The Tracy Donegan Podcast Tracy Donegan

In this episode, Anne Marie Jensen, a Danish physiotherapist, shares her experiences using red light therapy (photo biomodulation) for fertility. She initially used laser therapy for her physiotherapy patients but was approached by a woman seeking fertility treatments. After six treatments, the woman became pregnant, sparking Anne Marie's interest in using laser therapy for fertility. She reached out to laser therapists worldwide and received positive feedback. Anne Marie explains that laser therapy stimulates the mitochondria in cells, increasing energy production and improving cell function. She focuses on treating women but also offers laser therapy for male fertility issues. The effects of laser therapy on sperm motility are immediate, but more research is needed to determine long-term effects. Anne Marie recommends 16 treatments on average for women trying to conceive. In this conversation, Tracy Donegan and Anne Marie Jensen discuss the use of laser therapy for fertility and pelvic health. They explore the benefits of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy in improving fertility outcomes, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing. They also discuss the use of laser therapy for scar tissue remodeling and its potential impact on the microbiome. Anne Marie shares her experience working with women of different age groups and the success rates she has observed. They touch on the challenges of integrating laser therapy into mainstream medicine and the need for more research in this field.

In this conversation, midwife Molly O'Brien discusses the importance of understanding the biomechanics of birth and how it can optimize positioning and labor for mothers. They also touch on the challenges faced by midwives in a medicalized birth system and the need for more physiological birth options. The conversation highlights the need for birth education that focuses on movement, trust in the body, and informed decision-making. The key takeaways include the importance of freedom to move during labor, the need for evidence-based birth education, and the power of saying no to interventions. In this conversation, Tracy Donegan and Molly O'Brien discuss the importance of personalized birth experiences and the need for midwives to support women's choices. They emphasize the power of music during labor and the importance of creating a supportive birth environment. They also discuss the challenges midwives face in advocating for physiological birth and the need for evidence-based information for parents. The conversation highlights the need for a shift in the current medical model of care and the importance of empowering women to make informed decisions.

In this podcast episode, Tracy Donegan interviews Adreanna Limbach, author of the book 'Tea and Cake with Demons: A Buddhist Guide to Feeling Worthy.' The conversation explores the motivation behind writing the book and the focus on worthiness. Limbach shares how her background in Buddhism and meditation has helped her navigate the transition to motherhood. The discussion also touches on the benefits of meditation in postpartum and the importance of protecting mental energy. The episode concludes with a conversation about recognizing and dealing with personal demons and embracing imperfection in motherhood. In this conversation, Tracy Donegan and Adreanna Limbach discuss the power of language and how we identify with emotions. They explore the concept of mindfulness as the spice that flavors all dishes and its application in daily life. They also delve into the importance of self-compassion and reparenting ourselves. Adreanna shares advice she would give to her 18-year-old self and discusses the intersection of meditation, Buddhism, and daily life. They reflect on the journey of becoming a mother and provide insights for new moms. Adreanna shares where listeners can find her and her work.

Dr. Marc Sklar, known as the fertility expert, discusses the role of age in fertility decisions and the importance of being a health detective. He emphasizes the need for balance and not always diving deeper into health issues. The conversation touches on the obsession with data gathering and the potential stress it can cause. Dr. Sklar also highlights the challenges faced by couples in different parts of the world when it comes to accessing fertility care. The discussion covers nutritional deficiencies, the impact of chemical exposure on fertility, and the importance of minimizing toxin exposure. The HOPE program aims to provide support, hope, belief, and knowledge to couples struggling with fertility issues. It focuses on finding real answers and developing a customized fertility plan based on individual circumstances. The program includes gathering medical history and lab work, making lifestyle changes, and providing ongoing support. Tracy emphasizes the importance of not unnecessarily waiting or rushing into treatments, but rather taking a personalized approach. She also discusses trends in fertility, such as home IUI kits and advancements in technology and therapies.

Dr. Kirsten Small discusses the lack of evidence and known harms of continuous monitoring in labor. She highlights the challenges of questioning established practices and the fear of litigation or professional reputation. Dr. Small also emphasizes the importance of informed consent and the need for alternative monitoring methods. Additionally, she addresses the concerns of VBAC mothers and the limited research on CTG monitoring specifically for this population. This conversation explores the lack of evidence supporting the use of continuous CTG monitoring during labor and birth. Tracy Donegan discusses the limited research on CTG monitoring and its impact on outcomes for both mothers and babies. She also highlights the importance of self-advocacy and informed decision-making for pregnant women. Additionally, she shares her work in providing training and education on fetal monitoring for birth professionals and parents.

Caoileann Appleby shares her frustrating experiences with Irish Maternity Services and her journey to a VBAC. She discusses the challenges she faced with accessing evidence-based care, the lack of discussion and options provided to her, and the difficulties she encountered during her recovery from her cesarean. Caoileann also highlights the mixed experiences she had with different healthcare providers and the struggles she faced with hyperemesis. She shares her determination to have a VBAC and the discussions she had regarding pain management and continuous monitoring during labor. This conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) experience. The conversation highlights the need for better support and autonomy in birth choices, as well as the importance of evidence-based care and informed consent.