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 ...
…
continue reading

1
Manual Removal of the Placenta: Episode #176
41:02
41:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Swelling in Pregnancy: Edema Episode #175
16:38
16:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
How to Be the Patient Docs Actually Look Forward to Seeing: Episode #174
35:45
35:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Attempting a VBAC after two Cesarean Births: Episode #173
29:20
29:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
Boarding Pass Blues: Finding Humor in Flying Headaches (and a Bit about Pregnancy)
40:25
40:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Natural Breech Delivery: Step by Step - Episode #169
46:36
46:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
Prenatal Lab Tests in Pregnancy. Episode #166
36:26
36:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Placenta Location: Does it Matter? Episode #165
29:16
29:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Amniotic Fluid: What's normal? Episode #163
28:35
28:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading

1
External Cephalic Version (ECV) Step-by-Step Guide Episdoe #40 - Rerelease
35:28
35:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Amniocentesis - Do you need it? Episode #161
32:26
32:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Patient Feedback - Reading Client Reviews: Episode #160
20:47
20:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
What to Expect at Your OB's doctor's office visits: Episode #159
21:39
21:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading

1
Spontaneous Labor vs. Induction of Labor: Episode #158
27:07
27:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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…
…
continue reading
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…
…
continue reading

1
PPROM (Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes): Episode #156
45:45
45:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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—…
…
continue reading

1
The OB/GYN Shortage in the US: Episode 155
35:55
35:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
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 …
…
continue reading

1
Online Reviews for Doctors. Are they to be Trusted? Episode #154
22:10
22:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:10Should You Trust Online Reviews? The Pros and Cons of Relying on Online Feedback In our increasingly digital world, online reviews have become a staple for making decisions, especially when it comes to choosing healthcare providers. But with so much information at our fingertips, how do we know if we should trust these reviews? Let's explore the pr…
…
continue reading

1
Twin Vaginal Delivery. What to Expect. Episdoe #153
54:39
54:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:39Today, we're diving into a fascinating and important topic: what to expect during a twin vaginal delivery. Twin pregnancies come with their own unique set of considerations, and understanding the process can help expectant parents feel more prepared and confident. In this episode, we'll explore the stages of labor, the role of the medical team, and…
…
continue reading
Welcome to True Birth, where we provide raw, honest insights into pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Dr. Yaakov Abdelhak, a Perinatologist, and Certified Nurse Midwife Kristin Mallon are here to share their professional perspectives straight from the trenches of the labor floor. Episode Overview: In this special episode, we delve int…
…
continue reading

1
The Importance of the Right Location for Birth: Episode #151
32:42
32:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:42When expecting a baby, among the flurry of decisions to be made, choosing where to deliver stands out as one of the most significant. It's a choice that goes beyond mere geography or convenience; it's about where you'll welcome your child into the world and the first level of care both of you will receive. It's about safety, support, and a positive…
…
continue reading
A typical day for an OB/GYN on the labor floor in Labor and Delivery (L&D) is dynamic and multifaceted, blending clinical acumen with compassionate patient care. Their day begins with rounding on patients who are in various stages of labor, assessing their progress, and managing any complications that arise. Throughout the day, the OB/GYN is consta…
…
continue reading
Easing Back Pain During Pregnancy: Tips and Insights Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with anticipation and joy, but it can also bring about a less welcomed companion: back pain. Many expectant mothers experience back pain, particularly in the second and third trimesters. This discomfort arises from the natural changes your body undergoes to…
…
continue reading

1
How to Choose a VBAC Friendly Provider: Episode #147
19:51
19:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:51Navigating the Path toward a Successful VBAC: Essential Questions for Your Healthcare Provider As strong advocates for informed and empowered childbirth, this episdoe addresses a topic close to the hearts of many expectant parents: Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). Choosing a VBAC-friendly provider is a critical step in this journey, not just fo…
…
continue reading
The No Surprises Act: A Much-Needed Shield in the Healthcare Battlefield In the labyrinth of American healthcare, where the Minotaur of unexpected costs lurks around every corner, the No Surprises Act emerges as a beacon of clarity and protection. Enacted in 2022, this legislation represents a crucial step in untangling the Gordian knot of medical …
…
continue reading

1
New Tech in Obstetrics. Fetal Monitoring at Home: Episode #145
21:05
21:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:05True Birth discusses new tech in pregnancy. Pregnancy is a time of wonder and anticipation, but it also comes with its share of medical checkups and monitoring. Traditional prenatal care often involves frequent visits to the doctor's office, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient for expectant mothers. However, with advancements in technology…
…
continue reading

1
The Postpartum Stay. What to Expect After Your Delivery. Episode #144
43:41
43:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:41Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous and life-changing experience. The 24 hours following childbirth are a crucial time for both mother and baby, as they require specialized care and support. In this episode of True Birth, we will take you through what to expect during this period, from the delivery of the placenta to the early stages…
…
continue reading
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause respiratory infections in people of all ages, including pregnant women. RSV infections are more prevalent during the fall and winter months. While RSV infections are usually mild and cold-like in healthy adults, they can lead to more severe respiratory symptoms in certain population…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating the OB Healthcare System in the US: Episode #142
38:35
38:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:35Navigating the healthcare payor system in the United States can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming task. Understanding the intricacies of in-network and out-of-network insurance, as well as co-pays and deductibles, is crucial for making informed decisions about your healthcare. Here's a guide to help you through this labyrinth. Understanding Y…
…
continue reading

1
Late Transfers in Pregnancy: Episode #141
28:40
28:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:40What are some of the reasons someone would choose to transfer OB/GYN providers later in a pregnancy? Say, perhaps after 20 weeks of gestation? There are several reasons why someone may choose to transfer to a different healthcare provider late in pregnancy. These reasons may include: Dissatisfaction with Current Provider: A person may become dissat…
…
continue reading
The landscape of obstetrics is undergoing a profound transformation, characterized by both positive and challenging changes. On the positive side, advancements in medical technology and evidence-based practices are enhancing the safety and well-being of expectant mothers and their babies. Access to prenatal care, maternal education, and support sys…
…
continue reading

1
Beating the Odds in Pregnancy: Episode #139
40:04
40:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:04In the world of obstetrics and labor and delivery, statistics often play a pivotal role in shaping expectations for both parents and healthcare providers. Whether it's the odds of a smooth pregnancy, a complication-free childbirth, or a successful outcome in high-risk scenarios, we're frequently presented with numbers that can either bolster our ho…
…
continue reading

1
Evolving Practices in field of Obstetrics. Techniques that are out of date. Episdoe #138
47:20
47:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:20While many things have remained the same for millenia, the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) has witnessed remarkable advancements over the years, revolutionizing the way healthcare professionals care for pregnant individuals and women's reproductive health. As medical understanding deepens and technology progresses, certain practices tha…
…
continue reading
In the realm of pregnancy complications, vasa previa stands as a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that demands vigilant attention and awareness. Although relatively uncommon, vasa previa requires early diagnosis and appropriate management to ensure the safety of both the mother and the unborn child. In this blog post, we'll delve int…
…
continue reading
Throughout the ages, various misconceptions have surrounded this magical phase of a woman's life, often leading to laughter and disbelief. In this blog, we will delve into some of the funniest pregnancy myths and unravel the truth behind them. Cravings Indicate Baby's Gender: One of the most popular and entertaining myths is that a pregnant woman's…
…
continue reading

1
Pregnancy and the Working Mom: Episode #135
30:54
30:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:54In today's fast-paced and dynamic world, the modern woman plays many roles, and none is more profound than that of a working mother. The journey of pregnancy and motherhood is an extraordinary experience, one that transforms a woman in ways that cannot be fully comprehended until lived. As we navigate the complexities of balancing work and family l…
…
continue reading

1
Birth Stories: Positive Forcep Deliveries Episode #134
18:53
18:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:53The Positive Side of Forced Deliveries: Embracing Birth with Forceps Childbirth is a remarkable journey that brings forth new life and creates an everlasting bond between a mother and her baby. While the majority of births occur naturally, there are instances when medical intervention becomes necessary to ensure the well-being of both mother and ch…
…
continue reading
The world of genetics is an intricate and complex field, a web of codes that define every aspect of our being. Occasionally, unexpected changes that occur during the formation of these genetic blueprints, and these can lead to various genetic disorders. Among these disorders are Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 13, also known as Edwards Syndrome and Patau Sy…
…
continue reading

1
The Vanishing Art of Obstetrical Forceps in Contemporary Childbirth: Episode #132
30:08
30:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:08Obstetrical forceps have played a significant role in the history of childbirth assistance, but their use has declined in recent decades. One reason for this decline is the complexity and skill required to effectively and safely use forceps. Mastering the technique of forceps delivery requires extensive training and experience. The risk of complica…
…
continue reading

1
Braxton Hicks Contractions. Practice Uterine Contractions in Pregnancy: Episode #131
12:32
12:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:32As pregnancy progresses, expectant mothers may experience a range of sensations and bodily changes. One common occurrence during the latter stages of pregnancy is Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions are often misunderstood, leading to confusion and concern. In this blog post, we will explore what Braxton Hicks contractions are and how th…
…
continue reading

1
Induction of Labor. Why most inductions take 24 hours or less: Episode #130
24:29
24:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:29This episode is a continuation of the episode #104 on "What to Expect When Getting Induced" a step by step guide from getting admitted to delivery of the baby. This episode focuses mainly on how an induction of labor dosen't need to drag on for days when it is actively managed and how Maternal Resources goes about utlizeing an active induction plan…
…
continue reading

1
Natural Childbirth: Unmedicated Birth Episode #129
23:41
23:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:41Childbirth 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 explo…
…
continue reading

1
Placenta Variations. Different types of Placentas in Pregnancy: Episode #128
16:13
16:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:13The 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 enlighte…
…
continue reading

1
How to Advocate for Yourself in Healthcare: Episode #127
22:15
22:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:15Navigating 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…
…
continue reading