83 episodes

Welcome to Birth, Baby!, your go-to podcast hosted by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly, seasoned birth doulas and childbirth educators from Austin, Texas. Join us as we navigate the intricate journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, offering invaluable insights and expert advice. Through candid interviews, personal anecdotes, and evidence-backed content, we aim to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you're seeking guidance on prenatal care, birth planning, or navigating the early days with your newborn, we've got you covered. Tune in to Birth, Baby! and embark on your parenthood journey with confidence.

Birth, Baby‪!‬ Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly

    • Kids & Family
    • 5.0 • 33 Ratings

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires macOS 11.4 or higher

Welcome to Birth, Baby!, your go-to podcast hosted by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly, seasoned birth doulas and childbirth educators from Austin, Texas. Join us as we navigate the intricate journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, offering invaluable insights and expert advice. Through candid interviews, personal anecdotes, and evidence-backed content, we aim to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you're seeking guidance on prenatal care, birth planning, or navigating the early days with your newborn, we've got you covered. Tune in to Birth, Baby! and embark on your parenthood journey with confidence.

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires macOS 11.4 or higher

    OB Care in Pregnancy and Birth

    OB Care in Pregnancy and Birth

    SummaryIn this episode we chat with Dr. Romy Ghosh about what pregnancy care looks like when under the care of an Obstetrician. She chimes in on routine tests and procedures in pregnancy, including dating ultrasounds, prenatal labs, and genetic testing. She explains the importance of these tests and how they help monitor the health of both the mother and baby. Dr. Ghosh also talks about the vaccines offered during pregnancy, such as Tdap, RSV, and flu vaccinations. She highlights the role of RhoGAM in preventing complications for Rh-negative mothers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient education and the benefits of collaborative care with doulas. In this conversation, Dr. Romy Ghosh discusses various aspects of prenatal care and what patients can expect during pregnancy and childbirth. She emphasizes the importance of individualized care and shared decision-making, highlighting the need for patients to find a provider who aligns with their preferences and values. Dr. Ghosh also discusses the significance of certain tests and procedures, such as the 20-week scan and gestational diabetes testing. She explains the routine procedures during labor and the immediate postpartum period, including the administration of postpartum Pitocin and vitamin K. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and personalized care in ensuring a positive birthing experience.  
    Takeaways
    Routine tests and procedures in pregnancy include dating ultrasounds, prenatal labs, and genetic testing.Vaccines offered during pregnancy include Tdap, RSV, and flu vaccinations.RhoGAM is important for Rh-negative mothers to prevent complications.Patient education is crucial in understanding the purpose and benefits of these tests and vaccines.Collaborative care with doulas can provide additional support and guidance throughout pregnancy. Finding a provider who offers individualized care and aligns with your preferences is crucial for a positive birthing experience.Certain tests and procedures, such as the 20-week scan and gestational diabetes testing, are highly recommended for their potential to detect abnormalities and ensure the well-being of both the mother and baby.During labor, routine procedures include monitoring vital signs, checking the cervix, and administering postpartum Pitocin to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.The immediate postpartum period involves evaluating the placenta, assessing for tearing, and administering erythromycin, vitamin K, and hepatitis B vaccination to the baby.Open communication, trust, and shared decision-making between the patient and provider are essential for a positive birthing experience.Patients should research and interview potential providers and consider seeking recommendations from labor and delivery nurses.  Dr. Romy Ghosh, MD, FACOG can be found on Instagram here: @dr.romyghoshwww.austinregionalclinic.com/doctors/romy-ghosh  
    Thank you to our sponsor, Birth, Baby! Academy. You can find them at www.BirthBabyAcademy.com
    Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  
    Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: https://birthbabypodcast.transistor.fm/  
    Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

    (00:00) - Routine Tests and Procedures in Pregnancy

    (19:40) - Vaccines During Pregnancy

    (21:49) - RhoGAM for Rh-Negative Mothers

    (25:07) - Patient Education and Empowerment

    (26:02) - The Importance of Individualized Care and Shared Decision-Making

    (27:59) - Key Tests and Procedures in Prenatal Care

    (30:24) - The Significance of the 20-Week Scan

    (32:42) - Routine Procedures During Labor

    (36:19) - The Role of Trust, Communication, and Personalize

    • 53 min
    Healing Birth Trauma: Navigating Therapy with Dr. Emily Turinas

    Healing Birth Trauma: Navigating Therapy with Dr. Emily Turinas

    In this episode of the Birth, Baby! Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Emily Turinas. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with her PhD in counseling psychology. Dr. Turinas brings her expertise and passion for helping individuals heal from trauma. From understanding the psychological impact of traumatic birth experiences to seeking therapy as a path to healing, Dr. Emily Turinas provides valuable insights into navigating therapy for birth-related trauma or even just the typical stressors parents experience during the perinatal period. Whether you're a pregnant or postpartum parent struggling with mental health, are a birth trauma survivor, or you’re a healthcare professional seeking to support those in need, this episode offers guidance and inspiration for the journey toward healing and empowerment. Join us as we explore the transformative power of therapy and the ability to reclaim hope for the future.  
    LiveOak-Psychology.com
    https://www.facebook.com/MessyFeeling
    @‌liveoakpsychology 
    Takeaways
    Reoccurring thoughts and intrusive thoughts about a traumatic birth or unexpected birth experience can be signs that therapy may be beneficial.Struggling to attach or feel connected with your baby or partner after a traumatic birth may indicate the need for professional help.Therapy modalities like EMDR and cognitive processing therapy can be effective in processing and healing from birth trauma.Online therapy has become more accessible and can be just as effective as in-person therapy, making it easier for new parents to prioritize self-care.Consistency and ongoing support from friends and family can be crucial for someone who has experienced trauma during the perinatal period.It's important to remember that there is no one right way to experience the postpartum period, and seeking therapy is a valid and helpful option for those who are struggling.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!  
    Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: https://birthbabypodcast.transistor.fm/ 
    This episode is sponsored by Cheryl Reeley, LCSW. You can reach out at Cheryl Reeley LCSW Pregnancy & Postpartum online therapy for womenIG: @cherylreeleylcsw
    Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

    (00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Disclaimer

    (01:02) - Introduction to the Topic and Guest

    (02:12) - The Prevalence of Birth Trauma and the Importance of Education

    (03:06) - Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Therapy After a Traumatic Delivery

    (07:09) - The Benefits of Seeking Therapy Sooner Rather Than Later

    (11:40) - Exploring Therapy Modalities for Healing from Birth Trauma

    (15:14) - The Effectiveness of Online Therapy for Postpartum Support

    (18:26) - Supporting a Loved One Through Trauma: Tips for Friends and Family

    (22:03) - Prioritizing Self-Care: The Importance of Seeking Help and Therapy

    (24:20) - Conclusion and Podcast Outro

    • 25 min
    Belly Binding as a Healing Ceremony

    Belly Binding as a Healing Ceremony

    In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview k'mae martinez (she/they) about the practice of belly binding. k’mae is multiracial birth and postpartum doula, a space holder for those amidst transition, a womb tender, aspiring herbalist, and belly binding practitioner in kinship with the rebozo. Her work is rooted in the reclamation of Sacredness throughout childbearing and in revitalizing holistic community care. k’mae explains that belly binding is an ancient practice found in cultures around the world and is used to support postpartum healing. She discusses the physical, emotional, and energetic benefits of belly binding, including helping with organ migration, diastasis recti, and stabilizing energy centers. k’mae emphasizes the importance of intuition and individualized care in belly binding and shares a powerful story of healing through the practice. 
    Birth Magick ATX | Austin Doula and Birth Support Services IG: @BirthMagickATX
    Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! 
    Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: https://birthbabypodcast.transistor.fm/
    This episode is sponsored by Tree of Life Breastmilk Jewelry.Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/711475852841579/Website: www.treeoflifebreastmilkjewelry.comUse code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off you order!   
    Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

    (00:00) - Introduction and Sponsor Message

    (01:34) - Introducing Kamei Martinez and Her Journey into Birth Work

    (05:11) - The History and Cultural Significance of Belly Binding

    (08:22) - The Physical, Emotional, and Energetic Benefits of Belly Binding

    (14:06) - When and How Often to Use Belly Binding

    (20:00) - The Ceremony and Intentionality of Belly Binding

    (27:40) - Considerations and Adaptability in Belly Binding

    (32:19) - The Power of Belly Binding to Heal and Release Emotions

    (38:47) - A Powerful Story of Healing through Belly Binding

    (43:26) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

    • 44 min
    Navigating Loss and the Journey of Healing

    Navigating Loss and the Journey of Healing

    Diamond Williams shares her personal journey of multiple pregnancies, miscarriages, and the inspiration behind writing her book. She emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and support for those experiencing pregnancy loss. Diamond turned to writing as a way to heal and found solace in sharing her story with others. Diamond reflects on the need for better education and support for women during pregnancy and birth. The conversation explores the role of doulas in different birth scenarios, including unmedicated births, epiduralized births, C-sections, and inductions. Doulas provide physical and emotional support, help with decision-making, and advocate for the birthing person's wishes. They can also be valuable in cases of pregnancy loss or trauma. 
    She has an incredible book you can check out called The Lost Trimester that you can find here: https://amzn.to/3XVcVrD 
    https://linktr.ee/diamondnicolewilliams
    This episode is sponsored by Defeat Diastasis. Use code BirthBabyPodcast at http://www.defeatdiastasis.com and get 30% off of the home program! 
    Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! 
    Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: https://birthbabypodcast.transistor.fm/
    Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

    (00:00) - Introduction and Sponsor Message

    (01:36) - Guest Introduction: Diamond Williams

    (03:29) - Emotional Impact of Miscarriage

    (08:04) - Birth Experiences and Hospital Care

    (14:07) - The Role of Partners in Birth

    (29:17) - The Importance of Doulas and Birth Support

    (31:05) - The Role of Doulas in Different Birth Scenarios

    (37:52) - Support and Advocacy in Pregnancy and Birth

    (44:17) - The Importance of Open Dialogue and Support for Pregnancy Loss

    (52:56) - Writing and Sharing Personal Experiences for Healing

    • 1 hr 2 min
    An Attorney's Proactive Approach to a Safer Birth

    An Attorney's Proactive Approach to a Safer Birth

    In this enlightening episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we welcome Gina Mundy, a distinguished attorney, bestselling author, and devoted mother of three. Join us as Gina shares her invaluable insights and proactive strategies for ensuring a safe and empowered birth experience. 
    As an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, Gina brings over two decades of expertise in analyzing the common mistakes made during labor and delivery. Drawing from her extensive experience, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," offering practical advice to help parents prevent these errors and prioritize the health and well-being of their baby. 
    Tune in to discover Gina's proactive approach to birth preparation, where she emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, effective communication with healthcare providers, and advocating for your birthing preferences. Learn how to navigate the healthcare system with confidence, avoiding potential pitfalls and ensuring a positive outcome for you and your baby. 
    Whether you're a first-time parent or preparing for another childbirth journey, this episode provides invaluable guidance on how to approach birth with empowerment and knowledge. Join us as we delve into Gina's proactive strategies for a safer and more fulfilling birthing experience.
    Don't miss out on this insightful conversation – because every parent deserves the support and resources to navigate childbirth with confidence and peace of mind. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and empower yourself with Gina Mundy's proactive approach to a safer birth journey. 
    Website: www.ginamundy.com
    Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ
    Instagram: @‌GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/
    Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329
    Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/
    Twitter: @‌ginamundy _ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
    01:27 Welcome and Appreciation for Listeners
    03:01 Choosing the Right Delivery Team
    04:26 The Role of the Doctor in the Delivery Team
    09:31 Understanding the Risks of Pitocin
    13:30 The Importance of Labor and Delivery Nurses
    15:51 The Role of Doulas in Birth
    25:22 How to Have a Safe Pitocin Induction
    27:15 Preparing for Childbirth and Informed Decision-Making
    27:43 Understanding the Administration of Pitocin
    29:01 The Risks of Contracting Too Much on Pitocin
    33:30 The Importance of Monitoring the Baby's Heart Rate
    39:44 The Need for Adequate Staffing in Labor and Delivery Units
    49:26 Including Discussions about Forceps and Vacuum in the Labor and Delivery Plan

    Summary

    In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Gina Mundy, an attorney and author, who shares tips on how to avoid needing an attorney after giving birth. They discuss the importance of choosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, and how doulas can play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive birth experience. They also highlight the common use of the drug Pitocin in labor inductions and the need for parents to be informed about its potential risks. In this conversation, they discuss the use of Pitocin during labor and the importance of understanding its administration. Gina emphasizes the need for doctors and nurses to agree on the protocols for Pitocin use and highlights the potential risks of contracting too much on Pitocin, which can stress the baby. Gina also discusses the importance of monitoring the baby's heart rate during induction of labor and the need for adequate staffing in labor and delivery units. She encourages parents to educate themselves about Pitocin and to have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.
    Takeaways

    Choosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, is crucial for a safe and positive birth experience.Doulas can prov

    • 54 min
    Birth Stories: Cory's Story of Navigating Conflict with her OBGYN

    Birth Stories: Cory's Story of Navigating Conflict with her OBGYN

    In this candid and heartfelt episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we delve into Cory's empowering birth story, filled with unexpected twists and valuable lessons. Join us as Cory bravely shares her journey of pregnancy and childbirth, where her initial choice of OB led to a series of interventions she hadn't anticipated.  
    Tune in to hear Cory's honest account of the highs and lows of her pregnancy, as she navigated through the complexities of medical decisions and birthing preferences. From the excitement of early pregnancy to the challenges of advocating for her desired birth experience, Cory's story resonates with authenticity and resilience.  
    Discover how Cory's choice of OB and birth team influenced her birth experience, and gain valuable insights into navigating the healthcare system to achieve a birth free from unnecessary interventions. With heartfelt advice and firsthand wisdom, Cory offers encouragement to expectant parents seeking to make informed choices about their birthing journey.  
    Whether you're a parent-to-be or a birth professional, this episode provides invaluable perspectives on the importance of informed decision-making and effective communication in pregnancy and childbirth. Join us as we celebrate Cory's journey of growth and empowerment, and learn from her experiences to create the birth experience you desire.  
    Don't miss out on this inspiring episode – because every birth story has the power to inspire and educate. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and be empowered by Cory's transformative journey of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a birth filled with intention and empowerment.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Birth Baby Academy02:16 Birth Story Introduction03:09 Challenges with Autoimmune Disorders08:23 Desire for a Natural Birth25:41 Pressure to Schedule Induction36:45 Emotional Impact and Preparation for Birth38:14 Onset of Labor38:44 Early Stages of Labor41:02 Water Breaking and Hospital Arrival48:03 Dealing with Medical Professionals56:13 Challenges and Interventions01:05:17 Pushing and Delivery01:09:22 Reflection and Gratitude
    Summary
    Cory shares her journey to getting pregnant and the challenges she faced due to her autoimmune disorders. She discusses the importance of preconception health and the support she received from her functional medicine doctor. Cory also talks about her decision to have a natural birth and the challenges she faced with her OB who did not align with her birth preferences. She shares her experience of feeling dismissed and pressured to undergo interventions. Despite the obstacles, Cory and her husband remained firm in their choices and prepared for a natural birth. Cory shares her birth story, detailing the progression of her labor and the challenges she faced along the way. She discusses the early stages of labor, the moment her water broke, and the decision to go to the hospital. Cory reflects on the anxieties she had throughout her pregnancy and the panic she experienced during labor. She talks about the importance of having a supportive birth team and the role her doulas played in advocating for her. Despite facing interventions and challenges, Cory ultimately achieved her goal of a vaginal birth.
    Takeaways
    - Preconception health is important for women with autoimmune disorders who want to get pregnant- Finding a healthcare provider who aligns with your birth preferences is crucial- Advocating for your birth choices can be challenging, but having a supportive partner and doula can make a difference- It's important to trust your instincts and make decisions that feel right for you and your baby Having a supportive birth team is crucial during labor and delivery.- Anxiety during labor is common, and it's important to address any concerns with your healthcare provider.- Medical interventions, such as epidurals and Pitocin, can be helpful in certain situations.- Having a birth plan is important, but it's also important to be flexible and open to changes.- Refle

    • 1 hr 17 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
33 Ratings

33 Ratings

Sergeant Natalie ,

The Best Doulas & The Best Birth Educators

Looking for a podcast as you navigate pregnancy and beyond? Look no further. Ciarra and Samantha do an amazing job at guiding discussions, bringing awareness to vital topics in the birth world, and navigating convos with key subject matter experts in this space in a loving and educational way. Give it a listen!!

Caramelthic ,

Supportive Partners!

Father’s Day Special: The Birth King Showdown
(air date 6/11/24)

The Takeaway

BIRTH Baby! podcast has relevant and valuable content for expecting/new mothers and people who are looking for reliable information about the birthing experience and process. Giving birth is a dangerous and oftentimes anxiety induced experience, so having a safe space to explore this topic is important.

Ciarra and Kelly, the hosts, come across as competent, personable, fun, and legitimate. Their personalities transferred well onto audio and video. It should be clear to anyone watching that they are passionate about the services they provide and are truly invested in making the birthing experience for all involved go safely and smoothly.

I listened to and watched this episode from the standpoint of an evaluator, but after listening I felt like I could recommend this podcast to others in the future who are looking for support before, during, and after their birthing experience. It was a pleasure providing this feedback! I will leave a shorter Review on available social media pages and streaming platforms.

Blakk Momba
MOMba Raw and Unfiltered Podcast

xyZ123!! ,

Amazing show for mommas

I didn’t know where to begin when I got pregnant. I knew I wanted to attempt a natural birth but didn’t know where to seek information on how to go about having the best possible birthing experience. These girls know their stuff and this podcast helped me feel less overwhelmed with all the decisions I had to make befor, during and after birth. My favorite episodes are the birthing stories! So inspiring. Thanks so much for putting this info out into the world ladies!

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