The Baby Tribe

Afif EL-Khuffash & Anne Doherty
The Baby Tribe

The Baby Tribe podcast is dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with the latest information and expert advice on maternal health and well-being during pregnancy and the postpartum period, in addition to infant health, nutrition, and growth. This podcast covers all the important topics to ensure both you and your little one get off to the best start. The podcast is hosted by the husband and wife duo, Professor Afif El-Khuffash, a neonatologist, paediatrician, and lactation consultant, and Doctor Anne Doherty, an obstetric anesthesiologist with expertise in maternal care. Both Anne and Afif work at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin and together bring over 40 years of combined experience in newborn and maternal health. We share our knowledge and insights on everything from breastfeeding and formula feeding, to introducing solid foods, maternal recovery, and dealing with common health concerns for both mother and baby. We’ll have regular guests to share their expertise and experiences on various topics of interest, and we’ll also hear from real parents sharing their personal experiences and tips for raising healthy and happy families. Whether you're expecting your first child or navigating the postpartum period, this podcast is for you. Tune in each week for valuable information and practical advice to help you and your baby thrive. Please be sure to subscribe to our podcast, and follow us on Instagram! Thanks for joining us, and let’s continue this exciting journey together!

  1. 95:  Preventing Preterm Birth: Insights from Dr. Siobhan Corcoran

    23 JUN

    95: Preventing Preterm Birth: Insights from Dr. Siobhan Corcoran

    Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Siobhan Corcoran, a distinguished consultant obstetrician at the National Maternity Hospital in Dublin, as we tackle the intricate subject of preterm birth. Dr. Corcoran brings her expertise to the table, sharing insights from her work at the preterm birth prevention clinic, and her pivotal role in the PREPOP study, which explores the potential of oral probiotics in reducing spontaneous preterm birth among high-risk pregnancies. Our discussion highlights the delicate balance between extending pregnancies safely and my role as a neonatologist caring for those who arrive too soon. The episode sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges of late preterm births, particularly the impact on families who navigate both practical and psychological hurdles. We explore the myriad health issues that contribute to preterm births, including infection and inflammation, and discuss prevention strategies that underscore the importance of robust maternal health and targeted antenatal care. Dr. Corcoran and I delve into the complexities of identifying high-risk pregnancies, touching on the debate surrounding universal cervical length screening and the need for a personalized approach to care. As we focus on prevention, we examine the multifaceted strategies available, from preconceptual counselling and lifestyle modifications to the use of cervical cerclage and progesterone interventions. Our conversation underscores the importance of a holistic approach to maternal care, integrating emotional support and mental health resources for parents. With Dr. Corcoran's valuable insights, we reflect on the broader implications for neonatal outcomes, long-term development, and the support systems crucial for families facing the uncertainties of preterm birth. Preterm Birth Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4S53qMaaomixfTzQSwvZYk?si=PWaSIFwmTYGDUN1t2HAPkA Proudly sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    53 min
  2. 94: Embracing Life’s Squiggly Lines: Aoife Dunne on Loss, Purpose, and Redefining Womanhood

    16 JUN

    94: Embracing Life’s Squiggly Lines: Aoife Dunne on Loss, Purpose, and Redefining Womanhood

    Renowned creative talent Aoife Dunne graces our latest episode of the Baby Tribe Podcast, bringing her unique perspective on life, loss, and laughter. Aoife shares her compelling journey from losing her mother at a young age to stepping into a parental role for her siblings, all while challenging societal expectations around womanhood and childlessness. With humour and heart, we discuss the peculiarities of how a woman's worth is unfairly measured by her reproductive choices. We explore the trials she faced growing up in a vegetarian household in 1980s Ireland, her experiences with societal norms, and the lessons of empathy and understanding from her unconventional upbringing. Through these stories, we uncover the raw and real emotions of navigating familial roles after loss, the stigma surrounding childlessness, and the societal pressures of parenthood. Wrapping up, we embrace the idea of finding joy in the unpredictable "squiggly lines" of life. Aoife encourages us to start projects driven by curiosity and love, emphasizing that the journey is just as important as the destination. We touch on the importance of hobbies and creativity, advocating for the freedom to explore life beyond traditional roles. With laughter, introspection, and a celebration of authenticity, this episode is a heartfelt reminder to live life on your own terms, embracing both the sadness and the joy along the way. Proudly sponsored by https://www.happytummy.ie/ Aoife's Page: https://www.instagram.com/aoife_is_never_dunne Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 13m
  3. 93:  A Conversation with Professor Jennifer Donnelly: Innovations and Insights in Maternal Health

    9 JUN

    93: A Conversation with Professor Jennifer Donnelly: Innovations and Insights in Maternal Health

    Join us for an insightful episode of the Baby Tribe podcast as we welcome Professor Jennifer Donnelly, a renowned consultant Obstetrician and Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist. With an impressive career trajectory that includes her recent role as Clinical Director at the Rotunda Hospital, Jennifer shares her journey of balancing clinical duties with leadership responsibilities. She opens up about the transformative changes she implemented during her directorship and the newfound free time she anticipates will enrich her future roles. Listen in as Jennifer reflects on her experiences in maternal fetal medicine and the evolution of healthcare services at the Rotunda Hospital. Explore the critical topics of postpartum haemorrhage, thromboembolism, and infection as we highlight the increased risks faced by pregnant women and the importance of systematic risk assessments. We underscore the necessity of continually reviewing and improving risk scores to incorporate new data and enhance patient care. The conversation also sheds light on advancements in managing comorbid conditions during pregnancy and the positive impact of new treatments on pregnancy outcomes. Discover the rewarding aspects of maternal medicine through Jennifer's perspective, as she shares the emotional journey of guiding individuals through their pregnancies. We touch upon the significance of investing in high-quality maternity care and the dedication of multidisciplinary teams in specialized maternity hospitals. The conversation also addresses advancements in cardiac care for pregnant women with congenital and acquired heart disease, offering hope and insight into the future of maternal and cardiac care. With heartfelt stories and a focus on comprehensive care, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire listeners about the intricacies of maternal health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 3m
  4. 91: Unravelling the Complexity of Body Weight and Health

    26 MAY

    91: Unravelling the Complexity of Body Weight and Health

    Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Mick Crotty, a GP with a keen specialization in obesity medicine. We explore the multifaceted nature of obesity, going beyond the superficial metrics of BMI to consider it as a chronic neuroendocrine disease impacting overall health. Dr. Crotty shares his insights on the societal biases tied to body size and underscores the need for a shift in focus from achieving thinness to improving health. As we navigate this complex topic, we reveal the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, especially in places like Ireland where defined training pathways for obesity medicine specialists are scarce. The episode culminates in a re-evaluation of traditional weight management approaches. From the challenges of maternal health care linked to weight stigma to the promising role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in treating obesity, we discuss the importance of understanding the biological and hormonal underpinnings of weight. Dr. Crotty advocates for a compassionate, individualized approach to obesity, treating it as a chronic illness that requires nuanced care, much like other long-term health conditions. This conversation not only debunks common misconceptions but also offers a fresh perspective on health, emphasizing quality of life over mere numbers on a scale. Find Dr Crotty: https://www.instagram.com/mybestweight.ie/ Sponsored by: https://www.happytummy.ie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 32m
  5. 90: Reimagining Gynaecological Health for Young Girls

    19 MAY

    90: Reimagining Gynaecological Health for Young Girls

    Dr. Geraldine Connolly and Paula Herbert are here to revolutionize the way we think about young girls' gynaecological health. As a trailblazer in obstetrics and gynaecology, Dr. Connolly teams up with seasoned yoga teacher and Ayurvedic practitioner Paula Herbert to create My Girl's Gynae. This initiative is all about educating and supporting young girls and their parents through the sometimes daunting phases of puberty and periods. Together, we explore the fusion of Western medicine with holistic practices, providing invaluable insights into how these approaches can harmonize to address the unique needs of adolescent girls. Our conversation uncovers the often misunderstood experience of early puberty, revealing societal perceptions and environmental factors that may contribute. By comparing Ayurvedic perspectives to traditional Western views, we seek to illuminate how girls can better understand their menstrual cycles. We also discuss practical advice for parents preparing their daughters for their first periods, underscoring the importance of early education and open communication. From understanding the roles of hormones to recognizing the signs of heavy periods and anaemia, we cover it all with a focus on empowering families to break the cycle of shame around menstruation. We emphasize the significance of including fathers in the conversation and highlight resources like online courses and social media engagement to make these discussions more accessible. With humour and relatable anecdotes, we strive to foster a supportive environment where young girls can thrive and embrace their transformative years with confidence. Join us for a rich dialogue that aims to change the conversation around gynaecological health for the better. Check them out at: https://mygirlsgynae.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mygirlsgynae/ Proudly Sponsored by: https://www.happytummy.ie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 15m
4.8
out of 5
85 Ratings

About

The Baby Tribe podcast is dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with the latest information and expert advice on maternal health and well-being during pregnancy and the postpartum period, in addition to infant health, nutrition, and growth. This podcast covers all the important topics to ensure both you and your little one get off to the best start. The podcast is hosted by the husband and wife duo, Professor Afif El-Khuffash, a neonatologist, paediatrician, and lactation consultant, and Doctor Anne Doherty, an obstetric anesthesiologist with expertise in maternal care. Both Anne and Afif work at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin and together bring over 40 years of combined experience in newborn and maternal health. We share our knowledge and insights on everything from breastfeeding and formula feeding, to introducing solid foods, maternal recovery, and dealing with common health concerns for both mother and baby. We’ll have regular guests to share their expertise and experiences on various topics of interest, and we’ll also hear from real parents sharing their personal experiences and tips for raising healthy and happy families. Whether you're expecting your first child or navigating the postpartum period, this podcast is for you. Tune in each week for valuable information and practical advice to help you and your baby thrive. Please be sure to subscribe to our podcast, and follow us on Instagram! Thanks for joining us, and let’s continue this exciting journey together!

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