True Birth

Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak & Kristin Mallon, RN, CNM
  • 4.9 (105)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Helping women have better births and better birth experiences. Our experts share their perspectives on pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. These are raw, honest stories about the experience of labor from the professional's point of view. Listen and get inside your OB/GYN or midwife's head. Our goal is to share the truth about pregnancy and birth with the listener and to explain our thought process. We see our role as one in which we guide and inform, presenting facts so that the laboring mother can make the best decisions for her. If there are concerns during pregnancy or issues that need to be addressed before the birth, we present them, opening a dialogue and encouraging conversation; we give the options, but we can not and will not decide for the patient. We leave it up to her and her family. We are here to be as straightforward and transparent as possible and help a birthing woman have the optimal pregnancy, labor and birth experience. We serve the truth straight up in common English and steer clear of medical jargon. Our goal is to make medicine, obstetrics, and all relevant information as easily digestible as possible for the listener to enjoy, share and learn from. Each episode covers birth and prenatal topics through the eyes of Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, a NYC metro area Perinatologist and Maternal Fetal Medicine Doctor, and his trusty side kick, Certified Nurse Midwife Kristin Mallon.

  1. DEC 14

    Baby Aspirin in Pregnancy: Episode #192

    Low-dose aspirin, often called baby aspirin, is one of the most commonly recommended medications in pregnancy today. But despite how frequently it's prescribed, many patients still ask the same questions: Why do I need it? Is it safe? When should I start or stop? And who actually benefits? In this episode, we take a clear, evidence-based look at baby aspirin in pregnancy—cutting through myths, confusion, and mixed messaging. In this episode, we cover: What "baby aspirin" actually is (dose, formulation, and how it works) Why it's recommended in pregnancy, especially for preventing preeclampsia Who should take it—including high-risk and moderate-risk patients When to start and when to stop (timing matters) What the research says about safety for both parent and baby Common concerns and misconceptions, including bleeding risk What to do if you're unsure or were told conflicting advice Why baby aspirin matters: Preeclampsia remains one of the leading causes of pregnancy complications worldwide. Decades of high-quality research now show that low-dose aspirin, started early in pregnancy for the right patients, can significantly reduce risk—with an excellent safety profile. For many patients, this simple intervention can make a meaningful difference in pregnancy outcomes. Who this episode is for: Pregnant patients wondering "Do I really need this?" Anyone with a history of preeclampsia, hypertension, infertility, IVF, or pregnancy complications Clinicians counseling patients on aspirin use Anyone navigating pregnancy advice that feels unclear or contradictory The takeaway: Baby aspirin isn't about doing more—it's about doing the right thing at the right time, guided by evidence and individualized care. If you've been prescribed baby aspirin—or think you might benefit—this episode will help you understand why it's recommended and how to take it with confidence.   Got something you want to share or ask? Keep it coming.  We love hearing from you. Email us or send a voice memo, and you might just hear it on the next episode. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    22 min

  2. NOV 17

    Tylenol in Pregnancy: What you Really need to know. Episode #191

    In this episode, we tackle one of the most common questions in pregnancy of late: Is Tylenol safe? It's the medication nearly every pregnant person reaches for at some point, yet the internet is full of conflicting headlines and confusing studies. We break down what the data actually shows, when Tylenol is appropriate, and how to use it safely. What We Cover • Why Tylenol (acetaminophen) is considered one of the first-lines in pregnancy We explain decades of clinical use, major guideline recommendations, and why it remains the preferred option for fever and pain relief. • What the research actually says about safety We unpack the difference between correlation and causation, discuss recent observational studies, and highlight what ACOG and SMFM currently recommend. • When Tylenol is truly needed Fever above 100.4, migraines, musculoskeletal pain, postpartum use, and how untreated fever or pain can create more risk than the medication itself. • How to use it safely Typical dosing, maximum limits in 24 hours, how to avoid hidden acetaminophen in combination products, and who should be more cautious. • What to avoid We clarify why NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) are not recommended in most stages of pregnancy and why people often confuse these medications. Resources Mentioned • ACOG guidance on pain and fever management during pregnancy • SMFM clinical recommendations • FDA medication safety overview (pregnancy and lactation) Call to Action If you have questions about medication safety in pregnancy or aren't sure what's right for your symptoms, talk with a clinician who understands the nuances of both maternal health and functional medicine. The right guidance can give you confidence and peace of mind.   Got something you want to share or ask? Keep it coming.  We love hearing from you. Email us or send a voice memo, and you might just hear it on the next episode. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    21 min

  3. NOV 10

    Listener Mail: You Wrote in and We're Talking About it

    You wrote in, and we listened! In this special listener mail episode, we're answering your questions,reading your stories, and diving into what's been on your minds. From real-life experiences to the big "what ifs," we're here to talk, laugh, and think it through together. Got something you want to share or ask? Keep it coming — we love hearing from you. Email us or send a voice memo, and you might just hear it on the next episode. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    41 min

  4. SEP 17

    The VBAC Playbook: Episode 189

    This show is about the VBAC Playbook—your complete guide to Vaginal Birth After Cesarean. We bring together everything you need to know in one place: all of our experience, the risks and benefits, the latest evidence, and the practical steps to prepare. Whether you're weighing your options, looking for reassurance, or wanting to feel fully informed before talking with your provider, this playbook equips you with clear, comprehensive, and empowering information to help you make the best decision for your birth. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    43 min

  5. SEP 9

    When to Seek Out a Second Opinion in Pregnancy: Episode #188

    Pregnancy and childbirth are filled with important decisions, and sometimes the advice you receive from your OB/GYN or midwife can feel overwhelming—or incomplete. In this episode of True Birth, we take an honest look at when and why you might consider seeking a second opinion during pregnancy or for birth planning. A second opinion is not about questioning your provider's expertise—it's about ensuring you have the full picture before making decisions that impact your health and your baby's well-being. We discuss situations where a second opinion can be especially valuable: when facing a major intervention such as induction, cesarean birth, or surgery; when you're given limited options; or when your instincts tell you something doesn't feel right. We'll explore how different providers approach issues like VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), high-risk pregnancy management, and birth preferences, and why those perspectives can vary. Just as importantly, we share practical tips on how to approach the process: how to ask for your records, how to frame the conversation, and how to choose the right expert for a balanced perspective. Our goal is to empower you to feel confident, informed, and supported in your care. Remember: seeking a second opinion is your right, not a sign of mistrust. It's one of the best ways to advocate for yourself and ensure you're making decisions aligned with your values and goals. Tune in as we unpack real scenarios and offer guidance on making the second-opinion process respectful, productive, and ultimately reassuring—for a healthier pregnancy and a birth experience that feels right for you.     Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    35 min

  6. AUG 25

    From Nicotine to Ibogaine: How Substances Shape Pregnancy Outcomes: Episode #187

    In this episode of True Birth, we take on one of the most fraught subjects in pregnancy care: substance use. Their conversation goes beyond the obvious admonition that "drugs are bad in pregnancy" to explore the nuance — what counts as a teratogen, which substances alter fetal development directly, and which compromise pregnancy through vascular, placental, or behavioral pathways. The discussion begins with tobacco, a substance that does not cause specific birth defects but exerts powerful vascular effects that restrict blood flow to the placenta, increasing the risks of low birth weight, preterm birth, and ectopic pregnancy. From there, they move to alcohol, one of the few true teratogens, responsible for fetal alcohol syndrome and its enduring neurodevelopmental and behavioral consequences. The conversation then widens to heroin and opioids, which do not deform fetal anatomy but devastate pregnancy outcomes through miscarriage, placental abruption, and neonatal withdrawal syndromes. Cocaine emerges as a particularly dangerous agent, not for teratogenicity but for its capacity to cause catastrophic circulatory collapse in both mother and fetus — strokes, abruptions, and even loss of fetal limbs due to infarcted placental tissue. The hosts also explore the gray areas: hallucinogens like LSD, stimulants such as ecstasy, and prescription amphetamines. They note the complexity of studying these substances, given the socioeconomic, dietary, and mental health confounders that often accompany their use. What makes this episode compelling is not just the catalog of risks but the larger question of how to think about exposure. Mallon and Abdelhak acknowledge the historical shifts — from a time when physicians condoned "a few cigarettes a day" to today's zero-tolerance policies — and they highlight emerging treatments for addiction, such as Ibogaine, which may offer new hope for patients but remain medically and legally unsettled. The episode's takeaway is clear: in pregnancy, no recreational substance is benign. Some, like alcohol, directly alter embryologic development; others, like nicotine and cocaine, impair the very systems that sustain pregnancy. The evidence is complex, but the principle is simple — abstaining is the only truly safe choice. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe—your questions could be featured in our next episode! For additional resources and information, be sure to visit our website at Maternal Resources: https://www.maternalresources.org/. You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    39 min

  7. AUG 11

    Two Days, Two Docs: Stories from the Delivery Room: Episode #186

    Two Days, Two Docs: Stories from the Delivery Room takes you inside an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at 48 hours in Labor & Delivery through the eyes of two physicians: Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak and Dr. Apig Mosses from Maternal Resources. From the adrenaline of middle-of-the-night emergencies to the quiet, awe-filled moments of new life, these stories capture the highs, lows, and everything in between. Whether you're a fellow clinician, an expectant parent, or simply curious about what really happens beyond those hospital doors, you'll hear the human side of medicine—raw, real, and unforgettable.     YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    36 min

  8. JUL 28

    New ACOG Guidance - "Transformation" to U.S. Prenatal Care Delivery: Episode #185

    The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists released new clinical guidance on April 17, 2025 that recommends, as they see it, reimagining prenatal care in the U.S. Instead of the traditional 12–14 in‑person visits, ACOG now advocates for individualized prenatal care schedules—especially for average‑ and low‑risk patients—tailored based on medical, social, and structural determinants of health as well as patient preferences The guidance encourages early needs assessments (ideally before 10 weeks), shared decision‑making, coordination of social support resources, telemedicine, and group care modalities to reduce barriers and drive equity  Drawing on the PATH framework developed with the University of Michigan, ACOG presents sample visit schedules and monitoring strategies reflecting evidence that fewer visits—with flexible modalities—can maintain quality while improving access and patient experience As clinicans who have been offering unparalleled care for decades, find out what Dr. Abdelhak and his team at Maternal Resources think of groundbreaking this new update.    YouTube: Dive deeper into pregnancy tips and stories atyoutube.com/maternalresources . Instagram: Follow us for daily inspiration and updates at @maternalresources . Facebook: Join our community at facebook.com/IntegrativeOB Tiktok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book! Check out The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to a empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com .

    32 min
See All (191)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
105 Ratings

About

Helping women have better births and better birth experiences. Our experts share their perspectives on pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. These are raw, honest stories about the experience of labor from the professional's point of view. Listen and get inside your OB/GYN or midwife's head. Our goal is to share the truth about pregnancy and birth with the listener and to explain our thought process. We see our role as one in which we guide and inform, presenting facts so that the laboring mother can make the best decisions for her. If there are concerns during pregnancy or issues that need to be addressed before the birth, we present them, opening a dialogue and encouraging conversation; we give the options, but we can not and will not decide for the patient. We leave it up to her and her family. We are here to be as straightforward and transparent as possible and help a birthing woman have the optimal pregnancy, labor and birth experience. We serve the truth straight up in common English and steer clear of medical jargon. Our goal is to make medicine, obstetrics, and all relevant information as easily digestible as possible for the listener to enjoy, share and learn from. Each episode covers birth and prenatal topics through the eyes of Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, a NYC metro area Perinatologist and Maternal Fetal Medicine Doctor, and his trusty side kick, Certified Nurse Midwife Kristin Mallon.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak & Kristin Mallon, RN, CNM
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2021 Integrative Obstetrics
  • Show Website
    True Birth

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