Birth, Baby! | Guidance for Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum, and Parenting

Welcome to Birth, Baby! Podcast, your go-to podcast hosted by Ciarra Morgan, a seasoned birth doula, childbirth educator, doula agency owner, and birth doula trainer from Austin, Texas. Episodes aim to give you invaluable insights and expert advice to help you navigate the intricate journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Through candid interviews, personal anecdotes, and evidence-backed content, this podcast aims to empower families with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you’re seeking guidance on prenatal care, birth planning, or navigating the early days with your newborn, Birth, Baby! Podcast has you covered. Tune in to and embark on your parenthood journey with confidence.

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Episodes

Tuesday Apr 09, 2024

In this episode we interview Dr. Jared Poplin about the ins and outs of oral tie revisions. He answers commonly asked questions and addresses fears that many parents experience surrounding this procedure. Dr. Jared Poplin is the owner of Poplin Pediatric Dentistry, a specialized pediatric practice based out of Austin, Texas. A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Poplin excels at working with children with severe dental anxiety or special needs. Dr. Poplin's practice specializes in infant feeding, as well as growth and development, collaborating closely with lactation consultants, speech/feeding therapists, myofunctional therapists along with many other specialties to meet the needs of children and parents. He received his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Kansas and went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Medicine from Temple University School of Dentistry. Along with his educational experiences, Dr. Poplin has done mission work in Haiti and Mexico. Away from the office, Dr. Poplin enjoys spending time with his wife Jessica and his 10-year-old twins, Mason and Olivia.Website: www.austintxpediatricdentist.comInstagram: @‌poplin_pediatric_dentistryhttps://www.facebook.com/poplinpediatricdentistryTakeawaysA pediatric dentist specializes in caring for children's oral health and may have additional training in areas such as tethered oral tissues and early orthodontic growth and development.Collaboration with lactation consultants and other healthcare providers is crucial for comprehensive care when treating tongue and lip ties.The procedure for releasing tongue and lip ties involves using a CO2 laser to precisely cut the tissue, and aftercare involves stretching the area to prevent reattachment.Parents should be prepared for the commitment of aftercare, which involves stretching the area multiple times a day for several weeks.Finding a healthcare provider who takes a collaborative approach and focuses on the individual needs and goals of the patient is important when seeking treatment for tongue and lip ties.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Apr 02, 2024

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Naiomi Catron of Milk Diva about lip ties, tongue ties, and how they relate to feeding. They discuss the lack of a clear definition for tongue ties and the subjective nature of diagnosing them. Naiomi explains that a tie is a piece of tissue that restricts range of motion and can cause functional deficits. She emphasizes the importance of assessing tongue function and collaborating with other healthcare providers to improve outcomes. Naiomi also addresses the misconception that all babies with ties have breastfeeding issues and highlights the need for non-surgical interventions before considering a release. She discusses the different grades and severities of ties and the importance of post-op care. Naiomi concludes by emphasizing the importance of individualized recommendations based on the baby's specific situation and the parent's goals.Learn More About Tongue Ties and Collaborative Care  How to unlatch properly \Does Clicking = tongue tie? More with Dr. Poplin Ep 31 on the Boob Business Podcast More about Tongue Ties with Autumn Henning MS, CCC-SLP, COM, IBCLCTakeawaysThere is no agreed-upon definition for tongue ties and diagnosing them is subjective.Tongue ties are pieces of tissue that restrict range of motion and can cause functional deficits.Assessing tongue function and collaborating with other healthcare providers is crucial for improving outcomes.Not all babies with ties have breastfeeding issues, and non-surgical interventions should be tried before considering a release.The severity of a tie and the baby's specific situation should be considered when making recommendations.Post-op care is important for successful outcomes after a release.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Mar 26, 2024

Let's talk Parent Hacks! In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha share their favorite parent hacks that have made their lives easier as parents. They discuss tips for making the baby's crib easier to clean, using a splash mat under the highchair, using a pacifier to give medicine, freezing breast milk flat, and rotating boxes of toys. They also talk about creative ideas like using animal stickers to help kids put on their shoes, creating a shirt with handprints for each grade, and having a snack bag with individual portions in the car. They share various parenting hacks and tips for making life with kids easier. Some of the hacks include having individual portioned snacks in the car, using a telescoping back scratcher to retrieve dropped toys, keeping a plastic tote or bin in the car for muddy shoes, carrying wet wipes everywhere, having a change of clothes for the entire family in the car, using a car potty for toddlers, using sticky table placemats to reduce mess, and using a fishing lure box or a spinner plate for snacks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding what works best for each family and not being judgmental about different parenting choices.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comCrib Mattress Protector Waterproof & Noiseless Crib Mattress Pad Cover, Skin Friendly & Breathable & Machine Wash 100% Absorbent Crib Toddler Mattress Protector, (Quilted Improved Thickness)51" Splat Mat for Under High Chair/Arts/Crafts, WOMUMON Baby Washable Spill Mat Waterproof Anti-Slip Floor Splash Mat, Portable Play Mat and Table Cloth (Arrow, 51")Frida Baby Medicine Pacifier, Medi Frida Baby Medicine Syringe & Accu-Dose Pacifier, Baby Medicine Dispenser for Mess & Fuss Free Use‌Kenco Kids Shoe Labels - Cute Right Left Animal Stickers for Children Shoes (Puzzle Piece 30 Pack)Class Of 2035 Grow With Me Space For Handprints On The Back T-Shirt‌For the car:Burskit Snack Bag Clear Chenille Varsity Letter Zipper Pouch for Travel Nylon Clear Cosmetic Bag Makeup Travel Bag for Women (White-Snacks) Chenille Letter Patch Clear Bag,Preppy Multi-purpose PVC&Nylon Clear Makeup Bag with Handles,Large Travel Makeup Toiletry Storage Zipper Pouch, Tote Bag for Women (White-SNACKS)Plazuria (4-Pack) Portable Extendable Telescopic Bear Claws Metal Back Scratchers/Hand Massager/Backslap with Rubber Handles5-Pack Commercial Bus Tubs Box/Tote Box, White Plastic Storage Bin with Handles/Wash Basin Tub (8 Liter)

Tuesday Mar 19, 2024

Today we have a past doula client of ours on to talk to us about the pregnancy and birth of her twins! Sarah grew up in the Texas Hill Country, and recently returned in 2019. She met her now husband in 2021 and they were married August 2022. She loves the outdoors, riding horses, playing with her two French Bulldogs, and spending time with friends and family. Sarah and her husband Nolan run a family business, so she is able to stay at home with her babies full time. She is passionate about medical freedom and wants all moms to be comfortable with how they choose to birth! Sarah shares her journey to getting pregnant and the early days of her pregnancy. She discovered she was pregnant with twins and learned about the genetic factors involved. She initially planned for a home birth but had to switch to a hospital birth due to high blood pressure. Sarah discusses the process of induction and the use of Pitocin. She eventually opted for an epidural to manage the pain. Despite the change in plans, Sarah felt supported by her doula team and had a positive birth experience. Sarah shares her birth story of delivering twins in a hospital setting. She discusses the decision to have an epidural and the relief it brought. She also talks about the challenges and emotions she experienced during labor and delivery, including the loss of her mother. Sarah highlights the support she received from her husband, doula, and medical team. After the birth, she discusses the immediate postpartum period, breastfeeding challenges, and the importance of having a support system. Sarah offers advice for parents expecting twins, emphasizing the need for flexibility, hydration, routine, and self-care.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Friday Mar 15, 2024

In this episode we chat with Naiomi Catron of Milk Diva about how and when to introduce solids to babies! We discuss the recommended age to start solids, the importance of meeting developmental signs, and the role of breast milk in complementing solid foods. We also touch on the risks of starting solids too early, the window of opportunity for introducing new flavors, and the order of feeding breast milk and solids. The conversation covers topics such as nutritional value, digestive issues, allergies, and choking prevention. In this conversation, Naiomi discusses the importance of introducing solid foods to babies and provides tips on how to do it safely and effectively. She emphasizes the need for babies to develop hand-eye coordination and chewing skills by offering them soft, easily mashable foods. She also explains the difference between choking and gagging and offers guidance on how to handle each situation. She discusses the best first foods to offer babies, focusing on nutrient needs and debunking myths about introducing sweet foods. She also addresses the balance between food and milk consumption and sets reasonable expectations for the transition to mostly solid foods by 12 months of age.There are some awesome take aways from this episode and don’t forget to go take the “Are we ready for solids?” quiz (get a free Intro to Solids Checklist).https://www.milkdiva.com/nutrition.html   Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Mar 12, 2024

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Chantal Blake, a womb steaming therapist, about embracing menstrual cycles and the benefits of vaginal steaming. They discuss the connection between honoring cycles and honoring births and postpartum experiences. Chantal shares her personal journey with vaginal steaming and how it has helped women with various reproductive health issues. They also talk about the importance of introducing girls to vaginal steaming and promoting body literacy from a young age. Vaginal steaming can support women throughout different stages of their lives, including menstruation, fertility challenges, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and even after a hysterectomy. Steaming after menstruation is recommended for one to three consecutive days to support a healthy period. Steaming is generally not recommended during menstruation or most of pregnancy, but can be safely done to prepare for labor once full term. Steaming can help relax and prepare the pelvic floor for labor, reduce the risk of tears, and promote a steady labor pattern. After birth, steaming can help clear out lochia, reduce the risk of infections, and support the return of a healthy menstrual cycle. Steaming can also be used to treat and prevent UTIs, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and other infections. It is important to use the appropriate herbs and follow protocols based on individual needs and conditions. Steaming does not disrupt the pH balance or vaginal flora, but rather restores balance and resilience to the vaginal microbiome.Chantal Blake is a Womb Steaming Therapist and Writer with a professional background in nursing, environmental engineering, and peristeam hydrotherapy. She weaves the fields of medicine, environmentalism, and holistic self-care into fascinating and practical instruction for women of all ages. Since 2019, Chantal has helped hundreds of women experience healthier periods and greater allyship with their female design through consultations, courses, and private coaching. Her work continues to reach an ever-growing audience through published articles, podcast interviews, and speaking engagements. As a world traveler and serial expat, Chantal has learned how to communicate her heartfelt desire to see women flourishing in their female design across cultures, contexts, and languages. And as a wife and mother of three, she is extremely passionate about nurturing a legacy of women who love their periods, honor their wombs, and protect their fertility for generations to come. Chantal’s first book, Peaceful Periods: Holistic Womb Care for Teens, is championing an international movement of empowering and positive menstrual health education backed by science and traditional wisdom. You can download a free excerpt at http://www.honoredwomb.com and follow her events on Instagram and Facebook: @‌honoredwomb.Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Mar 05, 2024

In this episode we talked with Theresa Swan. Theresa is a Peristeam Hydrotherapist (and a Peristeam Facilitator) through the Peristeam Hydrotherapy Institute.  During this intensive training she learned how to use steam therapy with over 350 pelvic health situations. Her mission is to see a revival of every household using steaming to help support and rebalance their bodies. She came to talk to us about using steaming in pregnancy and postpartum!Vaginal steaming is an ancient practice that has been used for hundreds, if not thousands, of years in many different cultures. It is a practice that involves using steam therapy to support and rebalance the body. Vaginal steaming has a wide range of benefits, including increasing blood circulation, reducing pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation, and aiding in the healing process. It can be used during pregnancy for labor preparation and postpartum for faster recovery and healing. Steaming can help clear lochia, reduce postpartum contractions and cramping, and promote the healing of wounds and sutures. It is a safe and effective practice when done under the guidance of a certified peristeam hydrotherapist. Vaginal steaming during labor and postpartum can have numerous benefits, including reducing tearing, assisting with the first elimination of the bladder after giving birth, reducing water retention, and potentially reversing prolapse. It may also help prevent hemorrhage, eclampsia, sepsis, and embolism. Steaming during labor can soften the perineum and vaginal muscles, increase dilation, and shorten labor. It can also provide pain relief and restart stalled contractions. Steaming is contraindicated during pregnancy until full term, and it is important to work with a certified parasteam hydrotherapist. Finding a parasteam hydrotherapist can be done through the Peristeam Hydrotherapy Institute. Consultations and personalized steam plans are available globally.Get in touch with Theresa and use the discount code BIRTHBABY to get 15% off! website: www.luminouscreatrix.comInstagram: @‌LuminousCreatrixStudy mentioned:Fourth Trimester Vaginal Steam study: https://fourthtrimestervaginalsteamstudy.com/Our Research - Fourth Trimester Vaginal Steam Study - Steamy ChickSteamy Chick InstitutePlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby! Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Feb 27, 2024

Katie Phillips comes on to share her birth story. The fertility journey, pregnancy experience, and birth of her son are so inspiring to those that haven’t had a straightforward experience of their own! She shares the process of egg retrievals, IVF rounds, and the travel involved. She also shares the emotional process of experiencing a pregnancy and preparing for a birth, and how childbirth classes, birth doula services, and an amazing birth team impacted her journey. Please feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Tuesday Feb 20, 2024

In this episode we chat with Dr. Elissa Gonzalez of Blue Monarch Pediatrics about jaundice! Does delayed cord clamping increase the risk of jaundice? How do you know if your baby's bilirubin is truly high enough to warrant staying longer in the hospital? Can you effectively eliminate jaundice at home? She helps us break down what it is and how you can help your baby get rid of it.Dr. Elissa Gonzalez is a board certified and integrative certified pediatrician and lactation consultant (IBCLC) practicing at Blue Monarch Pediatrics in Lakeway, TX. She specializes in behavior, social/emotional development, ADHD and newborn care. She understands that each child is a one-of-a-kind individual, and their health is influenced by various factors, including physical, emotional, and social elements. Her approach is all-encompassing, focusing on nurturing every aspect of a child's well-being. She looks beyond the symptoms to find the root causes, and collaborates with families to create a customized care plan that promotes balance and harmony.Website: www.bluemonarchpediatrics.comInstagram: @bluemonarchpediatricsPlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Friday Feb 16, 2024

In this episode we’re joined by Dr. Whitaker, a direct care pediatrician in Austin, Texas at the practice Blue Monarch Pediatrics! He’s here to talk to us all about fevers in newborns. What constitutes a fever in a newborn? At what age is it less dangerous for a baby to have a fever? What can a parent do for a newborn with a fever and is it always necessary to go to the emergency room? Dr. Whitaker answers the questions so many new parents have. Dr. Whitaker is a board-certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.  He completed his Ph.D. in Biochemistry at Rice University, Medical Degree at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and pediatric residency at Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center.  He has over 20 years of experience in a variety of settings including newborn hospital, emergency and urgent care facilities, outpatient clinic for children with complex health needs and mental health difficulties.http://bluemonarchpediatrics.comPlease feel free to reach out to us with any recommendations for show episode ideas. If you'd like to be a guest, email us with some information about yourself and what type of podcast you'd like to record together. Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and review our podcast, Birth, Baby!Instagram: @‌BirthBabyPodcastEmail: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.comWebsite: www.BirthBabyPodcast.comIntro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

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