Evidence Based Birth®

Welcome to a special announcement episode of the Evidence Based Birth® Podcast! This August, we’re celebrating the incredible people who make up Team EBB. Each Wednesday, you’ll hear directly from team members as they share their experiences and expertise. Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch full episodes on our YouTube channel, and be sure to follow us on Instagram (@ebbirth) for even more behind-the-scenes stories and updates throughout August. Watch full episodes on YouTube Follow us on Instagram @ebbirth for behind-the-scenes stories and team updates For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class

Curious if prenatal perineal massage actually works to prevent tears during childbirth? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker examines the evidence on perineal massage in late pregnancy, separating fact from fiction and sharing what the research really shows. You’ll learn what major studies say about perineal massage, why some commonly cited research may not be trustworthy, and whether this practice is truly necessary, especially if you’re in a birth setting with low episiotomy rates. You’ll also hear some surprising insights on other ways to protect your perineum and reduce your risk of severe tears. Content note: Discussion of perineal tears during childbirth, severe tears, and episiotomy. (06:14) Evaluating Perineal Massage Evidence (08:32) Comprehensive Perineal Massage Meta-Analysis (11:20) Perineal Massage Study Bias Concerns (16:04) Double-Blind Study on Episiotomy Rates (20:09) Perineal Massage vs. Control Outcomes (24:44) Study Bias and Participant Dropouts (28:11) Research Fraud: Doubts on Dönmez Study (33:53) Trial Bias in Perineal Massage Study (35:57) Perineal Massage Study Bias Concerns (40:43) Effectiveness of the EPI-NO® Device Resources https://ebbirth.com/216Episode 206 of the EBB Podcast to learn about Perineal Tears and Avoiding EpisiotomyEpisode 210 to learn about warm compresses and hands on vs. hands off techniques® Childbirth Class: https://ebbirth.com/childbirth-class https://ebbirth.com/membershiphttps://beallslist.net/standalone-journals/) as a potential predatory journal.https://thinkchecksubmit.org/ For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional Membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Sophie Walker, host of the Australian Birth Stories podcast and author of The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth and The Complete Guide to Postpartum: A Mother-Focused Companion for Life After Birth, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to explore what it really takes to plan for a nourishing postpartum experience and the challenges and strengths of the Australian birth system. Sophie shares how a traumatic first birth sparked her passion for informed decision-making, why continuity of midwifery care matters, and how her country’s publicly funded postpartum home visits and mothers’ groups create critical support networks. Together, Sophie and Dr. Dekker unpack the postpartum cliff that so many new parents face, discuss how to prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for life after birth, and offer tips on everything from pelvic floor recovery to sleep expectations to navigating newborn feeding. (02:28) Sophie’s Birth Story and What She Learned from Trauma (06:07) Why Listening to Birth Stories Can Be a Powerful Tool (09:25) Models of Maternity Care in Australia (13:10) Strengths and Gaps in the Australian System (17:33) Midwifery Burnout and Access Issues (20:32) Rise of Doulas and Student Midwives (25:03) Postpartum Home Visits and Maternal Health Nurses (29:51) Mistakes to Avoid When Planning for Postpartum (35:01) Pelvic Floor Recovery, Lactation Support, and Mental Health (42:04) Infant Sleep: Expectations vs. Reality (46:49) Balancing Birth and Postpartum Prep (48:26) Making a Mental Health Safety Net (51:33) Listening to a Range of Birth Stories—Even the Hard Ones Resources Explore Sophie’s podcast and books: australianbirthstories.com Follow Sophie on Instagram: @australianbirthstories EBB 155 – Pelvic Floor Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr. Juan Michelle Martin EBB 256 – Top 3 Recommendations for Preventing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction after Birth with Dr. Sarah Duvall, Founder of Core Exercise Solutions EBB 118 – How to Have a Healthy Postpartum Transition with Dr. Alyssa Berlin For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Leah Van Dale, former WWE superstar known as Carmella and founder of the women’s health platform Snatch, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to share her deeply personal story of postpartum recovery after a traumatic birth injury. Leah opens up about her journey through multiple pregnancy losses, the decision to hire a doula, and how the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class helped her prepare for her first birth. She shares the emotional and physical challenges of a long labor, including an undiagnosed nerve injury that left her unable to walk properly for months postpartum. Now pregnant again, Leah reflects on what she’s learned, how it shaped her career path, and why she’s passionate about building an honest, empowering community for women. (02:55) Leah’s Journey Through Loss and Into Pregnancy (05:20) Why She Chose to Hire a Doula (07:50) Taking the EBB Childbirth Class (09:39) Leah’s Long and Unexpected Birth Story (16:11) Postpartum Depletion and Early Red Flags (22:31) The Long Road to a Diagnosis (25:35) How the Injury Affected Her Career (28:30) Creating Snatch: A Space for Honest Conversations (32:54) Free Resources and Courses Through Snatch (35:08) Advice for Those Preparing for Birth To sign up for the EBB Summer Series, visit ebbirth.com/summer! Resources: Explore Snatch: snatch.co Follow Leah on Instagram: @theleahvandale Access our free guide on birthing positions: ebbirth.com/birthingpositions For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Licensed community midwife Grace Flannery and doctoral student Ihotu Ali, founder of the Oshun Center for Intercultural Healing, join Dr. Rebecca Dekker for a moving conversation about burnout, boundaries, and building sustainable birth work. Together, they explore the root causes of burnout in maternity care, from systemic extraction to internalized pressure, and how the path to healing lies in slowing down, reconnecting with purpose, and redefining productivity. Ihotu and Grace share the origin of their collaboration through the Sweetwater Alliance, the transformative “One Main Thing” meditation, and their four-part framework for reclaiming balance: Seasons, Smallify, Support, and Spirit. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to anyone holding space for others while feeling the weight of burnout. (04:27) Grace and Ihotu’s Birth Work Journey (07:54) The Roots of Burnout in Maternity Care (13:19) Presence, Boundaries, and the Burnout Cycle (18:33) Symptoms and Signs of Burnout (27:06) The “Four S’s” Framework for Sustainable Practice (30:08) Accountability, Rest, and Seasonal Rhythms (38:21) The “One Main Thing” Meditation Practice (44:28) Reconnecting with Purpose and Capacity (58:51) Final Reflections on Slowing Down and Healing To sign up for the EBB Summer Series, visit ebbirth.com/summer! Resources Learn more about the Oshun Center: oshuncenter.com Follow Ihotu on Instagram: @ihotu.ali Learn more about Trillium Midwifery Care: trilliummidwives.com Follow Grace on Instagram: @midwifegracef For a full list of resources, including links to the free One Main Thing Meditation, visit ebbirth.com. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

From ICU to birth center, Liz Carr’s story is a reminder that midwives come to this work through many paths, and each journey holds wisdom for the future of maternal care. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker reconnects with former nursing student turned certified nurse midwife, Liz Carr. Liz shares her unique trajectory: from critical care nursing to catching babies, from witnessing obstetric violence as a student to providing trauma-informed, evidence-based midwifery care. Liz and Rebecca explore the impact of diverse clinical experiences, the challenges of navigating midwifery school without labor and delivery experience, and the transformative power of reproductive justice. Liz also opens up about working in abortion care before and after the fall of Roe v. Wade, how she centers consent and autonomy in every interaction, and why investing in the education of future physicians is one of her biggest hopes for change. Content Note: This episode contains discussion of obstetric violence (non-consented episiotomy) and providing abortion care. (00:00) Liz Carr’s Journey from Nursing Student to Certified Nurse Midwife (04:27) Early Inspiration and Moving to Kentucky (08:02) Witnessing Harmful Obstetric Practices and Choosing a Different Path (11:53) Gaining Lifesaving Skills as a Critical Care Nurse (16:30) Transitioning from ICU Nurse to Birth Work through Doula Training (21:24) Midwifery Education and Clinical Challenges (25:39) Abortion Care Training at CHOICES Before and After Roe v. Wade (32:46) Systemic Barriers and the Importance of Postpartum Support (35:36) Most Memorable Births and Special Moments (37:13) Teaching Medical Residents and Modeling Consent (40:54) Advice for Aspiring Midwives and Navigating Career Choices (45:01) Red Flags and Green Flags in Job Interviews (48:04) When Slower Access to Surgery Leads to Better Birth Outcomes To sign up for the EBB Summer Series, visit ebbirth.com/summer! Resources Explore Choices Center for Reproductive Health Read about the Turnaway Study Check your hospital’s stats at the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade Learn more about Frontier Nursing University Get your copy of Babies Are Not Pizzas For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Carson Meyer, doula, certified nutrition consultant, and author of Growing Together, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker for a conversation about reclaiming the sacred, intuitive, and evidence-based aspects of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Carson shares how she stepped into birth work at a young age, driven by a desire to transform a system that can leave parents disempowered and unsupported. She opens up about her own home birth experience, the spiritual preparation that carried her through, and the tools she now teaches others through her virtual Growing Together Circles. Together, Carson and Dr. Dekker discuss the importance of informed choice and the emotional, physical, and environmental foundations of holistic care. (04:57) Carson’s Path to Becoming a Doula (07:24) Growing Together Circles and Virtual Doula Support (09:39) Carson’s Home Birth Story (13:23) Holistic Practices for Pregnancy and Labor (17:33) Four Pillars of Postpartum Healing (21:15) Nourishment and Hydration During Postpartum (25:20) Environmental Health and Conscious Skincare (37:48) Advice for New Doulas on Avoiding Burnout Resources Explore Carson’s work: carson-meyer.com Follow Carson on Instagram: @ccmeyer For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Curious how to actually prevent perineal tears during childbirth? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker breaks down the latest research on three of the most talked-about methods: 1) using warm compresses, 2) provider “hands on” techniques, 3) provider “hands off” techniques, and how these approaches measure up when it comes to protecting your perineum. You’ll learn surprising facts, like how a simple warm washcloth can significantly lower your risk of severe tears (and even ease pain!), plus what the evidence really says about whether a provider should help “guard” the perineum or just keep their hands off you during the actual birth. Content note: Discussion of perineal tears during childbirth, severe tears, and episiotomy. (02:55) What is the Perineum? (05:33) Warm Compresses Reduce Birth Tears (08:51) Warm Compresses Reduce Birth Complications (12:27) Hands On vs. Hands Off (18:07) Hands-On vs. Hands-Off Perineal Techniques (19:38) Perineal Support Training Reduces Tearing (22:47) Hands-On vs. Hands-Off Birth Resources For a full list of scientific references, visit the EBB website here. here Listen to Episode 206 of the EBB Podcast (Perineal Tears and Avoiding Episiotomy) here. here For more information about Evidence Based Birth and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker’s book, “Babies Are Not Pizzas: They’re Born, Not Delivered!” If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Most parents are told their baby is either a boy or a girl. But what happens when a baby is born with intersex traits—and how can birth workers and clinicians respond with compassion, accuracy, and care? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker speaks with Niki Khanna, MA, MFT, and Dr. Catherine Clune-Taylor, co-presidents of InterACT, about how to support families when a baby’s physical sex characteristics don’t fit binary expectations. Together, they explore how often this occurs, what parents are typically told in the hospital, and why rushed decisions about infant genital surgery can cause lasting harm. They also share powerful insights on how to provide affirming care, connect families with community, and ensure every baby is welcomed with dignity. (05:43) What Does “Intersex” Mean and How Common Is It? (09:05) Why Many Intersex Traits Aren’t Identified at Birth (13:36) Understanding CAH and Newborn Screening (17:24) The History of Infant Surgeries and Gonadectomies (19:49) What Parents Are Told—And Why It’s Often Incomplete (29:06) Ethics, Consent, and Who Gets to Decide (35:40) Why Intersex Babies Deserve Affirming, Informed Care (42:20) Barriers to Care for Intersex Youth and Adults Resources interactadvocates.orgInstagramInterConnecthere For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Struggling with low milk supply can feel overwhelming, isolating, and confusing. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Katie James to demystify the realities of low milk supply. Together, they explore the hormonal, medical, and systemic factors that can affect lactation, as well as the critical importance of early postpartum support. Katie shares how birth interventions, lack of education, and misinformation can interfere with lactation—and how reclaiming knowledge, honoring instinct, and receiving timely help can make all the difference. (07:21) How Birth Interventions Impact Breastfeeding (09:30) Prolactin, Oxytocin, and the Critical First 3 Days (11:18) What is Low Milk Supply—and Can it Be Prevented? (14:58) Medical Conditions That Can Affect Milk Production (19:27) Gestational Diabetes, Cesarean Birth, and Milk Supply (23:42) The Trap of “Perceived” Low Supply (28:48) Why Judgment-Free Support Matters (36:56) When and How to Get Help from an IBCLC (38:16) The Rule of 3s: Key Windows to Boost Milk Supply (44:39) Why Partners Need Breastfeeding Education Too Resources Follow Katie: katiejames.site | Instagram Listen to her podcasts: The Midwives’ Cauldron and The Feeding Couch Find an EBB Childbirth Class: evidencebasedbirth.com/childbirthclass Learn about the EBB Instructor Program: evidencebasedbirth.com/instructor For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Special Announcement from EBB! If you're an experienced birth worker or health care professional and you're interested in becoming an Evidence Based Birth Instructor, applications for 2025 are opening soon for a limited time only! Podcast listeners who are interested in becoming an EBB Instructor are invited to join us for a live Q & A session on Wednesday, May 28 at 1:00 PM EDT. We’ll be answering your questions about who is eligible to apply, what the application process looks like, and the support and training you’ll receive as an EBB Instructor. Whether you're thinking about teaching the EBB Childbirth Class or leading EBB Pro Workshops, this is a your opportunity to learn more. Can’t make it live? Register anyway and we’ll send the replay straight to your inbox. Just head to ebbirth.com/instructor to attend. Want to listen to a few podcast episodes about being an EBB Instructor? talks about teaching the EBB Comfort Measures for L & D Nurses Workshoptailors her EBB Childbirth Class to high-risk birthing familiesjoins her client Mandy on-air to talk about serving as both her client's doula and childbirth educatorexplains how the EBB Childbirth Class has advanced her ability to advocate for her clientsshare how they use EBB Instructor resources in Puerto Rico

In this Q&A episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker answers questions submitted by EBB Pro Members—each exploring a different facet of evidence-based maternity care. First, she explores the latest evidence on early induction for gestational hypertension, including findings from the WILL trial and other recent studies. What are the real risks and benefits of inducing labor at 37 or 38 weeks for gestational hypertension? And how should families weigh these decisions with their providers? Next, Dr. Dekker shares new insights into the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure for labor pain, anxiety, and Cesarean recovery. From systematic reviews to randomized trials, the data is growing! Finally, she looks into the evidence on interpregnancy intervals. What does the research say about the risks associated with short or long gaps between pregnancies? And how might this information apply to those who are pregnant again after a five-year or more break? (00:00) Intro to Mini Q&A and EBB Pro Membership (02:17) Early Induction for Gestational Hypertension – What the Research Says (06:20) WILL Trial Findings and Recommendations from ACOG and NICE (08:23) Outcomes at 37 vs. 38 Weeks – Cesareans, NICU, and Respiratory Distress (10:15) Balancing Induction Timing and Risks of Continuing Pregnancy (11:03) Acupuncture and Acupressure – New Research and Applications (12:41) Studies on Pain, Anxiety, and Nausea During Labor and Cesareans (14:46) Acupuncture and Cesarean Recovery – Mobility and Pain Management (16:54) Interpregnancy Intervals – Definitions and Research Challenges (19:39) Risks of Short and Long Pregnancy Spacing (23:22) Global Perspectives and Meta-Analysis on Birth Outcomes (26:49) Public Health Implications and Final Thoughts View the full list of resources and references on ebbirth.com. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

A traumatic first birth can shape everything that follows—but with the right support, education, and advocacy, it's possible to turn fear into empowerment. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with EBB Childbirth Class Graduates Rivka and Steven Dubinsky as they share the transformative journey from a traumatic hospital induction and birth injury to a redemptive second birth experience centered on autonomy, education, and trust. Rivka opens up about how her first birth left her physically injured and emotionally shaken, and how she didn’t initially recognize it as trauma. Over time—and with therapy, research, and support—she came to understand what had been taken from her. Determined to have a different experience with her second child, she carefully selected a trauma-informed OB, dove into birth education, and found strength in preparing for every possibility. Together, Rivka and Steven share how they prepared as a team, how Steven stepped into his advocacy role during labor, and why they chose to “fire” a hospital-assigned doula. They also reflect on the surprising power of reclaiming their voice—even in the midst of pain—and how a supported birth experience can shift everything. Content Note: This episode includes discussion of birth trauma. This episode also contains mild language at 45:55. (01:48) Rivka’s First Birth and the Silent Cost of Lost Autonomy (07:13) Steven’s Reflections on Feeling Unprepared to Support (10:45) Moving to Ohio and Choosing Trauma-Informed Care (14:02) Becoming an “Information Junkie” and Taking the EBB Childbirth Class (17:02) Steven Learns Advocacy Through EBB (22:14) From Elective Cesarean Plan to Informed Induction (29:18) Navigating Nursing Styles and Hospital Systems (36:00) Epidural Differences and Listening to Her Body (40:50) Hands-On, Informed Support During Pushing (43:39) A Sunny-Side-Up Baby and Immediate Skin-to-Skin (45:53) Feeling Empowered, Present, and Powerful (50:06) Advice for Families Seeking Trauma-Informed Birth Care Resources @alyromotdoula For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Every pregnant person deserves the information—and support—they need to make truly informed decisions about labor induction. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Dr. Ann Peralta and Kari Radoff, CNM, co-creators of Partner to Decide, a nonprofit initiative improving decision-making in perinatal care. They discuss the creation of their free, multilingual decision aid that supports families in understanding their options around routine induction of labor—and empowers them to advocate for their values, preferences, and autonomy. Ann shares how her own birth experience, shaped by access to education and privilege, sparked the creation of the tool. Kari offers insight into how the decision aid has changed conversations in clinical settings—bringing clarity, reducing bias, and fostering truly shared decision-making. Together, they illuminate how access to balanced information can reduce anxiety, improve trust, and shift the culture of perinatal care. (03:02) What Is a Decision Aid and Why It Matters (07:12) Ann’s Birth Story and the Origins of Partner to Decide (11:09) Gaps in Shared Decision-Making from a Provider’s Perspective (14:24) Personal Values, Intuition, and Cultural Differences (18:19) Designing the Decision Aid with Equity and Accessibility (23:49) The Power of Absolute vs. Relative Risk in Birth Conversations (25:01) Surprising Patient Feedback: From Access to Empowerment (30:31) Provider Reflections and Challenging Bias (36:11) Why “Routine” Induction Language Matters (43:59) How to Respond to Pressure or Coercion Around Induction (46:16) How to Access the Free Decision Aid and Support New Tools Resources Access the free Induction of Labor Decision Aid in seven languages: www.inductiondecisionaid.org Learn more about the nonprofit: www.partnertodecide.org For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the evidence on perineal tears and the importance of avoiding episiotomies during childbirth. We’ll talk about what perineal tears are, the different types that can occur, and the potential health consequences that can follow. You’ll also hear about the various factors that may increase or decrease the risk of tearing during birth. Finally, we’ll cover why it’s so important to avoid an episiotomy during childbirth. Content warning: Discussion of perineal tears during childbirth, severe tears, episiotomy, and obstetric violence related to cutting episiotomies without consent. (05:58) Understanding Perineal Tears (09:15 Midwife Care Reduces Birth Tears (13:06) Risk Factors for Severe Birth Tears (16:08) Postpartum Tear Impact Study Findings (21:59) Episiotomy History and Controversy (24:02) Episiotomy Study on Routine vs. Restricted Use (28:02) Episiotomy Risks vs. Natural Tears (31:39) Episiotomy Awareness and Informed Consent Resources hereherehere.here. For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Navigating a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker talks with Mary Farrelly, a certified NICU nurse, doula nurse educator, and founder of The NICU Translator. With over a decade of experience in a Level 4 NICU, Mary shares how families can find empowerment and confidence in the NICU. Mary discusses the importance of emotional, social, and informational support for families, and how NICU-informed doulas can play a critical role in bridging the gap between parents and medical teams. From understanding the different levels of NICU care to navigating postpartum challenges, Mary offers compassionate and practical guidance. Learn how early preparation, trauma-informed care, and advocacy can make a difference in the NICU experience. Plus, Mary provides actionable tips for doulas supporting families through this journey. (03:18) Discovering the Path to NICU Nursing (06:16) Emotional Impact of NICU Nursing and Family Connections (11:25) Understanding NICU Levels of Care and Medical Needs (17:57) Staffing Shortages and Challenges in NICU Care (21:48) Families' Most Common Questions: "When Can My Baby Go Home?" (25:02) Transitioning from NICU to Home and Navigating Anxiety (29:11) Parental Mental Health and PTSD After a NICU Stay (33:14) The Role of NICU-Informed Doulas in Supporting Families (39:08) Effective Support Strategies for NICU Families (45:52) Resources for NICU Families and Doulas Resources: Connect with Mary Farrelly on Instagram: @thenicutranslator Visit The NICU Translator website: www.thenicutranslator.com Download the free NICU Birth Plan template: www.thenicutranslator.myflodesk.com/birthplan For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

How can art serve as a powerful way to honor pregnancy, birth, and parenting experiences—especially for families who are often underrepresented in birth spaces? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker explores this question with Lauren J. Turner, a Baltimore-based artist, birth worker, and founder of Birth Nerds. Lauren shares how her own home birth experiences, her journey with postpartum and neurodivergence, and a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis shaped her path into birth work and fine art. Together, Rebecca and Lauren explore how art can be a healing, meditative process for birthing families, and a meaningful tool for birth workers to honor their clients’ journeys. Lauren opens up about creating paintings that reflect diverse parenting experiences—from lactation to the NICU—and how she uses bold colors and imagery to bring visibility to Black and Brown families in maternal health. (03:44) Lauren’s First Home Birth Experience and the Impact of Midwives (06:28) A Challenging Second Birth and the Role of Trust and Teamwork (11:19) Starting Over with Doula Training and the Importance of Comprehensive Education (12:27) Living with Multiple Sclerosis and Being Dismissed by the Healthcare System (19:29) Redefining Rest through Art and Creativity (27:51) Exploring Themes in Maternal Health and Parenting Art (28:34) How Parents and Birth Workers Can Use Art to Process Birth (35:41) The Beauty of the Placenta in Art (37:10) Fiber Arts in Birth Work and Creative Expression (40:21) Uplifting Lactation Through Art and Community Resources Explore Lauren’s art: laurenjturnerfineart.com Follow Lauren on Instagram: @birthnerds Shop prints, shirts, and stickers: birthnerds.com Learn more about Mamatoto Village: mamatotovillage.org EBB 92 – Impacts of the Community Birth Worker Model with Aza Nedhari Discover MamAmor Dolls: mamamordolls.com For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Rebecca Dekker is joined by Camilla Costa Goetz, a graduate of the EBB Childbirth Class, to share her story of advocating for herself during labor. Camilla, a former fashion student turned full-time mom, opens up about navigating pregnancy with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), preparing for birth while her husband was away at Army Ranger School, and making the bold decision to push back against hospital norms to have the birth she wanted. Tune in as Camilla and Rebecca discuss why self-advocacy is crucial in birth, how hospital policies can conflict with evidence-based care, and how standing firm can make all the difference in your birth experience. Learn tips for preparing your birth team, confidently saying no to interventions you don’t want, and making sure your birth preferences are honored—even in a hospital setting. (02:11) How Camilla Discovered Evidence Based Birth® and Her Pregnancy Challenges (05:11) Navigating Pregnancy with POTS and Health Concerns (10:27) Preparing for Birth Without Her Husband by Her Side (17:31) Planning for an Unmedicated Birth and Overcoming Fear of Hospitals (23:06) The Problem with Hospital Birth Policies and Misinformed Providers (26:13) How Camilla Switched Hospitals to Avoid an Unwanted C-Section (34:26) The Surprising Lack of Support for Unmedicated Birth in the Hospital (39:50) How Camilla Stood Her Ground in the Delivery Room (45:57) Her Husband’s Emotional Reaction to Missing the Birth (51:06) Postpartum Challenges, Military Life, and the Strength of Advocacy For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

In this mini Q&A, Dr. Rebecca Dekker digs into the evidence on three important questions submitted by EBB Pro Members. Tune in as we explore: The evidence on peanut balls during early and active labor—do they really shorten labor and increase vaginal birth rates? Whether induction at 39 weeks is necessary for IVF pregnancies—what does the research actually say? Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER)—what is it, what causes it, and how can parents cope? (02:30) How to Join the EBB Pro Membership & Submit Questions (04:15) (Q1) Peanut Balls in Labor – What does the research say about their use in early labor vs. active labor? (06:50) Key studies on peanut ball use—impact on labor duration, mode of birth, and satisfaction (13:30) (Q2) Induction at 39 Weeks for IVF Pregnancies (16:40) SMFM recommendations, lack of randomized trials, and shared decision-making in IVF pregnancies (20:00) (Q3) Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER) (22:45) Hormonal theories behind D-MER, coping strategies, and available research (30:00) Recap & How to Find More Evidence-Based Resources For the full list of references and resources, visit the EBB website here! For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Dr. Shilpa Babbar, a double board-certified maternal-fetal medicine specialist and OB/GYN, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to discuss the role of integrative obstetrics in pregnancy and birth. Dr. Babbar shares her journey into maternal-fetal medicine, how she became interested in yoga and breathing techniques, and the growing body of research on prenatal yoga. They discuss how breathwork can support pregnant individuals, the physiological effects of deep breathing, and how birth workers can incorporate these techniques into prenatal care. Dr. Babbar also shares her experience using alternate nostril breathing to manage blood pressure during pregnancy and her vision for making integrative therapies a standard part of obstetric care. (01:41) Dr. Babbar’s Journey into Maternal-Fetal Medicine (04:16) How Yoga and Prenatal Yoga Research Began (09:37) Studying the Effects of Prenatal Yoga on Pregnancy (12:46) Yoga’s Impact on Labor Duration (14:33) The Role of Breathwork in Pregnancy (17:48) How Dr. Babbar Used Breathing Techniques for Her Own Pregnancy (22:30) The Science Behind Alternate Nostril Breathing (28:52) Guided Demonstration of Deep Breathing Techniques (35:10) Applying Breathwork During Pregnancy and Labor (39:08) The Future of Integrative Obstetric Care Resources Learn more about Dr. Shilpa Babbar’s work at drshilpababbar.com Follow the Integrative Obstetric Care Conference on Instagram: @IOBCare For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.