Proprietary Medicine - Guarded Knowledge in Childbirth: Episode #199
True Birth
You can also connect with us on our social channels to stay up-to-date with the latest news, episodes, and community engagement: YouTube: youtube.com/maternalresources Instagram: @maternalresources Facebook: facebook.com/IntegrativeOB TikTok: NatureBack Doc on TikTok Grab Our Book: The NatureBack Method for Birth—your guide to an empowered pregnancy and delivery. Shop now at naturebackbook.myshopify.com
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How Pregnancy Is Counted (and Why It’s So Confusing): Weeks, Months, and What They Actually Mean
True Birth
Pregnancy is one of the only times in life where we’re asked to think in weeks instead of months, and for many people, it’s confusing, frustrating, and sometimes anxiety-provoking. In this episode, we break down how pregnancy is actually counted, why clinicians use weeks and days instead of months, and how to make sense of phrases like “halfway there,” “almost seven months,” or “full term.” We also explain where these conventions came from, what they’re used for medically, and how patients can translate them into something that feels more intuitive and human. If you’ve ever...
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Late Preterm Birth: The Space Between Early and Term: Episode #197
True Birth
In this episode of True Birth, we explore late preterm birth which are deliveries that occur between 34 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, and why this window matters more than it is often given credit for. Late preterm babies are frequently described as “almost term,” yet that framing can obscure the very real physiologic differences that exist in these final weeks of gestation. We begin by defining what late preterm birth actually means and why it occupies a unique clinical and emotional space. Babies born in this window often look mature and strong, which can make it easy to underestimate the...
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Pelvic Rest in Pregnancy - When you need it and when you don't. Episode #196
True Birth
In this episode of True Birth, we take a closer look at pelvic rest in pregnancy, what it actually means, when it is medically indicated, and when it may be unnecessarily prescribed. Pelvic rest is one of the most commonly given recommendations in pregnancy, yet it is often poorly explained and widely misunderstood. This conversation is about bringing clarity, nuance, and context to a topic that can feel confusing and anxiety-provoking for many families. We begin by unpacking what providers typically mean when they recommend pelvic rest. For many people, the phrase immediately triggers fears...
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More Stories About Birth: Episode #195
True Birth
In this episode of True Birth, we share more birth stories. As always, stories are honest, nuanced, and deeply human. Some are empowering, some are complicated, some are unexpected, and all of them are real. Birth is often spoken about in extremes. Perfect or traumatic. Natural or medical. Success or failure. But lived experience is far more layered than that. These stories remind us that birth unfolds within bodies, families, systems, and moments we can’t always predict and that meaning is often found in how supported, informed, and heard someone feels along the way. If you are...
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The Partner's Role in Labor & Delivery: Episode #194
True Birth
In this episode of True Birth, we explore the powerful and often underestimated role partners play in childbirth. Birth is not something that happens only to the person giving birth. It is a shared experience, and the presence, preparation, and emotional steadiness of a partner can profoundly shape how labor unfolds. This conversation is about moving beyond the idea of the partner as a passive observer and into a role that is grounded, supportive, and intentionally engaged. We talk about what partners actually do during labor and birth, from providing physical comfort and emotional reassurance...
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Curve Balls in Pregnancy: When the Unexpected Happens. Episode # 193
True Birth
When pregnancy takes an unexpected turn, it can feel disorienting and deeply personal. In this episode, we talk about the curve balls no one plans for: pregnancy loss, placenta previa, emergency cesarean birth, and how to move through them with clarity, compassion, and support. This is a conversation about honoring grief without losing hope, finding steadiness in uncertainty, and reclaiming a sense of agency even when plans change. If your pregnancy story didn’t follow the script you imagined, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone, that your experience matters, and that there is...
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Baby Aspirin in Pregnancy: Episode #192
True Birth
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...
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Tylenol in Pregnancy: What you Really need to know. Episode #191
True Birth
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...
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Listener Mail: You Wrote in and We're Talking About it
True Birth
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...
info_outlineEpidural anesthesia is a type of local anesthetic that is injected into the epidural space. This procedure numbs the spinal nerve roots and provides a block to the lower abdomin, pelvic and lower extremity portion of the body. It is the safest and most effecive method of pharmacologic pain management in labor available.
When it comes to managing labor pain, epidurals are one of the most commonly requested and effective options. But despite their widespread use, many expecting parents still have questions or concerns. Here’s what you need to know.
An epidural is a type of regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a specific part of the body—most commonly from the waist down. It’s administered through a small catheter placed in the lower back and can significantly reduce the intensity of contractions without making you drowsy or disconnected from the birth experience.
One of the biggest benefits of an epidural is flexibility. It can be adjusted throughout labor depending on your needs and comfort. Some people feel enough relief to rest, while others maintain enough sensation to push effectively during delivery. Contrary to popular myth, an epidural does not usually slow labor or increase the risk of cesarean delivery in most healthy pregnancies.
Like all medical interventions, epidurals do carry some risks—such as a drop in blood pressure, headache, or in rare cases, complications related to placement. However, for many, the benefits far outweigh the risks, especially when monitored by an experienced anesthesiologist.
Choosing pain relief is a deeply personal decision. Whether you plan to get an epidural, go unmedicated, or keep your options open, the most important thing is that you feel supported, respected, and informed.
Remember, there’s no one “right” way to give birth. Empowered birth is about making choices that align with your values, goals, and comfort. An epidural doesn’t take away your strength—it supports your journey.
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