Let's Talk About Birth

Let’s Talk About Birth is a limited podcast series hosted by board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, returning to the mic to keep the conversation going, this time with a focus on birth. In a space filled with noise, from unsolicited “helpful” advice to the overwhelming and often inaccurate information online, coupled with a medical system that is not meeting the needs of pregnant people, this series cuts through the chaos to talk about what truly matters. With a refreshingly honest, myth-busting approach to pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, Dr. Jen brings evidence-based insight, compassion, humor, and relatability to inspiring conversations with a wide range of guests, unpacking the beautiful, the messy, and everything in between. You may recognize her voice from her previous podcast Let’s Talk About Down There or from her presence as a reproductive health advocate to more than 4 million followers, and now she’s back with a series designed to inform, support, and empower. She’s also the author of her latest book, The Birth Book: An OBGYN’s Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery, which aims to pull back the curtain on labor and delivery so every pregnant person can have the birth they want and deserve. So whether you’re expecting, have been through it, are supporting someone you love, or are simply curious… let’s talk about birth!

  1. Let’s Talk About Home Birth vs Hospital Birth: Where and With Whom to Have Your Baby

    1 DAY AGO

    Let’s Talk About Home Birth vs Hospital Birth: Where and With Whom to Have Your Baby

    Hospital birth, birth center, or home birth...and how do you even decide!? In the first official episode of Let’s Talk About Birth, board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln is joined by Ashley Walter, CNM; birth photographer & doula, Monet Nicole; and Dr. Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN, to unpack the realities of birth settings, safety, and choice. This conversation cuts through the noise with evidence, empathy, and clarity so listeners can feel empowered to choose what’s right for them and their babies.  We Talk About...  Hospital vs. birth center vs. home birth OB-GYNs, midwives, and doulas — who does what? What the evidence says about safety Risk tolerance and personal choice When and why birth plans change The emotional side of birth and feeling supported  Pre-Order The Birth Book: An OB-GYN's Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery here!     Follow your host @drjenniferlincoln    Episode Links & Resources  Ashlee Walter, CNM, MSN  Certified Nurse Midwife at Women’s Healthcare Associates  Website: https://www.whallc.com  Monet Nicole  Licensed Midwife and Founder of Monet Nicole Birth Services  Website: https://www.monetnicole.com/  Dr. Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN  Founder of Evidence Based Birth®  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebbirth  Evidence Based Birth® Website: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/author/  Learn more about the evidence on doulas at https://ebbirth.com/doulas Learn more about the “My Doula Visit” Workbook at https://evidencebasedbirth.com/doula-workbook/ American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2017, reaffirmed 2023).” ACOG Committee Opinion No. 697: planned home birth.” Obstet Gynecol 129(4): e117–e122.Bovbjerg, M. L., Cheyney, M., Hoehn-Velasco, L., et al. (2024). “Planned Home Births in the United States Have Outcomes Comparable to Planned Birth Center Births for Low-Risk Birthing Individuals.” Med Care 62(12): 820-829.Comeau, A., Hutton, E. K., Simioni, J., et al. (2018). “Home birth integration into the health care systems of eleven international jurisdictions.” Birth 45(3): 311-321.Dias, Y., Achebe, N. E., Doering, M. M., et al. (2025). “Intrapartum doula support and Cesarean delivery rates: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Obstet Gynecol 147(1): 73–84.Falconi et al. (2024). “Role of doulas in improving maternal health and health equity among Medicaid enrollees, 2014–2023.” Am J Public Health 114(11): 1275–1285.Hutton, E. K., Cappelletti, A., Reitsma, A. H., et al. (2016). “Outcomes associated with planned place of birth among women with low-risk pregnancies.” CMAJ 188(5): E80-E90.Snowden, J. M., Tilden, E. L., Snyder, J., et al. (2015). “Planned out-of-hospital birth and birth outcomes.” N Eng J Med 383: 2642-2653. Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada, Campbell, K., Carson, G., Azzam, H., Hutton, E. (2019). “No. 372 - Statement on Planned Homebirth.” JOGC 41(2): 223-227.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 3m
  2. A Summer Period Survival Guide

    26/06/2023

    A Summer Period Survival Guide

    Join Dr. Jen this week as she dives into something many of us can relate to: the summer period predicament. Now that we’re in the thick of the warmer months, it’s the perfect time to learn about practical tips for managing vaginal health in the heat. From period-friendly swimming options to menstrual cups and insights on period care while camping, Dr. Jen is providing the practical advice you didn't know you needed this season. She's also shedding light on vacation sex during menstruation, how to delay or skip your period, and as always, debunking myths along the way. With Dr. Jen's guidance, embrace a summer of confident and carefree period management. Get ready to make a splash with ease and knowledge!    What’s going down:    Best practices to maintain healthy vaginal hygiene in the heat    Swimming with your period    The low-down on menstrual cups and discs    Tips for managing your period while camping    Why you should have all the vacation sex during menstruation  How to properly skip your period, unlike the girl in this TikTok here.    Revealing the truth about shark attacks and periods      Thank you for continuing the conversation and calling into the Viva la Vulva Voicemail at (503) 893-2016! Please be sure to rate, follow, review, and remember that nothing is considered TMI around here.      Social & Website   TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln   Instagram: @drjenniferlincoln   YouTube: @drjenniferlincoln   Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com      Resources    Grab a copy of my book HERE!   Obstetricians For Reproductive Justice   Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:  Green Chef - Get 60% off plus free shipping when you go to GreenChef.com/drjen   Zocdoc - Download the Zocdoc app for FREE when you go to Zocdoc.com/DRJEN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    31 min
  3. Myth-Busting the Morning After Pill

    19/06/2023

    Myth-Busting the Morning After Pill

    This week, Dr. Jen is exposing the unknowns and misunderstandings surrounding Plan B, or the morning after pill. From the confusion over its technical term ("emergency contraception") to the stigma and shame associated with purchasing it, Dr. Jen navigates the landscape with empathy and humor. She breaks down how Plan B works, its effectiveness within a specific time frame, and the impact of weight on its efficacy. Debunking myths about Plan B as an abortion pill, she tackles the spread of misinformation by politicians and anti-abortion groups. Dr. Jen also explores alternative options like Ella and the copper IUD, leaving listeners informed, empowered, and ready to spread the truth about emergency contraception.       What’s going down:    A breakdown of Plan B and emergency contraception in general    How to access the morning after pill    The science behind how Plan B works and when it is best to take it  Why Plan B is less effective if you have a higher BMI   Alternative options to Plan B: Ella, the copper IUD, and the Yuzpe method    The truth about whether or not emergency contraception is equivalent to abortion   Clitorally OVER politicians fueling false narratives about the morning after pill. See TikTok here!      Thank you for continuing the conversation and calling into the Viva la Vulva Voicemail at (503) 893-2016! Please be sure to rate, follow, review, and remember that nothing is considered TMI around here.        Social & Website   TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln   Instagram: @drjenniferlincoln   YouTube: @drjenniferlincoln   Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com      Resources    Grab a copy of my book HERE!   Obstetricians For Reproductive Justice      References   The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. FAQ: Emergency contraception. https://www.acog.org/patient-resource...   Edelman, Alison B. MD, MPH; Hennebold, Jon D. PhD; Bond, Kise PSM; Lim, Jeong Y. PhD; Cherala, Ganesh PhD; Archer, David F. MD; Jensen, Jeffrey T. MD, MPH. Double Dosing Levonorgestrel-Based Emergency Contraception for Individuals With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obstetrics & Gynecology 140(1):p 48-54, July 2022. | DOI: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000004717  https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/30/well/family/plan-b-weight-limit.html  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Practice Bulletin #152: Emergency contraception.” September 2015. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinica...   https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-fda-says-plan-b-doesnt-affect-existing-pregnancy-changes-label-2022-12-23/#:~:text=Dec%2023%20(Reuters)%20%2D%20The,course%20of%20an%20existing%20pregnancy.https://www.bedsider.org/features/363...   GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/blog/plan-b-a-...   Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:  Green Chef - Get 60% off plus free shipping when you go to GreenChef.com/drjen   Zocdoc - Download the Zocdoc app for FREE when you go to Zocdoc.com/DRJEN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    36 min
  4. What Is a Woman? Why This Question Is Really...NBD

    12/06/2023

    What Is a Woman? Why This Question Is Really...NBD

    This week, Dr. Jen fearlessly takes on the most recent Twitter storm as she confronts backlash for championing inclusivity and expanding the definition of womanhood. She dives into the power of inclusive language and its ability to foster a more accepting society. Drawing inspiration from recent events, including contentious tweets and the surge of anti-trans legislation, Dr. Jen passionately advocates for understanding, empathy, and the dismantling of harmful narratives. Join her in this compelling conversation that resonates deeply during Pride Month, as she fearlessly confronts the haters and stands up for a more inclusive world.    What’s going down:   A quick rundown on the controversial tweet responsible for the twitter war in question  Examples of inclusive language and why it’s so important to use  The dangers of using specific language instead of blanket terms  Dr. Jen’s relationship inclusive language: Then vs. Now  The role of power and why people are so against inclusivity  A historical look at Pride month and why this year might be the most dangerous  How to be an advocate and respond to people trying to spread hate and non-inclusivity    Thank you for continuing the conversation and calling into the Viva la Vulva Voicemail at (503) 893-2016! Please be sure to rate, follow, review, and remember that nothing is considered TMI around here.      Social & Website   TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln   Instagram: @drjenniferlincoln   YouTube: @drjenniferlincoln   Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com      Resources    Grab a copy of my book HERE!   Obstetricians For Reproductive Justice      References   Track anti-trans legislation in the United States: https://translegislation.com/  Mental health benefits associated with gender-affirming surgery. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/mental-health-benefits-associated-with-gender-affirming-surgery/  Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:   Green Chef - Get 60% off plus free shipping when you go to GreenChef.com/drjen   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    25 min
  5. Inside the OBGYN Journey: Dr. Jen's Q&A Sesh

    05/06/2023

    Inside the OBGYN Journey: Dr. Jen's Q&A Sesh

    This week, join Dr. Jen for a special Q&A episode as she spills the beans on everything you need to know about becoming an OBGYN and med school as a whole! From the grueling years of classes to the rollercoaster ride of residency, she breaks it all down with no filter. She also confronts the impact of abortion bans on aspiring OBGYNs, exposing the challenges and injustices they face. If you're curious about the path to becoming an OBGYN, or just a general practitioner and want to hear the unfiltered truth, buckle up for an eye-opening information session that will leave you feeling empowered to follow your dreams. Get ready for some serious insights and a dose of inspiration on this wild journey into the world of healthcare!     What’s going down:   A breakdown of how long it actually takes to become an OBGYN   Prerequisites for medical school and taking the MCAT   What to expect in your four years of medical school    The complexities of residencies and "the match" process   Why the narrative about female OBGYNs is a total double standard    Dr. Jen’s advice for choosing a residency    Examples of fellowship programs and sub-specialties  The unfortunate reality and heightened competition for OBGYN residency applicants post-roe    Thank you for continuing the conversation and calling into the Viva la Vulva Voicemail at (503) 893-2016! Please be sure to rate, follow, review, and remember that nothing is considered TMI around here.      Social & Website   TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln   Instagram: @drjenniferlincoln   YouTube: @drjenniferlincoln   Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com      Resources    Grab a copy of my book HERE!   Obstetricians For Reproductive Justice      References   OB/GYN program competitiveness significantly increased over the last 20 years.  Despite Abortion Restrictions, Ob/Gyn Remains Competitive Residency— Every slot filled in this year's Match, but some states more desirable  Training Location Preferences of U.S. Medical School Graduates Post DOBBS V. JACKSON WOMEN’S HEALTH ORGANIZATION Decision Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:   Green Chef - Get 60% off plus free shipping when you go to GreenChef.com/drjen   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    39 min
  6. MTHFR & Abortion Bans: Empowering Knowledge for Those Expecting

    29/05/2023

    MTHFR & Abortion Bans: Empowering Knowledge for Those Expecting

    This week, Dr. Jen tackles two pressing questions that have been buzzing around. First, she dives into the MTHFR variant and its impact on folate processing, demystifying this complex topic in a way that’s easier to understand. But that's not all. She also addresses a timely concern about the current state of abortion bans. Specifically, she provides guidance for expectant mothers in the face of complications during pregnancy and limited abortion access in the U.S. Moreover, Dr. Jen sheds light on the significance of folic acid during pregnancy and shares her expert recommendations for couples trying to conceive. Dr. Jen's mission with this discussion is to empower listeners with knowledge, debunk myths, and equip them with the confidence to advocate for more comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Tune in for an informative and eye-opening episode!     What’s going down:   Understanding the MTHFR enzyme and its role in folate processing    The difference between folate and folic acid    Neural tube defects and why taking folic acid is necessary  Why abortion bans negatively impact intentionally pregnant people too    Unpacking the 12-week ban in North Carolina and the BS that comes along with it    Clitorally appalled by the state representative’s ability to "jump ship". See the video here.  Dr. Jen’s advice for anyone trying to get pregnant in a state where abortion is banned     Thank you for continuing the conversation and calling into the Viva la Vulva Voicemail at (503) 893-2016! Please be sure to rate, follow, review, and remember that nothing is considered TMI around here.       Social & Website   TikTok: @drjenniferlincoln   Instagram: @drjenniferlincoln   YouTube: @drjenniferlincoln   Website: www.drjenniferlincoln.com      Resources    Grab a copy of my book HERE!   Obstetricians For Reproductive Justice      References   https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/mthfr-gene-and-folic-acid.html  https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/folicacid/faqs/faqs-general-info.html#:~:text=The%20terms%20%E2%80%9Cfolic%20acid%E2%80%9D%20and,(5%2DMTHF)%201.  https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/planning-baby/neural-tube-defects#:~:text=NTDs%20happen%20in%20about%203%2C000,year%20in%20the%20United%20States.  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9381685/  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/good-health-before-pregnancy-prepregnancy-care#:~:text=At%20least%201%20month%20before,of%20folic%20acid%20each%20day.  https://canons.sog.unc.edu/2023/05/north-carolinas-pending-abortion-legislation/    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    44 min

About

Let’s Talk About Birth is a limited podcast series hosted by board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, returning to the mic to keep the conversation going, this time with a focus on birth. In a space filled with noise, from unsolicited “helpful” advice to the overwhelming and often inaccurate information online, coupled with a medical system that is not meeting the needs of pregnant people, this series cuts through the chaos to talk about what truly matters. With a refreshingly honest, myth-busting approach to pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, Dr. Jen brings evidence-based insight, compassion, humor, and relatability to inspiring conversations with a wide range of guests, unpacking the beautiful, the messy, and everything in between. You may recognize her voice from her previous podcast Let’s Talk About Down There or from her presence as a reproductive health advocate to more than 4 million followers, and now she’s back with a series designed to inform, support, and empower. She’s also the author of her latest book, The Birth Book: An OBGYN’s Guide to Demystifying Labor and Delivery, which aims to pull back the curtain on labor and delivery so every pregnant person can have the birth they want and deserve. So whether you’re expecting, have been through it, are supporting someone you love, or are simply curious… let’s talk about birth!

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