The MotherToBaby Podcast

Organization of Teratology Information Specialists
  • 4.2 (11)
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Is my medication still ok to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding? What about marijuana? Is it ok? These are questions Chris Stallman, a mom just like you, hears every day through her work as a genetic counselor and teratogen information specialist, which is a fancy way of saying she's an expert in anything a woman might come in contact with and its known risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. She's part of a non-profit service called MotherToBaby and in The MotherToBaby Podcast, she'll answer your burning questions about what's ok and what's not during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No judgment. No topics are off-limits. Subscribe to The MotherToBaby Podcast and learn more at www.MotherToBaby.org.

  1. 1D AGO

    Coffee, Sushi, Medicine and More in Pregnancy

    Expecting a baby often comes with a long list of questions—and a lot of conflicting information. Can you really drink coffee? What about sushi or soft cheese? Which cold medications are ok in pregnancy? And how should you handle everyday exposures like cleaning products?  In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host Chris Stallman, Certified Genetic Counselor and mom of four, is joined by returning guests Angela Messer and Kirstie Perrotta, both experienced teratogen information specialists (and moms themselves). Together, they sort through some of the most common pregnancy "do's and don'ts," offering clarity with evidence-based insights. You'll learn: ☕ How much caffeine experts suggest during pregnancy 🧀 The truth about soft cheeses and why pasteurization matters 🍣 Sushi and mercury exposure—what to consider and what to limit 🤧 Tips for managing allergies and colds while pregnant or breastfeeding 🧴 Guidance on handling cleaning products and reducing exposures 🌿 Why supplements and "natural" remedies aren't always the best option 🌸 The importance of folic acid in prenatal vitamins 👶 Real stories from Angela, Kirstie, and Chris about what worried them during their own pregnancies Whether you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers reassurance, practical advice, and a reminder: you're doing your best, and you're not alone. For more resources on exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit MotherToBaby.org

    23 min

  2. FEB 25

    From Strep to RHD: A Mother's Story and a Community's Fight

    Group A strep might sound like a simple sore throat—but for many children and families in American Samoa, it can have life-threatening consequences. In this episode of the MotherToBaby Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Anaise Uso, a public health leader and mother, who shares both her professional and deeply personal experiences with strep infections, rheumatic fever, and rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Together, we explore: What Group A Strep is and the common signs of strep throat and skin infections. How untreated infections can progress into rheumatic fever and, ultimately, rheumatic heart disease. The unique challenges in American Samoa, where children are three times more likely to be affected than in neighboring Pacific Islands. The role of screening, prevention, and treatment programs, including antibiotics and regular monitoring. A personal story of Dr. Uso's son, who was diagnosed with RHD at age three, and how their family manages his care. How partnerships with CDC, AMCHP, and MotherToBaby are helping build resources, raise awareness, and strengthen prevention efforts. This episode highlights why early detection, treatment, and community awareness are critical - not only to protect children's immediate health, but also to prevent lifelong complications. 👉 Resources mentioned in this episode: MotherToBaby: Group A Strep Fact Sheet MotherToBaby: Rheumatic Heart Disease Fact Sheet Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs (AMCHP)

    38 min

  3. FEB 10

    Sorting Fact from Fiction: Finding Reliable Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Information Online

    With so much information online, it can feel overwhelming to know what's trustworthy—especially when you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a family. In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host Chris Stallman, CGC, sits down with Bridget Maloney, MS, CGC of the University of Arizona and MotherToBaby Arizona to unpack how to separate credible health information from clickbait headlines. They discuss: -How to tell if a website or social media post is reliable -Common "red flags" and buzzwords to look out for -Why even well-intentioned online advice can sometimes mislead -How to double-check what you see online with healthcare providers -Where to turn for evidence-based resources you can understand -Whether you're scrolling through social media or doing a late-night search about a medication or food, this episode will help you navigate today's flood of information with confidence and calm. Learn more or connect with our experts at MotherToBaby.org

    16 min

  4. JAN 29

    Epilepsy, Pregnancy, and Advocacy: Dr. Kristi McIntosh's Story of Science and Strength

    What happens when epilepsy meets pregnancy planning? In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host Chris Stallman, MS, CGC—a genetic counselor, mom of four, and teratogen information specialist—talks with Dr. Kristi McIntosh from the University of British Columbia. Dr. McIntosh shares her powerful personal and professional journey—from being diagnosed with epilepsy at age ten to navigating fertility challenges, medication changes, and high-risk pregnancies. As both a scientist and a mom, she offers unique insights into: 💊 Managing anti-epileptic drugs during pregnancy 🧠 What EEGs reveal about brain activity and seizure patterns 👶 Balancing medication safety with seizure control 🍼 The realities of breastfeeding while on seizure medication 💬 Why early conversations and self-advocacy are key Her story underscores the importance of education, planning, and open communication between patients and providers. 🎙️ Tune in to hear how informed decisions and early preparation can make all the difference for people with epilepsy who are considering pregnancy. Learn more: MotherToBaby.org

    21 min

  5. JAN 21

    ADHD in Pregnancy: Medication Decisions, Daily Functioning & Finding Support

    Managing ADHD during pregnancy can feel overwhelming—especially when juggling appointments, medications, mood changes, and everyday life. In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, genetic counselor and teratogen information specialist Chris Stallman, CGC sits down with returning guest Dr. Christy Pratt, a pharmacist at Kaiser Permanente Colorado, for an in-depth, practical conversation about ADHD in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Together, they discuss: How ADHD symptoms can shift during pregnancy What to consider when deciding whether to continue stimulant or non-stimulant medications How co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression affect treatment decisions Why risk–benefit conversations are essential—and individualized Non-medication strategies and organization tools that actually help How healthcare providers can better support pregnant patients with ADHD What Dr. Pratt wishes more people understood about ADHD as a real, physiological condition Dr. Pratt also shares insights from her innovative program at Kaiser Permanente, where newly pregnant patients receive personalized risk–benefit consultations about their medications. Whether you're pregnant, planning a pregnancy, supporting someone with ADHD, or working in maternal-child health, this episode offers validation, clarity, and evidence-based guidance—always centered on achieving the best outcomes for both parent and baby. Key takeaway: "We need a healthy mama to grow a healthy baby." —Dr. Christy Pratt For more evidence-based information about exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit MotherToBaby.org.

    19 min

  6. JAN 15

    Understanding REMS & Medication Safety in Pregnancy: What Patients & Providers Need to Know

    Concerned about medication use during pregnancy? You're not alone.  In this episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host Chris Stallman, MS, CGC (genetic counselor, mom of four, teratogen information specialist) sits down with Dr. Judy C. Morrow of Harvard Medical School to break down how FDA REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) programs help reduce the risk of birth defects and protect pregnant patients. Together, they discuss: ✔️ What REMS programs are and why they exist ✔️ How REMS programs support safe medication use ✔️ The role of manufacturers, prescribers, and pharmacists ✔️ Common medications with REMS programs (including isotretinoin/Accutane) ✔️ Pregnancy testing requirements & pharmacy restrictions ✔️ Why some drugs don't have REMS (even if risks exist) ✔️ What patients should ask if they're prescribed a REMS-covered medication  Dr. Morrow shares how researchers use real-world data to identify medication-related adverse events in pregnancy, how REMS programs try to prevent exposed pregnancies, and why communication between patients, providers, and pharmacists is essential.  If you're pregnant, planning a pregnancy, breastfeeding, or support patients in these settings, this episode offers clear, practical insights to help guide informed decision-making. 🔎 Key topics: pregnancy, REMS, FDA, teratogens, isotretinoin, Accutane, birth defects, pharmacy programs, medication safety, pregnancy data, registries 🎧 Listen now to learn how REMS programs help protect pregnant women and their babies.

    18 min

  7. JAN 5

    Folic Acid Facts & Fiction: What Every Parent Should Know – with Dr. Elisabeth Marnik (@ScienceWhizLiz)

    In this special Folic Acid Awareness Week episode of The MotherToBaby Podcast, host and genetic counselor Chris Stallman sits down with Dr. Elisabeth Marnik, PhD—a biomedical scientist, mom, and science communicator better known as @ScienceWhizLiz on Instagram. Together, they unpack the science behind folic acid, its critical role in early pregnancy, and why it's one of the most important (yet misunderstood) nutrients for people of childbearing age. From real talk on neural tube defect prevention to busting social media myths like "folic acid causes tongue ties" or "MTHFR mutations mean folic acid isn't safe," this episode is packed with science-backed insights and practical guidance for both healthcare providers and future parents alike. 🧠 Key Topics Covered: What folic acid is and why it matters for pregnancy The difference between folic acid and folate When folic acid is most critical (hint: before you know you're pregnant!) Myths and misinformation about folic acid—especially on social media What the research really says about MTHFR gene mutations How to support patients with dietary restrictions or supplement concerns Why more folic acid is not always better 👩‍⚕️ Guest Bio: Dr. Elisabeth Marnik is a biomedical scientist with a PhD from Tufts University and The Jackson Laboratory, where she studied immune system function, autoimmune disease, and vaccine response. She's also a passionate science communicator who makes complex topics clear and relatable for thousands of followers as @ScienceWhizLiz on Instagram. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Learn more about folic acid: MotherToBaby Folic Acid Fact Sheet Contact a MotherToBaby specialist (free & confidential): Call: 866-626-6847 Text: 855-999-3525 Chat: MotherToBaby.org Follow Dr. Marnik: @ScienceWhizLiz on Instagram 💬 Have a Question or Topic Idea? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at contactus@mothertobaby.org. 📱 Subscribe & Listen On: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Audible | iHeartRadio | Or wherever you get your podcasts 💛 Support Our Work: Help us keep this podcast free and accessible. Join our monthly giving community, Encircle, to support parents and families with trusted pregnancy and breastfeeding information. Learn more at MotherToBaby.org/Donate

    34 min

  8. 06/03/2025

    Radiation & Breastfeeding: Understanding the Risks and Realities

    Show Notes: In this episode of the MotherToBaby Podcast, host and genetic counselor Chris Stallman welcomes Dr. Emily Caffrey, a certified health physicist at the Health Physics Society and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Together, they dive into one of the most frequently asked topics: how radiation exposure may impact breastfeeding. Dr. Caffrey explains the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, details how imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs interact with the body, and addresses concerns around contrast agents and radioactive tracers. The episode also covers what breastfeeding women working around radiation should know, including practical safety tips and case-by-case considerations. Key Takeaways: Diagnostic imaging procedures do not make breast milk radioactive or require stopping breastfeeding Some radioactive tracers or therapeutic treatments may require temporary or permanent changes to breastfeeding plans, depending on the specific agent and dose Always inform your healthcare provider that you're breastfeeding and ask questions about any upcoming procedures Expert help is available—don't rely on internet searches alone Resources mentioned in this episode: MotherToBaby.org Health Physics Society American College of Radiology Guidelines Call 866-626-6847 or text 855-999-3525 to speak with a MotherToBaby specialist 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast and never miss an episode!

    21 min
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4.2
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About

Is my medication still ok to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding? What about marijuana? Is it ok? These are questions Chris Stallman, a mom just like you, hears every day through her work as a genetic counselor and teratogen information specialist, which is a fancy way of saying she's an expert in anything a woman might come in contact with and its known risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. She's part of a non-profit service called MotherToBaby and in The MotherToBaby Podcast, she'll answer your burning questions about what's ok and what's not during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No judgment. No topics are off-limits. Subscribe to The MotherToBaby Podcast and learn more at www.MotherToBaby.org.

Information

  • Creator
    Organization of Teratology Information Specialists
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    93
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2019 Organization of Teratology Information Specialists
  • Show Website
    The MotherToBaby Podcast