In this deeply personal episode of Birth Story, we sit down with Caitlyn Sunseri, a doula and prenatal yoga teacher based in Bakersfield, CA, to talk about healing after a difficult birth and how that healing shaped a completely different second birth experience. Caitlyn opens up about her first birth with her son Ryder, the
Pushing is one of the most anticipated and often most misunderstood stages of labor. In this episode, we sit down with Liz Wade and Shaina Brickner, The Birth Nurses, to break down what effective pushing actually looks like, what tends to go wrong, and how positioning can make all the difference in how labor unfolds.
Pushing Tips for Labor with Liz Wade and Shaina Brickner – A Revisit Read More »
In this episode, we’re joined by Nicole Kruck, L.Ac., L.M.T., founder of Fertile Garden Wellness in New York City, for a warm and informative conversation about acupuncture, bodywork, and integrative care throughout fertility, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Nicole shares how she approaches women’s health through an integrative lens and explains how acupuncture and bodywork can
What Acupuncture Can (and Can’t) Do During Pregnancy with Nicole Kruck LAc, Lmt. Read More »
A difficult or traumatic birth experience can have an impact long after the baby is born. In this episode, Deb sits down with Dr. Kenga Sivarajah, a Consultant Obstetrician with expertise in high-risk obstetrics, maternal medicine, and perinatal mental health, to explore what birth trauma can look like, why it can be difficult to recognize,
Understanding Birth Trauma and How to Heal After with Dr. Kenga Sivarajah Read More »
Partners are often told to “be supportive” during pregnancy and birth- but what does that actually look like in practice? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we explore how partners can move beyond simply being present to becoming truly engaged, attuned, and collaborative throughout the journey. Joined by doula and perinatal bodyworker
What Partners Get Wrong (and Right) About Supporting Birth with Yiska Obadia Read More »
Watching labor unfold can feel overwhelming. Learn how breath supports each stage of labor and how prenatal yoga prepares you for birth.
What Happens During Labor? The Stages of Birth Explained Read More »
Today is all about induction at 39 weeks- something I hear often when my students approach that point in pregnancy. We’ll take a closer look at the ARRIVE Trial and explore whether the data truly reflects what’s happening in labor and delivery units. What are the real pros and cons of elective induction? What are
Induction at 39 Weeks: What the Data Says and What It Doesn’t with Dr. Elizabeth Langen Read More »
I’m so happy that the pelvic floor is finally getting its moment to shine. This incredibly important set of muscles impacts our breath, continence, helps keep our organs in place, and affects our day to day comfort. It certainly deserves our attention! However not all of the information people are sharing about it is factual
A past blog post about nuchal cords (when the umbilical cord wraps around baby’s neck) sparked a lot of fear and confusion, especially around the idea that this could “strangle” baby. In this episode, we take a deeper look at what’s really happening; we explore the role of the placenta, common issues that can arise,
As roughly one third of American Babies are born via C-Section, Cesareans rank among the top surgical procedures given in the US. Since it’s such a common procedure, it can be easy to forget that it’s major abdominal surgery. New parents are sent home with the daunting task of caring for a newborn and healing
Healing From A Cesarean with Sara Reardon and Jessica Reale – A Revisit Read More »
Having a baby is expensive, but how much does it really cost? Even with insurance supporting you, there can be a number of surprising costs. So how can parents to be plan for the bill? In today’s episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies we are revisiting a popular episode in which I speak to naturopathic doctor Dr. Ashley Burkman whose
Revisit: How Much Does It Cost To Have A Baby In The US? with Dr. Ashley Burkman Read More »
Even if a medical intervention isn’t in your birth plan, you should still be educated on it; because, at the end of the day, no one can predict their birth! Today is all about: epidurals. Joining me today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I have Erin Capnerhurst. Erin is a wife, mother of three, and a Registered Nurse
Pushing with an Epidural with Erin Capnerhurst, RN Read More »
One of the most common concerns I hear from expectant parents is, “What if my pelvis is too small to birth my baby?
Is Your Pelvis Too Small to Birth Your Baby? Read More »
In today’s episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we’re diving into some of the common—yet often overlooked—stressors of pregnancy. We explore everything from hormonal changes and PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) to the profound life shifts that come with this transition. We also take a closer look at trauma-informed care: what it really
Stress and Trauma and How It Impacts Your Birth with Ja’Neen Jenkins Read More »
It’s not just about dilation—station matters too! Station refers to how low the baby is in the pelvis, and it’s a key factor in knowing when to push. Laboring down and waiting for a lower station can help conserve energy and avoid unnecessary interventions.
Station NOT Dilation! Read More »
Today we are talking about stalling versus flow, in birth, and how your body’s balance, and alignment can play a major role in that process. What does it even mean to be balanced and aligned? To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Lindsay McCoy. Lindsay McCoy is an exercise physiologist, an experienced
Why Some Babies Fly Out and Some Stall with Lindsay McCoy Read More »
Many times, I hear my prenatal students express feeling disconnected from their care provider or uneasy about hospital policies. However, they’ve hired a doula in hopes that that will help them navigate and achieve the birth experience they want. Today, we’re diving into how and why birth preparation goes beyond simply hiring a doula. To
A Doula Should Not Be Your Sword and Shield! with Bec Conant Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the relationship between birth and the pelvic floor. First, we’ll cover the basics: What is the pelvic floor? What is its function? How does one even connect with their pelvic floor? We usually aren’t taught about the pelvic floor growing up, and lack an awareness of it, in part because it’s
The Pelvic Floor and Birth with Dr. Millie Schweky DPT, CPT Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the topic of VBACs—Vaginal Birth After Cesareans. We’ll explore the most common reasons for cesarean births, as well as the risks and benefits of choosing a VBAC. Additionally, we’ll discuss factors that might make someone risk out of a VBAC, and compare those risks to those of a repeat cesarean. To
Everything You Want to Know About VBACs with Meagan Heaton Read More »
The other day I overheard some students discussing whether to hire a doula for their birth, or rely on the support of labor and delivery staff. As L&D nurse experiences vary from hospital to hospital, I felt this was an important topic to explore. In this episode, we’ll dive into the role of a labor
Insider Tips from a Labor & Delivery Nurse with Caitlin Jeanmougin Read More »
If you could choose between a functional efficient labor or a dysfunctional and inefficient labor, I’m guessing you would choose functional and efficient labor. I have been to many births as a doula and I’ve had 2 kids of my own. While the body may need time to open to let baby descend and rotate,
Community birth stories are, for me, some of the most important episodes to share on this podcast. Oftentimes, we’re overwhelmed with negative birth narratives, which can impact one’s confidence in their ability to birth. I feel passionate about hearing, and sharing, stories where individuals acknowledge their birthing anxieties but ultimately overcome them. Today on Yoga
Birth Story: A Deep Belief in a Desired VBAC with Jessie Valentine Read More »
Today, we’re exploring a topic that has impacted so many people around the world, including some of my closest friends and students. I’ll admit that I didn’t know much about IVF, as I haven’t had personal experience with it, so I set out to learn more. Interestingly, my cousin is an expert on the subject,
The History, Science and Technology Behind IVF with Dr. Donna Drucker Read More »
Today, we have a community birth story. I look at these stories as a wonderful chance to hear firsthand about the incredible experience of birth from someone in our very own community—an experience that deeply influences so much of what we do here at PYC! Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Fiamma.
Birth story: How to Adjust When Birth Plans Change with Fiamma Read More »
Today we are diving into a topic near and dear to my heart: doulas. Tune in as we explore how to find a doula who best fits you and your unique needs! Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for this conversation is Francie Webb. Francie is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Everything You Need to Know About Hiring a Doula, From a Doula with Francie Webb Read More »
There are countless reasons why I believe sharing and listening to birth stories is so valuable. One standout aspect is the many universal themes that emerge- whether between different births, throughout the journey from pregnancy to parenthood, or even within the individual birth stories themselves. While the societal conversation around birth can often evoke fear,
Birth Story: Never Be Afraid to Ask for Help with Shing Yiing Ong Read More »
A student once said to me, “I’m interested in home birth, but why would I choose to have a home birth?” I had two options. Either I could tell her all my reasons right then and there, or I could find a home birth midwife to come on the podcast and speak on the subject.
Why Choose Home Birth with Kara Ffrench, CNM Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the birth story of a student who completed her teacher training with us last year- while pregnant! It was truly special to witness her journey as a student at PYC, both in our training and our classes. When she shared details of her wonderful and positive birth experience with me, I
Birth Story: Very Quick and Very Peaceful with Jessica Roback Read More »
Today, we’re delving into a universal experience: the challenge of control. Have you ever wondered why it can be so hard to let things organically happen? Or questioned what it is that’s behind the desire to control in the first place? As much as it would be fabulous to control everything, it simply isn’t possible.
Why We Want to Control Pregnancy, Birth and Parenthood with Dr. Britta Bushnell Read More »
Have you ever thought about the importance of having your body internally balanced for labor and birth? Today we discuss The Body Ready Method and how it can assist you in your birth, because let’s be honest: so much of a functional birth is the work we do ahead of time. On today’s episode of
The Body Ready Method and How It Can Help Your Birth! with Taylor Lee Bello Read More »
Today we’re talking about how to overcome, and avoid, traumatic childbirth experiences. My guest for this conversation, Rebecca, shared with me a statistic that blew my mind: 35-45% of people report having a traumatic birth… An absolutely enormous number! Throughout our conversation, Rebecca shares some key factors that play a role resulting in traumatic birth
How to Avoid a Traumatic Birth with Dr. Rebecca L. Dekker, PhD, RN Read More »
Have you considered using midwifery care for your birth? Perhaps you have questions about what a midwife does or how they differ from a traditional OBGYN. Today we are going to talk all about midwives. I think midwives are fantastic, they hold a special place in my heart because my own births were attended by a midwife. In this
Why to Reconsider Midwifery Care with Casey Selzer, CNM Read More »
How would you like your partner to be involved during pregnancy and birth? Today we dive into a conversation about birth partners and their role in supporting you through your birth experience. We talk about how to prepare ahead of time by discussing the expectations and dynamics that influence both the emotional and physical aspects of birth
How to Help the Partner Be the Best Partner They Can Be with Yiska Obadia Read More »
What is a doula and why would you want one? In today’s episode we will discuss what a doula is, how they play a role in birth, and their ability to enhance what a partner can offer. I was a labor and support doula for over ten years and know first-hand the benefits of using a doula.
Why You Need a Doula with Jeanna McNeil Read More »
Have you considered why you should have a vaginal exam during pregnancy and labor? I often say your cervix is not a crystal ball, it’s not going to tell you when labor is going to start. It’s something I see time and time again, students will come into class excited because they are a little dilated or
Vaginal Exams- When and Why to Have One During Pregnancy and Labor with Kara French Read More »
Have taken a childbirth education course or read books about the stages of labor? We are going to break away from the medical idea of dilation equally in the stages of labor and talk about it organically and flexibly to what the body is showing you during the stages. We’ll touch upon the behavior of
Navigating the Stages of Labor with Ashley Brichter Read More »
If you’re having a vaginal birth and it’s time for that baby to make itself completely earthside, you have to get that baby out of your body through some form of pushing. The pushing phase of labor is often the portion of birth we see in movies and tv. Frequently we see a birthing person laying
Pushing Tips for Labor with Liz Wade and Shaina Brickner Read More »
Twenty years ago I found a study that stated 1 out of 3 birthing parents experience birth trauma. It’s a pretty shocking statistic. As time has gone by, I wondered if the numbers had improved and perhaps we were seeing fewer parents experience traumatic birth? To answer this and take a deep dive into birth
Birth Trauma with Kate McReynolds LMHC, PMH-C Read More »
If you’re pregnant you may find yourself scrolling through Tik Tok or instagram, happening upon a video or post and thinking “I want my birth to look like that.” Whether you’re thinking about the music you’d like to hear during birth or figuring out what type of pain management you’d like these preferences are often
Fluid Birth Plans with Liesel Teen BSN, RN Read More »
Are you working with a doula for your birth? If you are or you’re curious about hiring one, what do you expect from a labor support doula? Today on Yoga| Birth| Babies I welcome back my friend, my mentor, my doula, Terry Richmond. This is her fourth episode, clearly I enjoy talking with her. In
What Should I Expect From My Doula? with Terry Richmond Read More »
Where will you be giving birth? Did you know there are options? Today we’re going to be talking about where to give birth, because if you don’t know your options, you don’t have them. From hospital births, to birth centers, and home births these different locations all have pros and cons and honestly, not everyone
Where to Birth: Know Your Options with Catherine Stewart-Lindley Read More »
If you could choose between a functional efficient labor or a dysfunctional and inefficient labor I’m guessing you would choose functional and efficient labor. I have been to many births as a doula and I’ve had 2 kids of my own. While the body may need time to open to let the baby descend and
As expectant parents we spend so much time preparing for birth and life with a baby, often we forget about the recovery our bodies and minds need after labor. Between our culture and our medical system healing from birth is greatly overlooked and under discussed. In this episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies we turn the attention back
What’s It Like To Heal From A Vaginal Birth? with Morgan Michalowski Read More »
No matter which way you may be leaning in terms of pain meds during labor, it’s important to know all your options so that you can make an informed decision. In this episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies, I speak with Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Rachel Salem, about all your options for pain medicine during labor. Rachel shares the
Know Your Options: Pain Meds During Labor with Rachel Salem CRNA Read More »
Did you know that the memory of your birth and your satisfaction with it directly correspond to how you perceive being treated during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum? This is a big reason why it’s important to make sure you’re getting the support and respect you need throughout your whole journey of pregnancy, birth, and parenthood.
I remember a midwife once telling me that it’s those who don’t have any nervousness around labor and delivery that worry her most. You might think that’s strange however, birth is full of many unknowns. Sure we know that you’ll leave labor with your baby now a part of the “outside” world, but we really
There’s a lot of fear surrounding age and pregnancy. It’s as if awakening on your 35th birthday renders you conceptionally challenged. But why has that pressure been put on people? What does it really mean to have a baby after 35? And, what can we do to increase fertility at 35 and beyond? In this episode
Having A Baby After 35 with Dr. Shannon Clark Read More »
VBAC’s are a birth option that one comes to with a great deal of preparation and planning. If this is your envisioned birth option, likely you desire the chance to experience a vaginal birth. To help see that vision come true, it’s important to stack the cards in your favor and one of the best ways
How To Approach Your VBAC With Confidence with Meagan Heaton of VBAC Links Read More »
1 in 3 new parents report their birth as traumatic. This leaves a tremendous amount of new parents adjusting to new parenthood while also overcoming an emotionally traumatizing event. Sometimes the healing is never resolved and subsequent pregnancies and births can bring up past traumatic feelings. This week’s episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies was inspired by conversations within
Healing from a Traumatic Birth with Kristin Lasseter, MD Read More »
There’s a reason this podcast caught your eye, likely because you’re feeling a bit stressed and want to know how this could affect your pregnancy and baby. While stress is a normal part of life, especially at times of great change, like pregnancy and new parenthood, it could create imbalances in the nervous system, endocrine
How Does Stress Affect My Pregnancy? with Parijat Deshpande Read More »
