True Birth

Childbirth is a miraculous and transformative experience, marking the beginning of a new chapter in a woman's life. While many women choose to opt for pain relief measures like epidurals during labor, there is a growing movement of mothers who seek to embrace the raw intensity of childbirth without medical interventions. In this blog post, we explore the empowering journey of childbirth without an epidural, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and the profound strength it requires.

There are several reasons why women would choose an unmedicated birth over birth with aqn epidrual.  Choosing to forego an epidural is a deeply personal decision. Women who opt for unmedicated childbirth often have a strong belief in the body's innate ability to give birth naturally. They embrace the beauty of the physiological process, trusting that their bodies are designed to navigate the journey of labor and delivery.

By choosing a drug-free birth, women often find themselves more connected to their bodies and their babies. Without the numbing effects of an epidural, they remain fully present during the entire experience. This heightened awareness allows them to actively participate in the process, feeling each contraction, and working in harmony with their bodies to bring their little one into the world.

Childbirth without an epidural requires coping mechanisms to manage the intensity of labor. Many women practice mindfulness and breathing techniques, learning to focus their minds and ride the waves of contractions. These techniques help them stay centered, calm, and in control, harnessing the power within themselves to navigate the peaks and valleys of labor.

Unmedicated childbirth triggers the release of hormones such as oxytocin, endorphins, and adrenaline. These natural hormones not only help manage pain but also foster a sense of euphoria, promote bonding with the baby, and facilitate breastfeeding. Mothers who experience childbirth without an epidural often speak of the incredible rush of love and joy that accompanies the unmediated birth experience.

Childbirth without an epidural can present unique challenges. The intensity of the pain requires mental and physical endurance. However, women who choose this path often find immense satisfaction in conquering these challenges. They emerge from the experience with a profound sense of accomplishment, knowing they have tapped into their inner strength and persevered through one of life's most transformative moments.

Creating a supportive birth environment is crucial for women choosing unmedicated childbirth. Surrounding oneself with knowledgeable and empathetic healthcare providers, a loving birth partner, and a supportive birthing team can provide the encouragement and reassurance needed during labor. Birth plans, communication, and a clear understanding of one's options help ensure a positive and empowering birth experience.

Childbirth without an epidural is a personal choice that demands courage, resilience, and a deep trust in the body's abilities. It allows women to tap into their inner power and experience the full spectrum of emotions during the miraculous journey of bringing a new life into the world. While this path is not without its challenges, the rewards are immeasurable. Each unmedicated birth represents a testament to the incredible strength and capabilities of women, leaving an indelible mark on both mother and child, forever cherished and celebrated.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

https://www.truebirthpodcast.com

The placenta, a remarkable organ facilitating the vital exchange of nutrients and waste between mother and fetus, exhibits incredible diversity in its structure and composition. Beyond the conventional placental configurations, such as the discoid shape, several intriguing variations have been discovered. In this blog post, we embark on an enlightening journey to explore and understand four distinctive placental anomalies: circumvallate placenta, balltledore placenta, vasa previa, and accessory lobe placenta. Join us as we delve into these fascinating adaptations and uncover their implications for pregnancy and maternal-fetal health.

Circumvallate Placenta: Unraveling the Ring of Mystique The circumvallate placenta, a captivating anomaly characterized by a raised ring around its periphery, captures our attention first. We delve into the etiology, prevalence, and potential complications associated with this unique placental variant. Additionally, we shed light on the diagnostic methods employed to identify circumvallate placenta and the impact it may have on fetal growth and maternal well-being.

Balltledore Placenta: Peeling Back the Layers of Complexity Intriguing and enigmatic, the balltledore placenta exhibits an unusual lobed appearance, distinct from the typical discoid shape. We embark on an exploration of the developmental mechanisms underlying this fascinating variation. Moreover, we examine the potential ramifications of a balltledore placenta on maternal health, fetal growth, and the overall progress of pregnancy.

Vasa Previa: Navigating the Precarious Pathways Vasa previa, a rare and potentially life-threatening condition, captures our attention next. We delve into the anatomy and pathophysiology of vasa previa, highlighting the presence of fetal blood vessels crossing the cervical os or lying in close proximity to it. Through an in-depth analysis, we emphasize the critical importance of early detection, prenatal monitoring, and timely intervention to mitigate the potential risks associated with vasa previa and safeguard the well-being of both mother and baby.

Accessory Lobe Placenta: The Unseen Intruder Our exploration of placental anomalies concludes with a closer look at the accessory lobe placenta. Often concealed and unnoticed, this variant manifests as an additional lobe attached to the main placental mass. We unravel the diagnostic challenges associated with identifying accessory lobe placenta and shed light on its implications for maternal health and fetal development. Furthermore, we explore the potential obstetric complications and management strategies that healthcare providers employ to ensure optimal outcomes in pregnancies affected by this hidden intruder.

Placental lakes, intriguing pools of blood within the placenta, form an enigmatic feature worthy of exploration. These fluid-filled spaces, ranging in size and distribution, arise from the branching and coalescence of maternal blood vessels within the placental tissue. Placental lakes often appear as dark, irregularly shaped areas on ultrasound scans, and their presence can indicate underlying placental abnormalities or complications. While small placental lakes are usually considered normal and benign, larger or extensive placental lakes may raise concerns regarding impaired placental function and potential risks to fetal health. In-depth monitoring and evaluation are crucial when placental lakes are detected, as they can serve as indicators of underlying conditions that require appropriate management to ensure a successful pregnancy outcome.

Placental anomalies, such as circumvallate placenta, balltledore placenta, vasa previa, and accessory lobe placenta, serve as captivating reminders of the incredible intricacy and adaptability of the human body. As we uncover the mysteries surrounding these unique variations, it becomes evident that each holds profound implications for pregnancy, childbirth, and maternal-fetal health. By increasing awareness and understanding, we empower healthcare professionals and expectant parents to navigate these distinctive scenarios with confidence, ensuring the best possible outcomes for all involved.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

https://www.truebirthpodcast.com

Navigating the complex world of healthcare can be overwhelming, especially when you're faced with the task of advocating for your own needs. However, being an active participant in your healthcare decisions is essential for ensuring that you receive the best possible care. In this blog post, we will explore practical strategies and tips to help you effectively advocate for yourself in healthcare settings.

Educate Yourself: The first step towards advocating for yourself is to become an informed patient. Take the time to research your medical condition or concern, understanding the available treatment options, potential risks, and alternatives. Reliable sources such as reputable medical websites, patient forums, and support groups can provide valuable insights. Armed with knowledge, you'll be better prepared to communicate and make decisions regarding your healthcare.

Build a Strong Relationship with Your Healthcare Provider: Establishing a strong partnership with your healthcare provider is crucial. Actively engage in conversations, ask questions, and share your concerns openly. Remember, your doctor is there to help you, and effective communication is key to a successful healthcare journey. Be honest about your symptoms, medical history, and any lifestyle factors that may affect your health. This information will enable your healthcare provider to develop an accurate diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.

Be Assertive and Clear: When advocating for yourself, it's essential to be assertive and communicate your needs clearly. Don't hesitate to ask for further clarification or request additional tests or referrals if necessary. Describe your symptoms accurately, including their severity, duration, and any triggers or patterns you've noticed. Avoid downplaying your concerns, as this may hinder the understanding of your healthcare provider. By expressing your needs confidently and concisely, you increase the likelihood of receiving appropriate care.

Seek a Second Opinion: If you have doubts about a diagnosis, treatment plan, or surgery, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion. A fresh perspective from another qualified healthcare professional can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions. Requesting a second opinion is your right as a patient, and a reputable doctor will respect your choice.

Keep Organized Records: Maintaining organized records is essential for effective self-advocacy. Keep a detailed record of your medical history, including diagnoses, medications, treatments, and any relevant test results. Bring these records to appointments and share them with your healthcare provider. Additionally, document all discussions, recommendations, and decisions made during your healthcare visits. These records will serve as a valuable reference and ensure continuity of care.

Utilize Support Networks: Don't underestimate the power of support networks when advocating for yourself in healthcare. Reach out to family, friends, or patient advocacy organizations that can provide guidance and emotional support. Sometimes, having an advocate accompany you to appointments can help ensure that all your concerns are addressed and that you have a strong support system throughout your healthcare journey.

Advocating for yourself in healthcare can be challenging, but it is essential to take an active role in your well-being. By educating yourself, building a strong relationship with your healthcare provider, being assertive, seeking second opinions, keeping organized records, and utilizing support networks, you can effectively advocate for your healthcare needs. Remember, your voice matters, and with the right strategies in place, you can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and ensure that you receive the care you deserve.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

https://www.truebirthpodcast.com

Modern Ways of Finding Out Your Baby's Gender: A Sneak Peek into the Womb

Discovering the gender of your baby is an exciting milestone for expectant parents. With advances in technology, there are now several ways to determine the gender of your unborn child with remarkable accuracy. There are several ways not to determine the gender of your baby which differs much more than a few decades ago. 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the most common and widely used method to find out a baby's gender. Typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, this non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to produce images of the baby in the womb. A skilled sonographer can identify the baby's gender by analyzing the images. The accuracy of ultrasound in gender determination is quite high, ranging from 95% to 99%, depending on the position of the baby and the expertise of the sonographer.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

Another popular method is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT). This advanced screening test is performed as early as 10 weeks into the pregnancy, and it uses a blood sample from the mother to analyze the baby's DNA. NIPT is primarily used to screen for genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, but it can also determine the baby's gender with over 99% accuracy. Although NIPT is highly accurate, it is not typically performed solely for gender determination due to the higher cost compared to ultrasound.

At-Home Gender Prediction Kits

For parents seeking a more affordable and convenient option, at-home gender prediction kits have gained popularity. These kits use a small sample of the mother's urine to predict the baby's gender based on hormone levels. While the accuracy of these kits varies, most claim to have an accuracy rate of about 80-90%. It's important to note that at-home kits are not as reliable as ultrasound or NIPT, and the results should be taken with a grain of salt.

Gender Reveal Parties

Once parents have discovered the gender of their baby, many choose to share the news with friends and family in a creative way. Gender reveal parties have become a popular trend, with couples using various methods to disclose the big news, such as cutting into a cake with colored filling, popping balloons filled with colored confetti, or setting off colored smoke bombs. These parties not only make for an exciting way to reveal the baby's gender but also create lasting memories for everyone involved.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

https://www.truebirthpodcast.com

The umbilical cord is a vital part of pregnancy, connecting the fetus to the placenta and providing essential nutrients and oxygen to support its growth and development. This cord is formed early in pregnancy and typically measures around 1 feet in length at birth.

During pregnancy, the umbilical cord acts as a lifeline between the fetus and the mother. It contains two arteries and one vein that transport blood, nutrients, and oxygen from the mother to the baby, while carrying away waste products and carbon dioxide from the baby back to the mother's bloodstream. This exchange of vital substances is essential for the healthy growth and development of the fetus.

The umbilical cord also plays a critical role in the delivery process. When the baby is born, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, separating the baby from the placenta and the mother's bloodstream. The cord is then discarded, and the baby begins to breathe on its own.

In some cases, because the umbilical cord is so vital it can have some kinks or variations that can become more concerning. We all know about the cord can get wrapped around the baby's neck, causing complications during delivery. However, this is rare and can often be detected through routine prenatal care. It can also have differenes in shape, length or characteristics that can be crucial in a developing baby.

The umbilical cord is a crucial part of pregnancy, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to support the healthy growth and development of the fetus. Proper care and monitoring during pregnancy can help ensure a safe and healthy delivery for both mother and baby.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

https://www.truebirthpodcast.com

Acupuncture, Chiropractics, Massage and other complimentary medicine practices are safe in pregnnacy.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

The overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022 was a significant legal decision that has generated strong reactions from various groups and individuals across the United States. Some see it as a positive development, arguing that it aligns with their moral and ethical beliefs regarding the sanctity of life and the rights of the unborn. Others see it as a negative development, believing that it represents an erosion of women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy.

Regardless of one's perspective, the overturning of Roe v. Wade has implications for women's health and the legal landscape of the country. It could limit access to safe and legal abortion care, potentially putting women's health at risk. It may also lead to legal battles and political debates at the state and federal levels, with different actors seeking to shape the future of reproductive rights.

The impact of the decision on women and society as a whole will depend on how it is implemented and enforced. It remains to be seen how states and the federal government will navigate the complex legal and political terrain of abortion regulation in the aftermath of this ruling.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

For some women, the risk of premature birth or second trimester miscarriages are real and imposing concerns in pregnancy.  In some cases, a cerclage may be recommended to help prevent these complications. Here's what you can expect when you get a cerclage during pregnancy:

What is a cerclage? A cerclage is a procedure in which a stitch or band is placed around the cervix to help keep it closed and prevent premature birth or miscarriage. It is typically recommended for women who have a history of premature birth, cervical insufficiency, or a shortened or known weakened cervix. The procedure is usually done around 12-14 weeks of pregnancy and is removed around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy.

Before the cerclage procedure, your OB/GYN will perform a cervical exam and may order an ultrasound to check the length of your cervix.  The cerclage procedure is typically done under with local anesthesia and sedation. The OB/GYN will place a stitch or band around the cervix to keep it closed.  

After the cerclage procedure, there is some monitoring and rest that ensures, but only for a short period of time.  will likely need to There can be cramping and spotting for a few days after the procedure. Often sexual activity and heavy lifting for several days to weeks after the procedure is recommended. 

A cerclage can be an effective way to prevent premature birth or miscarriage in certain high-risk pregnancies. If your doctor recommends a cerclage, it is important to understand the procedure, the recovery process, and the potential risks and complications. With proper care and monitoring, you and your baby can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Our practice can be found  at www.maternalresources.org
Reach out to us at (201) 487-8600

A scar pregnancy is a rare type of ectopic pregnancy where the fertilized egg implants in the scar tissue of a previous cesarean section or other surgical procedure in the uterus, rather than in the lining of the uterus where a normal pregnancy should occur. This can occur when the scar tissue is not fully healed or is weakened, allowing the fertilized egg to implant and grow in the scar tissue where the uterine muscle can be weakened.

Scar pregnancy can be dangerous, as the scar tissue may not be able to support the growing embryo and can rupture or cause other complications, but it is not always associated with miscarriage or loss of the pregnancy. A scar pregnnacy can actually produce a live. birth.

In addition, scar pregnancy can be difficult to diagnose, as it may not produce typical pregnancy symptoms and may not be visible on a standard ultrasound. A highly trained expert sonographer is generally what is needed for diagnosis.  Dr. Ilan Timor is an expert OB/GYN with extensive years in scanning for these types of pregnancies and is world-renown in how to treat and diagnosis these types of pregnancies.  Fortunate of us a Maternal Resources, he has recenlty joined our team and can assist us in the diagnosis, treatment and managment of different types of pregnancies. 

From Dr. Timor's perspective he doesn't alwasy consider a scar pregnancy an ectopic pregnancy. It is generally accepted in the medical community that a scar pregnancy is a type of ectopic pregnancy, despite the fact that the gestational sac is located within the uterus. This is because the fertilized egg has implanted in scar tissue outside of the normal location in the endometrial lining of the uterus.

In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines an ectopic pregnancy as "any gestation that implants outside the endometrial lining of the uterine cavity." This includes implantation in the fallopian tube (the most common location for ectopic pregnancy), as well as other locations outside the uterus, such as the cervix, ovaries, and abdominal cavity.

While scar pregnancy is a relatively rare type of ectopic pregnancy, it can still pose serious health risks and requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Treatment for scar pregnancy typically involves surgical removal of the ectopic pregnancy and the scar tissue, in order to prevent further complications and preserve the health of the uterus.  

Maintaining the integrity of the uterus is very important in scar pregnancies. When a fertilized egg implants in the scar tissue of a previous cesarean section or other surgical procedure, it can weaken the scar tissue and put the integrity of the uterus at risk. Scar tissue may be thinner and more prone to tearing, which can lead to bleeding and other complications. If a scar pregnancy is not treated promptly, it can result in further damage to the uterus and potentially require more extensive surgical intervention, such as a hysterectomy.

Therefore, early detection and prompt treatment of scar pregnancy is important to preserve the health and integrity of the uterus. Treatment typically involves the removal of the ectopic pregnancy and scar tissue, which may be done through surgery or medication depending on the severity of the case.

If you suspect you may have a scar pregnancy, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your healthcare provider can perform an ultrasound and other diagnostic tests to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.

Dr. Timor can be found in our practice at www.maternalresources.org
He is currently accepting patients and consults in our New York City office to reach us call (201) 487-8600

What would happen if Mother Nature opened a labor and delivery unit? In a world where labor and delivery were left to all things natural, and there were no doctors to guide the process, how would women and babies fair?  Before the advent of modern medicine, women relied on Mother Nature to ensure a safe delivery. But without medical intervention, complications were much more common than they are today

As time passed, communities began to realize the importance of medical care during childbirth. They trained midwives and created clinics to provide prenatal and postnatal care. Women no longer had to rely solely on chance for a safe delivery.

Although Mother Nature still plays a role, medical intervention can be a great asset to achieve better outcomes. As a result, childbirth became safer and more women and babies had healthier births.  

VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, which is a delivery method chosen by women who have previously had a c-section but want to deliver vaginally for their next birth. VBAC2, on the other hand, refers to the second or subsequent vaginal birth after a c-section.

VBAC and VBAC2 are two different terms that can be confusing for new parents. Women who have had a previous c-section may be wondering about their options for future deliveries. So, let's break down the difference between these two terms.

VBAC: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, or VBAC, is a safe and successful option for many women who have previously delivered by c-section. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that women who have had one prior low transverse uterine incision are candidates for VBAC.

The success rate for VBAC is high, around 60-80%, and it has several benefits over repeat c-section, including a shorter recovery time, a reduced risk of surgical complications, and a lower risk of infections.

However, VBAC is not recommended for all women, as it carries a small risk of uterine rupture, which can be life-threatening for both mother and baby. Other factors, such as the reason for the previous c-section, may also play a role in determining whether VBAC is a safe option for a woman.

However, just like with VBAC, there are factors to consider when deciding whether VBAC2 is a safe option. Women who have had multiple c-sections or a previous uterine rupture may not be good candidates for VBAC or VBAC2, yet VBAC2 may still be safe and recommended or some women.

VBAC and VBAC2 are both viable options for women who have previously had a c-section and want to deliver vaginally in the future. VBAC is a safe option for most women with one or two prior low transverse uterine incisions.

It is important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider, who can help you make an informed decision based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

Cervical lacerations are cuts or tears that happen to the cervix during labor and delivery. These types of laceratsion are different from the typical 1st and 2nd degree lacerations that occur during labor and delivery normally.  Generally they tend to have more blood flow and can be responsible for more blood loss.  They also may have an effect in a subsequent pregnancy and labor. 

What happends when a cesarean birth is not planned.  Gving birth is a life-changing experience, and while most women hope for a smooth vaginal delivery, some may end up having an unplanned Cesarean section (C-section). A C-section is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. While a planned C-section can be a positive experience for some women, an unplanned C-section can be stressful and overwhelming.

After an unplanned C-section, it's essential to take steps to ensure that you're informed about what happened and what to expect during the recovery process. First and foremost, ask your healthcare provider to explain why the C-section was necessary and what happened during the procedure. Understanding the reasons for the C-section can help you process the experience and make informed decisions about future pregnancies.

It's also important to ask your healthcare provider about the recovery process and what you can expect in the coming weeks and months. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days, and you may experience pain and discomfort as your body heals. Your healthcare provider can provide you with guidance on pain management, activity restrictions, and when it's safe to resume normal activities.

Additionally, consider seeking out support from other mothers who have had a C-section. Joining a support group or talking to other moms can help you feel less alone and provide you with tips and advice on how to manage the recovery process.

In conclusion, an unplanned C-section can be a stressful and unexpected experience, but taking steps to be informed and prepared can help ease some of the anxiety and uncertainty. By asking your healthcare provider questions, seeking out support, and being patient with yourself during the recovery process, you can make the best of this experience and emerge stronger on the other side.

What is the optimal timing for delivery when a pregnancy goes past the due date?  How far past a due date is it recommened to go? Is it safe to go?  Why are there different recommendations for each type of pregnancy? 

A postterm pregnancy is when the pregnancy goes on beyond beyond 42 weeks (294 days) from the calculated first day of the last menstrual period.

A postdates pregnancy is a pregnancy that goes beyond the due date.

Relevant to this episode is our podcast on how to calcuate a due date, episode #85 linked here

In this episode, Dr. Abdelhak explains his rationale for why he prefers pregancies to end by the 41st week and someones even earlier. 

Cervical cerclage is a fantastic tool used to prevent preterm labor.  The placement of a cerclage is a surgical procedure in which a synthetic suture or tape is used to reinforce the cervix. This mechanical enhancement of the tensile strength of the cerclage reinforces the cervix, keeps it closed and is very successful at lengthening many pregnancies. 

This podcast covers the different types, why and when each is used. 

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a depressive period or series of depressive episodes that can happen after the birth of a baby.  While there is some debate, most psychological and OB/GYN experts agree that any depression that occurs within the first 12 months after birth may be related to the birth.  This type of depression affects 1 in 7 moms and 1 in 10 dads. 

Postpartum Depression is not to be confused with postpartum anxiety or perinatal depression and anxiety which can occur shortly before or during pregnancy.  These types of anxiety and depression are not covered in this episode.

The suspected incidence is hard to pinpoint and has a large range as some parents are now aware they are experiencing postpartum depression until months or even years later. The symptoms can be confused or confounded with sleep deprivation and new onset sleep disorders that often follow the birth of a baby. The rate of PPD is higher in low and middle income countries.   Many studies have landed on the incidence of PPD to be around 10-20% and a parent is 50% more likley to end up in this staistic if they had a history of depression prior.  More than 50% of PPD presents by 6 months postpartum.

This epsiode is a from the perspective of the OB/GYN on the first steps in identifying and beginning treatment and connection to resources. 

A great resource for everything related to PPD including support groups nationwide can be found on this website
https://www.postpartum.net

As always, we'd love to hear from you!. Please drop us a line on our website at www.truebirthpodcast.com or send us an email at info@maternalresources.org

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