Down to Birth

Cynthia Overgard & Trisha Ludwig

Join Cynthia Overgard and Trisha Ludwig once per week for evidence-based straight talk on pregnancy, birth and postpartum --- beyond the clichés and beyond the system. With 40 years' combined experience in midwifery, childbirth education and advocacy, publishing, research and postpartum care, we've guided thousands of families toward safer, more empowered choices. Down to Birth is all about safe childbirth, while recognizing a safe outcome isn't all that matters. We challenge the status quo, explore women's rights in childbirth, and feature women from all over the world, shining shine light on the policies, culture, and systemic forces that shape our most intimate and transformative of life experiences. You'll hear the birth stories of our clients, listeners and numerous celebrities. You'll benefit from our expert-interviews, and at any time you can submit your questions for our monthly Q&A episodes by calling us at 802-GET-DOWN. With millions of downloads and listeners in 90 countries, our worldwide community of parents and birth professionals coms together to learn, question and create change, personally and societally. We're on Instagram at @downtobirthshow and at Patreon.com/downtobirthshow, where we offer live ongoing events multiple times per month. Become informed, feel empowered, and join the movement toward better maternity care in the United States and worldwide. As always, hear everyone, listen to yourself.

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  1. 14 hr ago

    #382 | August Q&A: Prodromal Labor, Breastfeeding vs. Formula Guilt, Two-Vessel Cords, When Epidurals Help, Kids at Home Births, Intrusive Thoughts

    Welcome to the August Q&A! Today we kick things off with your answers to the question, “What’s one thing that happened during your birth that no one prepared you for?” From 53-hour labors and projectile vomiting to postpartum shakes, swollen labia, running out of hot water during a home birth, and yes, pooping in labor, you had a lot to say. Then we get into your questions. One mother experienced nearly identical prodromal labors with both of her babies, never dilating beyond five centimeters before ultimately having two C-sections. She wants to know why prodromal labor happens, whether fetal positioning or her anatomy could have played a role, and whether things might have gone differently with more time or rest. Next, a mother who breastfed her first baby for 16 months is six months into breastfeeding her second, who has multiple food intolerances. Her increasingly restricted diet is affecting her milk supply and her mental health, and she’s considering formula. But how do you make a decision that feels completely at odds with the kind of mother you thought you would be? Then, one mom asked about her a two-vessel umbilical cord and has been advised to have additional growth scans in the third trimester. With an otherwise normal anatomy scan, how concerning is a single umbilical artery, what are the actual risks, and what information would another ultrasound provide? Quickies this month include intrusive thoughts after weaning, IVF placentas, having young children present at a home birth, postpartum freezer meals, when an epidural can be useful, lunch meat during pregnancy, establishing breastfeeding at six weeks postpartum, free help for newborn latch problems, white coat syndrome, hemorrhoids after birth, morning sickness, vaginal tear repair, babies staying latched through naps, our favorite cookies, how we bring play into our lives, and whether faith or spirituality plays a role in ours. Call us with your questions, comments or stories at 802-GET-DOWN! Be sure to watch our workshops on the following topics we discussed during this episode: Avoiding Perineal Tearing Ultrasound in Pregnancy: The Research & the Rhetoric #332 | The Hidden Power of the Infant Microbiome: Optimizing Exposure in Birth & Breastfeeding ********** Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  2. 19 Aug

    #381 | The Chemicals You're Wearing Every Day with The Clean Clothing Chick, Hannah Dunning

    Clothing is one of the most overlooked sources of chemical exposure in modern life, and it sits on our skin all day, every day, literally from birth until death. In this episode, we’re talking with Hannah Dunning, The Clean Clothing Chick, about what no one is regulating, no one is disclosing, and very few are questioning: the chemicals in our clothes and textiles. Many of these chemicals are believed to act like estrogen in the body, binding to receptors and interfering with normal signaling. And no, your skin isn’t the impenetrable barrier you may think it is. We also discuss why washing clothes may reduce exposure to some chemicals while potentially increasing exposure to others, as they get broken down. We wanted to have this conversation both to learn and to raise awareness. The cumulative chemical exposure we face today is unlike anything previous generations experienced, and clothing may be a larger contributor than most people realize. Most of us care about keeping chemicals out of our food; it’s time to have a conversation about our clothes. In this episode, you'll learn about certifications that may help consumers make more informed choices, including the difference between labels like “made with organic cotton” and more rigorous textile standards, as well as practical steps you can take to reduce exposure for yourself and your family. The Clean Clothing Chick Hannah's petition Hannah on Instagram Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  3. 12 Aug

    #380 | Henci Goer on Taking Charge of Your Birth

    More than twenty years ago, Henci Goer's renowned book, The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth, profoundly shaped Cynthia's understanding of pregnancy and birth, setting her on the path that eventually led to her own natural births and a career in birth education and client advocacy. In this special conversation, we sit down with the author herself, now one of the most influential voices in evidence-based maternity care. Today, we discuss Henci's newest book, Taking Charge of Your Birth, along with evidence-based maternity care, physiologic birth, induction, cesarean prevention, and informed decision-making. Henci explains why "physiologic care" is about using the least intervention necessary—not avoiding intervention altogether—and why preserving a woman's agency may be one of the most important factors in creating a positive birth experience. We also explore the evidence surrounding induction, Bishop scores, Pitocin protocols, cesarean rates, choosing a care provider, the role of doulas, and why preserving a woman's agency may be one of the most important factors in creating a positive birth experience. Whether you're planning a home birth, birth center birth, or hospital birth, this conversation offers practical, evidence-based guidance for taking charge of your birth. Choosing Induction: When it Might Be Needed Henci Goer's Website, Books, & Articles Henci Goer on Instagram ********** Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  4. 5 Aug

    #379 | When Birth Gets Complicated: The Midwifery Difference for a Mom of Four

    When complications arise during pregnancy or birth, many women assume their birth plans are over. But does it have to be that way? In this episode, we're joined by Catey, a mother of four whose pregnancies and births included severe preeclampsia, inductions, postpartum hemorrhages, postpartum depression, thyroid disease, infertility, and a hospital transfer. Despite these serious complications, every one of her births was planned under the care of certified nurse-midwives. Catey shares how her midwives navigated medical emergencies while preserving shared decision-making, how they helped preserve the aspects of birth that mattered most to her, and how continuity of care made all the difference. We discuss the differences between physiologic labor and Pitocin inductions, when interventions like epidurals can become valuable tools, and the support that helped her recover from postpartum depression after both uncomplicated and traumatic births. #358 | Dr. Sarah J. Buckley on Oxytocin, Safety, and the Biology of Birth Stream our classes on this topic: Recognizing & Overcoming Postnatal Depletion Choosing Induction: When it May be Needed ********** Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  5. 29 Jul

    #378 | July Q&A: Parenting Styles, Mom Hobbies, What's "High Risk" Anyway, Third Labors, Manifesting Your Best Birth, Cytotec in Home Birth

    Heads up, all! If you'd like to learn more about our parenting conversation, join our Patreon event: Parenting without Reward & Punishment ********** This week’s Q&A begins with a conversation that struck a chord with our community: why mothers need creativity, hobbies, and joy, and sharing inspiring stories from postpartum women who rediscovered parts of themselves through music, art, and new passions. We also dive into an impassioned discussion about parenting values, including the things we all swore we’d never do as parents (and now do regularly), co-sleeping, screen time, bribes, eating toddler food, rewards & punishments, and raising children with confidence, respect, and strong boundaries. Then we answer listener questions about: What truly qualifies a pregnancy as “high risk” and who gets to define what makes someone high riskPlanning a home birth after a previous pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia Building confidence after a difficult first birth experience Manifesting the birth you want and the role of mindset in labor, despite how discouraging someone (ahem, your own midwife) respondsWhether third babies are really “wild cards” and where that idea comes fromCytotec, balloon catheters, and induction recommendations in home birth care.Plus, our Quickies cover wearable breast pumps, mastitis, vitamin D, breech babies, postpartum supplements, homeschooling, friendship, feeding schedules, and more. Thank you to everyone who called us with questions and comments for the show! Livestream: Should we homeschool? Ask a Mom whose family thrived. If you'd like to learn more about our parenting conversation, join our Patreon event: Parenting without Reward & Punishment ********** Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  6. 22 Jul

    #377 | Protecting Your Baby From EMFs: Practical Ways to Reduce Exposure

    In today's episode, we invited back Thaddeus Owen and Heidi Syme of DreamWalkerz, this time focusing on electromagnetic fields (EMFs), wireless technology, and the growing questions many families have about how modern environments can affect health. We discuss the difference between naturally occurring and man-made electromagnetic fields, the research that has fueled concern about wireless technologies, and why this topic has become increasingly relevant as our homes fill with Wi-Fi networks, smartphones, Bluetooth devices, smart appliances, and baby monitors. Thaddeus and Heidi share their perspective on practical ways families can reduce exposure without becoming overwhelmed, including simple changes related to device use, distance, sleep environments, and home technology. We also discuss grounding, time outdoors, and the role of nature in supporting overall well-being, as the best ways to reduce these exposures. Topics discussed: • What electromagnetic fields are and how they occur in nature  • The difference between native and non-native EMFs  • Research on wireless technology and biological effects  • Cell phones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and baby monitors  • EMFs and fertility concerns  • Grounding and earthing practices  • Why sleep environments matter  • Common household sources of EMF exposure  • Practical ways to reduce exposure without fear or perfectionism  • The importance of spending time outdoors and connecting with nature As with so many topics we cover, the goal isn't fear. It's awareness, thoughtful decision-making, and finding an approach that works for your family. #330 | Sleep Like a Baby: The Impact of Melatonin, Blue Light, and Sunrise with DreamWalkerz Dreamwalkerz Dreamwalkerz.ai PromoCode: Downtobirth1 Primal Hackers Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  7. 15 Jul

    #376 | July Breastfeeding Q&A: Sore Nipples, Breastfeeding Instincts, DMER, Low Blood Sugar in Infants and Tandem Feeding

    Welcome to our July Breastfeeding Q&A episode! We open with a conversation about what surprised women most about breastfeeding (for better or worse) after all the things they'd heard from others, from pain and emotional shifts to supply, pumping, and expectations that didn’t match reality. Additionally, we answer the following questions: I’m pregnant and still breastfeeding my toddler. What should I know about tandem nursing, and how do I prioritize a newborn without creating oversupply? My newborn had low blood sugar readings in the hospital and we were encouraged to use donor milk. Was that necessary, and would things have resolved differently outside that setting? I experience waves of anxiety, nausea, and sadness right before letdown. What is this and is it normal? As usual, we lead into a round of quickies including: can latch change during teething, how to manage nipple sensitivity during your cycle, does milk supply drop when baby starts sleeping longer stretches, should you always nurse from both sides, is one breast doing all the work okay, do breastfed babies need vitamin D, and when is it okay for baby to sleep through the night. We wrap with a personal question which is: What advice would you give to someone entering the industry? #364 | When Co-Sleeping Gets Complicated: Weaning, Toddlers, and Sleep Transitions with Tiffany Belanger Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

  8. 8 Jul

    #375 | Making Sense of Everyday Toxin Exposure with Kale Blossom

    In today’s episode, we talk with Carly and Rachel of Kale Blossom about environmental toxins, what matters when it comes to everyday exposure, and how mothers can make thoughtful changes without getting pulled into fear-based messaging. The conversation around “low-tox living” can quickly become overwhelming, especially during pregnancy and early motherhood, when concern for your baby is understandably high. We wanted to cut through the noise and ask a more useful question: where does reducing exposure meaningfully matter, and where are women being sold anxiety? We talk about some of the highest-impact places to focus, including fragrance, household cleaning products, skincare, indoor air quality, plastics, and common materials in the home. We also discuss realistic, budget-conscious swaps, the role of overall health in supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, and why perfection is neither possible nor necessary. This is a practical conversation about relative risk, informed decision-making, and reducing toxic burden in a way that feels sustainable rather than stressful. #221 | Understanding Fetal-Maternal Microchimerism with Rachel Marynowski of @Kale.BlossomKale Blossom ********** Send us Fan Mail Support the show Access our workshops: Have a Physiologic Birth in the Hospital and Ultrasound: The Research vs Rhetoric Needed -- for 20% off DrinkLMNT --  for FREE 8-day supply Primally Pure Skincare: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH Postpartum Soothe: Use code DOWNTOBIRTH ENERGYBits Superfood--for 20% off Join Patreon here IG @downtobirthshow Call 802-GET-DOWN. Watch us on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice.

About

Join Cynthia Overgard and Trisha Ludwig once per week for evidence-based straight talk on pregnancy, birth and postpartum --- beyond the clichés and beyond the system. With 40 years' combined experience in midwifery, childbirth education and advocacy, publishing, research and postpartum care, we've guided thousands of families toward safer, more empowered choices. Down to Birth is all about safe childbirth, while recognizing a safe outcome isn't all that matters. We challenge the status quo, explore women's rights in childbirth, and feature women from all over the world, shining shine light on the policies, culture, and systemic forces that shape our most intimate and transformative of life experiences. You'll hear the birth stories of our clients, listeners and numerous celebrities. You'll benefit from our expert-interviews, and at any time you can submit your questions for our monthly Q&A episodes by calling us at 802-GET-DOWN. With millions of downloads and listeners in 90 countries, our worldwide community of parents and birth professionals coms together to learn, question and create change, personally and societally. We're on Instagram at @downtobirthshow and at Patreon.com/downtobirthshow, where we offer live ongoing events multiple times per month. Become informed, feel empowered, and join the movement toward better maternity care in the United States and worldwide. As always, hear everyone, listen to yourself.

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