Chick Chat Nina Spears

Today, we're discussing a subject that plays a crucial role in many people's lives: birth control. I had the pleasure of chatting with our guest, Dr. Bana Kashani, about this topic in great detail. Dr. Kashani provided tremendous medical insights and discussed the various forms of contraception, what to expect with each, and debunked some common myths.
Birth control isn't just about preventing pregnancy—it's about empowerment, choice, and taking control of your health. Whether you're thinking about changing the current birth control you're on, needing to consider your options after you have baby (if you're pregnant), curious about how different methods work, or just looking to understand more about this important aspect of reproductive health, this episode is for you. We navigated through the maze of pills, patches, IUDs, and more so that you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and needs. Now, let's meet our guest!
Who is Dr. Bana Kashani?
Dr. Bana Kashani is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She has been treating infertility patients since 2014 and has been practicing in Orange County, where she grew up, since 2017.
Dr. Kashani received her medical degree from the University of South Alabama, College of Medicine, where she graduated at the top of her class, and she completed her residency at the University of Southern California. There, she received tremendous experience in all facets of Obstetrics and Gynecology but specifically had an interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She continued her medical training and pursued a subspecialty in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School.
Since Dr. Kashani is focused on providing her patients with the most personalized approach to fertility services and treatments, she opened up her own practice in 2020. Her practice’s mission is to ensure patients feel comfortable and cared for since infertility treatments can be overwhelming.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Bana Kashani about navigating birth control. In a rapidly evolving landscape of reproductive health, navigating the variety of birth control options can be overwhelming. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

How do you help patients determine which birth control method is best suited for them?

What factors should individuals take into consideration when selecting birth control to meet their needs?

What are the most common forms of birth control available?

Can you talk about the efficacy of these methods? 

What are the main differences between barrier methods and hormonal methods?

When talking specifically about hormonal birth control, how effective is it in preventing pregnancy, and is there any negative impact on fertility when used for an extended period of time? 

Can you explain what Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are and how they differ from other forms of birth control?

What are the benefits and drawbacks of LARCs compared to other methods?

What are some common side effects associated with different types of birth control?

We know that it can be overwhelming when navigating the world of birth control, but we hope this episode leaves you feeling more knowledgeable about the different forms of contraception as well as empowered to choose the right form for you.
Dr. Kashani's Resources

Website: www.banakashanimd.com


Instagram: @dr.banakashani



Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being empowered to make your own choices!
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This discussion was a good one and about several topics that I am so incredibly passionate about: women's choice of care, midwives, evidence-based birth practices, and better birth outcomes. Dr. Darrell Martin shared so many fascinating stories and talked to us all about his experience advocating for women's choice in healthcare, his support of midwives, and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. I was smiling from ear to ear throughout our entire conversation because I kept thinking, "YES! This doctor GETS IT." And I want everyone to know what he knows and his story.
Who is Dr. Darrell Martin?
Dr. Darrell Martin is a gynecologist and a dedicated healthcare advocate with four decades of expertise in women’s health. His dedication to patient care and choice propelled him to testify before Congress, championing the rights of Certified Nurse Midwives and advocating for patients' freedom to select their healthcare providers. A standout moment in his career was his fervent support for nurse-midwifery in Nashville, Tennessee, showcasing his commitment to advancing the profession. Additionally, Dr. Martin takes great pride in having played a pivotal role in more than 5,000 births, marking a legacy of life and joy he has helped bring into the world.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Darrell Martin about midwifery and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

How did you become passionate about women's health, midwifery, and patient rights? 

Please give us a brief explanation of what a midwife is and what their role encompasses in the context of childbirth.

Also, to our listeners, tune in to our episode #43: What is a Midwife? for more information!

In your opinion, how is the role of a midwife different from an OB/GYN when it comes to childbirth?

Please tell us about the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment.

How do you believe midwives contribute to a positive birthing experience for individuals and their families?

What are some common challenges or misconceptions that midwives face in their practice?

How do you see the role of midwives evolving in the future of childbirth?

It was a pure delight chatting with Dr. Martin about midwifery care and his beliefs about women's care and childbirth. His passion, perseverance, and commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care are leading to meaningful change, and we hope to see more of it!
Dr. Martin's Resources

Website: darrellmartinbooks.com


Book:

Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to midwifery and safe, beautiful births!! (GO TO SHOW NOTES FOR MORE!)
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When you and your partner are ready to start your family, it's a wonderful and exciting time! If you are in a cis-hetero relationship, this is when you begin "trying" and hope to see a positive confirmation on your next pregnancy test. But for many couples, it isn't so easy. According to a 2023 World Health Organization report, about 1 in 6 people worldwide experience infertility. This is heartbreaking, and the road to having a child becomes a lot more difficult. Thankfully, there are several things couples can consider during their fertility journey, and one of them might be acupuncture. I've heard a lot of great things about acupuncture, so I had to learn more and talk to an expert.
Who is Dr. Haley Parker?
Dr. Haley Parker is a State Board Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist in Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, New Jersey, and Georgia. Haley received her Master’s Degree in The Science of Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her background as a Division 1 athlete contributed to her successful strategy of working with student-athletes on sports-related psychological and competitive performance. Her passion for teaching was ignited, and she joined the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine in 2021 to teach the practice management and clinical communications curriculum.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Haley about acupuncture and fertility and what people who are having a tougher time conceiving need to know. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

In what ways can women particularly benefit from acupuncture? 

Can acupuncture really improve fertility? What's the science behind it?

What are some common misconceptions about acupuncture's role in fertility, and how can they be addressed?

What specific acupuncture techniques are believed to enhance fertility, and how do they work?

Can acupuncture be used as a standalone treatment for fertility issues, or is it usually combined with other interventions?

Are there any risks associated with acupuncture for fertility? 

Are there any lifestyle changes that you recommended alongside acupuncture for fertility?

Do you have any tips and first steps for someone who is exploring acupuncture to help with their fertility journey?

Dr. Haley is a wealth of knowledge on this topic and really broke down what people need to know about acupuncture, how it can potentially help with their fertility journey, and what to expect. Be sure to listen or share this episode with someone who wants to learn more about acupuncture and how it can positively impact their fertility.
Dr. Haley's Resources

Website: VUIM Clinic


Instagram: @dr.haley.vuim


Facebook: Dr. Haley Parker


LinkedIn: Dr. Haley Parker


Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to your fertility journey!
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Everything changes the moment you find out you're pregnant. Priorities change, lifestyle choices change, and your whole world changes. You realize you are no longer just taking care of yourself. Caring for your baby becomes the priority. You may become protective and think about what you're exposing yourself to, including harsh chemicals and toxins. It's normal during pregnancy for women to rethink the products they're bringing into their homes and how they may affect their growing baby. Our guest, Sophia Ruan Gushée, can absolutely relate. After her pregnancy with her firstborn, her passion for a nontoxic life was ignited. Since then, she has created an empire to help others detox their lives. Today, she's answering our questions and sharing her expert tips on detoxifying your home for your newborns, kids, and family.
Who is Sophia Ruan Gushée?
Sophia is a nontoxic lifestyle expert and author of A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures and several detox workbooks. She is praised by experts in both medical and wellness fields for her practical approach to avoiding toxins and cultivating a healthier home environment. A graduate of Brown University and Columbia Business School, Sophia has helped thousands of people enjoy healthier lives by simplifying nontoxic living while protecting the ease and convenience of modern life.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Sophia about detoxifying your home for your family, why it is important, and how to do it. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

Why is it important for us to consider detoxifying our homes, specifically for newborns and young children?

What are some common toxins or pollutants found in homes that parents may not be aware of?

Can you share some practical tips for identifying and removing toxins from our homes?

What are the top areas or aspects of a home that parents should focus on when detoxifying for their children's health?

Are there any specific household products or materials that parents should be especially cautious of?

What are some of the long-term benefits of maintaining a detoxified home environment for children's health and well-being?

How can parents effectively communicate the importance of home detoxification to other family members or caregivers coming into their home?

What resources or tools do you recommend for parents who want to learn more about and get started in detoxifying their homes for their children's and family’s health?

It was an enlightening conversation that really got me interested in how I can create a healthier space for myself and my family. Tune in to learn more!
Sophia's Resources

Website: www.ruanliving.com


Instagram: @ruanliving


Facebook: @Ruan Living


LinkedIn: Sophia Ruan Gushée


TikTok: @ruanliving


Book: A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures


Sophia's Podcast: Practical Nontoxic Living Podcast


Her D-tox Academy


Mentioned in the episode:

Environmental Health Trust

Tech Wellness

Dr. Bronner's castile soap

Think Dirty app

Healthy Living app - EWG 

Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to detoxing your home for you and your growing family!
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Many things may change over the years, but something that we want to instill in our kids is that it's always cool to be kind. In my opinion, kindness is beginning to be a lost art in our world. We hear so much negativity and unkind things in the news and media that it's spilling into our everyday lives. Fortunately, we are our children's greatest teachers (and they are ours). We can make a difference in our world by starting at home. Teaching our kids the power of kindness can lead to so many wonderful things for them. Our guest, Rachel Tomlinson, knows all about it (she literally wrote the book) and is sharing her words of wisdom.
Who is Rachel Tomlinson?
Rachel Tomlinson is a registered psychologist and internationally published author of "Teaching Kids to Be Kind" and "A Blue Kind of Day" (a picture book on depression). Rachel has worked with adults, families, and children (birth through 18 years old) in a variety of settings, including play therapy, children’s residential facilities, education settings, trauma counseling, and parenting support programs. She has presented at national conferences on mental health topics as well as guest lectured about domestic violence and relationships at colleges and universities. She also serves as a subject matter expert for journalists on topics such as parenting, child development, and relationships. We love having her as a contributor at Baby Chick, and we are excited to now have her here on our podcast! Rachel resides with her family in Perth, Australia.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Rachel about teaching kids to be kind, what kindness really looks like, and tips and strategies to encourage kids to be kind. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

As parents, one of our greatest hopes is that our children grow up to be good people. What qualities do you think make a good person?

At what age do you think children are able to understand the concept of kindness and what it means?

How would you define kindness to a child?

Can you share some examples of what kindness looks like to children?

What are the long-term benefits of teaching kindness to our children at a young age?

What are some practical strategies parents can use to encourage kindness in children?

What role does leading by example play, and what are some ways parents can model kindness for their children?

What are some common challenges parents face when teaching kindness to children, and how can they be overcome?

As parents, how should we react when our children exhibit behavior that is unkind?

What are your top tips for teaching kindness to kids?

Rachel shared relatable stories and powerful advice when it comes to teaching our kids about kindness. Be sure to listen!
Rachel's Resources

Website: towardwellbeing.com


Instagram: @towardwellbeing


Rachel's author page at Baby Chick

Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being kind and raising a kinder generation!
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Women can experience a lot of discomfort during pregnancy. All of these aches, pains, and changes in our body can also take a toll on our sleep. If we aren't moving around to find just the right position to get comfortable or having to get up to use the restroom again, you can count on our restless leg syndrome or pregnancy insomnia to kick in. With all of these issues, we had to chat with Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum to learn more.
Who is Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum?
Dr. Ann Kristin is a chiropractic doctor who specializes in pediatrics and women's health. She's not only a dedicated healthcare professional - she’s also an author, a public speaker, and a successful entrepreneur. She’s founded multiple businesses, including co-founding the maternity brand bbhugme, and is a co-owner of Norway's largest pediatric chiropractic franchise. But what's even more inspiring is her commitment to family. As a mom of three and alongside her husband, she's passionate about sharing her knowledge of conscious health decisions with fellow parents.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Ann Kristin about sleep during pregnancy, common sleep issues women experience during pregnancy, and how to overcome them all. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:

How did you become passionate about working with pregnant women?

How common are sleep issues during the prenatal period?

What are some common sleep challenges that pregnant women face?

How does pregnancy affect sleep patterns?

Why do many expectant mothers struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position?

Can you explain the role of chiropractic care in promoting better sleep during pregnancy?

What other lifestyle recommendations do you typically provide to pregnant women to enhance their sleep quality?

Are there certain sleep positions that are better than others during pregnancy?

How important is a routine in pregnancy sleep?

What are your top tips for getting a restful sleep during pregnancy?

Dr. Ann Kristin's Resources

Website: bbhugme.com


Instagram: @natural_born_parenting


Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to a restful pregnancy!
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