Down to Birth #301 | January Q&A: Cervical Scarring, Shoulder Dystocia, Prenatal Vitamins, Birthing the Placenta in Water, Postpartum Aches & Pains
Welcome to the first Q&A episode of Season 6 with Cynthia & Trisha! We’re kicking things off by discussing some lesser-known causes of cervical scar tissue that could impact labor progress. It’s a good reminder to consider how any procedure or reproductive intervention might affect future births.
In this episode, we answer a new collection of listener questions, including one about a mom-to-be who wants a home birth but is feeling uneasy about having someone else in the house to watch her child during labor. Is a birth center a better option for her? We also talk about postpartum aches and pains—specifically knee, calf, and foot discomfort—and what supplements and activities might help during recovery. Plus, we dive into the rise of shoulder dystocia: why is it happening more often, and what can be done to prevent or address it?
In our extended episode, available to Apple subscribers and on Patreon, we answer more questions, such as: How can you tell if you’re bleeding too much after delivering the placenta in water (with expert advice from Barbara Harper of Waterbirth International)? Do prenatal vitamins actually play a critical role? And when, if ever, does a low fetal heart rate in labor mean you need to cut the cord and separate mom and baby for resuscitation?
We also wrap up with a quick-fire round of Quickies covering everything from laboring on your back and diaper rash to ultrasounds, precipitous labor, and the foods we, personally, could eat every single day.
Tune in for all that and more!
#200 | Physiologic Birth of the Placenta in Water, Optimal Cord Clamping and Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage with Barbara Harper
**********
Our sponsors:
Silverette Nursing Cups -- Soothe and heal sore nipples with 925 silver nursing cups.
Postpartum Soothe -- Herbs and padsicles to heal and comfort.
Needed -- Our favorite nutritional products for before, during, and after pregnancy. Use this link to save 20%
Use promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH for all sponsors.
Needed <-- this link for 20% off your whole subscription order
DrinkLMNT <-- this link for FREE 8-day supply
Primally Pure: ingredients good for you and the earth. Promo code: DOWNTOBIRTH
Postpartum Soothe: Organic herbal padsicles for healing. Promo code DOWNTOBIRTH
ENERGYBits: <--this link for 20% off
Join Patreon for our exclusive content
IG @downtobirthshow
Call 802-GET-DOWN
Watch full videos of all episodes on YouTube! Please note we don’t provide medical advice. Speak to your licensed provider for all healthcare matters.