The Ordinary Doula Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Healthcare disparities don't discriminate based on education or wealth—Black and brown women face mortality rates three to five times higher than their white counterparts during childbirth. This stark reality forms the foundation of our deep dive into obstetrical racism, a systemic issue embedded within our healthcare institutions that demands our urgent attention. Cultural c...

Send us Fan Mail The humble washcloth is a powerful, versatile tool that can significantly enhance comfort during labor. With 20 years of doula experience, Angie shares how this simple item becomes an essential element in her birth support toolkit. • The "wondrous washcloth" is available in all birth settings - hospitals, birth centers, and homes • Cold washcloths provide cooling relief...

Send us Fan Mail We explore the contrasting needs and expectations of first-time parents versus experienced parents during the birth process, highlighting how support needs evolve with each birth experience. • First-time parents have unique needs including education, emotional support, agency, and validation • First-time parents often feel overwhelmed and need clear, compassionate explanations abo...

Send us Fan Mail The emotional journey of those who have experienced fertility challenges requires special care and understanding during pregnancy and birth, with many carrying deep anxiety, fear, and complex emotions throughout their experience. • Growing number of people facing fertility challenges in our society • Emotional sensitivity acknowledging the difficult journey to pregnancy • Validati...

Send us Fan Mail Birth is influenced by three major stakeholders with different objectives: the birthing people, the birth place, and the policies governing care. Understanding the "Three P's" helps expectant parents navigate their birth journey and identify where their interests align with the larger healthcare system. • Birthing people want safety, support, a voice in their care,...

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Venice Haynes shares her groundbreaking work on the 100 Weeks Project, which aims to transform maternal healthcare from preconception through the postpartum year by addressing systemic barriers and creating culturally congruent solutions. She reveals how the project's comprehensive journey maps and state-by-state analysis expose critical gaps in care while highlighting op...

Send us Fan Mail This extensive collection of coping techniques for labor is drawn from decades of doula experience, emphasizing how these tools can benefit everyone regardless of their birth plan—even those planning on epidurals. • Preparation and knowledge dramatically increase confidence and can shift birth preferences • Physical techniques include belly dancing, position changes, walking, marc...

Send us Fan Mail Partners can provide deep and meaningful support during pregnancy, labor, and birth by developing specific skills beyond vague advice to "just be supportive." • Learn together through childbirth classes, videos, books, or apps to build knowledge and realistic expectations • Discover what birth goals are important to your pregnant partner, even if they differ from what yo...

Send us Fan Mail Angie welcomes doula and nursing student Dani Reed to explore the complementary roles and challenges of nurses and doulas in the birth room, sharing insights from her unique perspective of having worked in both worlds. • Dani's journey from birth doula of eight years to nursing student pursuing certification as a midwife and women's health nurse practitioner • The heavy...

Send us Fan Mail This episode emphasizes the critical role occupational therapy plays in supporting new parents during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. By focusing on individualized wellness approaches, the conversation enhances understanding of the integrated care needed for holistic recovery post-birth. • Discussion on the holistic nature of occupational therapy  • Differences between occupati...

Send us Fan Mail Breech births present unique challenges and require both education and empowerment for expectant parents. We dive into real-life stories, shedding light on the skills needed for breech deliveries and the importance of having informed practitioners. • Exploring the definition and implications of breech births  • Case study of a hospital breech delivery experience  • The significanc...

Send us Fan Mail The episode dives into the topic of breech babies and the complexities surrounding their deliveries, offering insights on positioning, potential solutions, and historical context. With a focus on empowering expectant parents, the discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding breech presentations and the options available for delivery. • Understanding the breech position an...

Send us Fan Mail This episode is a celebration of the unexpected humor found in childbirth, featuring a compilation of funny outtakes from Angie's experiences as a doula. Through laughter and story-sharing, we explore the unpredictable nature of labor and the connections formed during such profound moments.  • The power of instinct and a surprising fast delivery  • Funny moment of laboring in...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever wondered how your cultural background and personal beliefs shape your pregnancy and birth experience? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we take you on a journey through the diverse landscapes of the perinatal period, exploring the unique perspectives of expectant parents. Drawing from 20 years of experience as a doula, we share insights into how personal and c...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the secrets to affording invaluable doula support without breaking the bank. Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we explore creative strategies to make these transformative services accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances. Discover how significant the impact of doula support can be for individuals, particularly those facing socioeconomic challenges. Fr...

Send us Fan Mail Uncover the secret to a more serene and empowered birth experience by mastering the art of using "Mother Nature's epidural"—hydrotherapy! Explore how the strategic use of water during labor can provide a natural, effective means of managing pain and enhancing relaxation. Whether you're considering a soothing bath, invigorating shower, or the calming effects of...

Send us Fan Mail This episode explores the intricacies of breastfeeding, focusing on the timing and duration of feeds. Listeners learn to embrace intuitive feeding methods while considering the importance of community support for their breastfeeding journeys.  • Importance of understanding breastfeeding history and cultural practices  • Encouraging skin-to-skin contact to facilitate breastfeeding ...

Send us Fan Mail The episode explores the evolution of childbirth education and the paradox of having more access to information yet often feeling less intuitive as parents. It encourages listeners to reconnect with their inner wisdom, emphasizes the importance of human connection, and reminds them to trust themselves in their parenting journey. • Discussion on the decline in childbirth education...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we discuss the role of birth balls and peanut balls as valuable tools during labor and the postpartum period. Learn how these simple, yet effective tools can help with: Promoting optimal fetal positioning during labor Reducing labor pain and improving comfort Enhancing mobility, balance, and relaxation postpartum We share tips on incorporating them into your birth...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the importance of prenatal lactation preparation and how it empowers expectant parents to navigate breastfeeding with confidence. Learn about the benefits of early education, strategies for overcoming common challenges, and tips to optimize breastfeeding success from the very start. Whether you're a first-time parent or looking for ways to improve...

Send us Fan Mail How does early labor really unfold, and why does it often catch new parents by surprise? Join us with our special guest, Emily Steadman, a seasoned doula. Emily sheds light on the marathon-like nature of early labor, contrasting it with the unrealistic portrayals we see in the media. Together, we explore the importance of conserving energy and pacing oneself in the anticipation of...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how a small piece of plastic could be the key to a comfortable and efficient pumping experience? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we navigate the often overlooked, yet critical, world of flange fitting. With insights drawn from my 20 years in the doula field, I promise you'll leave this episode with the know-how to measure and select the perfect flange s...

Send us Fan Mail How can the right combination of people, place, and policy create a birth experience that feels empowering and supportive? Join us on The Ordinary Doula Podcast as we unravel this essential trio that shapes your birthing journey. Discover how assembling the perfect support team of partners, family, friends, and healthcare providers can have a transformative effect on your birth, a...

Send us Fan Mail Discover the hidden world of instrument-assisted delivery and learn why it remains an essential, albeit less common, aspect of modern childbirth. Join, as we navigate through the fascinating history of forceps and vacuum use, tracing back to their peak in the mid-1900s, and understand why these tools are now reserved for specific, often unexpected scenarios. Through engaging discu...

Send us Fan Mail Discover the pivotal elements that can unexpectedly turn a birth experience from joyful to challenging. On this episode of The Ordinary Doula Podcast, we draw on a wealth of insights from my 20 years as a seasoned doula and the compelling data from a comprehensive 15-year retrospective survey. We unravel the mystery behind why 60% of surveyed clients found lengthy labor to be a ma...