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

In this episode, Ciarra and Samantha interview Gina Mundy, an attorney and author, who shares tips on how to avoid needing an attorney after giving birth. They discuss the importance of choosing the right delivery team, including the doctor and nurses, and how doulas can play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and positive birth experience. They also highlight the common use of the drug Pitocin in labor inductions and the need for parents to be informed about its potential risks. In this conversation, they discuss the use of Pitocin during labor and the importance of understanding its administration. Gina emphasizes the need for doctors and nurses to agree on the protocols for Pitocin use and highlights the potential risks of contracting too much on Pitocin, which can stress the baby. Gina also discusses the importance of monitoring the baby's heart rate during induction of labor and the need for adequate staffing in labor and delivery units. She encourages parents to educate themselves about Pitocin and to have a labor and delivery plan that includes discussions about the use of forceps or vacuum in case of an operative delivery.
As an attorney specializing in childbirth cases, Gina brings over two decades of expertise in analyzing the common mistakes made during labor and delivery. Drawing from her extensive experience, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth," offering practical advice to help parents prevent these errors and prioritize the health and well-being of their baby. 
Tune in to discover Gina's proactive approach to birth preparation, where she emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, effective communication with healthcare providers, and advocating for your birthing preferences. Learn how to navigate the healthcare system with confidence, avoiding potential pitfalls and ensuring a positive outcome for you and your baby. 
Whether you're a first-time parent or preparing for another childbirth journey, this episode provides invaluable guidance on how to approach birth with empowerment and knowledge. Join us as we delve into Gina's proactive strategies for a safer and more fulfilling birthing experience.
Don't miss out on this insightful conversation – because every parent deserves the support and resources to navigate childbirth with confidence and peace of mind. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and empower yourself with Gina Mundy's proactive approach to a safer birth journey. 
Website: www.ginamundy.com
Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ
Instagram: @‌GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/
Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329
Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/
Twitter: @‌ginamundy _ https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_
 
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Cory shares her journey to getting pregnant and the challenges she faced due to her autoimmune disorders. She discusses the importance of preconception health and the support she received from her functional medicine doctor. Cory also talks about her decision to have a natural birth and the challenges she faced with her OB who did not align with her birth preferences. She shares her experience of feeling dismissed and pressured to undergo interventions. Despite the obstacles, Cory and her husband remained firm in their choices and prepared for a natural birth. Cory shares her birth story, detailing the progression of her labor and the challenges she faced along the way. She discusses the early stages of labor, the moment her water broke, and the decision to go to the hospital. Cory reflects on the anxieties she had throughout her pregnancy and the panic she experienced during labor. She talks about the importance of having a supportive birth team and the role her doulas played in advocating for her. Despite facing interventions and challenges, Cory ultimately achieved her goal of a vaginal birth.
Tune in to hear Cory's honest account of the highs and lows of her pregnancy, as she navigated through the complexities of medical decisions and birthing preferences. From the excitement of early pregnancy to the challenges of advocating for her desired birth experience, Cory's story resonates with authenticity and resilience.  
Discover how Cory's choice of OB and birth team influenced her birth experience, and gain valuable insights into navigating the healthcare system to achieve a birth free from unnecessary interventions. With heartfelt advice and firsthand wisdom, Cory offers encouragement to expectant parents seeking to make informed choices about their birthing journey.  
Whether you're a parent-to-be or a birth professional, this episode provides invaluable perspectives on the importance of informed decision-making and effective communication in pregnancy and childbirth. Join us as we celebrate Cory's journey of growth and empowerment, and learn from her experiences to create the birth experience you desire.  
Don't miss out on this inspiring episode – because every birth story has the power to inspire and educate. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast and be empowered by Cory's transformative journey of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a birth filled with intention and empowerment.
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Join us for a crucial episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast as we unravel the importance of kick counting in pregnancy. Many expectant parents have heard about kick counting but may feel unsure about how to effectively practice it. That's why we're thrilled to have Kimberly Isburg, an expert from Count The Kicks, to guide us through this essential prenatal ritual.  
Count the Kicks is an evidence-based stillbirth prevention program that teaches pregnant women to monitor their baby's movement patterns in the third trimester. The program was created by five Iowa moms who lost daughters to stillbirth and infant death. They were inspired by research from Norway that showed a 30% reduction in stillbirths when moms were educated on fetal movement. Count the Kicks recommends starting kick counting at 28 weeks and provides a free app to make it easy. The app allows users to track their baby's movements, set reminders, and share data with their healthcare provider.  
In this informative conversation, Kimberly sheds light on the benefits of kick counting, including its role in reducing the risk of stillbirth. From understanding the frequency of kick counts to distinguishing between normal and concerning movements, she shares invaluable insights to empower expectant parents in monitoring their baby's well-being.  
Discover how the Count The Kicks app simplifies the kick counting process, providing a user-friendly tool to track fetal movements and promote peace of mind throughout pregnancy. Learn about the ideal frequency of kick counts, common misconceptions about fetal movement, and how to interpret changes in movement patterns as pregnancy progresses.  
Whether you're a first-time parent or experienced in the journey of pregnancy, this episode equips you with practical knowledge to prioritize your baby's health and safety. Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast to gain expert advice from Kimberly Isburg and embark on a journey of empowered pregnancy care.  
Don't miss out on this insightful discussion – because every kick counts in the journey of welcoming new life into the world.  
Learn more about Count The Kicks: https://countthekicks.org/  
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

In this insightful episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we dive deep into the often-contemplated decision of whether to have siblings present during the birth of a new baby.  Join us as we welcome back the esteemed midwife, Leonora Colen, from Home Birth Honey in Austin, Texas, to explore the nuanced pros and cons of this unique birthing experience.
In this conversation, we discuss the topic of siblings in the birth space, particularly for out-of-hospital births. We provide tips for preparing children for the birth of a sibling, including using curated videos to educate them about birth, discussing the sounds of birth, and ensuring that one person is dedicated to the well-being of the child during the birth. We also talk about the challenges of having children present during labor and the importance of having a backup plan. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the timing of labor for second-time parents and the benefits of home birth and midwifery care. 
To find out more about our guest Leonora and Home Birth Honey:www.homebirthhoney.comIG @HomeBirthHoneyATX
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

Join us for a fun Father's Day Special on Birth, Baby! Podcast, where we celebrate the behind-the-scenes supporters of Ciarra and Samantha – our husbands! In this comedic episode, we invite our very own husbands to the mic for a friendly yet competitive showdown to determine the ultimate "Birth King." 
Get ready for laughter and surprises as we put our partners to the test with a fun and interactive quiz designed to challenge their knowledge of all things pregnancy and childbirth. From vocabulary trivia to labor scenarios, who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted title of Birth King? 
But it's not just about the game – throughout the episode, we share touching anecdotes and heartfelt moments, celebrating the unique bond between fathers and their little ones. Hear personal stories, hilarious mishaps, and heartwarming reflections that highlight the joys and challenges of entering parenthood. 
Whether you're a parent-to-be, a seasoned mom, or simply a fan of heartwarming family tales, this Father's Day Special promises to entertain and inspire. Tune in as we honor the amazing dads in our lives and discover what it truly means to be a Birth King!
Don't miss out on this special episode filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of dad jokes. Happy Father's Day from Birth, Baby! Podcast – where every day is a celebration of family. 
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

In this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we delve into the often-misunderstood topic of weight gain during pregnancy. Join us as we welcome back Leonora Colen of Home Birth Honey, a seasoned midwife with years of experience guiding expectant mothers through this transformative journey. Together, we explore the various factors influencing weight gain, from prenatal health to societal pressures, offering practical tips and evidence-based advice.  
Expect insightful discussions on the importance of balanced nutrition, safe exercise routines, and debunking common myths surrounding pregnancy weight gain. Our guest shares her expertise on monitoring weight gain responsibly, ensuring both maternal and fetal well-being without unnecessary stress or anxiety. We also touch on the effects the popular weight loss drug, Ozempic, is having on fertility!
Whether you're an expectant mother navigating your own pregnancy or a curious listener seeking informed perspectives, this episode equips you with valuable insights to embrace this unique phase of life with confidence and empowerment.  
Tune in to Birth, Baby! Podcast for a compassionate conversation on nurturing your body and baby, and discover how to approach weight gain in pregnancy with wisdom and grace. Don't miss out on this enriching episode!   
wwww.homebirthhoney.comIG @‌HomeBirthHoneyATX   
 
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com

Welcome to another episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, where we delve into the inspiring journey of conception and birth. In this episode, we are privileged to hear Courtney's deeply personal story of becoming a mother and her transformation into a birth worker.  
Courtney takes us through her experience with IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), sharing the emotional and physical challenges of procedures like egg retrieval and the rollercoaster of emotions involved in the process. She candidly discusses the highs and lows of her pregnancy journey, reflecting on how each milestone shaped her anticipation of motherhood.  
The heart of Courtney's narrative lies in her birth experience, where she not only welcomed her child but also discovered a newfound passion for birth work. She recounts the details of her labor and delivery, highlighting the parts of her birthing experience and ignited her desire to support others on their birth journeys.  
Throughout the episode, Courtney's story is woven with authenticity and insight, offering a glimpse into the complexities of fertility treatments, the joys and fears of pregnancy, and the profound impact of childbirth on personal growth. Her journey from fertility patient to birth advocate is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of bringing new life into the world.  
Join us as Courtney shares her story of hope, resilience, and the birth that sparked her journey toward becoming a birth worker. Whether you're navigating fertility challenges, preparing for parenthood, or curious about birth work, Courtney's journey offers valuable perspectives and heartfelt encouragement.  
Tune in to this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast to hear Courtney's inspiring Birth Story and discover how her journey has shaped her passion for supporting others through their own birth experiences.  
Courtney is a birth and postpartum doula in the Austin area. She is also a Spinning Babies Parent Educator and works for Empowered Beginnings. To learn more about her: www.empoweredbeginningsatx.com/birth-doulas
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com

Sabrina Ortolano is back! In this episode we go deeper into what a community and village looks like in the perinatal period. We talk about how we can be a better village and what helpful support looks like.  
Sabrina Ortolano is a Birth Doula who has been supporting families for nearly thirty years. She is also the owner of IPSB, Los Angeles’ longest-running bodywork school, where she is the head instructor for courses on prenatal massage and this history of birth in the United States. Sabrina’s teaching emphasizes how to provide the best care and support for clients navigating major life transitions and milestones, with a particular focus on the birth experience and its various nuances.  
In this episode, the hosts discuss the role of the community in the postpartum period and how it can help new parents adjust to their new roles. They emphasize the importance of asking for help and accepting support from friends, family, and chosen community members. They also highlight the need for better infrastructure and policies to support families during the postpartum period. The conversation touches on topics such as the physical and emotional challenges of postpartum, the importance of self-care, and the impact of community support on crime rates and overall well-being. In this conversation, Sabrina and the Birth, Baby! hosts discuss the importance of building a support system during the postpartum period. They emphasize the need for friends and family to offer help and for expectant parents to be humble enough to accept it. They also discuss the importance of practicing self-care and focusing on positive moments. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community when building a village and offers tips for supporting families. They highlight the need for more accessible resources and trauma-informed care. The episode concludes with a call to action for everyone to support expectant parents and create thriving communities.
 
Owner & Director atIPSB - School of Integrative Psycho-Structural BodyworkIPSB Wellness, Education & Media
Email: sabrina@ipsb.comInstagram: @‌ipsb_massageLearn More About IPSB here: www.IPSB.com Takeaways
Asking for help and accepting support from the community is crucial during the postpartum period.
Better infrastructure and policies are needed to support families during the postpartum period.
The postpartum period involves physical and emotional challenges, and it's important to prioritize self-care.
Community support during the postpartum period has a positive impact on crime rates and overall well-being. Building a support system during the postpartum period is crucial for the well-being of expectant parents.
Friends and family should offer help and support without judgment, allowing the expectant parents to share their feelings and ask for help.
Practicing self-care and focusing on positive moments can help improve mental health during the postpartum period.
The LGBTQIA+ community faces unique challenges when building a support system and accessing healthcare during pregnancy and postpartum.
There is a need for more accessible resources and trauma-informed care for expectant parents.
Everyone should take action to support expectant parents and create thriving communities.
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com

In this episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we're joined by Sabrina Ortolano, a birth doula with nearly 30 years of experience, to talk about the history of birth and the village in the United States. The birth scene has changed so much over the years, and it has an impact that people don’t always realize. We discuss the evolution of birth practices in the United States and the impact on the parent-child bond. We also explore the concept of the village and how it has changed over time, from a community of support to a paid service. The conversation highlights the importance of accessible and affordable support for families during the perinatal period.
Sabrina Ortolano is a Birth Doula who has been supporting families for nearly thirty years. She is also the owner of IPSB, Los Angeles’ longest-running bodywork school, where she is the head instructor for courses on prenatal massage and this history of birth in the United States. Sabrina’s teaching emphasizes how to provide the best care and support for clients navigating major life transitions and milestones, with a particular focus on the birth experience and its various nuances.  
Owner & Director atIPSB - School of Integrative Psycho-Structural BodyworkIPSB Wellness, Education & Media
Email: sabrina@ipsb.comInstagram: @‌ipsb_massageLearn More About IPSB here: www.IPSB.com  
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!

We have a special Mother’s Day episode for you!
In this heartwarming episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast, we invite a very special pair of guests - our own moms! Join us as we delve into the intimate and captivating stories of their childbirth experiences. From the anticipation of labor to the unforgettable moment of meeting their newborns for the first time, our moms candidly share their journeys, complete with the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Get ready to be inspired and empowered as these incredible women recount their unique childbirth narratives, offering valuable insights, advice, and even a few laughs along the way. Whether you're expecting, a new parent, or simply curious about the miracle of birth, this episode is a must-listen.  From a teenage pregnancy to a mom with a surprise bookend pregnancy, you won’t want to miss their stories.  
Tune in as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and love that transcends generations in this special installment of Birth, Baby! Podcast.  
In this episode, Ciarra's mom shares her birth story of having Ciarra at the age of 19. She talks about finding out she was pregnant, the early days of pregnancy, and the challenges she faced with her family's reaction. She discusses her experience of labor and delivery, including the lack of support and guidance she received. She also reflects on her postpartum period and the choices she made regarding breastfeeding. The conversation highlights the changes in birthing practices and the importance of having a doula for support. Samantha's mom also shares her birth stories. Samantha's mom had five unique pregnancies and births, each with its own challenges and joys. Samantha's birth experiences ended up mirroring her mother's experience, as they both had high blood pressure during pregnancy. They discuss the importance of mother-baby bonding and the impact of age on pregnancy and postpartum. Samantha's mom also shares how Samantha was involved in the births and became a second mom to her younger siblings. Overall, this conversation highlights the diversity of birth experiences and the strong bond between mothers and their children.
Are you a parent interested in learning more from Ciarra? You can check out her class offerings HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Birth Basics Class, click HERE.For the pre-recorded, self-paced Newborn Sleep Class, click HERE.
Are you interested in training to become a birth doula? Check out Ciarra’s Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Training and Certification HERE. Online, self-paced Birth Doula Training and Certification Program with Birth, Baby! Academy
This podcast episode is also on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with close captions, you can find the channel HERE.
Thank you for all of your support and don't forget to follow and leave a review on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. www.BirthBabyPodcast.com
Send an email if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, you'd like to be a guest, or you have a recommendation for an episode idea! Email: BirthBabyPodcast@gmail.com
Follow on FacebookFollow on Instagram
The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
This episode of Birth, Baby! Podcast was produced by Ciarra Morgan and Samantha Kelly.Ciarra Morgan:www.EmpoweredBeginningsATX.comwww.BirthBabyAcademy.com
Samantha Kelly:www.beautifullymadedc.com
Intro and Outro music by Longing for Orpheus. You can find them on Spotify!