Birthing Instincts

Dr. Stuart Fischbein + Midwife Blyss Young
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The birth world can be overwhelming for parents and practitioners alike. Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young and their combined 55+ years of experience are here to support you in this beautiful rite of passage.Join the weekly conversation as we blend wisdom and humor in discussing our recent births, the latest research, traditional healing, and instinctual birth.  

  1. #433: Q & A with Dr. K, Pregnancy Specialist

    1 DAY AGO

    #433: Q & A with Dr. K, Pregnancy Specialist

    In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu hosts a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist known on Instagram as Dr. K Pregnancy Specialist. From the rising C-section rates and the impact of continuous fetal monitoring, to the role of litigation in shaping medical practice, Dr. K shares her insights and the importance of incorporating midwifery approaches. Together, they also address more sensitive topics like the implications of maternal vaccines and SSRIs during pregnancy. Throughout the discussion, Dr. K emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, maternal autonomy, and the need for a balanced and non-alarmist approach to patient care.  About Dr. K: Dr K Pregnancy Specialist is the brand persona for a double board certified MD, Maternal-Fetal Medicine physician in the USA, who has membership in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine. Maternal Fetal Medicine physicians are specialists in managing maternal health conditions that complicate pregnancy and use prenatal ultrasound to evaluate normal and abnormal fetal development in the womb. Obstetricians that write suggested national guidelines for safe Obstetric practice are often Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists. Dr. K has special interests in advocacy for maternal autonomy; preventing unnecessary cesarean delivery; risk prevention & reduction for pregnant parents; diagnosing and managing anomalies of development for the unborn fetus; and encouraging generational health practices after childbirth, such as breastfeeding/ human milk feeding. She has a panache for clear, non-alarmist communication of complex ideas.  Website: www.drkpregnancyspecialist.com Instagram: @DrK_pregnancyspecialist Mentioned in This Episode Rising C-Section Rates Challenges in Maternal Fetal Medicine The Impact of Litigation on Medical Decisions Ultrasound and Diagnostic Practices Big Baby Concerns and Induction Debates VBACs: Risks and Considerations The Controversy Over Growth Restriction Definitions Debating the Safety of Vaccines During Pregnancy Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offConnect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 39m

  2. 24 SEPT

    #432: The History of Alcohol & Pregnancy

    In this weeks episode, Blyss and Stu examine the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure, providing historical context and the latest research findings. They discuss the relevance of abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy and the challenges of interpreting self-reported research data.  Mentioned in This Episode Stu’s 9/11 reflections on Patreon President Trump Signs Executive Order Limiting Big Pharma Ads Studies References Impact of Childhood Vaccination on Short and Long-Term Chronic Health Outcomes in Children: A Birth Cohort Study A Brief History of Awareness of the Link Between Alcohol and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Alcohol Leaflet An overview of current advances in perinatal alcohol exposure and pathogenesis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders Having Alcohol Before Realizing You’re Pregnant: How Dangerous Is It, Really? Gin Lane Covered in This Episode Alcohol Use in Pregnancy: Myths and Facts Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Impact of Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy Research on Alcohol Exposure and Pregnancy Historical Perspectives on Alcohol and Pregnancy Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 off Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 25m

  3. 17 SEPT

    #431: "Hold Your Beer" It's Fetal Macrosomia Guidelines

    This week Blyss and Stu go on a deep dive into macrosomia, also known as a large baby. They review extensive data from multiple sources, including ACOG, NICE guidelines, and the Big Baby Study, and discuss the implications of predicted and actual macrosomia. They discuss risk factors, maternal and fetal morbidity, ultrasound accuracy, the pros and cons of induction of labor, and the impact of the standard of care. As always, Blyss balances the conversation with discussing the stark contrast between the way macrosomic babies are cared for in the hospital v at home under the care of midwives. She shares tips on how to reduce the risks of macrosomia, especially when a mom is diabetic or has gestational diabetes.  Mentioned in This Episode Homeopathy for Community Midwives Birth Outside the Box Midwifery Over Medicine: Leaving The Medical Model Of Delivering Babies To The Midwifery Model With OBGYN Dr. Stuart Fischbein Part One Apollo the Original Podcast: Home Birth, Feminism and Hospital Misogyny | Midwife Tells it All, with Midwife Aleks  Birthing Instincts Episode 252: Inducing Naturally & Letting Fear Control Us Studies Referenced NICE Study: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. “Induction of Labour for Suspected Fetal Macrosomia: Evidence Review A.” NICE Guideline NG207, [2021]. PDF. Big Baby Study: Gardosi, Jason, et al. “Induction of Labour versus Standard Care to Prevent Shoulder Dystocia in Fetuses Suspected to Be Large for Gestational Age in the UK (the Big Baby Trial): A Multicentre, Open-Label, Randomised Controlled Trial.” The Lancet, vol. 405, no. 10491, 17 May 2025, pp. 1743–1756. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00162-X. ACOG Practice Guidelines: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Macrosomia.” Practice Bulletin: Obstetrics, Committee on Practice Bulletins—Obstetrics, William H. Barth Jr, MD, and Rebecca Jackson, MD, [2016] PDF. Preyer, Oliver, et al. “Fetal Weight Estimation at Term—Ultrasound versus Clinical Examination with Leopold’s Manoeuvres: A Prospective Blinded Observational Study.” BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, vol. 19, 2019, article 122. In This Episode Macrosomia: Definitions and Risk Factors Understanding Shoulder Dystocia and Its Risks Clinical Estimated Weights and Palpation Skills Induction of Labor and Macrosomia VBAC and Macrosomia Considerations Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offConnect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 30m

  4. 10 SEPT

    #430: Blood Transfusion Alternatives & Risks Explained

    In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss was experiencing issues with her wifi so Stu tackled the topic of blood transfusions solo. He discusses the challenges and alternatives to blood transfusions, particularly focusing on the concerns of patients who decline blood products due to personal, medical, or religious reasons. The episode covers recent studies on the risks associated with transfusions, explores iron replacement, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, and the use of tranexamic acid (TXA). It also delves into the controversial topic of blood safety in the COVID-19 era, presenting contrasting views on the potential risks of receiving blood from vaccinated donors. Mentioned in This Episode Raquel’s Interview with the Breech Birth Podcast Stu’s Interview on the Rewire for Birth Podcast, Ep 56 Birthing Instincts Patreon Community About Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding David Hayes Substack: All things in moderation? Transfusion Replacement Strategies in Jehovah’s Witnesses and Others Who Decline Blood Products Blood Transfusion 2: Alternatives to blood transfusion NIH: Alternatives to blood transfusion Concerns regarding Transfusions of Blood Products Derived from Genetic Vaccine Recipients and Proposals for Specific Measures The Science Behind Transfusion Safety in the COVID-19 Era  Problems Following Blood Transfusion, using Blood Products Prepared From Donated Blood of Genetic Vaccine Recipients, and the Need for Traceability of Blood Products for Transfusion. In This Episode Transfusion Replacement Strategies for Jehovah's Witnesses Balancing Risks and Benefits of Anemia Treatments Use of Tranexamic Acid (TXA) to help prevent blood loss Artificial Blood: The Elusive Substitute Preoperative Considerations for Surgery Blood Draws and Minimizing Blood Loss Pregnancy and Postpartum Hemorrhage Alternatives to Blood Transfusion Preoperative Autologous Donation COVID-19 and Blood Transfusion Safety Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 off

    1h 5m
  5. #429: The Passing of a Legend: Our Tribute To Michel Odent

    3 SEPT

    #429: The Passing of a Legend: Our Tribute To Michel Odent

    In this heartfelt episode, Blyss and Stu pay tribute to the late Michel Odent, a luminary in the field of childbirth and midwifery. They reminisce about his groundbreaking contributions in the world of birth. A strong supporter of water birth, advocating for hormonal understanding in labor, and his unwavering belief in the power of love and natural birthing processes, he is truly a legend that has made a deep impact on childbirth practices and the importance of preserving his teachings for future generations. We honor his legacy with some personal stories, emotional letters from his colleagues, and tributes from various birth workers. Mentioned in This Episode Michel Odent on "love cocktails" in birth Origin Birth and Health, David Hayes Substack Photo of Michel Odent taken by @evarosebirth Books by Michel Odent At Her Feet Podcast, by Blyss Young In This Episode Remembering Michel Odent The Hormonal Symphony of Childbirth Love Cocktails in Birth Protecting the Emotional State of Pregnant Women Dr. Odent’s Impact on Modern Birth Practices Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 offConnect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 9m

  6. 27 AUG

    #428: Venous Thromboembolism (DVT & PE) in Pregnancy, Sorting Through The Data

    In this week's episode, Blyss and Stu discuss the medical complexities of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) during pregnancy. They particularly focus on a listener's experience with blood clots during her second pregnancy and explore the risks, treatments, and recommendations associated with VTE. The discussion includes in-depth analysis of medical guidelines, the effectiveness of heparin and Lovenox, and the considerations for home birth and hospital protocols. Through data and expert opinions, they aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of managing blood clot risks in pregnancy. Mentioned in This Episode Dr. Stu’s Deep Dive on Twin Birth Scans: Patreon.com/birthinginstincts  Birthing Instincts Podcast, Episode 346: The One Hour Prenatal Visit Thromboembolism in Pregnancy Reducing the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism during Pregnancy and the Puerperium Customized growth charts for twin vs singleton pregnancies and their ability to identify small-for-gestational age associated risk of adverse perinatal outcome In This Episode Venous Thromboembolism Medical Guidelines and Recommendations Diagnosing Pulmonary Embolism Anticoagulant Therapy During Pregnancy Managing Anticoagulation Around Delivery Postpartum Anticoagulation Therapy Risk Factors for VTE in Pregnancy Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Pique Life| Go to https://piquelife.com/birthing to get 10% off for life on Pique's Herbal Teas!Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 33m
  7. #427: Changing The Narrative with Girls Who Know® Founder Laurisa Paul

    20 AUG

    #427: Changing The Narrative with Girls Who Know® Founder Laurisa Paul

    In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss interview Larissa Paul, founder of 'Girls Who Know®,' an organization dedicated to educating young girls about their bodies, menstrual cycles, and childbirth. They highlight how early education, and the knowing one's body can empower young girls, reduce fear, and lead to better birthing experiences.  About Laurisa: Laurisa Paul is a Registered Nurse, home birther, writer, and founder of Girls Who Know®, an organization that inspires girls to love who they are and to know and respect their bodies. Medically trained, Laurisa stumbled across homebirth when she was actively seeking for better birth experiences. Since then, she has worked as a midwife assistant and an instructor for Evidence Based Birth. Laurisa has a deep passion for supporting women and connecting with those she loves. She resides in Texas, where she is a mother of five and an outdoor adventurer. Laurisa loves a good challenge like Spanish speaking, hiking, running, tree climbing or raising wholehearted human beings. Laurisa and her team at Girls Who Know® are improving childbirth outcomes through the education of girls while they are young. Instagram: @officialgirlswhoknow Website: www.girlswhoknow.com Mentioned in This Episode Birth Is Not a Medical Emergency: The Fight for Autonomy in Women’s Health: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ny0fuPYaKo The Pregnancy Scam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXki4uYWOQ8 Birth Outside the Box: https://BirthOutsidetheBoxSeries.com/stfi ACOG IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNDgCeVs8N-/?igsh=ejBqdmlwMWVwYjlo Bridge Midwives IG: @thebridgemidwives In This Episode Girls Who Know: Mission and Vision Educational Gaps and Cultural Taboos Empowering the Next Generation Teaching Reproductive Anatomy to Young Girls The Power of Childbirth Education Hollywood vs. Reality in Childbirth Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Pique Life| Go to https://piquelife.com/birthing to get 10% off for life on Pique's Herbal Teas! Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 31m
  8. #426: Gail Tully of Spinning Babies, Finally

    13 AUG

    #426: Gail Tully of Spinning Babies, Finally

    In this episode, Stu and Blyss are joined by Gail Tully, the founder of Spinning Babies, to discuss the intricate dynamics of birth and fetal positioning. Gail shares both her personal journey and the scientific insights that have shaped Spinning Babies. Together they explore how balance, gravity, and movement can impact labor, and how practitioners and expectant mothers can prepare for a smoother birthing experience.  About Gail: Gail Tully is the midwife who conceived and developed Spinning Babies®, first appearing in 2001. A dozen professional journal articles report Spinning Babies® effectiveness in reducing interventions, with reductions in cesarean surgery up to 50%.  Gail brings more than 45 years of experience in birth, with 20 years focused on homebirths. Back in the day, Gail was kept busy organizing doula program development in hospitals and community non-profits in Minneapolis/St. Paul, while training doulas with DONA International approval status. Gail learned midwifery in the home with a variety of community midwives. Gail now writes, teaches, and supports change in the Spinning Babies® paradigm. Gail Tully developed the concepts and curriculum that revolutionized our view on physiological birth, breech birth and shoulder dystocia (Breech Basics and Resolving Shoulder Dystocia are now with Restory Birthwork). Spinning Babies®, Belly Mapping®, Belly Mapping MethodTM, Helping Your Breech Baby Turn, When Baby Lies Sideways, and Changing Birth on Earth. Gail and her husband live in Minnesota, USA. Instagram: @spinningbabies Website: www.GailTully.com / https://www.spinningbabies.com     Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spinningbabies  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/spinningbabieslady   X: https://twitter.com/spinningbabies   Resources Dr. Stuart Fischbein - “Birthing Instincts” and Trusting Nature in Childbirth | The Daily Show https://youtu.be/5lhi0Xxnc4E https://www.spinningbabies.com/blog-resource-library/research-references/ https://www.spinningbabies.com/parents/spbcbp-directory/ https://www.spinningbabies.com/shop/ Free Fetal Compass Rose: https://www.spinningbabies.com/free-gift/ In This Episode Origins of Spinning Babies Understanding Posterior Position in Labor Challenges with Epidurals and Labor Progression The Role of Pelvic Floor and Side Lying Release Techniques for Balancing the Pelvis Impact of Uterine Ligaments on Labor Preparation and Techniques for Easier Labor Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care  This show is supported by WeNatal | Go to WeNatal.com/Birthinginstincts for a free magnesium with any subscription order. Wholesome Organics Beauty Company | Go to wholesomeOBC.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off your order.BIRTHFIT | Go to birthfit.com and use the code INSTINCTS for 20% off any fitness program.Pique Life| Go to https://piquelife.com/birthing to get 10% off for life on Pique's Herbal Teas! Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss Join our Patreon! patreon.com/birthinginstinctspodcastInstagram: @birthinginstincts/@birthingblyssWebsite: birthinginstincts.com/birthingblyss.comEmail: birthinginstinctspodcast@gmail.comPodcast webpage: birthinginstinctspodcast.com

    1h 32m
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Hosts & Guests

About

The birth world can be overwhelming for parents and practitioners alike. Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young and their combined 55+ years of experience are here to support you in this beautiful rite of passage.Join the weekly conversation as we blend wisdom and humor in discussing our recent births, the latest research, traditional healing, and instinctual birth.  

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Stuart Fischbein + Midwife Blyss Young
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    421
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Birthing Instincts

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