Doulas of the Roundtable, A modern twist on an ancient concept. A place where all voices are equal, knowledge is shared and hard topics are talked about.
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Helping women have better births and better birth experiences. Our experts share their perspectives on pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. These are raw, honest stories about the experience of labor from the professional's point of view. Listen and get inside your OB/GYN or midwife's head. Our goal is to share the truth about pregnancy and birth with the listener and to explain our thought process. We see our role as one in which we guide and inform, presenting facts so that the ...
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Dearest Doula with Nathalie Saenz
Nathalie Saenz chats with top birth workers and birth experts such as Demetria Clark & Maria Pokluda, with Inspiration from Ina May Gaskin, Penny Simkin, Pam England, and Sheila Kitzinger.
On Dearest Doula we will learn about a host of birth related topics from top professionals in our field, and connect with doulas and other birth workers so they can share their wisdom with you. Our topic based shows are chock-full of knowledge bombs, tips and resources that you can arm yourself with and add to your doula arsenal of awesomeness. Our birth worker features are all near and dear to my heart, and I invite you to let their journey light your path. Listening to their struggles, the ...
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Low amniotic fluid, or oligohydramnios, is a topic doulas are likely to encounter in our work with clients, especially during the third trimester. Doulas and clients often question what low fluid levels mean, how they are diagnosed, and the clinical considerations involved. It is important for doulas to understand risks associated with low amniotic…
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The Bad and the Ugly: RARE Life Complicating OB Conditions
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48:40In this podcast we shedding light on rare and complex obstetric conditions that impact pregnancy and maternal health. Without the need for unnecessary alarm, which can happen in pregnancy, we dive into challenging medical cases, exploring the science, emotional weight, and real-world implications of conditions that are often under-discussed. Connec…
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First vs. Second Pregnancy: What to Expect According to Birth Experts Having attended over 10,000 births together, experienced Dr. Yaakov Abdlehak OB/GYN and certified nurse midwife Kristin Mallon consistently observe differences between first and second pregnancies — both in the body’s physical response and in the way care is personalized. 1. Labo…
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We’re talking about business evolution: how growth, learning, and new services shape the future of your brand. Your doula business won’t look the same in a year or two as it did on day one. But that’s a good thing! Your marketing should reflect every step forward, from your first client to expanding your services. Updating your website, social medi…
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Maternal Resources: How I Built This #177
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1:02:37In this special episode of TrueBirth, Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, a board-certified OB/GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist, relays his inspiring story of how he founded Maternal Resources in 2002. From a solo practice to a thriving multi-location center of excellence with 4 physicians, 3 midwives, over 30 dedicated team members including sonographe…
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Manual Removal of the Placenta: Episode #176
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41:02Manual removal of the placenta is a procedure sometimes required when the placenta does not deliver on its own after the baby is born. Typically, the placenta separates and is delivered within 30 minutes of birth, but in some cases, it remains attached to the uterine wall — a condition known as retained placenta. When gentle traction on the umbilic…
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Many birth workers assume teaching childbirth education is just for labor doulas. Yet postpartum doulas can benefit just as much from teaching childbirth and newborn-related classes. Offering newborn care education can be a game-changer for postpartum doulas looking to grow their client base. Teaching a newborn care class allows you to connect with…
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Swelling in Pregnancy: Edema Episode #175
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16:38https://www.tiktok.com/@natureback.docIn this episode, we dive into a common yet often confusing part of pregnancy: edema and swelling. From puffy ankles to swollen hands, many expectant parents experience some degree of swelling—but how do you know what’s normal and when it’s time to call your doctor? We break it all down for you with expert insig…
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How to Be the Patient Docs Actually Look Forward to Seeing: Episode #174
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35:45Visiting the doctor can be a straightforward and positive experience with a few simple habits, some you may not even notice you are doing. One effective approach is to communicate clearly and concisely—share your concerns honestly without overwhelming detail. This respects the physician’s time and ensures they can address your needs efficiently. Ad…
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Episdoe 158: The Value of Listening
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1:03:32The power of listening is one of the most valuable skills a doula can have. Listening involves more than just hearing words—it’s about creating space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and understood. It is how deep, intentional trust is built, and it strengthens the doula-client relationship. When clients feel safe to unmask and share openl…
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Attempting a VBAC after two Cesarean Births: Episode #173
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29:20A short story on a woman contemplating a VBAC after two Cesarean Deliveries. Vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) after two cesarean deliveries (VBAC-2) is considered a viable option for many women, though it carries certain risks. The success rate for VBAC-2 is approximately 71.1%, which is slightly lower than the success rate for VBAC after one ce…
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Prodromal labor refers to a pattern of contractions that can feel strong and regular, yet do not lead to significant cervical dilation and active labor. Often described as “false labor,” these contractions can be confusing for expectant parents because they mimic the intensity and frequency of real labor pains. Unlike true labor contractions, howev…
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Client reviews shape your doula business. But how do you request them, use them effectively, and respond to negative feedback professionally? Doula work is deeply personal. Families invite us into one of the most intimate times of their lives, trusting us to provide support. Because of this, building and maintaining an emotional connection is essen…
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Today, we get real about every aspect of labor and delivery. In this episode, we’re tackling a topic folks often avoid: having a bowel movement during childbirth. The truth is, it happens to everyone—it’s just part of being human—and it’s really not a big deal. We’ll talk about why it occurs, how the medical team handles it, and why you shouldn’t s…
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Boarding Pass Blues: Finding Humor in Flying Headaches (and a Bit about Pregnancy)
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40:25In this special detour from our usual birth and pregnancy-focused conversations, we take to the skies for a lighthearted look at the highs (and lows) of air travel. From the cramped seats to the endless security lines, we’re unpacking our funniest in-flight gripes and sharing laughs about all those little annoyances that drive us up the cabin walls…
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Episode 156: In-Hospital Postpartum Doula Support
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49:36Providing postpartum support in a hospital setting comes with unique challenges and important considerations. Unlike postpartum care in the client's home, hospital-based postpartum care requires doulas to navigate medical staff interactions, hospital policies, and the ever-changing needs of new parents in those crucial first hours and days. There a…
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Natural Breech Delivery: Step by Step - Episode #169
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46:36In this episode, you'll be taken through a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of a vaginal breech delivery. The discussion unfolds like a guided tour through the intricate process—from the initial assessment and preparation to the precise maneuvers required during the delivery itself. Experts explain how modern medical techniques are employed to ensu…
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Exercise during pregnancy is highly beneficial for both the mother and baby, promoting cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes, improving mood, and aiding in better sleep. Moderate-intensity activities like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and strength training can help maintain fitness while reducing discomforts such as b…
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CRMs and automation tools are fantastic for streamlining your doula business—but full automation can’t replace connection. But the goal isn’t to automate everything but to find the balance between being efficient and being effective. Efficiency can save you time, but effectiveness is about creating impact—and your potential clients will remember ho…
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In this episode, we dive into listener mail! 🎙️📬 From thought-provoking questions to personal stories and insightful feedback, we explore what’s on your mind. Tune in as we answer your burning questions, share expert insights, and discuss the topics that matter most to our community. Whether it’s about health, longevity, pregnancy, or the latest in…
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Prenatal Lab Tests in Pregnancy. Episode #166
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36:26During pregnancy, lab tests play a crucial role in monitoring both maternal and fetal health, ensuring early detection of potential complications. Routine blood tests in early pregnancy include a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia or infections, blood type and Rh factor screening to prevent incompatibility issues, and tests for infectio…
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Episode 154: Doula Support for IVF and Surrogacy
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59:37Families welcoming a baby through IVF—whether carrying on their own or working with a surrogate—often face unique fears, anxieties, and uncertainties. As doulas, how can we best support them through this deeply personal and emotional journey? In this episode, we dive into the complexities of working with families who have experienced fertility chal…
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Placenta Location: Does it Matter? Episode #165
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29:16The location of the placenta plays a significant role in pregnancy and birth, but its impact can vary depending on specific circumstances. Placenta positioning is important for several reasons, particularly when it affects the path of delivery, but in many cases, it doesn’t interfere with the general progress of pregnancy or fetal movement. One of …
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NatureBack is the expression of Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak’s obstetrical philosophy after more than 3 decades in the field of high-risk perinatology Maternal-Fetal Medicine. It is a goal-oriented practical method that can mitigate or possibly even eliminate the need for a cesarean delivery. Now you can read Dr. Abdelhak's first hand experience in his new …
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Episode 153: Stay or Go: Supporting Labor
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54:59There are many ways of supporting labor clients as a doula. Doulas provide continuous support during labor. But what happens when a doula steps away while their client is still in labor? There is a lot of nuance to the decision-making process behind leaving a birth temporarily and returning later. Sometimes, stepping away might be appropriate, allo…
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Amniotic Fluid: What's normal? Episode #163
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28:35Understanding Amniotic Fluid: What's Normal and What's Not Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid contained within the amniotic sac that surrounds a baby during pregnancy. This vital fluid plays a critical role in fetal development, providing cushioning, regulating temperature, and enabling the baby to move and grow within the uterus. It also faci…
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In obstetrics and medicine, uncovering the right diagnosis or understanding a patient’s medical history often involves piecing together subtle clues, much like solving a puzzle. While patients are typically reliable historians, there are moments when they may not recall specific events, procedures, or reasons for past medical decisions, especially …
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Episode 152: Navigating Illness and Birthwork
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52:30Illness is an inevitable part of life, but how do you handle it as a birthworker? No doubt navigating sickness in the doula world comes with challenges. How do you balance your commitment to clients while prioritizing health and safety? Are you willing to work with clients who are sick, and if so, how can you implement universal precautions to prot…
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External Cephalic Version (ECV) Step-by-Step Guide Episdoe #40 - Rerelease
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35:28This episode outlines a step-by-step process of what happens when a woman undergoes an external cephalic version (ECV) in a hospital setting. Vaginal breech delivery has long been considered risky, leading most providers to recommend cesarean sections for breech-positioned babies. However, with the right expertise, careful candidate selection, and …
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Amniocentesis - Do you need it? Episode #161
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32:26Amniocentesis, once a hallmark of prenatal diagnostics, has become a relic of an earlier era in reproductive healthcare. The procedure, which involves extracting amniotic fluid with a needle to screen for genetic conditions, was groundbreaking in its time. But advances in non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) have rendered it largely unnecessary. NI…
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Season 6 has been one for the books! With over 270,000 downloads to date, we are grateful for your support and participation. As we close out the year, we’re taking a moment to celebrate this milestone. Thank you for being part of our journey. We also want to invite you to help shape Season 7 by sending us your topic suggestions. Reach out to us on…
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Patient Feedback - Reading Client Reviews: Episode #160
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20:47In this episode, we sit down to read and reflect on a range of patient reviews—both the glowing ones that warm our hearts and the critical ones that challenge us to grow. Join us as we take an honest look at the feedback we’ve received, share the stories that resonate, and explore how these reviews shape our perspective and commitment to improving …
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What to Expect at Your OB's doctor's office visits: Episode #159
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21:39Pregnancy is a unique experience filled with changes—both physical and emotional—and understanding what lies ahead can help you feel more confident and prepared. From the early signs of pregnancy and prenatal care to the changes your body will undergo and how to nurture both your health and your baby’s, we’ll explore the essential milestones and ti…
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Doula business myths lurk around every corner. Do you think you need to be a successful solo doula before starting a doula agency? Believe certification doesn’t matter? Are you wondering if AI can truly capture your authentic business voice? In this episode, we’re tackling some of the biggest myths in the doula industry with none other than ProDoul…
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Spontaneous Labor vs. Induction of Labor: Episode #158
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27:07When it comes to childbirth, many expectant parents envision waiting for labor to begin naturally. However, recent research, including the groundbreaking ARRIVE Trial (A Randomized Trial of Induction Versus Expectant Management), has reshaped how medical professionals approach labor and delivery, particularly for first-time moms. The ARRIVE Trial s…
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Understanding breastfeeding challenges is crucial for providing effective support to new parents. Nipple soreness, cracked or bleeding nipples, and engorgement are common challenges. Inverted nipples and delayed milk production also cause difficulties. Cluster feeding and growth spurts add to the stress. Together, these issues can make the early we…
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Decision fatigue surrounding pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period can have a profound impact on expecting and new parents. The mental load of constant decision-making can be exhausting. Doulas play a crucial role in easing the burden of decision fatigue. We provide clients with the tools and resources to make informed and confident choices. …
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Virtual doula services emerged very quickly due to the pandemic in 2020. Necessity dictated that families who wanted the support of a doula when hospitals limited visitors receive that support virtually. Now, four years later, some doulas are still trying to build a business solely on virtual support. Doula support, whether in person or virtually, …
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Disappointing experiences can arise for both doulas and clients. As doulas, we must recognize how our biases may influence our perception. Furthermore, discussing these experiences with clients can affect how they interpret their birth and postpartum experiences. Therefore, we must process our feelings and biases separately from the doula-client re…
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Fasting During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know Pregnancy is a transformative time, full of excitement, anticipation, and, often, many questions about what you should or shouldn't do. One question that occasionally comes up for expectant mothers is: Is it safe to fast during pregnancy? Fasting might be part of a religious practice or lifestyle choi…
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The use of Cytotec, or misoprostol, in obstetrics has a complex history. Initially created to treat gastric ulcers, Cytotec also plays a critical role in reproductive health. It has been used for medical abortions, cervical ripening, and labor induction. In this episode, we explore Cytotec's journey from its original purpose to its controversial us…
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Episode 144: Neurodiversity & Doula Work
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1:17:14Neurodiversity can present many unique challenges for doulas. There is no doubt that doula work demands that we be highly social and often requires deep emotional connection and physical touch. From managing sensory sensitivities and navigating overstimulation to finding balance in high-energy environments, neurodiversity can impact the doula-clien…
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PPROM (Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes): Episode #156
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45:45The Unexpected Journey: Understanding and Navigating PPROM Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs come in the form of these little letters: PPROM. For those unfamiliar, PPROM stands for Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes, a medical term that sounds as serious as it is. In plain English, it means that the water breaks too early—…
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There are many doula pathways regarding the structure and type of doula business that one may wish to pursue. Some individuals may begin with a solo business model, while others may jump into the world of doula agency owners right from the start. No one doula pathway will work best for everyone. Regardless of the pathway that one chooses, there is …
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Creating meaningful connections with your prospective clients—is a vital skill for any successful doula. Building trust and a personal connection is essential for securing clients and providing the best support throughout their journey. Many practical strategies can be utilized to connect on a deeper level, from the first consultation to ongoing ca…
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Universal precautions are essential to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for both your clients and yourself. It is important for labor and postpartum doulas to understand them and how to apply them to their work. Universal precautions for doulas include proper hand hygiene. This involves handwashing before and after client interactions, e…
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The OB/GYN Shortage in the US: Episode 155
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35:55The Growing OB/GYN Shortage in the United States: Causes and Implications The United States is currently facing a significant shortage of obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs), a crisis that poses serious implications for women’s health care across the nation. This shortage is driven by a combination of factors that are causing many OB/GYNs to …
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Doula availability is a topic that can cause some anxiety. Being on-call 24/7 is a significant challenge, and adapting to this lifestyle requires careful planning and boundary-setting. Your phone is an essential lifeline to both your family and your clients. Feeling overwhelmed by the need to be available at a moment's notice is common, but there a…
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Managing money is an essential skill for doulas, yet many need time, patience, and effort to develop this skill. Doulas must practice setting aside money for taxes to avoid being caught off guard during tax season. When that tax bill hits, it can hit hard. The unpredictable nature of birth work also requires budgeting your income. Without a budget …
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Episode 138: Working with Independent Contractors
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1:01:20Navigating the challenges of working with independent contractors as an agency owner is no small feat. Your agency's reputation, especially your own, hinges on contractors doing their jobs well. Many owners feel compelled to control contractor performance to ensure the work meets their high standards. However, regulations for independent contractor…
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