun 14, 2023•1 hr 20 min
The brilliant author of “ The Fourth Trimester ” & “ Call of the Wild ”, Kimberly Ann Johnson joins Blyss & Dr. Stu for a really fascinating conversation into rites of passage and our autonomic nervous system. You have to hear her! In this episode of Birthing Instincts: Tears during birth and the impact of interventions on labor Addressing pelvic floor issues after hospital birth The transformative power of rites of passage The female nervous system and the effects of epidurals Building ...
Jun 07, 2023•1 hr 13 min
Do physicians live up to their definition? Blyss and Dr. Stu delve into the troubling relationship between big medicine, big government, and big pharma. Blyss & Dr. Stu, together again, break down the ugly reality. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: ACOG and v@cc!nes in pregnancy Manipulating healthcare choices with money Birth center experiences: stay or leave as a midwife? Castor oil and VBAC Aspirin during pregnancy Big medicine, gov., pharma: unveiling health marketing realities This...
Jun 01, 2023•59 min
Blyss and Dr. Stu come together in Santa Barbara for an Instagram Live session to answer questions with a surprise guest. They address a range of topics including subchorionic hematoma, balanced diets in pregnancy, breech deliveries, declining cervical checks, and placental delivery. They also share insights from a remarkable hospital experience highlighting the possibilities of birth. Tune in to hear their informative discussion and Q&A session! In this episode of Birthing Instincts: Blyss ...
May 27, 2023•1 hr 1 min
Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss optimal cord clamping and debunk misconceptions about nature's incredible design. They explore the anatomy and physiology of the umbilical cord, ways to separate it, and its spiritual side. Letters from listeners about seeds of fear and lack of support has the duo shaking their heads....again! In this episode of Birthing Instincts: The benefits of optimal cord clamping Delayed cord clamping vs. optimal cord clamping Anatomy and physiology of the umbilical cord Cord comp...
May 17, 2023•1 hr 17 min
Every intervention has a ripple effect, and today Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss how culture changes can lead to unintended consequences. They delve into the topic of posterior babies, including what they are, why moms experience more discomfort and longer labors, and different methods to help get a baby to turn. They also explore the impact of our lifestyles on the positions of our babies, optimal fetal positioning, and trusting the wisdom of the baby's side. In this episode of Birthing Instincts:...
May 10, 2023•1 hr 10 min
Dr. Nathan Riley and Midwife Sara Rosser join Blyss and Dr. Stu in this episode to discuss their dream of enhancing the birth and life experience. The group talks about the illusion of safety in hospitals, exercising autonomy, and being proactive in birth and life. They also touch on free birth, the use of cannabis and psychedelics in pregnancy and birth, and the Born Free Method yearlong program. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: The illusion of safety in hospitals Practicing autonomy in b...
May 03, 2023•1 hr 27 min
While today's topic is Retained Placenta, the real lesson is our systems are broken — and those that broke them expect us to let them fix them. From CPS tyranny to more interventions, Dr. Stu is mad as hell and Blyss wisely says, “Don't let them do it.” In this episode of Birthing Instincts: North Texas parents CPS case Normalization of interventions in hospital settings Retained placentas: considerations and Pitocin Impact of birth experience on mothers and babies Obstetrician education and tra...
Apr 26, 2023•1 hr 10 min
Today on the podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu are joined by Nathalie Rojas, an IVF coordinator and indigenous birth worker, to discuss assisted reproduction and the pros and cons of messing with Mother Nature. They delve into Nathalie's journey to birth work, her role as an IVF coordinator, the overuse of IVF, and the impact of insurance on access to fertility treatment. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: The path that led Nathalie to birth work The role of an IVF coordinator Pros and cons of assi...
Apr 19, 2023•1 hr 21 min
Blyss talks to Alma and her midwife Brooke about Alma's journey to a successful natural birth at home despite having cystic fibrosis. The doctors recommended that Alma should not deliver at home, but she and her midwife navigated the risks and challenges to make it happen. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: How Alma chose home birth & found a midwife Cystic fibrosis challenges during pregnancy Navigating the birth from Alma's and Brooke's perspectives Alma's postpartum experience and rec...
Apr 12, 2023•1 hr 28 min
On the Ides of March, Blyss and Dr. Stu gather to heed the warnings and clear the air on Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), a rare condition in which abnormal cells grow in the uterus after conception, and other important topics. In this episode of Birthing Instincts: Breech fear-mongering Dating & tracking your pregnancy Midwife harassment Picking a birth assistant Molar pregnancies: what to know This show is supported by: Needed | Use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS for 20% off your first mon...
Mar 29, 2023•1 hr 4 min
